CAS/CAD WITH VIRTUAL MODEL WITHOUT SURFACE RECONSTRUCTION

It is hence imperative to avoid surface reconstruction. The virtual model within this third process is to replace the physical one to the highest possible degree. Ideally, the CAS and CAD data are not milled anymore but visualized with the help of large 3D screen projections or virtual reality models so that the same effects can be seen on the virtual model as on the physical one. This method has its limits, however, since it is still difficult to estimate the actual proportions on a non-physical model properly. Moreover, computer-generated models can be looked at but not touched; the impression of something artificial will always remain.

 There is no reason why a final evaluation should not be carried out on the milled model as long as no more modifications are made on the physical model which would depreciate the underlying data. Having once evaluated the model, it is advisable to carry out possible modifications directly in CAD only and visualize afterwards again. This avoids the hard data and quality gap of the other methods, Manual Shape Definition and Optimization and CAS/CAD With Surface Reconstruction,  but continues to work according to the principle of trial and error, the difference being that the milled physical model is replaced by a virtual 3D model. This model can be interactively evaluated but not modified anymore.

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