3D Point Cloud

I have a data file of 3D points. What is the fastest way of importing
that information into solidworks to produce a surface thru them or at
least influenced by them us the "shape feature" feature.

Gary

 

You can create quasi-parallel splines using the points as and then loft
the splines together to make a surface. If it is a more complicated
cloud, you can divide it up into logical areas and then surface each
area. You can then extend and trim the surfaces as needed.

If more complex point cloud processing is required, here's a nice
little overview: http://www.vx.com/articles/CAD5-46-05e.pdf

For medium complexity point cloud processing there are a couple
midrange (inexpensive) solutions:
- www.vx.com - "Modeler" package is minimum to get the reverse
engineering capabilities. $2k but free if you attend a VX seminar. My
company got one license free by attending, license does not expire.
- www.technodigit.com - $4k They have a free 30 day demo, just ask.

For high end point cloud processing:
- www.geomagic.com - about $20k
- www.innovmetric.com - about $20k

Best of Luck!!