Wednesday, September 06, 2006

Artistic relief design and cutting software

With Mastercam Art, users can craft and cut 2D sketches, clip art, photos and CAD files on screen. According to the company, the Windows-based software reduces typical problems associated with creating artwork for machining.

Input ranging from a scanned pencil drawing to a fully developed CAD model, can be "sculpted" on-screen in 3D. Modifications can be made, including reverting to a previous design, by using the suite of tools.

The software converts artwork into flat, machinable geometry, giving the user a basic palette from which to craft a finished model. Creating a 3D sculpture from 2D artwork is made possible by selecting elements from the flat art. The program "puffs up" the art using a cross-section the operator controls.