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2D Scanning Services
Professional Large-Format 2D Scanning Services for Engineers
Managing a storage room full of massive engineering, architectural, and schematic drawings can be overwhelming. These drawings require a lot of physical space, and they’re incredibly inefficient to find. How are you supposed to know exactly where one specific drawing is? What if a colleague moved it, a visitor stole it, or the sales department is currently using the drawing? Instead of dealing with annoying Mylar hand-drawn drawings, your team should consider digitizing them through our professional 2D scanning services.
Our 2D scanning services are hand-made for engineering departments just like yours. Our staff will step in and handle the complete digitization of your drawings, no matter how many or how few drawings you have.
Our team at CAD/CAM Services has been generating 2D-scanned files for decades, helping some of the largest companies in America. When it comes to digitization of your engineering drawings, few companies can offer the workmanship, quality, attention to detail, and efficiency that we offer.
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What Is 2D Scanning?
2D scanning is the process of using a specialized scanner to create digital files of your physical drawings. Most scanners use rollers to feed the sheets of paper through, and a series of cameras and lasers to create digital versions of your drawings.
2D scanners can vary a lot when it comes to price and final resolution and quality — often, the more expensive scanners come with higher resolutions. As a result, your engineering department will need to either spend a ton of money for your own 2D scanner, or rely on our experts at CAD/CAM Services.
Once the 2D scanning process is complete, your large-format drawing will be available to view, send, and adjust on your computer.
Why Professional 2D Scanning Matters
Most engineering departments turn to 2D scanning in an effort to reduce how much they rely on Mylar, hand-drawn engineering drawings. If you need to run to the backroom and leaf through drawers full of engineering drawings before you find the right one, you already know what a huge headache and waste of time it is to manage and look for physical drawings.
Instead, you can use a 2D-scanned image to find, open, and send out an engineering drawing in seconds.
So, why should you outsource this work to a professional team of outsourced 2D scanning engineers? It saves you countless time and money. A high-tech 2D scanner can get pretty expensive, and the learning curve is pretty steep. Instead, you can turn to our experts to take care of the full process. We’ll do it quicker and more affordably than your in-house team can.
We also have access to specialized software that can enhance the quality of each scan. In addition, we ensure the accuracy of each scan is perfect before sending you anything. These additional checks and programs would only add more time and money to your plate if you tried to handle the same project in-house.
Benefits of 2D Scanning from CAD/CAM Services
We have scanned millions and millions of drawings during our decades in business. Why do so many people trust our experts? We are the faster, more affordable, higher-quality way to get 2D scans of your engineering drawings.
Better quality with each scan. With our access to companion software and top-of-the-line Contex 2D scanners, we can create incredibly detailed scans of each drawing. Better quality means easier manufacturing and fewer human errors when it comes to reading your drawings in the future.
Access to industry-leading scanners. We have a lot of Contex scanners in-house that can be leveraged to create 48-bit color or grayscale scans of your engineering drawings.
Expertise and experience you need. Scanning might seem like a simple process, but it actually requires a lot of background understanding and experience. With CAD/CAM Services, our expert team can handle your most complicated 2D scanning projects.
The best way to digitize your library. Digitizing doesn’t get much easier, and you’ll see the difference when you choose CAD/CAM Services for your 2D scanning needs.
Find, edit, and share drawings in seconds. A digitized engineering drawing is the quickest way to find, edit, and share every drawing. Working with physical Mylar drawings is a bottleneck for any engineering company. Allow our 2D scanning services to unlock a new level of speed and efficiency within your company.
What Goes Into 2D Scanning from CAD/CAM Services?
2D scanning with CAD/CAM Services is incredibly simple. First, we’ll have a quick consultation. This conversation will cover what you’re looking for, how many drawings you have, the rough size of your largest drawing, and what level of quality or resolution you need.
Once we agree on a timeline, our team will get to work. We’ll use any number of our cutting-edge 2D scanners to completely digitize your library of engineering drawings. For large projects, we often run multiple scanners at the same time to greatly reduce the total project time.
