What is meant by this?

In reverse engineering, a 3D scan is converted into a CAD format. Reverse engineering with surface modeling is particularly suitable for organically shaped components with a number of curved surfaces.

What file formats are available?

The data should be available as a polygon mesh (STL) or point cloud format. This is the usual and most common type of file that a 3D scanner outputs.

What happens to the data in reverse engineering?

With the help of reverse engineering, the 3D scan is converted into a CAD format. A distinction is made between 2 variants: Either the feedback is fully automatic or the guide curves of the NURBs model are defined manually. Which type is used is determined by the component geometry. Both methods result in a NURBs surface model that can only be minimally adapted by the customer. The final NURBs model usually has deviations between 0.05 mm and 0.1 mm from the original 3D scan.

Which format will I receive?

The CAD data is output as a surface model by default. However, a closed volume model can also be exported with increased effort. The following two file formats are possible:

• STEP (Standard for the Exchange of Product Model Data)
• IGES (Initial Graphics Exchange Specification)

Is there a target/actual comparison?

Yes, a target/actual comparison is created that compares the original 3D scan with the reverse engineering. Any deviations are shown with a color scheme.

We will be happy to clarify with you which repatriation is suitable for your project and whether repatriation is required.