Bets way to make a 3d model from a 2D picture for CAM carving

[infoCHJG4]

Greetings. 

I am working to make a 3D relief model from a 2D picture. The image of what I am trying to reproduce is below. It's a hand-carved plank with the profile of an eagle. I have tried to reproduce it using a 3D From, but can't really get the hang of it. The simplest way seems to be to create an extruded rectangle, place a decal on it of the object and use the spline tool to mark out the areas where I want to reproduce the carving. However, the number of splines I have crated are about half as many as I need and it's already bogging the system down and the carving tool paths in Manufacturing mode art;t really working right. There has to be a simpler way to make this. Any thoughts or suggestions? 

[g-andresen]

Hi,

for such things you are better positioned with V-Carve or Aspire from Vectric.

günther

[djlunty]

@infoCHJG4 

You might also want to try a program called PixelCNC by Deftware.  Just google it - there is a free trial version so you can try it out.  

[djlunty]

@infoCHJG4 

A follow up to my reply regarding PixelCNC.  I took your photo and loaded it into PixelCNC and created a 3D model that is 0.15 in height in a workpiece that is 0.50 thick.  PixelCNC works by creating a depth map based on the colors of the image.  By making the model only 0.15 thick the deepest cuts will only be 0.15 from the top of the model.  There is some funky stuff happening at the top of the model where the there is a reflection along the top of the eagle head.  This could be corrected in PixelCNC or I usually would go into a photo editing program (I use Paint.Net) and remove the reflection to get an even color along the top of the eagle head.  Attached is a photo of the model.   

If you download PixelCNC send me a private message and I will provide the various settings I used.  That will get you started and the PixelCNC support is excellent if you decide to go with the program.

I have no affiliation with PixelCNC  - just have found it to be a good program to do artistic types of carving 

[infoCHJG4]

I think you are right. I need to look into that application. Thank you. 

[infoCHJG4]

This is very generous of you, thank you! I have downloaded it and installed it but I have no experience with is. I will contact you for your help. Very much appreciated.