Making Engraving Images Even Easier Using Depth Maps

We take a look at the process of converting images into depth maps to make the process of laser engraving our images much easier.
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This process also works well with fibre lasers and CNC machines.
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[@gothmaniow]

would a diode laser get results like these ?? i mean depth in the engravings ?

[@MARCAM]

Definitely can with a diode. May just need to run a few extra passes 👍🏻

[@charlesreicks648]

I like this video; however, I have a XTool D1 Pro 20W Laser and I have no idea on how to set up the layers to do the depth 3D engraving. Like for a coin, or on slate. Can you help me or tell me were I can get the information? I also have a IR laser for the same machine that I have not used as yet. Can't find a 101 Video on using it. Thanks Tim

[@MARCAM]

Create and download a depth map and load into your software (I use lightburn).
Then run an engrave with a decent speed and maybe like 50% power. You want to laser to take away some of the material but avoid burning it. If 50% works then run 3 or 4 passes and check the engraving.
You may want to go faster or slower and more or less passes depending on the results but have a play with it and you’ll get the hang of it in no time 👍🏻

[@lazyghoul]

This is ridiculously expensive, as prior image preparation is usually required, and the AI engine won't take care of foreground shadows or background highlights, for example. There are free tools for depth map generation with great-quality output.

[@MARCAM]

I have seen other sites/ apps being used for this same thing but all results I have seen have been horrible.
No prior editing has been done to any of my images and most depth maps turned out very clean and ready to use.
If you have any links for the other free tools I’ll be more than happy to check them out and compare