Input
- Photo of a flat part
- Reference dimension and review answers
Fidument Tools · Beta version
Photo to contour and PDF: calibration and export guide
Extract the visible contour of a flat object, enter a reference dimension and prepare a PDF with approximate measurements and data for further reconstruction.
How do you document a visible contour from a photograph?
How to use this tool
Prepare a flat-object photo
Use a contrasting background, sharp focus and a visible object boundary. Photograph as perpendicular as possible. Prepare a measured reference segment and an independent check measurement.
Choose file and area
Open a supported photo and select the object area. Local selection is not upload consent. Send the image only after explicitly accepting the consent in the form.
Set calibration and independent check
Mark the known segment endpoints and enter its actual dimension and unit. Add an independent check segment. When using perspective correction, verify the four points and their order as shown in the form.
Inspect and choose the outline
Choose the intended object and inspect its contour and holes. A background, shadow or photo border is not the part. Confirm the visible result and stated limitations; outline count is not a part count.
Review the PDF or transfer data to CAD
Choose output settings and document language, check access and generate the PDF. For dimensional reconstruction, transfer to Sketch → CAD and confirm nominal data there. A photo contour is not automatically production geometry.
What a reference dimension means
The reference segment scales the image; the check measurement tests it independently. Reusing the same segment is not an independent check. Unit and uncertainty affect the interpretation.
How to read the result and accuracy
Photos can contain perspective, distortion and blurred edges. The result records the visible outline and approximate measurements. CAD transfer preserves provenance; it does not turn an estimate into a confirmed dimension.
Calibration fails or the outline is wrong
Check segment endpoints, values, units and point order. Correct the area or recognition threshold rather than accepting a shadow as the part. Follow complexity-refusal guidance to simplify the source. Editing invalidates the previous result until rechecked.
Who is it for?
- Workshops
- Flat templates and gaskets
Output
- PDF with contour and calibration information
- Geometry data for further work
Capabilities
- Calibration using a reference dimension.
- Separate outer boundaries and holes.
- Transfer of structured data to Sketch → CAD.
Limitations
- Photo measurements are approximate.
- Perspective, shadows, resolution and reference placement affect the result.
- A photograph of a spatial object does not provide its full geometry or unfolding.
Example use
Photograph a flat gasket with a reference in the same plane. Confirm the dimension, review the outline and holes, then pass on the PDF or geometry data.
Questions and answers
Is a ruler beside the part sufficient?
The reference should lie in the same plane as the contour. One dimension cannot correct arbitrary perspective.
Does a photograph produce an exact 3D model?
No. The basic scope is the visible contour of a flat part. The result is an approximate measurement that needs checking.
Related tools
Sketch → CAD
Reconstruct simple flat parts from sketches or PDFs using dimensions. Review the outline, holes and questions before DXF export.
Contract Creator
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Sheet-metal creator
Describe a flat plate, fill in the form or import a supported STEP. Edit its profile, holes and thickness, inspect the preview and prepare DXF or STEP.
Photo → contour and PDF
Check access and export conditions in the app. A product description does not grant access.