Rapidform XOR3 has been out for just over a month now.  I’m still wading through the new features and functions.

One of the most significant improvements, in my opinion, is the introduction of solid modeling wizards.

For traditional modeling (standard CAD), the operator will draw a 2 dimensional sketch, then apply some operation to make that 2D feature into a 3D feature.  This is done by extrusion, revolving, sweeping or lofting.   When Rapidform XOR was first released, it was the first time these traditional modeling operations were made available in a scan data processing software.  Now, XOR3 takes things one step further.

The first step is to segment the scan data, or polygon mesh, into regions using the region segmentation wizard.  This function allows Rapidform to analyze the overall shape, and separate it into its component parts.  For example, a can would be separated into a cylinder and 2 planes.

The next phase in the process is to extract solid bodies from those scanned regions.  Not only does Rapidform extract the desire solid body, it also creates the history in the feature tree.  This allows for future editing of each feature if the automated process did not produce a perfect result.

There a two clear benefits to this functionality:

1. Experienced operators will be able to create their CAD models faster.

2. Inexperienced users will learn how each type of solid modeling technique can be utizled through the creation of the model history.

In summary, this is a hugely power feature set that should further promote the concept of reverse modeling throughout the mechanical CAD world.

For more information on Rapidform, please visit www.3dscanningservices.net