When contact measurement isn't enough — structured-light scanning captures freeform surfaces, large parts and fragile originals. Point cloud converted to parametric CAD ready for manufacture.
| Situation | Best measurement method |
|---|---|
| Complex freeform surfaces — impeller vanes, turbine blades, ergonomic housings | 3D scanning → parametric surface model |
| Large parts — beyond CMM envelope (>800 mm) | 3D scanning with multi-registration |
| Fragile or delicate originals — contact measurement risks damage | Non-contact 3D scanning |
| Prismatic geometry — bores, shafts, threads, gear teeth | CMM and gauges — more accurate for these features |
| Mixed geometry — freeform outer with machined bores | 3D scan + CMM supplement on critical features |
A 3D scan produces a dense point cloud — millions of coordinate measurements describing the surface. This is useful for inspection but not directly manufacturable. We convert the scan to a parametric CAD model:
The result is a STEP or IGES file identical in format to a file from a design engineer — manufacturable, modifiable, and suitable for CNC toolpath generation.
You receive a CAD file, not a point cloud. The deliverable from a 3D scanning job is a parametric STEP model and drawing — the same output as any other reverse engineering route. The scan is an internal tool for data capture; what you receive is fully engineered and ready to manufacture.
Send photos. We confirm whether scanning is the right approach for this geometry and what the critical features requiring supplementary contact measurement are.
Pack carefully — any fragile part is packed in foam and handled without contact tools. We advise on packing for delicate originals.
Structured-light scan of all external surfaces. CMM or gauges used on bores, threads and gear features. Data merged into a unified model.
Parametric STEP model and drawing sent for your confirmation. You confirm before we manufacture.
CNC machined or cast from the confirmed CAD. Inspected and shipped with the scan data and CMM report.
3D scanning is better when the part has complex freeform surfaces, is too large for a CMM, is fragile, or needs the full external geometry captured rapidly. CMM remains better for measuring specific features to tight tolerance — bore diameters, thread forms, gear teeth.
Our structured-light scanner captures point cloud data to approximately ±0.05–0.1 mm. For tight-tolerance features (bearing bores, gear teeth, thread forms), we supplement the scan with direct contact measurement to achieve ±0.01 mm or better on those specific features.
Yes, with limitations. We use multi-registration techniques to scan large parts in sections and merge the point clouds. Parts up to approximately 1.5 m in a critical dimension are manageable. For very large structures, contact us to discuss options.
A parametric 3D CAD model (STEP/IGES) derived from the scan — not just the raw point cloud. The model is suitable for manufacture, modification, or as a reference file. You also receive the reconstructed drawing for confirmation before any manufacture begins.
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REVERSE ENGINEERING
Structured-light 3D scanning to parametric CAD — then manufacture. Quote in 24 hours.