Autodesk 123D Catch for iPad turns photos into 3D models
updated 03:35 pm EDT, Wed May 9, 2012
123D Make Intro turns 3D models into 2D build plans
Autodesk has released 123D Catch, a new app for the iPad. The software is used to turn 2D photos into 3D models; in reality, a person uploads photos taken or stored on an iPad to the Autodesk Cloud, where the actual conversion happens. Up to 40 photos can be uploaded, and push notifications tell users when a render is finished.
Models become more detailed if photos are taken from as many angles as possible, but Autodesk specifically recommends avoiding photos with reflective objects or uniform backgrounds. Completed models can be viewed, shared, or downloaded; when viewing, the camera can be controlled through the use of touch gestures or gyroscope controls. The app is free, but requires an iPad 2 or better running iOS 5.x.
Also new is 123D Make Intro, an iPhone/iPad app which turns 3D models into 2D build plans. Simple tools let users draw curves which are turned into constructions; alternately people can use preloaded 3D model kits, carried over from the desktop version of 123D Make. The plans are intended for making self-assembled cardboard models in real life. Make Intro is also free, and requires at least an iPhone 3GS with iOS 5.
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Jun 2004
EULA?
I wonder how much authority the owners of the 'cloud' server have over the photographs that are uploaded. Is it like Facebook, where everything you upload is technically owned by them?