Reverse Engineering with 3D Scanning

3D scanning is an increasingly popular technology, especially when it comes to reverse engineering. In this blog, I outline why 3D scanning solutions are making their way into companies, their relationship with reverse engineering and how you can incorporate this technology in your design workflow.

Why 3D Scan?

3D scanners, like our new solution partner Artec, allow users to scan geometries and digitize physical objects, so they can acquire data for custom molds, casts, packages, etc. They can be used in a range of applications from automotive/mechanical, quality control, design process, metrology, healthcare and even reverse engineering. Because of their many use-cases, industries including medical, industrial design and manufacturing, science and education, 3D services, animation and graphics and human sculptures are embracing this technology.

What is Reverse Engineering?

Reverse engineering, also referred to as backwards engineering, is the process of extracting information from pre-existing objects and reproducing them based on the information gathered. It starts with an object that you 3D scan and reconstruct the surface, and then 1) 3D print the object or 2) detect features to do further surface modeling or feature based modeling.

>> Read more about reverse engineering in the healthcare industry in our case study

How Does It Impact Your Workflow?

Reverse engineering allows scan to print with zero manipulation and scan to CAD with the ability to create models and assemblies with nowhere near a CAD/CAE configuration. Some of the capabilities of reverse engineering include surface extraction, based modeling and hybrid modeling. 

Plus, with the add-in for SOLIDWORKS, users can efficiently work on mesh healing, feature extraction, auto surface features and use SOLIDWORKS workflow and interface.

For a more in-depth explanation of reverse engineering and real-life examples, watch our full on-demand webinar where Artec 3D Channel Manager, Anton Bosneaga, explores the expanding role of 3D scanning technology in industrial applications. He will explain how it can be used for Reverse Engineering, Prototyping, Design, Quality Control and Inspection.