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Testing Out Bambu Labs' Latest AI Tools

Science & Technology

Introduction

Recently, Bambu Labs has been consistently releasing new tools designed for makers, enabling them to easily create and 3D print various items with any 3D printer. So far, they've launched quick solutions for producing 3D printable signs, vases, and, more recently, pixel puzzles. Among their latest offerings are two particularly intriguing tools: one that transforms any 3D model into a relief sculpture and another that utilizes AI to convert video footage into a 3D printable model. I’ve been experimenting with both tools to see how well they perform.

3D to Relief Sculpture Tool

The first tool, 3D to Relief Sculpture, allows users to upload an STL file, which is then quickly converted into a relief sculpture. Here’s a step-by-step rundown of how it works:

  1. Upload your STL: Access the "Maker Lab" tab on Maker World and click the "Try it" button under "3D to Relief Sculpture." Upload your desired STL model.

  2. Adjust Your Model: You can rotate, scale, and move your model using the tools provided on the left panel. The scaling options allow uniform adjustments or specific axis changes for customized shapes.

  3. Select Perspective: Once satisfied with the model, click "Next." A green box frames your model, and you can adjust the viewing angle for the generated relief.

  4. Configure Settings: After generating the relief, various settings can be adjusted:

    • Width: Uniformly scales the entire model.
    • Padding: Controls the space around the design.
    • Depth Variation: Alters the difference in depth between the highest and lowest points in the relief.
    • Thickness: Sets the thickness of the canvas for the relief.
    • Sharpen: Increases the detail between different depths, which is on by default.

  5. Download: Once happy with your adjustments, you can download your STL file for printing.

After testing this tool, importing it into Bambu Studio revealed a separate stand structure for easy display, connected only by thin layers for bed adhesion.

AI Scanner Tool

The second tool, AI Scanner, converts video footage of an object into a 3D printable model. This tool works similarly to photogrammetry but claims to be particularly user-friendly for the 3D printing community. Here’s how to use it:

  1. Record a Video: You need to capture a video moving around your object from three different heights: high, medium, and low. I chose to test it with a small drone with intricate details and reflective surfaces.

  2. Upload Your Video: Head to the AI scanner page on Maker World and upload your video. The tool occasionally struggles with compatibility but refreshing the page can help.

  3. Identify the Object: Once uploaded, the tool will show a frame from your video for object selection. Click on the object and press “Create Model.”

  4. Processing: The model generation can take from a few minutes to over an hour, with possible queues during busy times.

  5. Download Your Model: After processing, download the model as either a 3MF or STL file.

In my attempts, the results were a bit disappointing, with models appearing quite chaotic, especially with the drone due to its complex features. However, I am hopeful for better results when trying simpler objects in more controlled environments.

Wrap-up

The relief sculpture tool produced impressive results quickly. It would be exciting to see similar tools from Bambu Labs that convert 2D images into relief sculptures since AI platforms already exist that add depth information to 2D images. Overall, while these tools are fascinating, they still have room for improvement, especially the AI scanner.

Keywords

  • Bambu Labs
  • 3D Printing
  • Relief Sculpture Tool
  • AI Scanner Tool
  • STL
  • Maker World
  • Photogrammetry
  • 3D Model

FAQ

What is the 3D to Relief Sculpture tool?
This tool allows users to upload an STL file and convert it into a relief sculpture that can be downloaded for 3D printing.

How does the AI Scanner work?
The AI Scanner takes a recorded video of an object and converts it into a 3D printable model, analyzing different angles from the video to create the model.

What factors affect the quality of the AI Scanner's output?
Lighting conditions, object complexity, and video quality all play crucial roles in the final output of the AI Scanner.

Can I use any 3D printer with these tools?
Yes, the relief sculpture and AI Scanner outputs are designed to be compatible with any 3D printer that can process STL or 3MF files.

Are these tools currently available?
Yes, both the 3D to Relief Sculpture tool and the AI Scanner are available for use on the Maker World portal.