Mighty Moose ManufacturingSouthern Oregon
Reverse engineering.
Recreate an existing part as a usable CAD model. Start with a physical component, measurements, or scan data when the original design files are missing.
Local pickup and delivery by arrangement.Mail-in parts accepted by arrangement.
When reverse engineering helps
No original CAD required.
Rebuild the geometry you need from the part and the information available.
Discontinued components
Create a digital design for parts that are no longer available or have no accessible drawings.
Broken or worn parts
Use the remaining geometry and fit requirements to reconstruct missing or damaged features where practical.
Changes to existing parts
Adapt a component with new mounting points, altered clearances, or other changes for a different application.
Scan to CAD
Use a supplied scan or a new scan as reference while rebuilding surfaces and functional features as CAD.
From part to CAD
Measure. Model. Review.
The approach depends on the shape, condition, and purpose of the part. Not every project requires a scan.
Capture
Understand the original
Use physical measurements, reference information, and 3D scanning where useful to establish the geometry.
Rebuild
Create the CAD model
Reconstruct holes, mounting faces, profiles, and other relevant features. Missing details or uncertain dimensions are discussed with you.
Review
Check the important features
Compare the model with the available measurements and requirements. A test print or physical fit check can be included when appropriate.
A surface scan captures the part as it exists. Rebuilding CAD allows worn areas, missing features, and requested changes to be addressed.
Deliverables and fit
A model for your next step.
Deliverables can include STEP or Parasolid CAD, STL or 3MF printing files, and DXF profiles or PDF drawings. The quote specifies which files and level of detail are included.
Tell us which surfaces locate the part, what it mates with, and any known tolerances. A used or worn sample does not reveal the original design intent by itself.
A 3D printed prototype can help check fit before committing to a finished part. Material choice, production method, and any required testing still need to be considered.
Before you start
Common questions.
Does every part need to be scanned?
No. Simple parts may be more efficiently recreated using measurements. Scanning is useful when complex surfaces or overall shape would be difficult to capture that way.
Can you use a scan I already have?
Yes, subject to review of its scale, coverage, and quality. Critical dimensions may need separate measurements, especially if the scan has gaps or unclear features.
What if part of the original is missing?
A matching part, mating component, photos, or measurements may provide enough information to reconstruct it. Missing geometry cannot always be recovered reliably, so assumptions are discussed before modeling.
Will the replacement be identical?
The goal is agreed before work begins: a close reproduction, a functional replacement, or a modified design. Wear, damage, unknown materials, and missing specifications can limit what can be established from the sample.
Can you make the replacement too?
3D printing may be suitable for some parts and can be quoted separately. When another manufacturing process is needed, files can be prepared to the agreed requirements for you to share with a suitable manufacturer.
Tell us about your project
What do you need recreated?
Send photos, approximate dimensions, and a description of how the part works. Include any changes, required files, your location, and your deadline.