The FROG3D Foam Carving System Brings Technology to Traditional Building and Architectural Restoration

    /24-7PressRelease/ - CALGARY, AB, CANADA, July 31, 2008 - Streamline Automation's FROG3D foam carving system now offers a solution for those involved in traditional building and architectural restoration that can improve production processes and end products. By combining 3D laser scanning, 3D foam carving and advanced mold making technologies into an integrated solution, FROG3D introduces a range of new capabilities for restoring and reproducing historic architecture.

With a combination of complementary technologies, FROG3D can recreate the detail and craftsmanship of traditional building while eliminating the time consuming, manual processes that have previously limited the reproduction of historic architecture. Streamline's president Dwayne Lehman explains that "it's an automated solution that's more efficient and accurate than anything available before. Recreating the feel of an historical building or restoring a building that has seen better days becomes a whole lot easier."

Starting with the original architecture, objects are scanned by a 3D laser scanner to create a digital file that is accurate to within thousandths of an inch. If the original is no longer around, a digital file can be created using the system's 3D modeling software. In both cases, the resulting file can be edited and adapted within the software to ensure accuracy and detail. In cases where restoration work is required, the software can be used to correct the effects of time. As Lehman explains, "this is really where history and technology come together. This system lets you bring architecture back to its original form."

Once the data file has been prepared, it is sent to a 3D foam router, which can recreate the piece in exacting detail using high density foam. Depending on the nature of the piece and how it will be used, there are a number of options at this point. For less intricate pieces, a positive version can be milled out of foam and then coated to produce a sturdy final product. In cases where the final product will be created using cast stone, concrete, plaster or a range of other materials, new mold making processes allow a detailed mold to be created from either a negative or positive version of the piece. These molds are then used to create the final product.

Lehman explains that the benefits of the system "go beyond the most obvious time and labor savings. FROG3D can recreate and restore with great accuracy, but it also brings new flexibility and efficiency. Architectural designs can be stored digitally and then altered, scaled or added to as required. So it's not only about perfect restorations, it's also about allowing new uses of traditional architecture in modern building. The end result is accurate and authentic reproductions and restorations that are almost impossible to distinguish from original versions."

For further information about the FROG3D foam carving system, visit www.3dcutting.com or call Streamline Automation toll-free at (877)358-0555.

About Streamline Automation

Streamline Automation (www.3dcutting.com) helps creative businesses from around the world create stunning architectural foam features, concrete molds and themed environments - all with unmatched speed, detail and accuracy. Our clients not only get automated, end-to-end production processes, but they can also increase their production capabilities, boost their creative freedom and expand their businesses. Streamline Automation also provides a range of business-building services developed specifically for the industry and designed to deliver the knowledge, skills and operational processes our clients need to grow their businesses around FROG3D - whether they are industry newcomers or seasoned veterans.

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