Digital Spare Parts Workflow
1. Identify Critical Parts
Choose parts that are hard to source, frequently break, or create downtime.
Choose parts that are hard to source, frequently break, or create downtime.
2. Scan & Document
Capture geometry, photos, measurements, application notes, and material requirements.
Capture geometry, photos, measurements, application notes, and material requirements.
3. Create Manufacturing Path
Determine if the part needs CAD cleanup, reverse engineering, prototype, or production-ready files.
Determine if the part needs CAD cleanup, reverse engineering, prototype, or production-ready files.
4. Store the Library
Keep part data organized for faster future quoting and replacement.
Keep part data organized for faster future quoting and replacement.
5. Print on Demand
When a part fails, begin from known data instead of starting from zero.
When a part fails, begin from known data instead of starting from zero.
6. Improve Over Time
Update parts after testing, feedback, and design improvements.
Update parts after testing, feedback, and design improvements.
Why It Matters
- Reduces dependence on discontinued OEM parts
- Shortens time to quote and manufacture replacements
- Preserves tribal knowledge before employees leave
- Helps maintenance teams plan before failure
- Creates recurring support relationship
Revenue Model
- Initial scanning and documentation project
- Reverse engineering where needed
- Prototype and test prints
- Annual library support option
- Print-on-demand replacement parts
Contact THIELEN 3D
Email part photos, CAD/STL/3MF files, measurements, and urgency details to contact@thielen3d.com.