When so much force is applied to a part that it permanently bends or changes shape, that part has undergone plastic deformation. At a basic level, it is easy to look at a part and recognize that it has changed shape. Figuring out exactly how the part changed shape is a much bigger challenge. Analyzing how this deformation occurs under varying load conditions could be a valuable tool in designing better parts.
This quick experiment shows how we can use our SMARTTECH 3D Scanner to take complex 3D measurements quickly. While analyzing plastic deformation with 3D scanning is not its most popular use – like 3D inspection and reverse engineering – it could become a useful tool for automotive, aerospace, and other industries when creating new products that see a lot of use over time.