A method is provided for determining a dimensional change in a first object, wherein in an initial state said first object is connected to a second object via a joint, and wherein a first reference system is rigidly connected to the second object. The method includes using a non-invasive coupling device to couple a second reference system to the first object; ascertaining and/or storing a first location corresponding to a location of the second reference system relative to the first reference system, and a second location corresponding to a location between at least one reference point on the first object relative to the first reference system; separating the first object from the second object at the joint; altering the first object; re-assembling the altered first object and the second object to form the joint, wherein the first location is used to align the altered first object to the second object; after alignment, ascertaining or storing a third location corresponding to a location of the at least one reference point relative to the first reference system; and determining the dimensional change in the first object due to the alteration based on a change in location between the second location and the third location of the at least one reference point.