gigapixel imageBot

thingiverse

This text spinner presents instructions on how to adapt a makerbot or other 3-axis CNC machine into a gigapixel imageBot. It extends the Explorable Microscopy project and uses a DSLR camera mounted on the CNC machine for capturing high-resolution images. The process involves four steps: image capture, focus stacking, image stitching, and upload/sharing. The image capture step is specifically addressed using Python code that generates G-code for the CNC machine to move the camera in a 3D array pattern. After capturing images, they are processed using focus stacking software like Zerene Stacker and image stitching tools like gigapan stitcher before being uploaded to the free gigapixel image sharing site, gigapan.org. This setup allows users to create very large, explorable images easily and share them online.