Summary Of Technology
Digitization is the inverse of computer
aided manufacturing (CAM), that is: create a computerized representation
of a physical object. The physical object could be a clay model of a car,
a piece of forensic evidence, or an archeological artifact. The digitization
process results in an electronic representation of the physical specimen.
The electronic representation is a data file indicating the surface x,
y, and z coordinates and can be used to generate a 3D CAD model in a package
such as Pro/ENGINEER. This CAD model can then be used to generate G-code
for Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Machining or a .STL file for Stereolithography.
3D digitizing systems permit the
user to create a digital model from a physical part. This process is appealing
because it can be difficult to create models of complex objects using computer
tools without the aid of a 3D input device. Digitizers are not as straightforward
as a photocopymachine, although the intent is the same.
The operator can render and print
a digitized model to communicate shape information, extract dimensions
from it to show size information, and use the 3D database to manufacture
a replica using rapid prototyping (RP) and CNC machines. 3D modeling can
also be used in multimedia or animation software as a learning or assembly
aid.
Capturing adequate detail and resolution
is the main issue in the digitization process in manufacturing. In manufacturing,
RP and CNC machines require clean, complete, and accurate information.
It may be difficult or impossible to build the part, if areas on the model
are incomplete or missing. If edges, grooves, and features of the part
are not fine and crisp, the results may be less than satisfactory.
Highly engineered parts, such as
enclosures for electronic devices are usually the most difficult for 3D
digitizers. Digitizing systems are not widely used for the reverse engineering
of precision mechanical parts. Most 3D digitizing systems are best at digitizing
organic shapes such as free-form sculpted surfaces.