3D Scanning for Boatbuilding: Digitizing a RIB Hull for an Optimized Marine Workflow

Traditional Boatbuilding Meets 3D Scanning Technology in Norway

Norway has a long-standing tradition of boatbuilding, deeply rooted in craftsmanship and regional expertise. In areas near the Glomma river, this heritage remains active, with local builders continuing to rely on hands-on skills developed over generations.

At the same time, traditional workflows often depend on manual measurement and iterative adjustments, which can be time-consuming and limit efficiency. To explore a more streamlined approach, Stian Marthinsen, CEO & Founder of SMI3D AS, initiated a project to digitize an 8-meter RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) hull.

Working alongside his team, the objective was to capture accurate 3D data and establish a foundation for integrating technologies such as 3D scanning, CAD modeling, and simulation into the boatbuilding process.

Wireless Standalone 3D Scanning Solutions for Large Marine Structures

The project combined traditional boatbuilding expertise with modern wireless standalone 3D scanning technology to capture both the overall geometry and fine details of the 8-meter RIB hull. Two standalone handheld scanners were used, each serving a distinct role within the workflow.

EinScan Libre: Fast capture of large-scale geometry

• Large FOV (field of view) of up to 983 × 979 mm, enabling rapid acquisition of extensive hull surfaces

• Well-suited for reflective and dark materials commonly found in marine environments

• Built-in high-performance processor and onboard storage for fully standalone operation

EinScan Libre is ideal for efficiently capturing the overall shape of the 8-meter hull

EinScan Rigil: High-detail scanning of complex components

• High geometric resolution up to 0.05 mm for fine-detail capture

• 7 parallel laser lines mode for detailed features and fine structures

• Flexible scanning modes to balance efficiency and detail in different areas
  

Both scanners integrate Wi-Fi connectivity, onboard computing modules, and built-in displays, enabling full scanning and processing directly on the device. This all-in-one wireless design reduces reliance on external computers or power sources, improving mobility and simplifying on-site operation in marine environments.

By combining these two systems, the team was able to efficiently capture complete 3D data of the hull—from overall geometry to fine structural details—within a streamlined and flexible workflow.

From 3D Scan Data to CAD: Enabling Reverse Engineering and Simulation

The scanning process generated high-quality 3D data that can now be used for further engineering applications. Compared to traditional methods, this approach helps reduce manual work and accelerates data acquisition.

The next step is to reverse engineer the scan data into a parametric CAD model. This digital model will enable:

• Design refinement and optimization

• Integration with FEA (Finite Element Analysis)

• Hull performance simulations

By building on accurate scan data, the entire workflow becomes more efficient and better suited for modern engineering requirements.

3D Scanning for the Marine Industry: Improving Efficiency and Workflow

This project highlights how 3D scanning can enhance traditional boatbuilding by bridging craftsmanship with digital engineering tools. From hull digitization to design optimization, adopting a data-driven workflow helps reduce labor time and improve overall efficiency.

For maritime manufacturers looking to modernize their processes, SHINING 3D offers a range of solutions tailored to marine applications—from hull inspection and reverse engineering to large-scale 3D data capture.

Looking to bring 3D scanning into your marine workflow? Click here to discover how SHINING 3D supports applications from hull scanning to reverse engineering. Or talk to our experts to find the right solution for your needs.