Raw 3D digitized, or point cloud data, is memory hungry, static, and awkward. While
it is possible to export raw data directly into CAD software, it can be very painful.
Software such as Imageware's Surfacerİ, STRIMİ, Pro/Scan Toolsİ, Alias Eval Viewerİ,
or similar programs are vital. The following is a description of how software is used for point cloud manipulation:
- Data Orientation: Orienting data is the first step. For injection molded parts, the
data is often oriented relative to the parting plane of the tool. If symmetrical the
point cloud is oriented such that the mirror plane is defined. Next, data is exported to CAD software.
- Manipulation of Data: Often the final product is a variation of the part that was digitized.
Therefore, data manipulation is required to reflect the desired changes. Scaling
data is the most common manipulation.
- Extraction of Reference Curves and Base Geometry: After data orientation and manipulation,
information is extracted, one piece at a time.
- Curves: Cross-sectional and 3D curves can easily be extracted from the point cloud data.
The point cloud data is sectioned through any plane, and 3D curves are created through ridges or features.
These curves are created quickly.
The curves are only going to be used as a template during the model creation.
- Geometric Features: Points that make up a flat surface, cylinder, or sphere are isolated,
and a best-fit surface is created.
- Verification of Final Surfaces: Software is used for verification of the CAD model. Surfaces
are exported several times during CAD model creation and compared, via a color variance plot,
to the point cloud.
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