Digital Modeling

Digital Modeling: Making Functional 3D Computer Models

The concept of Digital Modeling refers to working in the digital space within CAD (Computer Aided Drawing) to create models in various formats that represent an object or potential object. Digital Models come in many forms and can be derived from a variety of methods.

Many digital models are designed in CAD from scratch, but the majority of the models created by Direct Dimensions are created from 3D scan data. Once captured, we can convert the raw data into a number of formats depending on the needs of the project.

Point Clouds (ASCII)
Pollygonal files (.STL, .OBJ)
Wrapped Nurbs (IGES)
Solid Models (SLDPRT)
Surface Model (IGES)

Images above show various digital models

"As-Built" Models

Many of our digital models are intended to be accurate representations of the object that was scanned. This is referred to as an "as built" model. Pricing is usually related to the resolution and accuracy requirements of the model and the scale of the object being scanned. A 1/8 inch resolution as-built model of` a building is fairly high resolution, but a 1/8 inch resolution model of a dime is incredibly low (unusable) resolution.

"Design-Intent" Models

Often we are provided with an object that his hand-sculpted, worn, or flawed in some fashion and we are asked to create a model that represents the design intent of the object. Design intent relies on engineering and geometric concepts and principles such as perpendicularity, parallelism, roundness, flatness, etc. In art projects we are often asked to smooth sculpted surfaces, or make things symmetrical. All of these things are possible within the digital realm.

Modifications

As part of the creative process many of our clients employ the ability to make digital modification that affect or enhance the form they are trying to create. In addition to standard processes like scaling, bending, smoothing, mirroring, or Boolean operations (cutting, joining), we have the ability to digitally sculpt in 3D with tremendous power and artistic interpretation.
Textures can be applied to surfaces, fine details can be sculpted, 3D objects can be pulled twisted and shaped in virtual space like clay.

Applications

Digital Molds
3D Archiving
Digital Sculpting
Restoration
Replicas and Editions
Enlargements and Reductions
Crating and Exhibits
Research and Analysis
Fundraising

Services

3D Scanning
3D Modeling
Visualization
Fabrication
Project Management