3D scanner manufacturer Scoobe3D has apparently declared bankruptcy.
First launched in 2018 via a Kickstarter campaign, the Scoobe3D 3D scanner was quite unique at the time. Their technology uses three different technologies in the same 3D scanner: photogrammetry, point distance and polarization.
The polarization is interesting: most 3D scanners are bewildered by reflections, but by an ingenious use of rotating polarizing filters allowed them to overcome that issue.
Currently, their flagship model is the Scoobe3D Precision, which provides up to 0.1mm resolution with its three cameras and Polarox scanning technology. The device is quite interesting as it is as small as a camera and can be toted along easily for quick use. However, the unit was priced at €5494 (US$5950), far more than many current 3D scanning solutions.
While there’s no indication of anything amiss on their website, a surprise filing in the Ausburg court revealed the company has filed for bankruptcy. In a translated version of the filing, we see this:
“Ref.: IN 144/24
In the proceedings on the application d.Scoobe3D GmbH, Werner-von-Siemens-Straße 6, 86159 Augsburg, represented by the managing directors Berlow Carolin, Berlow Julian and Bönsch Benjamin
Registration court: Augsburg district court Registration court Register number: HRB 32434debtor –
Legal representative:
Attorney Neidlinger Marcus, Frölichstrasse 18, 86150 Augsburg, Gz.: 02-195/24
to open insolvency proceedings over one’s own assets
Decision:To protect the debtor’s assets from adverse changes (Section 21 Paragraphs 1 and 2 InsO)
Provisional insolvency administration will be ordered on February 19, 2024 at 10:10 a.m., Section 21 Paragraph 2 Sentence 1 No. 1 InsO.The following is appointed as the provisional insolvency administrator: Attorney Dr. Alexander Zarzitzky, Pröllstraße 5, 86157 Augsburg, telephone: +49(821)252 72-0, fax: +49(821)252 72-51, email: [email protected].
In accordance with Section 21 Paragraph 2 Sentence 1 No. 2 Alt. 2 InsO, it is ordered that the debtor’s orders are only effective with the consent of the provisional insolvency administrator.
The collection of outstanding debts also falls under this order.”
We’ve also seen copies of recent email solicitations for investment sent to individuals from Scoobe3D, highlighting their need for cash.
This is disappointing, but perhaps another casualty of competition. I recall that ten years ago portable 3D scanners were huge — I even spent more than US$50,000 for one. The Scoobe3D offering would certainly be highly competitive against that model.
However, prices have collapsed as technology and competition have dramatically increased. We’ve tested several handheld units that are now available for less than US$1000 that provide quite astonishing results, even for challenging scanning subjects.
While bad news for Scoobe3D, there are plenty of low-cost alternative products on the market, and there’s no expectation that competition will let up.
Via Scoobe3D and German Bankruptcy Notices (Hat tip to Benjamin)