We’ll send every digitized file to you using an encrypted and secure DoD-trusted filesharing site. If you don’t love every scan, just let us know and we’ll correct them for free within 24 hours.
From there, we can also create full 2D or 3D CAD versions of your scanned images, as part of our 3D CAD conversion services.
More About 2D Scanning
It’s important that you pick the right outsourced 2D scanning company. A shady company can steal your IP, damage your engineering drawings, and charge too much for their services. At CAD/CAM Services, we take a lot of pride in our work. It’s the reason why we’re one of the most trusted 2D scanning outsourced companies in the country.
We will gently handle your drawings and use specialized 2D scanners for any delicate prints. We never want to waste your time or money, so we always go above and beyond to deliver exceptional quality, turnaround times, and affordable 2D scanning services.
Plus, our team of over 100 engineers and draftsmen work around the clock to provide 24/7 coverage. This translates to faster turnarounds and incredible efficiency.
Get a Quote Today
Getting a free quote from CAD/CAM Services is quick and easy. Our team will walk you through the process, answer any questions, and put your mind at ease before you sign any paperwork. Our company is built around providing the best, fastest, most affordable services for engineering departments just like yours. Trust our team to take care of your drawings and provide high-resolution scans of your most prized drawings.
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FAQ’s
Digitizing FAQs
What is the accuracy of your digitizing process?
We are proud to announce that we create digitized copies of old non-dimensioned drawings within the Aerospace ±.005” accuracy requirement.
This is exactly the process we have used on several iterations of the 767-8, 300, and 300F. We would be required to scan 200-300 J-size Mylars, and with zero reference points, and no dimensions. Our next step was to create via FreeForm designs in Catia the 767 wings. All of which was then certified by Boeing.
How can I get a valid CAD model from my old Mylar?
Yes. We have accurately converted old Mylars into 2D and 3D CAD files for 20 years.
We start with a very good raster scan, generally on Contex 54” or the new 60” scanners. In addition, we can often work with existing scans that you might have.
After that, we have to adjust the raster image to fit independently in each 5” or10” grid. Each of the four corners of each grid has to be independently moved and calibrated.This is a tricky, manual, and a proprietary process. But at this point, that Mylar image is back to the original spec. This is exactly what we did for the Air Force. Over 70,000 J-size Mylars were scanned and calibrated. Now our corrected and calibrated images are the Air Force standard – not the Mylars.
When you import it to your CAD software we make sure that the image is appropriately scaled, calibrated, and truly horizontal and vertical.
What is a “Calibrated” Mylar image?
Mylar films can be stored in climate-controlled facilities. However, films get skewed and change sizes over time – ironically not linear. So what changes on one end, does not apply to what is in the middle, or the other end. We have seen ‘J’ size Aerospace Mylars (about 48×180”), vary by a full inch.
CAD/CAM Services utilizes a proprietary process to make Mylar raster images dead on a 5” or 10” grid. Our process was developed in conjunction with, and approved by Boeing engineers.
Do you support BIM modeling?
Using Revit, yes we do. Think of BIM as an intelligent 3D model of your building. We know exactly where all of the HVAC is, IT cabling, electrical, the cost of doors and windows, when mechanical systems need to be serviced, all the way to a room number with a phone number and IP in that room. In addition to our Ray Tracing technology to support some very life-like photo renderings.
Creating models and drawings over scanned analog documents seem so easy – why such a low price?
In order to make an accurate representation, you have to calibrate the original drawing, which may have deformed during its storage period. Non-dimensioned mediums need to be thoroughly calibrated before digitizing.
Parts of scanned data may be lost due to time and other factors. Because it is important to recreate the design intent, we need to recreate lost data.
You ONLY receive Cad Perfect™ files – as if you had drawn these by hand.
What is the average raster to vector (R2V) 2-D conversion price?
The typical AEC D & E size sheet is $135. There are possible discounts depending on the job size. The more you convert the less you pay. The bulk of the files we produce are for AutoCAD.
