Pattern Digitising FAQ
1. What does an iDigit system include ?
The essential components of any iDigit system is the software and the iDigit board, whereas the camera is an optional component, as in some cases clients might prefer using their own devices for photo shooting. If the camera needs to be fixed above the board, this requires “tethering” feature for automatic photo capture, which most DSLR cameras possess.
2. Can iDigit be used without the board ?
The only case where iDigit can be used without its original board is if the photos are obtained from a scanner. In this case iDigit reads the image parameters to work our the measurements of the patterns accurately.
If a camera or mobile phone is being used to capture photos, then using an original iDigit board is required for achieving optimal accuracy.
Our boards come with our signature design with precisely printed white circles across the edges, which are utilized by iDigit software to correct optical distortions and calculate pattern dimensions in real size.
3. Can I use my own camera ?
Yes, you can given it can take photos with 12 megapixels or more. You can use either your existing camera or mobile phone. As each camera and mobile phone comes with different lenses, we make an initial check with a sample photo that you send to us to ensure accuracy. If your device is among the supported models that are already in iDigit’s library, then it’s good to go, otherwise we simply integrate it into iDigit’s camera library
4. What accuracy can I expect ?
With iDigit boards smaller than 200 cm the accuracy is within a millimeter, whereas with large XL boards accuracy can be within two millimeters. For sub-millimetric accuracy, our 90x60 cm board can be used. Alternatively, you can use your scanner to acquire photos, then open them in iDigit. This provides very high accuracy (< 0.5 mm) for small patterns.
5. Can I get a demo version ?
No, but we offer 30 days return guarantee with full refund, which gives you plenty of time to evaluate the system thoroughly. This ensures you’re 100% satisfied with iDigit by the end of this period.
6. Is it compatible with my existing CAD programs and CNC machines ?
Using iDigit’s configurable file formats such as DXF, SVG and HPGL, you can import your digitized patterns into your existing software and machines easily. You can configure the layer structure and eliminate unnecessary pattern components as needed
7. How can I export my patterns ?
iDigit’s File export menu offers a wide range of formats to choose from. You can export either all patterns in a picture or choose individual ones only. You can also combine patterns from different pictures into a single file.
If you’re exporting for Adobe Illustrator, you can copy patterns from iDigit and paste them directly into AI without saving any files.
8. Can I run iDigit on MAC OS ?
You can, however this requires a Windows VM.
9. What materials (and colours) can I digitise ?
You can digitise any 2D material in iDigit, including:
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Paper
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Card
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Plywood
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Mylar
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Film
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Fabric
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Leather
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Carbon fibre
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Metal
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Correx
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Car Mats
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Foam
10. Is there any size restriction ?
Although we can produce iDigit boards of any size, the restrictions are mainly dictated by environmental factors such as available space at the designated installation location.
11. Do I need to calibrate the system ?
No. iDigit calibrates each picture individually using the white circles on the iDigit board as reference.
In case of digitising thick material like plywood, some adjustments will be applied depending on the thickness of the templates.
Also, in case you’re using your own camera or mobile phone which doesn’t exist in iDigit’s existing camera library, we will integrate it for you in order to fine tune the system for your device.
12. How long does it take to receive the system once purchased ?
Lead time for iDigit Lite is 5 working days, whereas for iDigit XL and iDigit Plus it can vary between 10-14 working days.
13. How do training and support work ?
Unless arranged otherwise, the physical setup of the board and camera is done by the user. Software installation and training is provided online via TeamViewer, which can take between 1-2 hours.
Support is provided via a wide range of means, including TeamViewer, email, phone or WhatsApp.
We take pride in the quality of support we provide to our clients, both in terms of speed and technical competency.
14. Does the camera need to be fixed ?
That depends on the iDigit model and what configuration it’s used in. For instance iDigit Plus always requires the camera to be fixed on the stand.
On the other hand, if the iDigit board is fixed on a wall then it’s possible to hold the camera by hand or mount it on a tripod.
In case of using a flat-laid iDigit board, fixing the camera above the board is the way to go.
15. Does the iDigit board have to be installed near the computer where the software is installed ?
No. It can be installed elsewhere. In fact some of our clients have their iDigit software and boards installed in different countries. The team who has the board take pictures and email them to the other team who has the software for digitising them.
16. What can iDigit detect automatically ?
iDigit can detect the pattern outlines, notches, cut-outs and even internal lines and drills if visibility is adequate.
17. What if I need to edit my patterns ?
Pattern editing is extremely easy using iDigit’s editing functions which allow you to alter your patterns, insert new elements or even create new patterns from scratch.
18. Is iDigit's UI available in my language ?
iDigit comes in 14 languages, including English, French, Spanish, Italian, German, Portuguese, Korean, Chinese, Turkish and others.
