Reverse engineering
Start from a physical component when drawings or original design files are missing.
02 / 3D Scanning
Physical detail.
Digitally captured.
Capture the shape of an existing object to create a digital starting point for inspection, restoration or reverse engineering.
Discuss 3d scanning ↗Our scanner / Creality CR-Scan Raptor
Capture the shape.
Keep the detail.
Creality CR-Scan Raptor
Our handheld scanner for turning physical parts into digital reference models.
From physical to digital
See how scanning captures the shape of a component for the next stage of design.
The scanner in action · Official Creality films
Meet the CR-Scan Raptor
Blue-laser scanning in action
What it can help with
3D Scanning,
with a purpose.
Shape capture
Record complex surfaces and organic forms for further digital work.
Restoration and adaptation
Use an existing object as a reference for replacement parts or a revised design.
The process
A clear path
from start to finish.
- 01
Assess the object
Photos, dimensions, surface finish and access help establish whether scanning is suitable.
- 02
Capture and process
The object is captured from suitable angles, then the scan data is aligned and cleaned.
- 03
Prepare the handover
The agreed mesh is supplied. Editable CAD reconstruction can be scoped as a separate next step.
Preparing your brief
What to send.
- Clear photos showing the whole object and important details.
- Approximate size, material and surface finish.
- The purpose of the scan and the features that matter most.
- Required output format, accuracy requirements and deadline.
Before you begin
Good questions.
Is every object suitable for scanning?
Suitability depends on size, surface and access. Reflective, transparent or very dark surfaces can require preparation, and hidden internal features may not be captured.
Will I receive an editable CAD file?
A scan normally produces a mesh. If you need editable CAD geometry, include that in your brief so reconstruction can be assessed and quoted.
How accurate will the scan be?
Accuracy depends on the object, equipment, setup and processing. We agree the requirements and achievable result after assessing your part.
Your next step
Tell us about
your project.
Include your files, requirements and deadline so the scope can be reviewed.
Enquire about 3d scanning ↗