First tests of the light box.
When taking pictures for photogrammetry use, shadowless lighting is helpful. We are using a Raspberry pi and camera here which will be exchanged for a pi zero with wifi later to get rid of the wires. We are testing two different techniques. A stationary camera with the object to be photographed on a rotating turntable, and in the next picture the camera is on a moving gantry which goes around the stationary object.
Both techniques have pros and cons, and we will find out which one best suits our need. Either moving the object, or moving the camera(s). The plan is to have 3 pi zeros at different angles on the gantry.
Having captured the pictures, we need some software to process the picture into a 3D model and provide a file in the required format for printing on our 3D printer. We are still testing different software options based on suggestions on this site: https://pfalkingham.wordpress.com/2016/09/14/trying-all-the-free-photogrammetry/
Some of our initial software tests are here: https://blackpoolmakerspace.wordpress.com/2017/10/19/photogrammetry-desktop-software/ and more can be found using the photogrammetry tag or using the search.
The Laser cutter
Cutting a scale ruler to test and demonstrate the precision. The blue box is the extraction duct.
Cutting the ruler. The phone on top of the case is being used as a torch to illuminate the inside of the case.
Laser control panel.
Laser control software running on Linux Mint.
Laser cut and etched logo.
Testing the cutting and etching ability on different materials.
Blackpool LUG and virtual Makerspace 