Backflip’s new AI-based plug-in for SOLIDWORKS is designed to transform 3D scan data into fully parametric, editable CAD models in seconds, dramatically speeding up reverse engineering and part repair processes.
The tool is part of a broader release that includes a standalone web app. The table below compares the two offerings:
| Feature | SOLIDWORKS Plug-in | Standalone Web App |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Function | Converts 3D scans to native SOLIDWORKS parts with full feature history | Converts 3D scans into parametric CAD files (e.g., STEP) |
| Workflow Integration | Works as a side panel inside SOLIDWORKS; no need to switch software | Web-based; upload a file and download the result for use in any CAD system |
| Key Benefit | Generates a feature tree that can be modified like a manually built model; ideal for existing SOLIDWORKS users | Provides accessibility for users without specific CAD software licenses |
🛠️ How It Works and Its Capabilities-:
The technology is designed to integrate smoothly into professional workflows and act as an intelligent assistant.
Seamless CAD Integration: The SOLIDWORKS plug-in operates within the software. After you upload an STL file, the AI processes it in the cloud and typically generates several parametric variations for you to choose from. Once you select one, the plug-in automatically rebuilds the model directly in SOLIDWORKS, creating sketches, extrusions, revolves, and other features just as a human designer would.
Educational Value: A unique aspect is that it shows the step-by-step process of how the part was built. This is a powerful learning tool for those new to CAD, helping them understand professional modeling techniques.
Powerful AI Foundation: The underlying AI model was trained on a synthetic dataset of over 100 million unique 3D geometries. According to Backflip, this foundation allows for remarkable efficiency, offering 60x more efficient training, 10x faster inference, and 100x the spatial resolution compared to existing leading methods.
💡 Solving Real-World Manufacturing Problems-:
The primary application for this technology is reducing costly downtime in manufacturing. When a critical part breaks and there’s no digital design file, production can halt at costs exceeding $3 million per hour in industries like automotive.
Backflip’s tool allows a technician to scan the broken part and generate a manufacturable CAD model in about a minute, compressing a process that traditionally could take hours or days and helping to get production back online significantly faster.
📢 Current Status and How to Access-:
As of now, the tools are not yet publicly available for general use.
Availability: The SOLIDWORKS plug-in and web app are in active development. The company has begun a limited beta release and plans to open access more widely in the future.
Pricing Model: While not finalized, Backflip plans a freemium model. A free tier for hobbyists is expected, with professional and enterprise tiers for private work and advanced features.
Get on the List: You can join the waitlist for early access by signing up on the official Backflip website.
“Thank you for reading! If you found this article insightful and valuable, consider sharing it with your friends and followers on social media. Your share can help others discover this content too. Let’s spread knowledge together. Your support is greatly appreciated!”
