Processing 3D scan data can be complex and time-intensive. The Workflows feature automates routine post-processing steps, delivering faster, consistent results across applications such as CGI, reverse engineering, and manufacturing.

Once raw data is captured using an Artec 3D scanner, it must be processed through a series of algorithms to transform it into a usable 3D model. The output can then be exported from Artec Studio for applications such as 3D visualization, reverse engineering, or inspection. The Workflows feature allows you to build a customizable and automated processing pipeline, linking together steps like registration, fusion, mesh optimization, and export into a streamlined, one-click process. After creating a workflow, you can save it for repeated use whenever needed.

How 3D Scanning Works

Data Capture (Hardware)

Using an Artec 3D scanner to acquire information about the physical object. For AI Photogrammetry (introduced in Artec Studio version 19), you can also use photos or videos captured from your own camera-equipped device (like a smartphone, Digital SLR, or drone).

Scan Data Processing (Software)

The data is then imported into Artec Studio for further processing. What’s special about Artec Studio is that it uses AI algorithms to process the raw scans, clean them up, and then stitch each scan into a complete 3D model.

The Workflows feature automates this step so you don’t have to do it manually once it’s set up.

Export for Use

Once processing is complete, you can export the 3D models for use in other third-party software (e.g. CAD, reverse engineering, or inspection), or use them for 3D visualization applications.

Who is this feature built for?

The Workflows feature is a major time-saver for users who regularly scan similar objects with Artec 3D scanners or AI Photogrammetry. It allows you to create, save, share, and reuse predefined sequences of processing steps as Workflow presets. Once you’ve found the ideal settings for a particular object, you can save them as a Workflow and apply the entire sequence effortlessly whenever needed—eliminating the need to reconfigure everything from scratch. Setup is straightforward.

Step 1: Add the processing tools step by step.

In Workflows, go to the Add tool button and add all the necessary steps you want to process the scan data. The tools are divided into sections for easy viewing and selection.

You can configure your preferred settings for each step as shown below. You can define the workflow first and then go back to adjust the settings for each step. This ability to fine-tune each step gives you greater control over how the scan data is processed.

Step 2: Run the Sequence

After configuring the workflow, select Run to initiate automated, step-by-step processing of the scan data in Artec Studio.

Exporting Workflow

Once a workflow is saved, it can be selected and used again for future projects without reconfiguring the steps by exporting it. You can also share the file with other users so they can run the same workflow you created.

How to Import Existing Workflows

You can import existing workflows simply by going to the gear icon and selecting Import Workflows. Select a file with the file extension .aswf

Tutorial Video

For a detailed tutorial on using Workflows, Artec has created a step-by-step video that walks you through this feature.

Below is a full list of all the tools included in the Artec Studio 20 Workflows feature at the time Artec Studio 20 was released.

Reason #1: Automating data processing with Workflows yields faster results

There are three ways to process the same data into a 3D model in Artec Studio 20: Workflows, Autopilot, and manually. Creating 3D models with Workflows is faster than launching individual tools. Workflow automation in Artec Studio 20 is 70% faster compared to the other two methods. Let Artec Studio do the work, empowering you to focus on other tasks without interruptions. Once a workflow is set up, it becomes a one-click process.

Reason #2: Get repeatable results—even when working in a team environment

Once a workflow is saved, you can easily share it with colleagues or team members—even those with minimal experience using Artec Studio 20. This ensures that everyone working on the same project can follow the exact same processing steps, delivering consistent results every time.

Reason #3: Customizable to suit different use cases

If your projects have varying scanning needs, you can tailor a workflow to:

• a specific object type
• an Artec 3D scanner (if you use different models), or
• other criteria such as accuracy, resolution, or polygon count

In addition to the Workflows feature, Artec Studio 20 has many improvements, including Artec Micro II HD Mode, Spider II Autopilot, improvements to the AI Photogrammetry feature, RCP file type integration, and a revamped user interface.

Here is an overview video that features the highlights of Artec Studio 20.

For more information about this latest version, visit our Artec Studio page.

Artec Studio Brochure

The brochure highlights the new improvements in Artec Studio 20 and includes a comparison chart showing how it differs from previous version of the 3D scanning and data processing software.

Release Notes

For a bullet list of new features and upgrades, check out Artec Studio 20’s release notes.

Artec Online Courses

As a bonus, Artec created a free online course, What’s New in Artec Studio 20, that gives in-depth video tutorials. They take you through the new features and upgrades to Artec Studio 20, including Workflows, 3D scanner upgrades, AI Photogrammetry feature upgrades, and more!

Artec has also released a step-by-step tutorial video on manually processing 3D scan data in Artec Studio 20.