Reverse engineering is not an activity that most people can effectively perform without the help of an outsourced provider. It often requires one or more types of advanced measurement equipment, specialized software, and training to use these tools. Of course, purchasing equipment and performing measurements in-house is possible, but if you do decide to outsource, finding a qualified provider is the first step.
When looking for a provider, choose one that has the necessary skills and certifications specific to your industry. In addition to this, there are several other characteristics to seek out.
Selecting a Reverse Engineering Provider
This short checklist represents just the essential factors to look for in an outsourced provider:
- Involvement in your industry - Although it is not a necessity, working with a provider that has prior experience with the types of objects you are reverse engineering will result in a shorter learning curve for your project.
- Involvement in other industries - It may seem counterintuitive, but a provider that operates in multiple industries is better able to solve the many challenges that can arise with reverse engineering. For example, a lab that has worked in the micro-manufacturing industry might have insights into the best way to reverse engineer a piece of jewelry because it is familiar with small, detailed parts.
- Problem-solving expertise - Many reverse engineering applications require a certain amount of problem solving, even just to determine what types of measurements should be used. The more experience a provider has, the better able it will be to help with your application.
- The right equipment - Every reverse engineering application is different, and not all of them require the same type of equipment. For example, many people are familiar with the capabilities of 3D laser scanning, but did you know that it cannot be used for every type of object? Look for a provider that uses multiple different types of equipment so that you can be sure it has the right tools for the job -- and not just the tools it happens to have in the lab.
If you are looking for a reverse engineering provider, get in touch with the experts at Q-PLUS Labs. We use measurement equipment of all types for reverse engineering and dimensional inspection. We have also worked with virtually every type of industry and have been exposed to a wide range of reverse engineering challenges. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.
What other factors might you consider when selecting a reverse engineering lab?
