If you have ever fancied a little virtual sculpting, then the combination of software apps that make up Beautiful Modeler allows you to do so through the iPad’s touch screen. Watch the video after the jump to see them in action.
Basically, you use your iPad running a controller app to send your movements directly to your Mac running the creation software on your WiFi network. By moving your fingers on the iPad, you can manipulate a virtual lump of clay in real time, creating anything your imagination and skills can produce.
How Beautiful Modeler Works
The set of apps has been designed by Karl D.D. Willis. The iPad acts as a multi-touch controller, allowing you to interact with a virtual 3D model on your Mac. The software on the Mac interprets the touch inputs from the iPad and translates them into real-time modifications of the virtual clay. This setup provides a highly intuitive and tactile way to create 3D models, making it accessible even for those who may not have extensive experience with traditional 3D modeling software.
One of the standout features of Beautiful Modeler is its ability to send your creation directly to a 3D virtual printer. This means that once you have sculpted your masterpiece, you can easily convert it into a physical object using a 3D printer. This seamless integration between virtual modeling and physical printing opens up a world of possibilities for artists, designers, and hobbyists alike.
Applications and Benefits
The potential applications of Beautiful Modeler are vast. For artists, it offers a new medium to explore and create intricate sculptures without the mess and limitations of traditional clay. Designers can use it to prototype products quickly and efficiently, making adjustments on the fly before committing to a final design. Educators can also leverage this technology to teach students about 3D modeling and printing in a hands-on and engaging way.
Moreover, the ability to manipulate virtual clay in real time can be a valuable tool for collaborative projects. Multiple users can work on the same model from different locations, making it easier to share ideas and make collective decisions. This can be particularly useful in fields such as architecture, where team members often need to collaborate on complex designs.
So if you have a 3D printer, you can download the source code from Willis’s website. However, you will need an iOS developer account to actually load it onto your iPad in its current state. This requirement ensures that only those with some technical expertise can access and use the software, but it also means that the community of users is likely to be highly engaged and knowledgeable.
In conclusion, Beautiful Modeler represents a significant advancement in the field of virtual sculpting and 3D modeling. By leveraging the intuitive touch interface of the iPad and the powerful processing capabilities of modern Macs, it provides a user-friendly yet highly capable platform for creating and printing 3D models. Whether you are an artist, designer, educator, or hobbyist, Beautiful Modeler offers a unique and exciting way to bring your ideas to life.
Via Gadget Lab Via Beautiful Modeler
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