3D scanning, modeling, production
Reverse Engineering: 3D Scanning and Modeling
We scan the part you have, turn it into an editable 3D model and produce an identical one, or a better one if needed.
What is reverse engineering?
Reverse engineering means capturing the geometry of a physical part that has no drawing or file through 3D scanning and turning it into a dimensioned, editable CAD model. Scanning alone is not enough: the mesh from a scan is only a copy of the surface. Our engineers use that data as a reference to remodel the part, building holes, faces and tolerances according to design intent, and then verify the model against the scan. This way parts that are discontinued, impossible to find or broken can be produced again, and strengthened if needed.
- Even parts without drawings can be modeled
- Editable CAD, not just STL
- Digital archive: reproduce whenever you need
What we deliver
- 3D scan dataThe part's surface geometry as a point cloud and mesh (STL).
- Editable CAD modelA dimensioned, parametric STEP model you can reuse.
- Deviation analysis reportA color map showing the difference between the model and the scan.
- Technical drawingOptional dimensioned and toleranced 2D drawings.
- Improved designBroken or worn areas reinforced, material upgraded.
- Production and inspectionProduction with the right process and material, followed by measurement.
Process
From part to model, from model to part
Scanning is only the beginning. Scan data is a copy; what turns the part into a dimensioned, editable model is the modeling our engineers do.
- 01
Reviewing the part
We define the part's function, where it fits, its critical dimensions and material together, and plan the scan.
- 02
3D scanning
The part is scanned from every angle with a precision 3D scanner; its geometry becomes a cloud of millions of points.
- 03
Building the mesh
The point cloud is cleaned, merged and turned into a closed surface mesh. This is still a copy, not a model.
- 04
CAD modeling
Our engineers remodel the part using the scan as a reference: flat faces are flat, holes have exact diameters, dimensions are editable.
- 05
Deviation analysis
The finished model is overlaid on the scan data; differences are checked on a color map and approved.
- 06
Production and measurement
The model is produced with 3D printing, series production or another process; the part is measured before delivery.
From idea to product, from production to brand
Six steps with one team
Each step builds on the one before. You can start at any step and finish wherever you like.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
Are 3D scanning and reverse engineering the same thing?
No. 3D scanning copies the surface of a part as a point cloud and mesh. In reverse engineering, that data is used as a reference to remodel the part as a dimensioned, editable CAD model, which is then verified.
Can you create a model from a broken part?
In most cases, yes. Broken pieces are put together and scanned; missing areas are remodeled based on measurements, symmetry and the use scenario.
Which files do you deliver?
We deliver the scan data as STL and the CAD model as STEP; technical drawings and a deviation analysis report can also be prepared if needed.
Will a reverse-engineered part be as strong as the original?
With the right material choice it is often equal to the original, and it can be made stronger if needed; we choose the material according to the part's operating conditions.
How large or small can the part be?
We can scan anything from small mechanism parts to large housings; we choose the scanning method according to the part's size and level of detail.
Let's talk about your project
Send us your idea and any design you have; our project support team will get back to you as soon as possible.