Introducing Atomm’s New AI 3D Model Generator for 3D Crystal Inner Engraving

Today, we are announcing Atomm’s AI 3D Model Generator, a new capability designed to streamline the way creators, artisans, and manufacturing professionals transform ideas into production-ready 3D assets. With this release, users can easily convert any 2D image into a clean, high-quality 3D model optimized for laser engraving and 3D printing.

Why We Build This

We developed Atomm AI 3D Model Generator to empower artisans, engraving specialists, and creators working with 3D glass inner engraving. Transforming a 2D image into a high-quality bas-relief or volumetric model traditionally requires advanced 3D skills and time-consuming workflows. Our generator simplifies this process by converting images directly into clean, engraving-ready 3D models within minutes. It enables makers to produce custom crystal portraits, decorative panels, and commercial keepsakes with greater precision and efficiency, helping them bring creative ideas to life faster while maintaining professional quality and consistency.

How Does 3D Model Generators Work?

Transforming a flat picture into a tangible, volumetric object may seem like magic, but it is actually a sophisticated process driven by advanced AI. When you look to convert 2D image to 3D model, the generator isn't simply lifting the image off the digital page. The workflow begins when a single image is analyzed to understand its specific viewpoint. The Tripo or Hitem model then predicts depth and surface normals, essentially determining how far away each pixel is and which direction it faces, to reconstruct the underlying 3D geometry. Finally, it generates textures and refines the details to produce a clean, realistic structure.

This is where AI image to 3D technology truly distinguishes itself from older, manual methods. The AI doesn't just copy what it sees; it possesses a form of generative intelligence that allows it to "imagine" the invisible parts of an object. If a subject is partially hidden or turned away, the algorithm predicts the occluded sides to create a complete mesh, while simultaneously sharpening facial contours and preserving texture. This ability to refine details is critical for artisans, as it ensures that the final output isn't just a bumpy shape, but a high-fidelity model suitable for production.

While this data is frequently used for 3D printing, it is uniquely suited for 3D Glass Inner Engraving. Unlike surface printing, glass engraving relies on this precise volumetric data to guide lasers into the center of a transparent medium, capturing intricate details "frozen" inside the crystal.

What Tripo and Hitem Large Model Bring?

Tripo is a cutting-edge AI platform designed to make 3D content creation faster and more accessible than ever before. Specializing in converting text and images into 3D models in mere seconds, Tripo acts as a powerful structural engine. Its primary advantage is efficiency; it generates a stable, solid 3D foundation instantly, allowing creators to skip the tedious initial modeling phase and jump straight into refining their vision.

Hitem is a high-fidelity AI model designed to generate 3D models with exceptional detail and realism, especially for portrait and character reconstruction. By capturing precise facial geometry, contours, and textures, Hitem ensures that every feature is accurately reproduced, resulting in a natural, lifelike appearance.

When creating 3D glass inner engravings, Hitem’s portrait-optimized models produce cleaner contours and smoother surfaces, reducing artifacts and preserving subtle textures. The result is a high-quality, engraving-ready 3D model that accurately reflects the original subject, making it easier to achieve professional, precise, and visually striking engraved pieces.

How to Convert 2D Images to 3D Models for Crystal Inner Engraving？

Step 1: Uploading the Perfect Source Image

The quality of your final crystal engraving is directly tied to the quality of the photo you start with. For the most striking results, choose an image where the subject is clear, well-lit, and centered within the frame. High contrast helps the AI distinguish the foreground from the background, which is crucial for depth mapping. Before uploading, it is helpful to crop the image tightly around your subject to maximize detail and decide on the desired output type: 3D Photo or 3D Modeling.

Step 2: Customize Model, Texture, and Background

By default, the options for Texture and Background Removal are enabled. Keeping textures enabled is generally best for crystal engraving, as it adds surface realism and material definition to the final output. Similarly, leaving background removal on ensures the laser focuses solely on your subject, creating a clean "floating" effect inside the crystal. If you selected 3D Modeling, you can now choose the AI engine that fits your timeline. Tripo is the default for fast, 3-minute generation. Hitem 1.5 offers a balance of speed and detail in about 7 minutes, while Hitem Portrait delivers exceptional realism for characters in 12 minutes. Conversely, if you choose 3D Photo, the system automatically applies a specialized, self-developed algorithm optimized specifically for portrait sculpting. 

Step 3: Convert Your Images to 3D Models

With your settings finalized, you can begin the conversion process. Because the AI manages the heavy lifting on the server side, you do not need to keep the window open and wait. You are free to navigate away from the page or start creating a new task immediately; the system will continue processing your image into a 3D model in the background.

