3D Design: Reliefs From Images

Carveco Tutorial: Creating Reliefs from Images

Carveco allows you to generate 3D reliefs directly from image files, including grayscale height maps, photographs, and texture images. This tutorial walks you through the process of importing and adjusting image-based reliefs for modeling and machining.

🔹 Supported Image Types

• Grayscale height maps (best for reliefs).
• Photographs (converted using light/dark tones).
• Textures (used for patterned relief machining).

🔹 Importing an Image as a Relief

1. Go to Relief > Import > Import (not "Import 3D Model").
2. Select your image file (e.g., a grayscale JPEG or PNG).
3. Resize the image (e.g., 9 inches wide) and click Apply.
4. Use F9 to center the relief on your workspace.

🔹 Adjusting the Relief Height

• Use the red arrow in 3D view to raise/lower the relief interactively.
• Or, enter a specific height (e.g., 0.25 in) in the Z box and click Apply.
• Press Enter or click Paste to place the relief on the model.

🔹 Using Grayscale Height Maps

Grayscale height maps provide excellent results when sourced from 3D models. Light areas are interpreted as raised sections; dark areas are recessed.

• These are ideal for creating sculpted details quickly.
• Adjust height and smooth edges after pasting the relief.

🔹 Importing Textures as Reliefs

1. Import texture images (e.g., bricks, woodgrain) as reliefs.
2. Resize and rotate as needed.
3. Lower the Z height to create subtle texturing (e.g., 0.05 in).
4. Use Paste to add it to your model.

🔹 Tip: Fitting Within Model Area

Use Transform Clipart with the padlock toggled to maintain or unlock proportions. Resize and rotate to position the image correctly before pasting.

🔹 Alternative Import Methods

• Drag & Drop: Drag image files directly into Carveco. Set dimensions in the popup dialog.
• Open: Use File > Open to select image, enter min/max Z height for relief generation.
• Bitmaps Panel: Right-click bitmap layers, then choose Create Relief to generate elevation.

💡 Tip

When working with imported images, always preview the final result in 3D view. Adjust height and scale before pasting for optimal results. Use the Relief > Smooth and Trim tools to clean up edges if needed.