[jaru-eri]

I´m looking for a solution to convert scanned images to 3d files. I want to scan an object on 4 sides, stick the images together and convert them to 3d in order to create a file for cnc machining.

Are there any good softwares on the marked for this purpose??

[dynosor]

In order to perceive depth in a 2D picture you have to have significant "side lighting". This will give information about the shape of a vertical pole, for example. "Top lighting" is required to give information about the shape of a horizontal pole.

In pictures taken with such directional but parallel beam lighting - one light source at a time per picture - two pictures per "side", depth will be a function of gray level, but only if the color and texture of the object are uniform.

A 2D picture will not fully define the shape of an object with color or gray level information, if the object varies in color or gray level.

If the strongest light is behind the camera or the light is diffuse, the pictures will contain very little depth or shape information.

If you take the algorithms that generate the 3D solid shapes in SolidWorks for example, you should be able to reverse that algorithm to take 2D images of 3D objects and derive a 3D model from that. This will take a software engineer with drive and enthusiasm… But only for objects with uniform color, gray level and texture - gray level is actually what counts, if you can separate it from color.

[jaru-eri]

I can of course also take photos with all kind of light angles. I have a photo tent, so that will be no problem, but I´m looking for an inexpensive good and easy software for this purpose. Is Solidworks the best alternative?

[ger21]

There are a few programs available, but they're not cheap, and I don't know if they'd be accurate enough for your application.

http://www.3dsom.com/

http://www.photomodeler.com/products/photomodeler.htm#

[dynosor]

. Is Solidworks the best alternative?

No. Solidworks produces 2D images of 3D models. I don't think it can run in reverse - was just using it as an explanation.

[der_fisherman]

What price is your maximum? That would give us an idea of what to look out for like BMP2CNC for example.....
I can probably give you the names of a few more probably, when I have time to research.

[jaru-eri]

Max 3-400$, but the most important is that it has an easy learning curve. I read in another post that it is possible to use Inkskape. Is that true?

Or maybe I should leave it and copy an object by using a touch probe instead. It sounds easier for me..