3D Scanner Market Trends

Introduction

During the period from 2017 to 2025, the 3D Scanner Market is witnessing a major transformation, mainly driven by macroeconomic factors. Moreover, technological advancements, particularly in the area of sensor accuracy and the integration of 3D scanning with software, are expanding the scope of applications and capabilities of 3D scanning across various industries. Regulations and standards aimed at improving quality control and compliance are forcing companies to adopt more accurate measuring tools, which is expected to increase the demand for 3D scanning solutions. Also, changes in the way consumers want to buy and use products and services, such as the growing demand for bespoke products and services, are driving the use of 3D scanning in rapid prototyping and design innovation. These trends are strategically important for the market participants, as they not only indicate the changing nature of the market but also the need for companies to adopt new strategies and innovations to maintain their market positions.

Top Trends

1. Increased Adoption of 3D Scanning in Manufacturing
   The use of 3D scanning for quality control and the optimisation of the production process is a growing trend in industry. For example, Hexagon AB has reported a reduction in the number of errors in its product designs by up to 30 per cent. The trend is expected to increase the efficiency and reduce the cost of the manufacturing industry, as they use real-time data to make decisions.
2. Integration of AI and Machine Learning
   Artificial intelligence and machine learning are revolutionizing data analysis and interpretation. The likes of Autodesk are developing software that automatically processes the scanned data and thus considerably reduces the time needed for analysis. This development will certainly make 3D scanning more accessible and more efficient for various applications.
3. Expansion of 3D Scanning in Healthcare
   For prostheses and surgical planning, 3D scanning is gaining ground in the health sector. Creaform, for example, works with hospitals to design individual prostheses using 3D scanning data, thereby improving the results for the patient. This trend will increase as hospitals and other health care facilities look for new ways to improve the quality of care and the performance of their operations.
4. Rise of Portable 3D Scanners
   Demand for portable 3D scanners is growing, driven by their versatility and ease of use in different environments. Faro Technologies is leading the way in this market with its lightweight, battery-powered, portable devices. The trend towards portability is set to increase the use of 3D scanning technology in many different industries, from archaeology to construction.
5. Government Initiatives Supporting 3D Scanning
   3D-scanning technology is being invested in by governments the world over in order to improve their capacity to plan and build. Funding has been made available in Europe for the integration of 3D scanning into public works projects, with the aim of improving the accuracy of the plans. The trend is expected to lead to closer collaboration between the public and private sectors, which will in turn boost innovation and the efficiency of large-scale projects.
6. Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Practices
   In the 3D-printing industry, the green movement is influencing the use of materials and processes. Keyence has launched a new generation of scanners that are able to reduce the amount of material that is wasted during the scanning process, in line with its global commitment to the environment. These new developments will likely attract the attention of consumers and businesses who are concerned about the environment, and help to enhance the brand’s reputation and market competitiveness.
7. Advancements in Scanning Resolution and Speed
   With the advance of technology, the resolution and speed of 3D scanning are steadily increasing, making them more efficient. Nikon Metrology has developed high-resolution 3D scanners that can capture minute details in a fraction of the time. This trend is expected to increase the usefulness of 3D scanning in the precision industry.
8. Growth of 3D Scanning in Cultural Heritage Preservation
   Increasingly 3D scanning is used in the preservation of cultural heritage, enabling detailed documentation of objects and sites. For example, institutions such as the UNESCO World Heritage Committee work with companies such as Trimble to create digital archives of historical sites. This trend will continue as institutions increasingly recognise the importance of digital preservation in safeguarding history.
9. Enhanced Software Solutions for Data Management
   The development of more sophisticated software for the management and analysis of three-dimensional data is becoming a key trend. Companies like Renishaw are investing in the development of new applications that can be integrated with the hardware, thereby improving the usability of the data. This trend will help to make better decisions and increase the value of the three-dimensional investment.
10. Collaboration Across Industries
    A number of companies have started to cooperate across industries, recognizing the potential of 3D scanning for diverse applications. For example, a number of construction companies and technology companies have teamed up to develop new applications of 3D scanning in building information modeling (BIM). This trend will lead to innovation and the emergence of new business opportunities as the industries converge.

Conclusion: Navigating the 3D Scanner Market Landscape

As we approach 2025, the 3D-scanning market is characterized by a high degree of competition and a remarkable degree of fragmentation. Several large and small companies are competing for market shares. The trend in the various geographical areas is that demand is increasing, especially in North America and Asia-Pacific. The development of the industry and the medical industry are the main drivers. Artificial intelligence, automation and sustainability are becoming the key to differentiation. The innovation of the established players is the focus of attention, while the newcomers use their flexibility and niche applications to disrupt the established order. Those who want to achieve leadership must invest in these competences, to remain agile and to be able to respond quickly to the changing customer requirements and technological developments.