3D photos with Gaussian splats: YouTuber shows unusual 3D printing method

The artist and developer Wyatt Roy has presented a method with which three-dimensional photographs can be physically printed. The method is based on so-called Gaussian splats – a format for displaying spatial information that is not based on polygon meshes like classic 3D models, but on point-based color information in space. Roy combines photogrammetry, algorithmic model processing and multicolored residual pressure.

The starting point is a point cloud, created with Polycam or alternative apps such as Luma and Scaniverse. This software recognizes coloured points in space – so-called splats – based on several photos taken from different angles. In addition to coordinates, a splat also contains information about size, shape, color and transparency. Polycam uses the binary PLY format for export. Using his own Python script, Roy first translates this data into ASCII and then processes it further in Rhino and Grasshopper.

In practice, the splats are represented by highly simplified, 14-surface polygons. This allows tens of thousands of blobs to be rendered without critical performance losses. The positions and dimensions of each individual blob are taken exactly from the point cloud. Particular attention was paid to the correct reading of the scaling and rotation data, as even small errors destroy the spatial structure.

For printing, Roy uses a DLP resin printer with transparent and opaque resin. The transparent areas symbolize light areas, the opaque zones correspond to the shadows. After printing, an elaborate manual polishing process is carried out to reduce the light scattering of the layers.

Further information on this project can be found on Wyatt Roy’s official website and in his YouTube video:

---

Metal Binder Jetting: The Key to Efficient Tool Manufacturing? - Exclusive Insights from INDO-MIM

Fill out the form and get instant access to an exclusive webinar on HP's Metal Binder Jetting 3D printing technology with exciting insights from INDO-MIM.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.

First Name *

Last Name *

Company / Organization *

Job Title *

Email *

Phone *

Country *

Industry *Consumer Goods & ElectronicsHealthcareAgricultural MachineryElectrical ComponentsEnergyHVACOther Machinery & EquipmentPipes, Tubes, & Fluid SystemsProcessing & Packaging MachineryRoboticsTextile MachineryWire Harness & Cable Assemblies3D Printing Service BureauCNC Job ShopContract ManufacturerEngineering CompanyInjection MolderMold MakerProduct Design AgenciesMilitary, Defense, & AerospaceMobility & TransportationResearch & EducationOther

Contact *EmailPhoneDo not contact me

By filling this form, HP may contact you to keep you updated on offers, updates and events. Please, select your preferences.

/ Industry Organization

GDPR Agreement *

• When you submit the form, the data is transferred to 3Druck.com and HP. An HP employee may contact you using the contact details provided.

You can find out more about 3Printr.com's privacy policy here.

Access the webinar free of charge

Subscribe to our Newsletter

3DPresso is a weekly newsletter that links to the most exciting global stories from the 3D printing and additive manufacturing industry.

First Name

Last Name

E-Mail*

Privacy Policy*

I want to register for the newsletter for free.  

You can find the privacy policy for the newsletter here. You can unsubscribe from the newsletter at any time. For further questions, you can contact us here.

Subscribe for free