Turn scan data into usable engineering CAD.
We rebuild scan data into clean CAD geometry suitable for manufacturing, design validation and downstream engineering — giving you more than a mesh when the project needs an editable engineering model.
A scan is geometry.
CAD makes it usable.
Scan-to-CAD bridges the gap between captured surface data and a model that can move into engineering, manufacturing or further design work.
Scan / Mesh Data
Captured geometry accurately represents the physical part, but still needs reconstruction for downstream engineering use.
Reconstructed CAD
Clean geometry rebuilt around the required engineering, manufacturing or design workflow.
CAD matched to the job.
Scan to CAD can range from a fast scan-following surface model through to a fully reconstructed engineering model. The right approach depends on how the CAD will be used afterwards.
Auto-Surfaced CAD
Convert captured scan geometry into CAD-compatible surfaces that closely follow the physical component.
- Fastest reconstruction option
- Closely follows scanned geometry
- Ideal for reference and packaging
Hybrid CAD
Combine reconstructed engineering features with scan-derived surfaces where full parametric modelling is unnecessary.
- Rebuilt critical features
- Retains complex surface geometry
- Balanced cost and usability
Full Parametric CAD
Reconstruct the component as clean engineering CAD for modification, manufacturing and future development.
- Feature-led reconstruction
- Editable engineering geometry
- Production-focused output
Different projects require different levels of reconstruction.
The amount of CAD reconstruction has a direct effect on the modelling time and project cost. We select the appropriate approach around the final use of the model rather than applying the same process to every scan.
When you need the scanned shape in CAD.
Auto-surfacing converts the captured mesh into a network of CAD-compatible surfaces. Rather than rebuilding the original engineering features, the model follows the physical shape recorded by the scanner.
Packaging studies, clearance checks, reference geometry, freeform components and designing new parts around an existing object.
- Lower reconstruction effort
- Maintains complex and organic shapes
- Useful as external reference geometry
- Limited feature-based editability
Rebuild what matters. Retain what doesn't need rebuilding.
Hybrid reconstruction combines conventional CAD geometry with scan-derived surfaces. Functional geometry such as mounting faces, bores, holes and interfaces can be rebuilt cleanly while complex surrounding surfaces remain scan-based.
Components that need accurate engineering interfaces but contain complex cast, moulded or freeform geometry that does not justify full parametric reconstruction.
- Critical engineering geometry reconstructed
- Complex surfaces preserved efficiently
- Good balance between cost and CAD usability
- Suitable for redesign and integration work
When the CAD becomes the new engineering master.
Full reconstruction interprets the scanned component and rebuilds it using clean engineering geometry. Features, dimensions and relationships are reconstructed so that the model can continue into redesign, manufacturing and future development.
Replacement components, legacy parts, manufacturing, product redevelopment and projects where the reconstructed model must remain useful beyond the scan itself.
- Structured engineering reconstruction
- Editable geometry where applicable
- Can follow as-built or intended geometry
- Suitable for manufacturing documentation
As-built or design-intent CAD?
A scanned component may contain wear, distortion, manufacturing variation or previous modifications. The CAD reconstruction can either represent these real-world conditions or interpret what the original engineered component was intended to be.
As-Built CAD
Reproduce the relevant geometry as the component physically exists at the time of scanning.
Design-Intent CAD
Reconstruct the intended engineering geometry while correcting wear, distortion or irregularities where appropriate.
Additional deliverables.
The reconstructed CAD can continue into other engineering outputs depending on the project requirements.
Manufacturing Drawings
Production-focused 2D drawings can be generated from the reconstructed model where required.
Assembly Reconstruction
Multiple scanned components can be rebuilt and positioned together to reproduce an existing assembly.
Design Continuation
Use the reconstructed geometry as the basis for modifications, replacement parts or a new independent design project.
From captured data to reconstructed model.
Review the available scan data, reference information and intended project outcome.
Prepare point-cloud or mesh data so the relevant geometry can be used as a reliable reconstruction reference.
Reconstruct the required geometry using a parametric or surface-based CAD approach.
Provide the resulting CAD model, with drawings where included in the agreed project scope.
Useful when the physical part is the reference.
Scan-to-CAD is particularly useful when original CAD is missing, the geometry has changed, or a physical object is the best source of truth.
Recreate worn, damaged or obsolete components when original CAD or drawings are unavailable.
Turn prototypes and existing physical products into digital models for refinement and further development.
Develop production-focused models and documentation from physical reference geometry.
Reconstruct parts or assemblies that are difficult to measure accurately with conventional tools.
Start with the information you already have.
The project can begin from supplied scan data, or from a physical part that first needs to be captured through our 3D scanning service.
Existing point-cloud or mesh files where available.
Reference information that helps define the part and project context.
Tell us whether the model is intended for manufacturing, validation or further engineering.
Need more than reconstruction?
Need the physical part captured first?
Start with high-resolution 3D scanning for complex parts, surfaces and assemblies.
Need to modify or develop the CAD?
Continue into part design, assemblies, modifications or manufacturing drawings.
Have scan data or a part you need rebuilt?
Send photos, dimensions, scan data or a short project brief. We’ll recommend the most suitable CAD reconstruction approach for the required outcome.