How NS85 Uses 3D Scanning to Drive Precision in Motorsport Engineering
- 16 hours ago
- 2 min read
Written by Peel Team
In motorsport and specialist vehicle manufacturing, precision matters. Based in the UK, NS85 is a focused engineering team known for delivering high-performance braking systems, lightweight structures, and complex low-volume projects for some of the industry’s most demanding applications.
The Challenge: Designing Without Perfect Data
Unlike mass-production settings, NS85 frequently operates without reliable CAD models, detailed drawings, or ready-made parts. The team works hands-on with real vehicles, navigating tight packaging constraints that seldom align with datasheet specifications.
That’s where 3D scanning has proven transformative for NS85.
Why 3D Scanning Matters
NS85 uses the Peel 3 scanner to capture precise geometry of key components like hubs, uprights, and pedal boxes, giving them reliable, real-world data from the start. This reduces uncertainty and ensures design decisions are fact-based.
The data feeds directly into their workflow, making projects, from bespoke brake kits to reverse-engineered parts, faster and more reliable. In short, 3D scanning removes guesswork, speeds development, and ensures parts fit right the first time.
Inside NS85’s Workflow: From Scan to CAD
In this webinar that our team offered together with Nick from NS85, three videos that showcase how NS85 integrates scanning into their processes have been included.
1. On-Site Scanning
The first video shows NS85 conducting on-site scans of vehicle parts including hubs, uprights, and nearby structures to generate accurate digital models when CAD data isn’t available. This method supports precise design choices and improves the chances of a perfect first-time fit.
2. Mesh Cleanup and CAD Integration
Next, NS85 demonstrates how they merge multiple scans into one dataset, clean the mesh to remove noise and fill gaps, and prepare it for engineering. The data is then imported into SolidWorks, allowing the brake assembly to be designed around the actual geometry. This process turns raw scans into trustworthy data for confident design decisions.
3. Reverse-Engineering with Peel.CAD Pro
The final video demonstrates reverse-engineering a brake disc using Peel.CAD Pro’s Scan-to-CAD tools. The workflow involves importing scan data, reconstructing it into a clean, editable CAD model, and verifying accuracy against the original mesh. This streamlined process is perfect for legacy parts or components lacking existing digital data.
The Big Advantages
Starting with accurate, real-world data reduces uncertainty early on, especially for custom vehicles where catalogue dimensions can’t be relied on. The scan-to-CAD workflow streamlines design and helps avoid costly rework.
In short, 3D scanning enables NS85 to deliver precise, tailored solutions efficiently and consistently.
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