Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
Figure 8.12
123D Catch lets you scan an actual object, like this skull, and con-
vert it to a digital file.
The 123D Catch application will also let you zoom in on objects, so you can see
even more detail. The trick to creating a detailed 3D object is to take a LOT of
photos. The more photos you take (and the closer you can get to the object), the
better the final 3D image.
While 123D Catch is designed to allow you to create 3D digital models of actual
objects, you might be interested to know that once you've created a 3D model us-
ing 123D Catch, you can then print it on a 3D printer. This is a bit more involved,
however, so be warned that the steps to do this can be a bit tricky. If you'd like to
learn how to use the 123D Catch app to create a 3D model that you can later print,
point a web browser to the following online article that offers advice for “cleaning
up” the 3D model—basically removing extra stuff like the surface an object is sit-
ting on and other fragments that made it into your set of photos:
Having Fun
I create a lot of 3D models that never get printed. I just enjoy creating objects that
can be created in three dimensions. I like to zoom in and out, adding more details
and color. I not only get more practice using the various tools available, but I find
that I'm also able to visualize objects better in my mind's eye.
I encourage you to try out all the 123D apps. Not all of them export perfect STL
files suitable for 3D printing, but there's always a way if you're interested. (Again,
consult
Appendix A
at the back of the topic for some articles that will show you
how to do some more advanced 3D modeling tasks, and for some topics and web-
sites that you'll find useful.)
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