3D representation and CNC machining of 2D digital images

Abstract In this paper a new paradigm for CNC carving of digital images in the form of lookalike three-dimensional (3D) surfaces on wooden or metallic plaques is discussed. This work is focused on development of a single page windows based console application for conversion of a two-dimensional (2D) digital image into a 3D freeform surface representation in the form of a point cloud data and STL format. Subsequently, the 3D surface data is then used for generating an efficient toolpath data for 3-axis CNC finish machining using a ball end mill tool. The results from the developed algorithm are validated using a machining simulation in the virtual environment of an Open-GL based 3D graphical simulator ToolSim [1].