Reverse engineering and 3D scanning – new tools for an old task
Today, reverse engineering is increasingly associated with the process of converting the geometry of a physical object into a digital 3D model or CAD model. As the name suggests, it is the reverse of the typical manufacturing workflow. The process clearly requires certain data about the real part. This can be obtained most quickly through another modern branch of 3D technology – 3D scanning.
REVERSE ENGINEERING THEN
Recently, reverse engineering involved extremely time-consuming work before actual implementation. Measurements on the part were usually taken with calipers and micrometers. All of this significantly limited the scope of reverse engineering, as it was very inefficient and, above all, time-consuming. In this form, despite its necessity, it was a rather impractical method.
… AND TODAY
The measurement phase of a physical object has undergone tremendous development. 3D scanning technology has emerged, allowing us to efficiently capture the geometry of even the most complex parts in an extremely fast way, and above all with much higher precision. Today, with the help of laser 3D scanning, it is possible to scan an object several meters long and wide in less than half an hour. The Shining3D FreeScan UE Pro can handle such a task with an accuracy of up to 0.02 mm.
MAIN APPLICATIONS OF 3D SCANNING AND REVERSE ENGINEERING
Reverse engineering with 3D scanning offers many possibilities for recreating, developing, and manufacturing products. In general, the various uses of reverse engineering can be divided into three main applications: reproducing parts, creating variations of existing parts, or developing completely new parts based on an existing environment or object.
1. RECREATION OF EXISTING PARTS
One of the most popular applications is recreating damaged or worn-out parts that are no longer available from the original supplier or lack proper documentation. This is a common issue when working with old machinery or vintage vehicles, and it has always been difficult to solve using manual tools.
2. IMPROVEMENT OF EXISTING PARTS
Another goal of reverse engineering is to use digitized parts to create improved versions rather than simply reproducing them. In this case, it is a method that can significantly reduce the time and cost of creating parts from scratch, while also ensuring a perfect fit of components within larger assemblies.
3. CREATION OF NEW PARTS BASED ON EXISTING PARTS
The emergence of 3D scanning has enabled another application of reverse engineering, using digitized parts as a reference to create entirely new components. This process is typically used when a precise fit to a complex existing part is required.
As you have read, reverse engineering is an extremely effective method for many applications. However, the quality of data capture is crucial for achieving good results in the subsequent process. Therefore, the choice of a 3D scanner, along with its capabilities and features, also plays an important role in the success of the entire workflow.
