Rapid Prototyping Based on 2D Photographic Images

Generally it is difficult to get a 3D model from its 2D images. However, if the object is symmetric and its photograph is taken in appropriate perspective, then it is possible to extract pertinent 3D information from its 2D images. In this paper, a reverse engineering method to derive the 3D surface model from 2D photographs is introduced. Through a case study, the entire process from photo taking to 3D model making and subsequent rapid prototyping of a model car is introduced. The techniques and related problems of reverse engineering and rapid prototyping are discussed and the future research direction is proposed.Mechanical Engineerin