Solidworks is a popular Computer Aided Design (CAD) software package.

To make stuff, though, you used to have to "Draw" dimensions and objects...not so easy for odd shapes or one-off parts.

The thing you're looking at will fix all that, it's a 3D scanner from NextEngine that plugs into your USB port and allows you to create 3d objects in Solidworks. Need a huge piece to scale but only have a model? No problem. Have an old/nonfunctional/irreplaceable part? No problem. Scan it directly into the software.

$2500 bucks to buy in means that little machine shops and even individuals can now offer accurate work (.005 inches) at reasonable prices without having to order 1000 units.