Reverse Engineering

Reverse engineering is the process of converting an actual object into a virtual 3D model. It differs from the traditional engineering process, which starts with virtual design in CAD, and finishes with a machined, molded, formed or 3D-printed end product. In contrast, reverse engineering begins with a physical object and ends with its deduced design dimensions and shape, for the purpose of maintaining, recreating, adapting or improving this product (or system or assembly). The physical object can be measured using 3D measurement technology such as CMMs, laser scanners, structured light digitizers, or Industrial CT Scanning.  Once the object has been measured, reverse engineering software will be used in order to convert the 3D measurements into the final reverse-engineered model.

Reverse engineering has a multitude of applications. It could be used for legacy parts preceding computer technologies, making copies of a unique object, building a scale model, designing an object that must fit around an existing one (for instance, a smartphone case or car accessories), or repairing a cast mold for which no digital information exists.

Creaform’s 3D Scanners are great for reverse engineering to generate 3D CAD models from existing objects (as-built), for determining original design intent, modernizing manufacturing processes, or designing a new part to fit a legacy product or equipment.