Macsys Holding BV
[File:Macsys-logo.png|right|400px]]
3d Printing [2006-2011]
Macsys was founded as a General Partnership (Dutch V.O.F.) on 13 October 2006 by André Schalkwijk and Marcel Alfons. The name Macsys is inspired by CAM software Cimatron, where MACSYS stands for Machine Coordinate System. Macsys uses SketchUp software to transform architectural 2d drawings into 3d surface models. The 3d surface models are fed into Z-Corp printers to create tangible solid models or maquettes. Z-Corp printers use inkjet-technology to create full color models, making them ideal for visualization.
Traditionally, architectural models are handmade using various materials. These materials have a look and feel that is close to the finished building, something that can not be achieved with 3d printing. The benefit of 3d printing is speed. A virtual 3d model is created faster and in finer detail then hand crafted models, especially if the building design is available digitally. Because 3d printed models are build up in layers, the surface finish is inferior to traditional models. The surface finish however can be improved by sanding or bead blasting.
scanned 2d drawing
ISO-view of both facade- and floor-plan in SketchUp
constructing the 3d model with push-pull tools
finalized 3d model including shadow and sketched lines effect
