Some interesting articles over on Desktop Engineering that I wanted to point out. The first (Link 1) is a holiday-influenced commentary that caught my attention because much of what is said echoes a previous post of mine (read that Here) in which I said:

Imagine a client that simply streams these files, regenerates the geometry on the fly and tesselates for rendering as necessary. Automatic LOD. Amazing detail. Files that can go anywhere – from videogames to rapid-prototyping machines.

There’s lots to do yet in the 3D modeling world. The question is: Who will unify 3D and make it truly portable?

The second article is a simple comparison of 3D printers/prototypers (Link 2). Surprisingly, I’ve never read a comparison of this type (although I have little doubt there have been plenty). Hopefully, there’ll be more and more of these comparative reviews; a consequence of an increasingly crowded market.

The third article (Link 3) is interesting on a number of levels. Here’s an excerpt:

First, Realadi cleaned up the point cloud data. “The propjet had tons of sampling points,” said Marsden. “We digitally removed all outliers and greatly reduced surface noise.”

Next, Realadi converted the propjet’s point cloud data into a polygonal mesh model. While point cloud data typically lacks precision and is nearly impossible to manufacture, polygonal mesh can be manipulated and articulated to a high degree of integrity. This enabled Realadi to make several enhancements required for down stream users, such as Boeing, Lancair and eventually pilots.

Now on the home stretch, Realadi relied on RapidForm reverse engineering software to convert the polygonal model into a refined CAD model with high-quality, accurate NURBS surfaces. The resulting CAD model met and even surpassed Boeing’s high standards and expectations for the new propjet.

Lots of interesting stuff to consider there, but the overriding thought in my mind is how this process can – and probably will – be used to pirate the design of real products. I’ve already mentioned the availability of low-cost 3D laser scanning devices on this blog – machines that can scan/digitize handheld objects (e.g. toasters, clothes irons, mp3 players, aso). There’s not a doubt in my mind that what this article details will be used to pirate the design of larger items; may already be used. Won’t be long now til Industrial Designers face the same intellectual property issues that face musicians. Get ready, folks.