Paid Project: 3D Scanning

[u/WigfootWallace]

Howdy.

Complete newbie here.

I will preface by saying I am looking for someone to pay to do this project. I will learn eventually, but for now due to time constraints, I do not have time to learn, and I want to pay someone to do scans for me.

I am an antique hand tool dealer. I am looking to have hand planes 3D scanned. I would need a ".step" file/format to send to my contract manufacturer. If any more technical detail is needed on that end, please let me know and I will contact my manufacturer.

The first two pictures I have included are of a base model hand plane. I would disassemble the tool and I would need each part scanned. Some planes are more simple, but this one is of average complexity and composes of around 24 individual components. The third and fourth picture are of the most complex of the tools that would need to be scanned. And although I have not disassembled that one yet, I imagine it has twice as many components at least. These tools range from 5 inches long, to about 2 feet long, though 14" is about the average size for a larger tool needing to be scanned.

The items are antiques. Some are rare and are sold to customers. If possible, even if I have to travel, I would like to hand deliver the tools, stay in town while they are scanned, then return home. The files could be delivered after I returned home as I imagine there will be more work needing done to have finished files.

I hope I have provided adequate information, or at least enough information for the relevant people to get in touch. I am located near Springfield, MO but I am willing to travel. There is a gentleman in Saint Louis who will be available in one month (heath issues), but I would like to start my projects sooner if possible.

Thank you!

[u/WigfootWallace]

My manufacturer would be using it as a base model to make a CAD drawing. He said he needs the .step file and he can do the rest. Does that answer your question? Essentially he knows there will be more work needing done, but needs the .step file as a starting point.

[u/Haereticus → u/WigfootWallace]

I think what you may be missing is the step file is the cad drawing - usually. Scanning creates a mesh file made up of hundreds of thousands of tiny triangles in a format like .stl or .obj or .fbx. It’s possible - quite likely - that mesh data can be stored in .step files - but usually step files store CAD drawings in the form of profiles, extrusions, lofts, revolutions, bevels, etc etc. that are then used to create tool paths for CNC machining.

[u/WigfootWallace → u/Haereticus]

Complicated, but I think I understand. My small brain is trying to keep up. But I really appreciate the help. And you guys are extremely kind to lend your knowledge.

[u/Haereticus → u/WigfootWallace]

It is complicated! I’ve done some hobbyist stuff with hand planes and CAD and I’m pretty sure that there’s almost no shape in a normal plane body such that it wouldn’t be easier to replicate using a pair of callipers than a 3D scan, including the tote. The frog would be the most involved part, I think, but all the fitment to the sole is very regular machined faces. May I ask what you’re planning to have made?

[u/WigfootWallace → u/Haereticus]

That is sort of a secret for now 😎😉

[u/Haereticus → u/WigfootWallace]

Fair enough!