2.5d Probing

[cropwell]

I don't know if this would help you but I take an image of an item within a known size box or put a ruler in the shot, save in grey scale import it into Vetric Aspire and produce a 3d map you can also produce vector outline's of the imprint to clean up the imprint, save as STL file create the toolpaths save as G-code and away you go.
But as plaster is white you might have to colour the imprint a little to get best results.

Phill

Thanks Phill, but I don't have Vectric Aspire, and as I am only a 'poor old pensioner' It is out of my budget. If I were using a non-contact digitising method, then I would use alginate to make the cast.