Experimental browser-based depth preparation
Depthmap Generator for Relief Laser Engraving
Turn a single image into an editable relative grayscale depthmap, inspect a shaded relief projection, guide ambiguous artwork with source colors, and export depth PNGs, a Krasnow-style parallax angle map, or its grating SVG geometry.
How the workflow moves
Load and inspect a supported source image locally in the browser.
Run the depth model to establish the relative grayscale base.
Optionally use a Depth Palette so matched source colors influence depth.
Adjust range and curve, resize proportionally, add a far-depth border, and paint corrections.
Compare previews, then download a relief depthmap or parallax angle map.
What the laboratory provides
The selected image remains in the browser. The browser downloads and runs the depth model rather than submitting the photograph as a Rasterizer server job.
Members can build Depth Palettes in Swatch Palette Vault and assign relative depth and influence to recognized Rasterizer swatches.
Paint a chosen nearer or farther grayscale depth directly onto the editable output where automatic interpretation needs help.
Inspect the actual grayscale map and a directional-light relief projection. The relief is a visualization, not the exported height data.
Width and height stay linked to the initialized aspect ratio, while optional far-depth padding extends the perimeter uniformly.
Download 8-bit or 16-bit relief depth, an 8-bit horizontal parallax angle map, or black SVG grating geometry generated from that map.
Desktop browser strongly recommended
The in-browser depth model requires substantial memory and CPU resources, particularly for source images larger than 500 × 500 pixels. Most phones may run out of browser memory and enter a reload loop whenever initialization is attempted. Use a desktop or laptop browser for dependable processing.
From grayscale to an engraving
The Lab exports image data, not safe laser parameters and not a ready-to-run machine command. Import the resulting PNG into software appropriate for your laser, decide how grayscale maps to power, speed, passes, or depth in that software, and test the mapping on expendable material.
Actual removal is nonlinear and depends on the laser, wavelength, focus, material, debris clearing, heat, interval, pass strategy, and control software. A lighter or darker pixel does not guarantee a proportional physical height. For the operational details and limitations, continue with the Depthmap Generator documentation.
Experimental and useful with careful review
The tool is intended to shorten the path from an image to a workable depth starting point. It does not replace sculpting judgment, measured 3D scanning, CAM preparation, material testing, or laser safety. Treat the initial result as a draft, use the grayscale and relief previews together, and correct shapes that do not describe the form you intend.