Reverse engineering is used in a broad range of industries for numerous types of applications. Manufacturers and product developers use reverse engineering to replicate worn parts, to convert physical models to digital ones, and to assess the dimensions of objects. However, although it is fairly common in certain industries, that does not necessarily make it easy. Fortunately, some of the most common challenges in reverse engineering are easily solvable with the right approach.

Dimensional inspection equipment can range from a basic ruler that measures length to an optical sensor that provides measurements at the nano scale. Obviously, these two types of equipment are not likely to be used for the same application. The type of dimensional inspection equipment that should be used for a particular application depends on a number of factors.

Selecting the right 3D scanning provider is always important, but it is especially critical if your applications require a certain level of accuracy and traceability. The first step is to identify a short list of qualified providers that offer the type of scanning you need, and then you must select the one that is the best fit for you and the application at hand.

Dimensional measurement technology may not be a common topic of conversation for the general public, but it is an essential component of many products that we use every day. It is one of the several behind-the-scenes steps in many manufacturing processes and is also often used during product development.

Hiring a dimensional measurement provider can be a daunting task, especially if you are not well versed in the various techniques that are employed in the industry. What type of measurement techniques should be used for your application? What tolerances are acceptable? What is a reasonable turnaround time for your project?