How to turn a physical product into an interactive 3D model
there are three ways to digitise a product: model it by hand from drawings, CAD and photographs; scan it with a 3D scanner; or reconstruct it with photogrammetry from many photos. It is then cleaned, textured, optimised and published in a 3D viewer, a configurator, an AR experience or a VR experience.
Method 1. Modelling from CAD and references
How it works: a 3D artist builds the model from technical drawings, CAD files, photographs and measurements of the product.
Advantages
- Maximum cleanliness and control of the geometry.
- Ideal for polished, shiny products or those with surfaces that are hard to capture.
- A lightweight, optimised result.
- It makes it possible to create versions of a product that does not yet exist.
Limitations
- It depends on the quality of the references.
- It takes longer for products with a lot of organic detail.
Ideal for: industrial product, furniture, domestic appliances, packaging, jewellery.
Method 2. 3D scanning
How it works: a scanner (laser or structured light) captures the shape of the real object.
Advantages
- Very true to the real measurements.
- Fast for complex or unique objects.
Limitations
- Shiny, transparent or black surfaces cause problems.
- The data require cleaning, polygon reduction and texturing.
- It requires physical access to the product.
Ideal for: unique pieces, sculptures, heritage, spare parts, free-form objects.
Method 3. Photogrammetry
How it works: hundreds of photographs are taken from different angles and software reconstructs the object in 3D.
Advantages
- Very realistic textures.
- Accessible equipment (a camera and good lighting).
Limitations
- The same problem with shiny or transparent surfaces.
- It requires considerable cleaning.
- Lower accuracy than an industrial scanner.
Ideal for: objects with rich texture (leather, wood, ceramic), archaeology, decoration.
Comparison
| Criterion | Modelling | Scanning | Photogrammetry |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accuracy | High (if there are good references) | Very high | Medium-high |
| Texture realism | High (created) | Medium | Very high |
| Subsequent cleaning | Low | Medium-high | Medium-high |
| Needs a physical product | Not always | Yes | Yes |
| Model lightness | Very good | Requires optimisation | Requires optimisation |
| Best for | Polished and industrial products | Complex shapes | Rich textures |
In practice, many projects combine methods: for example, scanning for the base shape and clean modelling for the final result.
Step-by-step process
- Define the end use (web, AR, VR, images, configurator).
- Gather the material: CAD, photos, physical product, measurements.
- Capture or model the shape.
- Clean and rebuild the mesh (retopology).
- Create faithful materials and textures.
- Optimise for performance (guide).
- Validate against the real product: shape, colour, scale.
- Export in the required formats (GLB, USDZ, etc.).
How to make it interactive
A 3D model becomes interactive when it allows you to:
- Rotate and zoom in a web viewer.
- See points of interest with information (3D hotspots).
- Change colours and finishes (3D configurator).
- See it in the real environment with augmented reality.
- Animate it: open, take apart, operate.
- Explore it in VR at real scale.
Tips for a good result
- Provide high-quality reference photographs and, if you can, a physical sample.
- State the official measurements and colours (Pantone or RAL codes).
- Clarify which parts matter (logos, textures, details).
- Agree the desired level of realism.
- Plan reviews with the real product alongside.
Key ideas
- There are three routes: modelling, scanning and photogrammetry; they are often combined.
- The product determines the best method (polished, organic, textured).
- Optimisation is as important as fidelity.
- Interactivity is added with viewers, hotspots, configurators, AR and VR.
- Good references = a better result.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to send the product to the agency?
It depends on the method. For scanning or photogrammetry, yes, or with a visit to your premises.
What do I do with shiny or transparent products?
They are usually modelled by hand from references, or treated temporarily with a special spray for scanning.
How long does it take?
From a few days for simple objects to weeks for complex products.
Can I see the model before approving it?
Yes; intermediate reviews are delivered.
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