[zonker]

I want to carve/engrave on a 3d surface not a flat one and I am not sure a springloaded tool will take care of my needs. So I need the mesh of the parts. I do not need absolutely perfect detail I just need the shape to use in artcam or mastercam. Would you all recommend a touch probe or a 3d scanner? I think time wise I am better off with a 3d scanner. I also think I have a copy of 3dSom around here. Is there any reason a touch probe would be a better choice?

[3DRevEng]

I have a Roland LPX250 3d laser scanner for sale....

will sell for 2900$ and it comes with Pixform

http://www.stika.com/brochure_LPX250.pdf

Matthew

[fergusda]

3D scanning for sure. Even a lightning fast touch probe would take hours to reproduce surface of any significant size. I spent 2 years exploring and developing processes for reproducing 3D shapes as toolpaths.

There are a couple of free digitizing tools depending on your patience level:

www.david-laserscanner.com
http://mesh.brown.edu/byo3d/source.html

Or you can use one of the commercial scanner$. I've been using FlexScan3D with fantastic results for my own projects: http://www.3d3solutions.com/

I've got a little more write up on 3D scanning, CNC retrofits, and other fun projects at my website:

www.bluegalaxydesign.com

Keep in mind, scan data is an exact reproduction of the original surface, and depending on your process, may result in not-so-smooth G-Code and machining. To create true CAD surfaces takes a little more finessing.

-Dan