What is DHS – Critical Infrastructure Products
The Department of Homeland Security protocol PPD-21 requirement has deemed that sixteen (16) industries and services are critical to our US Nations security.
These industries require additional security protocols when creating CAD files. CAD / CAM Services follows all of these requirements. Think of industries and info structures such as power, water, along with fourteen (14) other industries. For a full list please see Critical Infrastructure Products.
CAD Conversion Services
There are special CAD translator software packages available on the market, why should I pay you guys?
It is better to ask the following question:
What can you do that a software translator cannot do?
Verify files.
Update files
Fix files
Convert the CAD data to native intelligent CAD data with full feature trees.
Update data to the current CAD standards.
Work in the native PLM systems.
Correctly write scripts for this process as needed.
My company wants to change the focus of our CAD systems, is it possible to do this with your help?
Of course, we offer CAD migration services. If you want all the Cad Perfect™ files to comply with your updated company standard, just send us the guidelines and we will make Cad Perfect™ files which are perfect for you!
I have some exotic files nobody knows even how to open. Can you help me even in this case?
Yes, we performed successful conversions from many local or exotic and ancient CAD systems. You can continue the development of old projects in modern software with our help.
I have some weird CAD files from the previous century, can you help me?
Yes, absolutely. We can perform legacy CAD conversions. Just send us some example files, and what CAD system we need to wind up in, and let us design the best solution for you.We have worked with old Computer Vision tapes, Anvil, and many other 1980’s systems.
Which CAD systems do you work with?
We support all the modern CAD systems including SolidWorks, Catia, Siemens NX, PTC Creo, Inventor, Revit, AutoCAD, and many others.
Which CAD file formats do you work with?
All the CAD file formats are listed on this page but bear in mind that we also work with exotic and legacy CAD systems. After 31 years of providing CAD Services, we have run into almost any CAD file format.
What do I get?
You get native Cad Perfect™ files with the full-featured model tree (where applicable, since some file types have no trees), and features can be fully parametric. It all depends on your goals. We prefer to not translate any files. Our goal is to deliver to you a file that you do not have to touch. Our work is exactly as if you had reproduced that work in-house.
What do you need to provide me with an accurate quote?
We need to know source CAD and target CAD software. Since large quantity orders can be discounted by us you can provide us with the number of parts you need to be converted.
If you tell us the desired purpose of the conversion we can offer you some conversion options. We can also convert your files into vendor-neutral file types (.STEP, .STL, etc,).
Please email us even cell phone photos, and the rough size of what you wish scanned and converted [email protected].
What is a CAD conversion?
A CAD conversion is when our team of engineers takes your sketch, physical drawing, existing CAD file, 2D CAD file, or idea and transforms it into a professional 2D or 3D CAD file. For instance, you can send us a picture of your legacy drawing, and we can create a 3D CAD model from scratch in your favorite CAD program (like NX, CREO, CATIA, SolidWorks, etc.).
A CAD conversion takes many shapes, and our engineers are able to perform most of the CAD conversions that you can think of. As long as you want high-quality 2D or 3D CAD files, then CAD/CAM Services can help.
Can you turn a sketch I have into an engineered CAD file?
Some of our most fun projects are taking someone’s sketch on a napkin, and transforming it into a manufacturable part. Yes, we can turn your sketch, idea, or dream into an engineered CAD file. Our team will go through engineering simulations, Design for Manufacturing (DFM) best practices, and tough calculations to make sure our designed part will work perfectly for you.
Allow our team at CAD/CAM Services to be your on-call engineer. We love going back and forth with inventors and dreamers like you, and our goal is to provide 3D CAD files and 2D manufacturing drawings. With our help, you can start building your dream part, assembly, or product today.
General CAD Questions
I need my project done today or tomorrow. Can you process rush jobs?
Depending upon when you catch us, yes, we can handle rush jobs. We often work over the holidays, Thanksgiving and even Christmas holidays. If you have a deadline – call us.
