July 2025, CDG 3D TECH welcomed visitors to its 3D Scanning Open Days in Basingstoke and Derby. Engineers, manufacturers, designers, and educators joined us to explore the latest in 3D scanning technology — but the moment that grabbed everyone’s attention was our live demonstration of the FreeScan Trak Nova as we scanned our VW Caddy van in real time.
Instead of simply showing slides or scanned models, we proved the Nova’s capability on something everyone could relate to: a full-size vehicle. With the VW Caddy parked inside the CDG AM Centre, our team set up the FreeScan Trak Nova’s optical tracking system around the van.
As the handheld scanner moved smoothly over the bodywork, the Caddy’s geometry seemingly built itself on the screen – in seconds – first the curves of the bonnet, then the sweeping panels along the doors, right through to finer features around lights and edges. Guests gathered close to the live feed, watching as the vehicle’s digital twin took shape before their eyes.
The best part? The Nova didn’t need thousands of stickers or markers. Its optical tracking technology meant the scanner stayed locked on target, even when moving quickly over the large surfaces. For attendees used to slower, more fiddly workflows, this speed and accuracy was a revelation.
The live demo turned out to be more than just impressive 3D Tech theatre — it sparked real discussions about practical applications:
Automotive repair & customisation: From restoring panels to designing modifications
Vehicle wrapping: Flat pattern developments for 3D to 2D
Manufacturing: Large-part inspection and reverse engineering
Education & heritage: Digitising large assets such as vehicles, machinery, and artefacts
Several visitors remarked on the ease of the whole process — set-up, scan, capture, done — making it clear to see how the Nova could integrate into their own projects.
While the FreScan Trak Nova stole the show, the Open Days also featured demonstrations of other cutting-edge scanners:
EinScan Rigil – precision for industrial applications
FreeScan Omni – a versatile scanner for multiple use cases
EinScan Libre – handheld scanning made more accessible
Attendees could try the scanners themselves, compare performance, and explore how software like Geomagic transforms raw scan data into usable CAD and inspection workflows.
The Basingstoke event also showcased our brand-new Additive Manufacturing Centre — a space purpose-built for demonstrations, training, and innovation. With large-format 3D printers, scanning setups, and post-processing equipment all under one roof, it reflects CDG’s ongoing commitment to supporting UK industry with the latest tools and expertise.
The VW Caddy scan gave attendees a vivid, memorable demonstration of what’s now possible with metrology-grade 3D scanning. It showed not only the Nova’s raw capabilities but also how accessible and efficient advanced scanning has become.
Both events generated fantastic feedback, and we’re already looking ahead to future Open Days and demonstrations to keep showcasing the technologies shaping the future of design, manufacturing, and inspection.
If you missed the open day, you can still arrange a demonstration of the FreeScan Trak Nova (and other scanners) at our centres in Alton, Basingstoke or Derby.
Please contact the CDG Replik8 Team for more information or support with your projects.
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CDG 3D Scanning Open Days: Bringing the FreeScan Trak Nova to Life with a VW Caddy full vehicle scan July 2025, CDG 3D TECH welcomed