Scan a model from a real-world object?

[flatline403]

I just ordered a ShapeOko kit in the last big order from Inventables. I'm new to CNCs, I've always just used a manual, hand-crank Mills.

Is there a way to "scan-in" a real-world object and create a model from that scan, so that the model can then be fed back into a ShapeOko to copy the original object?

It seems like a ShapeOko equipped with a number of sensors would be able to perform this task.

What is this sort of thing called, and has a method been established for hobbyists to do what I'm talking about?

[edwardrford]

It's called a digitizing probe. Here's a video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XJBpjddTfrA

This is where you set an object into the work envelope, then your machine moves in pre-definied increments going across in the X axis, then back in the Y slightly, then back across in the X. At each increment the Z-axis lowers until it runs into the object. While it's working, the program keeps track of the X/Y coordinated and the z-axis depth, essentially building a 3D model of points.

I've never used one, but have watched / read in extreme jealousy as others have built their own and used them. Would be a cool project to adapt to shapeoko. Here's one I've looked at before:http://www.brusselsprout.org/cnc/1p-probe/

-Edward

[flatline403]

Thanks Edward.

How much work do you think would be involved in adapting one of those for ShapeOko?

The SW side I'm sure is where the difficulty lies...

[PLHS54]

You can also take a look at http://www.david-laserscanner.com/ It's free too! *with some restraints, but will get you started

[Max Metz]

Another approach seems to be using Microsoft Kinect (x-box) or Asus Xtion sensors under Microsoft Windows with the German software Reconstructme, looks impressive. http://reconstructme.net/

Recontructme appears to be free for non commercial use.

The software enables 3d scanning captures in real time, from a face to a car, scanning around an object or room produces a model in scalable 3d metric space. The model is then exportable to common 3d formats such as 3ds, obj or stl. Best regards.

[DanMc]

Autodesk's new and free 123D also has a capture feature using a standard digital camera.

I've been using the David laser scanner. To get really good scans you need to put together a rotator for the laser and maybe a turntable, but now that you have a Shapeoko that shouldn't be a big deal I'm putting one together right now, if anyone is interested in the files I could post them.

[flatline403]

Hey PLHS54,
Where do you see that the David Laserscanner is free? Everything I see on their site says it costs something like 600 Euros.

Right now I'm thinking the Kinect with Reconstructme is the most attractive option, but I suspect the David is more precise.

[PLHS54]

Here is the link, it should work. http://www.david-laserscanner.com/?section=Downloads It's the one at the top version 3.4.0.3008 Hope this helps

[jrsteensen]

David laser scanner software is free. You can use just about any quality web cam and just go down to the hardware store and buy the cheapest laser line/level they sell. Set up a couple pieces of plywood and Bobby is your uncle! I've used it quite a bit for complex CAD models.