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Reverse engineering is the creation of a 3D model from an existing physical part for further use in CAD, CAM, CAE or other systems. Using a 3D scanner, an existing part is scanned, which is then digitized and, using appropriate software, reconstructed into formats that CAD or CAM applications can work with.

We perform reverse engineering using 3D scanning with a Creaform HandySCAN 700 portable laser scanner or, alternatively, processing input data from other scanning systems (e.g. GOM). The data from the scan are then processed (cloud of points) in CAD programs.

Reverse engineering is the digitization of an existing physical part, or the creation of a 3D model, which can then be further processed in CAD, CAM, CAE or other systems. The typical output is data (model) in STEP, IGES, STL or DXF format.

Use of reverse engineering

In the vast majority of cases, reverse engineering means digitizing parts and converting them to CAD, or creating a 3D model or drawing documentation of parts for which CAD data is not available or has been lost.

Reverse engineering strives for as faithful a copy of the original as possible. With the use of common laser or optical scanners, the digitization accuracy is sufficient for common parts, but for some types of very complex forms or parts with a complex internal structure, it is very difficult to create a digital copy of a physical object.

Tools used

To create 3D models from real parts, we use 3D scanning with a Creaform HandySCAN 700 non-contact laser scanner. We further process the data obtained in this way in CAD programs. The result is standard 3D models.

We use software:

  • VXModel: Scan-to-CAD
  • VXinspect: inspection software
  • Geomagic Design X
  • Solidworks 2018 Premium
  • solidThinking INSPIRE

Technical specifications Creaform Handyscan 700

Measurement speed 480 000 measurements/s
Scanning area 250 × 275 mm
Light source 7 laser crosses 1 laser line
Scanner resolution 0,05 mm
Scanner accuracy up to 0,03 mm
Volume accuracy 0,020 mm + 0,060 mm/m without MaxSHOT 3D

Are you interested in this service? Contact us.

Ing. Lukáš Jančar

Ing. Lukáš Jančar

Reverse engineering