Using 3D scanned models

[Patriot_1776]

We are looking at purchasing a 3D scanner, either an Einscan HX or a Creaform HandySCAN, or even perhaps another brand (still looking).  The last time I used a scanned model it TOTALLY was a PITA, just this giant memory hog pointcloud.  We need to do this because we had things built for us by vendors many years ago....aaaannnd, stupidly, proper documentation was NOT part of the purchased package.  So, now, if we need to modify something, I have to measure it.  TOTAL PITA and not accurate since I have no way to measure except a tape measure.

Has anyone dealt with scanned models recently?  I know the software now is a lot better, actually giving you surfaces AS you scan so you can look at the screen to see where you are missing data etc.  But, are the files gigantic like they used to be?  How do the files work within Creo?

If we get it, I'll post my experience if nobody else has experience with these new scanners.

[tbraxton]

The files can still be huge (the raw data certainly is). Geomagic software is the tool of choice to reverse engineer scan data into CAD data. Benchmark their product if you have not yet done so. I have used scan data from hand sculpted clay models and scan data from old parts to create Creo models. I outsource the scan and the creation of the needed geometry from the scan data. I would then used this as the basis to build a Creo model. Geomagic can create surfaces and curves from the scan data and has Creo integration support.

You can outsource this type of thing if it is not something you need to do continually. I would consider this vs the cost to acquire the capability.

[IR_9919812]

I am agree with @tbraxton about Geomagic. For getting precise CAD data from 3d scans and make accurate measurements it is a really good software. Maybe the best. 
Myself I use Geomagic Control X with one of Artec 3d scanners. If you consider looking at this brand. For CAD purpose the best choice would be Space Spider. Here's the specifications: https://www.artec3d.com/portable-3d-scanners/artec-spider This is the scanner I use. The only disadvantage - due to quite narrow field of view it's nor comfortable if you need to scan a big object. Possible, this is handheld scanner after all, but not comfortable.
Also the last version of their software Artec Studio has some basic measuring and CAD like functionality. It far from Geomagic possibilities but way better then a tape measurements. There is a beta version available somewhere on the website if I'm not mistaken... Maybe this functionality will be enough for you.