Reverse Engineering Services

Reverse engineering is the process of deconstructing software, machines, and other products to extract and analyse design information. At Central Scanning, we offer 3D scanning reverse engineering services using data captured by our 3D scanning systems.

Why use Central Scanning for 3D scanning reverse engineering services?

Alongside our 3D scanning solutions, we also have a dedicated team of engineers. As such, we can reverse engineer components and products for further engineering and/or remanufacturing existing parts.

Our reverse engineering solutions cover a wide range of industries. As a result, we input and output data in most industry used formats including: stl, .iges, .step, .asc, .xyz, .txt, .ply, .obj, .3ds, .wrl, .x_t. Typical applications include heritage, preservation, OEM manufacturing, product design, aerospace, medical, engineering, dental, and anything else!

At Central Scanning our reverse engineers create a perfect model for CNC machining or 3D printing. This is because the reverse engineering process allows us to highlight and improve any areas of concern.

Would You Like To Know More About Our 3D Scanning Reverse Engineering Services?

How Do You Reverse Engineer Something?

Our reverse engineering solutions start with 3D scanning. Once we have scanned an item, we import the data into reverse engineering software.

Raw scan data and STL/OBJ files are made of millions of triangles which are decimated to be larger on planar surfaces and smaller when there are detailed features.

Reverse engineering software is used to highlight the key features of the item, such as planar surfaces, cylinders, and other features. These features are the basis of the CAD model created after the scanning.

Reverse Engineering Solutions

There are two types of reverse engineering solutions. The first is NURBS modelling, and the second is design intent modelling.

NURBS models are ‘as is’, meaning we create an exact model of the part (primarily for organic shapes).

Design intent means bringing the data back to its original design idea. Therefore, if surfaces are not planar, but would have been by design, we correct them when building the model. The same goes for holes, cylinders, chamfers, rads, etc. Design intent tends to be the most common approach for a reverse engineering company.

What Equipment Do We Use?

As an experienced reverse engineering company, we use our top of the range 3D scanning systems from Artec 3D, ZEISS and GOM Metrology to scan items. We then use the specialised software packages to reverse engineer the data into solid or surface models. Therefore, we are well-equipped to deal with all projects, big or small!

The software we use:

Polyworks
Geomagic Design X
Solidworks
ZEISS RE
Siemens NX

How Long Does The Reverse Engineering Process Take?

Our 3D scanning reverse engineering services are bespoke. This means lead times can vary as we quote on a project-by-project basis. However, as a general idea, we estimate 2-3x the time it takes to scan the item.