Start Here: Proxy Modeling

What is proxy modeling?

A proxy model is a 3D representation created using scan data as a foundational reference, allowing designers to accurately model individual components around it. This approach is particularly useful in applications like WorkLink Create, where precise digital twins or augmented reality (AR) content are required. The scan data provides a rough but accurate base structure, enabling the creation of detailed, segmented parts that can be independently manipulated, animated, or enhanced within the software. By using a proxy model, designers can ensure their digital assets align perfectly with real-world counterparts, improving accuracy and efficiency in visualization and interactive experiences.

Why create a proxy model?

A proxy model is created instead of relying solely on scan data because a scan is essentially a single, undivided shell that captures the external shape of an object but lacks functional separation of its components. While scans are excellent for visual accuracy, they do not allow for interaction with individual parts—you cannot "unscrew" a scanned object to reveal its internal mechanisms.

By contrast, a proxy model takes the scan as a reference but is individually modeled to include separate, interactive components. This allows for exploded views, animations, and internal detailing that wouldn’t be possible with a scan alone. In WorkLink Create, proxy models are particularly valuable for training, maintenance guides, and AR experiences, as they enable users to isolate, manipulate, and understand how different parts of an object fit together and function.

What are the steps for creating a proxy model?

The creation of a proxy model follows a structured process to ensure accuracy and interactivity. It begins with gathering reference materials, including photos, technical drawings, scan data, and precise measurements of the object. These references serve as a guide for building an accurate digital representation.

Next, the modeling phase begins, where the scanned data is used as a base structure to create individual parts. Unlike the raw scan, the proxy model is carefully segmented, allowing components to be separated, manipulated, or animated as needed.

Once the model is complete, materials and textures are applied to enhance realism, ensuring each part has the correct appearance and distinguishable properties. This step is crucial for visual clarity in AR applications.

Finally, the model is exported as an .FBX file, a widely supported 3D format, and then imported into WorkLink Create. Within WorkLink Create, the model can be further configured for interactive experiences, animations, and instructional overlays, making it a powerful tool for training, maintenance, and visualization.

How do we use our now proxy model?

Once the proxy model is created and exported as an .FBX file, it is imported into WorkLink Create, where the content authoring process begins. Authoring refers to the process of animating and configuring interactions based on instructional needs. Since the proxy model is built with separate, functional parts, we can create animations that show how components fit together, move, or come apart.

This allows us to build step-by-step guides, exploded views, and interactive experiences for training, maintenance, and assembly instructions. In WorkLink Create, we can also add annotations, callouts, and triggers to make the content more informative and user-friendly. By using a proxy model instead of a static scan, we enable dynamic, hands-on learning experiences that improve comprehension and engagement.

Where do I start?

Proxy Modeling Table of Contents

Section 1 ( 2hrs )

Command Panel

Edit Poly Modifier

Section 2 ( 3hrs )

Modeling

Section 3 ( 2hrs )

Modeling

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