How PrintySight Upgraded Its Additive Manufacturing Business Using the Revopoint MetroX

For Raphael Criado, owner of PrintySight, the introduction of the Revopoint MetroX 3D scanner proved to be a game-changer that streamlined his additive manufacturing business's processes, improved client outcomes, and opened new opportunities.

Design Draftsman to Entrepreneur

Raphael's fascination with additive manufacturing started while studying to become a design draftsman. Through his coursework, he unearthed the possibilities of 3D printing.

"There was a small 3D printer at the back of the classroom, and it was by observing it in action that I realized the tremendous potential of this technology," Raphael recalls.

Intrigued by what he saw, he delved deeper into prototyping and design, gradually integrating additive manufacturing into his professional life. This enthusiasm led him to establish PrintySight, a company specializing in reverse engineering and custom manufacturing solutions.

Early Challenges

In the early days of his business, Raphael faced significant hurdles in his reverse engineering workflow. One of his primary hurdles was the lack of access to quality 3D scanners. “I had to borrow a 3D scanner from a high school, which wasn’t always convenient or readily available,” he explains.

Even when accessible, Raphael found that the older scanner’s projected light technology lacked accuracy, making capturing fine details or complex geometries challenging. These limitations led to inefficiencies and longer project timelines. “I was limited by the scan quality, which was insufficient to accurately reconstruct complex geometries. This low accuracy resulted in additional adjustments and extended the reverse engineering work.” Raphael notes.

A Turning Point

The introduction of the Revopoint MetroX 3D scanner marked a turning point for Raphael and PrintySight. With its advanced features and ease of use, the scanner addressed the key issues hindering his business. “Thanks to its improved accuracy and the quality of the scans obtained, I can capture details with greater reliability, which facilitates and accelerates the model alignment and reconstruction process,” Raphael highlights.

Most importantly, the MetroX allowed Raphael to significantly increase his productivity, drastically improving his project timelines. “Due to its scanning speed and the ease of setting up connectors, I’ve been able to double my productivity. This not only allows me to reduce the time spent on reverse engineering but also improves the overall flow and efficiency of my projects.”

How MetroX Integrates into the Workflow

Raphael shared his reverse engineering workflow, showing how he approaches his projects.

Assessment

Evaluate whether using the scanner provides added value over traditional caliper measurements.

On-Site Scanning

Capture geometry directly at the client’s premises using the MetroX, focusing on isolating surfaces of interest.

Modeling

Import scan data into Fusion 360 software to reconstruct the 3D model, ensuring dimensional and functional accuracy.

Prototyping

3D print the part for testing and verification before finalizing.

Delivery

Deliver the completed part to the customer, ensuring quality and precision.

“The speed of scanning and the reliability of the data obtained with the MetroX, the time between scanning and delivery is significantly reduced,”

Raphael emphasizes. This process has enabled him to meet tight deadlines with remarkable efficiency while maintaining high accuracy standards.

Real-World Impact

The MetroX's capabilities have allowed PrintySight to tackle previously challenging or impossible projects. A standout example Raphael shared was the production of an intake manifold for a motorcycle. This component required accurate dimensions, with no room for error due to a tight deadline. “With my previous scanner, the scan quality wasn’t sufficient to guarantee a reliable reconstruction of the internal surfaces, which would have increased the risk of error and required several adjustments,” Raphael explains.

Using the MetroX, Raphael scanned, modeled, and printed the part in just two days. “In just two days, I was able to finalize the design, modeling, and printing and deliver a perfectly compliant part the first time,” he shares.

A Competitive Edge

The integration of the Revopoint MetroX has given PrintySight a clear competitive advantage. Raphael notes, “Compared to my position before using this technology, the MetroX has significantly improved my efficiency and competitiveness. My workflow is faster and more accurate, and this allows me to offer high-quality reverse engineering services while remaining accessible to a wide range of clients.”

 Shorter lead times and improved scan quality have enhanced customer satisfaction, allowing Raphael to focus on innovation and growth.

Looking ahead, Raphael envisions greater opportunities with MetroX. “As the technology evolves, I anticipate the MetroX will help me explore new applications, particularly in sectors where rapid prototyping and real-time adjustments are crucial.”

Raphael Criado’s experiences with PrintySight showcase the transformative power of technology in solving business challenges. By incorporating the Revopoint MetroX 3D scanner, Raphael has streamlined his workflow, shortened production timelines, and improved client satisfaction.