Laser based system for reverse engineering

Abstract The reverse engineering process involves the use of 3D data to manufacture a part. A crucial element in the reverse engineering process is obtaining 3D data of the part or its CAD model. The paper describes a laser-based system for reverse engineering. The laser scanning system performs the crucial role of capturing the geometric details of the object. This data can then be processed by routines to accurately define the object. This definition can then be used to manufacture a replica of the part or scaled object. Also addressed in the paper are issues for integrating the laser scanner with other stages in the product development and manufacturing cycle. This paper is an outcome of ongoing research aimed at manufacturing heat resistant tiles for the space shuttle to fit cavities created due to damaged or lost tiles after each space mission.