How High-Accuracy 3D Scanning Technology Advances Marine Mold Manufacturing and Inspection

Introduction

At SHINING 3D, we are committed to delivering 3D scanning solutions that bridge physical craftsmanship and digital accuracy. When NuWave Composites integrated our FreeScan Trak Nova into their workflow, they redefined accuracy in boat mold manufacturing. Here’s their story.

NuWave Composites is a full-service engineering and manufacturing company specializing in advanced composite tooling, design, and fabrication. Based in the United States, they offer end-to-end solutions with a strong focus on the marine sector. From 3D scanning and reverse engineering to CNC machining, plug development, mold making, and composite part fabrication, they provide a streamlined, vertically integrated workflow that ensures accuracy and performance at every stage of the process.

Digital Manufacturing of Marine Molds

When 3D files are available, NuWave Composites can use CNC machines for processing, then move on to the model making stage. However, as co-owner Reid Richardson explains, their team frequently deals with boats and marine components that lack digital documentation. Many customers' old products do not have 3D data, so incorporating SHINING 3D FreeScan Trak Nova into the process is a major breakthrough. With the FreeScan Trak Nova, NuWave Composites now scans these physical assets directly, producing accurate surface models that serve as the foundation for reverse engineering, CAD modeling, and full documentation, including glass and core kits.

Boat scanning with FreeScan Trak Nova

Hole scanning with single laser line

What really sets the FreeScan Trak Nova apart for NuWave Composites is how well it handles large, curved surfaces like boat hulls and deck molds. Traditional handheld scanners often struggle to maintain accuracy and stability when working with this kind of large-scale parts. But with FreeScan Trak Nova tracking system, the team can scan large objects continuously and accurately, without markers.

The system is wireless, That flexibility makes it easier to scan full-size plugs or legacy parts directly on the shop floor and start building CAD models right away. Moreover, FreeScan Trak Nova system features SHINING 3D’s patented video photogrammetry (VPG). It ensures consistent volumetric accuracy.

For NuWave Composites, it’s not just about speed—it’s about capturing clean, usable scan data from real-world marine parts without interrupting the workflow.

SHINING 3D technician is checking the boat data