Parametric vs. Direct Modeling There are two approaches to creating CAD: parametric modeling and direct modeling. Both are useful for different aspects of the design process and can make your model creation much smoother. In this article, we’ll discuss the characteristics of both approaches, how they are made, and how the two compare to [...]
Mesh vs. CAD When it comes to 3D digital models, it can be a bit confusing to know which model or file type you need. The two primary types of models you will encounter are meshes and CAD files. In this article, we’ll break down the difference between both model types and explain how [...]
What is Design Intent? Design intent refers to a designer’s specifications of how a part should appear and function. Ideally, when manufactured, the resulting part will match this design exactly. The concept of design intent plays a primary role in reverse engineering, which is a process that works backwards to take measurements from an [...]
Precision vs. Accuracy Obtaining reliable measurements from 3D scanning is not as simple as it may appear. There are several factors at play in this aspect, including the 3D scanner’s precision and accuracy capabilities. In this article, we’ll discuss how the two terms differ, what can alter them, and when and how you should [...]
Advantages & Disadvantages of 3D Laser Scanning 3D laser scanning is a fast and reliable way to create digital design files from existing parts, prototypes, or landscapes. It is used in many industries to streamline the design and production process. In this article, we will cover how industrial 3D laser scanning works, its applications, [...]
Industrial CT Scanning CT scanning is a term most often associated with the medical industry, and while it can be used to provide insight to patient anatomy and illness, it can be used for so much more. In this article, we’ll discuss what CT scanning is, how it works, its pros and cons, its [...]
What is a Point Cloud? A point cloud is a 3D model that consists of a large number of points in three-dimensional space. Point clouds use the Cartesian coordinate system (X, Y, Z) to define the position of each point. These points represent a point on the surface of an object, defining the shape [...]
Photogrammetry vs. 3D Scanning Digital 3D models are used for many different purposes in a variety of industries, and there are multiple methods of making them from a real object. The two primary methods for digital 3D modeling are 3D scanning and photogrammetry. In this article, we’ll discuss the process, advantages, and disadvantages of [...]
What is a CMM Machine? A Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) is a common find in the metrology lab of many manufacturing facilities. They serve as a method to perform dimensional analysis and are important to ensure a part’s quality. In this article, we’ll discuss what a CMM is, the benefits and drawbacks of using [...]