Step 4: Preview and Export the 3D Files

When the AI has finished converting your 2D image, you will be presented with a 3D preview window. This is a critical quality control step. Take a moment to rotate and zoom in on the model to inspect the accuracy of the depth and the clarity of the contours. You should look closely at key areas such as facial features, the edges of any text, or fine patterns to ensure they are distinct, as these details determine the sharpness of the final engraving. Once you are satisfied with the relief balance and details, save the file locally to your computer to prepare it for production.

Step 5: Setting Up for Laser Engraving

To bring your digital model into the physical world, open your engraving software xTool Studio. Import your newly saved 3D model, begin adjusting the parameters to fit your material and prepare it for the xTool F2 Ultra UV. You will need to scale the model so that it fits perfectly within the dimensions of your crystal block or glass surface.

Next, set the depth layers specifically for inner engraving. This step is vital for creating the signature 3D effect where the image appears suspended inside the glass. Finally, fine-tune your laser’s power, speed, and focus settings based on the density of the crystal you are using to ensure a clean, bright fracture without cracking the material.

Step 6: Final Polish and Assembly

Once the machine has finished its work, remove the crystal carefully. The final step involves polishing the surface to remove any fingerprints or dust and assembling the crystal into its final product form, such as attaching it to an LED light base to illuminate the intricate inner details.

Practical Tips for Mastering 3D Glass Engraving

Achieving a professional "floating" effect requires precision in both software and hardware. Follow these tips to ensure your 3D crystal engravings look distinct and flawless.

- Calibrate the Z-Axis: Always perform a machine Z-axis reset before starting. This ensures the laser focuses at the exact depth required, preventing accidental surface etching or misalignment.

- Choose the Right Formats: Export your 3D mesh as OBJ or STL files. These formats are most compatible with engraving software and reliably preserve intricate surface details.

- Select K9 Crystal: Material matters. Avoid glass that refracts bluish light, which often fails to engrave well. Instead, use K9 crystal, which refracts pure white light. This ensures the laser points remain concentrated and sharp, like a lightsaber, for a crisp, high-definition result.

- Minimize Layer Textures: Physical Z-axis movement can create visible layer lines, similar to 3D printing. To mitigate this, orient your model lying flat (face up) rather than standing vertically, and apply texture enhancement in the positive Z-axis direction.

- Plan for Lighting: Ensure the bottom of your model geometry is clear of "noise." This allows light from the LED base to travel upward and properly illuminate the subject's features.

Top 5 3D Crystal Inner Engraving Project Examples

Looking for inspiration to create your own stunning glass artwork? These top 5 examples showcase the beauty and precision of inner laser engraving, from cosmic spheres to custom portraits. Whether you're into nature, holidays, or timeless keepsakes, each design proves how 2D ideas can transform into dazzling 3D crystal masterpieces. Learn more about xTool F2 Ultra UV and 3D inner engraving Projects.

🦌 Christmas Deer 3D Inner Engraving

Two deer, one with a honeycomb texture, the other smooth, face each other in a sleek glass block. This nature-inspired engraving balances contrast and elegance, perfect for wildlife fans or modern rustic decor. Discover 3D crystal inner engraving with etched deer figures！

 ♘ 3D Subsurface Engraving Chess Knight

A bold knight chess piece is etched inside a clear acrylic block, highlighting intricate textures and contours. This elegant design appeals to chess enthusiasts and makes a refined gift or desk accent for strategy lovers. Explore knight chess piece in 3D crystal inner engraving!

🪐 Laser Engraved Solar System Crystal Globe

This glass sphere showcases a laser-engraved solar system with planets orbiting the Sun in perfect symmetry. A captivating blend of science and art, ideal for astronomy lovers, educational gifts, or space-themed home decor. Browse 3D crystal sphere featuring the solar system!

🎅 Santa Claus 3D Inner Engraving

A cheerful Santa Claus stands inside a circular ornament, laser-engraved within a crystal block. This festive piece adds holiday charm to any space and makes a thoughtful seasonal gift for Christmas collectors or decor lovers. Create your own festive 3D crystal ornament featuring santa claus!

🖼️ 3D Crystal Engraving with Cartoon Koala Figure

A playful koala character is etched inside a clear crystal block, complete with uniform and cheerful pose. Great for mascot-themed engravings, kids’ gifts, or adding personality to custom crystal artwork. Create your own cartoon koala 3D crystal engraving！

Get Started

We know there is often a hesitation that automation might overshadow craftsmanship, but it is important to remember that AI is not here to replace the artisan; it is here to give the artisan better tools. Think of it as a powerful new instrument in your workshop, one that handles tedious geometry, so you can focus entirely on the creative vision that makes your work unique.

Are you ready to see just how much depth you can add to your next project? Try the Atomm AI 3D Model Generator today and experience the future of 3D crystal inner engraving firsthand. Atomm also serves as a hub of inspiration - explore ideas, discover examples, and spark creativity for your next engraving project.