Application of 3D Scanning for Reverse Manufacturing and Inspection of Mechanical Components

Abstract

Reverse manufacturing creates another object similar to the existing object. The point cloud data developed with the help of 3D scanning is used for manufacturing of the complex objects. The cost and time of the reverse manufacturing is less than that of the conventional methods. 3D scanner is an important part of 3D printing ecosystem which is playing most important role in latest research in mechanical engineering. The advantage of 3D scanner consists of ease of use, which derives from the shorter scanning duration and the less demanding skill requirement of the operator. Another advantage of the 3D scanning consists in the higher number of acquired surface points which statistically leads to more accurate description of complex parts. For example, mechanical parts like naval vessels, submarines, weapon systems, engines and hulls do not have 3D CAD files and they can be repaired with the help of 3D scanner in a very efficient and easy manner. 3D scanned data is directly used to make changes in programming of artificial intelligent based welding and machining processes. A lot of time and in turn money can be saved using this advanced technique because traditional measurement methods like callipers, rulers etc. consume time and skill. In this research work, reverse manufacturing is applied to propellers of a local aero model manufacturer. It was found that use of 3D scanners in combination with Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) helps in measurement of the features with good quality and accuracy in a very short span of time. Results based on comparison of reverse manufacturing with traditional method related to dimensional accuracy and mechanical properties will be presented in full paper.