SLC's scanning division specializes in 3D laser scanning for the marine industry. They provide services such as as-built surveys, hull scans to develop hydrostatic data and polar diagrams, race boat measurement, rudder and keel optimization, and interior fit-outs. SLC uses Faro and Leica laser scanners to quickly and accurately scan marine objects down to the millimeter level, producing detailed 3D point cloud models. They then process the point clouds and provide outputs such as 3D CAD models, meshes, and sections to help clients with repairs, refits, designs, and verifications.

1. 3D Laser Scanning for the marine industry
SLC's scanning division specialises in high definition 3D laser survey, point cloud conversion and CAD modelling. We provide a range of services to industry, includ- ing marine, aviation, engineering and construction.
Marine Applications
 ‘As built’ surveys for repairs and refits
 Classic yacht restorations
 3D models for developing hydrostatic data and polar diagrams
 Race boat measurement for ORCi certificates
 Optimisation of keels and rudders
 Verification of mould tools
 Visualisation and measurement of machinery spaces
 Interior fit outs
 Machinery installations
 Historical record creation
 Accurate replicas and scale models
Scanners
This Faro Focus laser scanner is capable of obtaining mil- lions of points in 3D space in a few minutes, to create a complete 3D image of any object. Normally a 50’ yacht hull could be scanned in 1-2 hours with around 8—10 individual scans.
The Faro is light and portable so it is ideal for interiors and tight spaces.
Our Leica C10 scanner is a powerful, fast and accurate long range scan- ner, and combined with Leica’s Cy- clone software, provides an excellent platform for surveying hulls and superstructures.
Whichever scanner is used, the scan points are post-processed to create a single point cloud in which the scans are tightly locked together. While this data provides a useful 3D view, and meas- urements can be taken, it will usually be necessary to go consid- erably further and develop 3D CAD files.
We area able to supply meshes, sections and surfaces in any suitable CAD format, so that designers and naval architects don’t need to work with complex point data. Cli- ents can be confident that any design work will be consistent with the profile and di- mensions of the as built object.
Haul tow punt, Irene, Scanned for Falmouth Maritime Museum. Built C1950.
SLC Associates, Laser scanning division Broadfields Court, Bicester Road Aylesbury HP19 8BU
ISO 9001 accredited
Tel: 01296 717500 Mobile: 07764 928340
This apparently solid image of classic yacht Misty (see overleaf) is in fact made up from around 48 million points in an xyz coordinate system. The points are col- oured using data from the scanner camera.

2. TP 52 Rudder modification.
In order to do an optimisation of this TP, the designer wanted to move the rudders forward and inboard to reduce cavitation. Our 3D model made it easy to reposition the rudder tubes and supply dimensions for a boat builder to carry out the modifications.
Mould tool analysis
This small power boat coachroof pattern had assembly errors after CNC cutting. The pattern was scanned and the result compared with the CAD design in Verify soft- ware.
Raceboat Measurement
SLC Associates has been working with the ORC to develop 3D laser scanning for race boat measurement. We scanned two Wally 80s to trial the technique. The data was run through the ORCs lines processing program. The scan results proved to be almost identical to a previous conventional measurement done in 2011.
Yacht Interiors
Laser scanning makes it easy to check interiors and machinery spaces on new builds and refits. Measurements can be taken directly from the scans, or a 3D drawing developed for a new installation. Existing service runs can be checked for clashes in the design before the yard starts work, saving time and cost.
Rhino 3D model of a hull mould.
A commercial boat builder acquired this mould, but the drawings had long disappeared.
We scanned the mould and then generated sections and surfaces from the resultant mesh.
Classic Yacht Optimisation
Misty, a David Cheverton design from 1962, was restored at A R Way’s boatyard in Scotland. Misty needed a new rig and sailplan, so the hull was scanned and a solid model created.
Meshes and sections were derived from the point cloud, sur- faced and modelled to develop the hydrostatic data.
Software
We use SolidWorks and Rhino 3D, and can sup- ply files in your preferred format for further design development.
Alternatively, the point data can be viewed on a web browser or via a ‘walkthrough’ if no full 3D modelling is required. Clients and others involved in a project can view the 3D images, take measurements and add comments.
Contact:
Marcus Evans
Tel: +44 1962 884384
Mobile +44 7764 928340