For years we have run three shifts of about 30 drafting folks per shift – allowing us to deliver work 3x faster, and seven days a week. Yes, we work 24/7, so you do not have to. The fun never stops here.
For 3D scanning, this is a different question. Because of the common setup work required, at best expect a 48-72 hour turn to be scanned. CAD or simulation services are in addition to that.
Who is affected by the PPD-21 directive?
The Department of Homeland Security has identified 16 different infostructures:
Chemical Sector,
Commercial Facilities Sector,
Communications Sector,
Critical Manufacturing Sector,
Dams Sector,
Defense Industrial Base Sector,
Emergency Services Sector,
Energy Sector,
Financial Services Sector,
Food and Agriculture Sector,
Government Facilities Sector,
Healthcare and Public Health Sector,
Information Technology Sector,
Nuclear Reactors Materials and Waste Sector,
Transportation Systems Sector,
Water and Wastewater Systems Sector.
This is both Government and private sectors.
If you are in any of these industries, this directive is important to you for many reasons. Do you know where your critical sections are? Are they well protected? Are there concerns for Hazmat, security clearance requirements, and other concerns? Can you quickly rebuild what might be lost?
The important part of this means that critical infrastructure must be secure and able to withstand and rapidly recover from all hazards. Achieving this will require integration with the national preparedness system across prevention, protection, mitigation, response, and recovery.
The Presidential Policy Directive 21 (PPD-21) is a Critical Infrastructure Protection and Resilience United States directive that aims to strengthen and secure the country’s critical infrastructure.The goal of this directive is to reduce vulnerabilities, identify and disrupt threats, minimize consequences and hasten response and recovery efforts related to critical infrastructure.
The directive defines resilience as the ability to prepare for and adapt to ever changing conditions, terrorists, and withstand and recover rapidly from disruptions. Resilience includes the ability to withstand and recover from deliberate attacks, accidents, or naturally occurring threats or incidents.
Do you support the PPD-21 Directive?
Yes we do, and have now for several years. In addition, we also support the industry specific plans as well.
Did you really own the trademark Cad Perfect™, Cad Perfect CAD Conversions™ and Cad / Cam Services™?
Yes, we did back in 2008. We started using Cad Perfect™ back in the early 1990s because all of our customers wanted only real Cad Perfect™ work. Back then the buzz words were terms like machine ready, or DXF Traceover and others.
The problem is, nobody wanted that. They all wanted drawings and models that they did not have to touch. Everybody wanted drawings just as if they hand redrew the work themselves.
Thus, Cad / Cam Services™ was the first company to start offering ONLY Cad Perfect™ work.
What is the estimated delivery time?
It depends on the scope of work:
2D drawings – small quantity, normally 48 hours. We have several customers where they contract to us, keeping 4-8 drafters busy full time.
3D models – complexity dependent, but smaller jobs in 2-3 days. Some models we have spent months on. Again, we have several customers where they contract to us, keeping 6-10 3D CAD designers busy full time.
Simple jobs have a lead time of 48 hours. Larger projects are delivered and invoiced weekly.
Will CAD / CAM Services Sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA)?
Yes. NDAs are a common part of our business. All data is yours – not ours, and treated as proprietary data and not for public consumption or use. Probably 70% of our work is under NDA agreements. We can generally get these signed within the day.
How do I send a sample, in order to get a quote?
Fill out our quote form, attach your files, or simply send us an email. Tell everything about your project, like the model purpose.
For smaller files < 15 MB you can simply email them to us. For something larger, just drop them in any number of drop boxes like Dropbox, Google Drive, Microsoft OneDrive and others. Or if you would like, just contact us for a private, hardened link.
It is fine to use most any time of compression such as *.zip, *.rar, *.tar, *.7z, *.arc, *.LBR, and even *.iso images.
We also use a hardened OwnCloud web file sharing platform for unlimited file transfers. We provide unique and very private Web Storage Portals, this also supports file syncing for extreme convenience for you. Because so much of our work is DOD or weapons design work, Security – and confidentiality is very important to us.
