Abstract: Methods for reproducing a 3D object surface are provided. A preferred method according to this invention includes (1) identifying a real object surface, (2) acquiring at least a 3D data set with a 3D surface imaging device, (3) acquiring at least a 2D data set using a 2D surface imaging device with a surface resolution of at least about 0.1 mm2, (4) synthesizing a 3D composite data set by orienting a first virtual image of the first data set and a second virtual image of the second data set to form a composite virtual image that corresponds to the composite data set, and (5) making a reproduction of the object surface with the composite data set. Orientation of the virtual images is relative to each other and without substantial loss of surface resolution.

Abstract: Methods for reproducing a 3D object surface are provided. A preferred method according to this invention includes (1) identifying a real object surface, (2) acquiring at least a 3D data set with a 3D surface imaging device, (3) acquiring at least a 2D data set using a 2D surface imaging device with a surface resolution of at least about 0.1 mm2, (4) synthesizing a 3D composite data set by orienting a first virtual image of the first data set and a second virtual image of the second data set to form a composite virtual image that corresponds to the composite data set, and (5) making a reproduction of the object surface with the composite data set. Orientation of the virtual images is relative to each other and without substantial loss of surface resolution.