Reverse engineering
Reverse engineering is the process of reproducing a part by extracting surfaces or sketches from a scanned point cloud or mesh to create a CAD model of the part. The product reflects how the part was originally designed. Reverse engineering is becoming a more popular method of creating a 3D model of a part that does not have prior CAD files. This process has saved many professionals and companies time and costs, as well as an increase in the quality of design processes and time to market.
Laser scanning produces a cloud consisting of millions of points in 3D space. These 3D points can easily be converted to an STL file to be used in preserving your data or for 3D printing at any scale. However, the mesh data by itself cannot be easily edited or manipulated without highly specialized software. Using software, you can completely convert 3D scanned data into a useful parametric CAD model. With the parametric model, you can open the model with editing software (e.g. SolidWorks), access the feature tree, and easily edit sketches and design features.
The 3D scanner is ideal for reverse engineering. The collected data is projected as a point cloud, which is a three-dimensional image of the scanned object. This allows us to create virtual assemblies that allow us to detect overlap and check the fit of parts.
A 3D scanner can be used to scan / analyze a real world object or environment to collect data on its shape and possibly its appearance (color and / or texture). The collected data can be used to build a 3D digital model.
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Easily create replicas or manufacturing molds
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Cost savings - Capture / modeling takes you from conceptualization to manufacturing quickly
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Digital documentation of your parts in case of failure.
Our work process:
Once we have scanned the part, our 3D modeling specialists will begin working with the point cloud to create a Solid Model. The resulting models can be imported into almost any CAD software package such as being able to be used by the most common modeling software such as Autocad, Revit, Archicad, Solidworks, Tekla, Inventor, etc.
Models can be used to generate custom drawings or manufacture replacement parts. 3D printing / machining solutions will also be discussed based on your need and part materials.
Considerations for the process:
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Part size
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Reflectivity of the piece.
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Accessibility of the piece: scanned on site? It's in use?
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Desired deliverables
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The Chronogram of the project
Benefits of 3D scanning:
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Highly accurate results.
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Measure and model unique pieces.
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Easily create replicas or manufacturing molds
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Cost savings - Capture / modeling takes you from conceptualization to manufacturing quickly
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Digital documentation of your parts in case of failure.
Scan to BIM: 3D Laser scanning industrial elements and BIM Modeling
Reverse engineering of mechanical elements and industrial parts
Capture of surface information by laser scanner
Point cloud with original color and texture
Alignment of debugged scans to generate point cloud
Generation of exportable parametric format meshes