3D Scanning. (It's what made Avatar good!)

Hi again, 

      Just a quick Monday afternoon update from me at Tabletop Workshop. Firstly, we've got some exciting news in the pipeline about our fantastic model building kits. Our artist is sat to the left of me scribbling some extraordinary detail onto the files as I type. This should mean we're late in the process and should have something to show you in the near future. So keep your eyes open or follow us on Facebook and Twitter and you'll be able to get a glimpse at our brand new scenery! 
      Salute 2013 takes place on the 20th April at the ExCel in London and with good thanks to the South London Warlords Gaming Club, Tabletop Workshop have a table where we will be looking to show off our new buildings. So if you're attending or live locally come find us and we'll have some samples to show off!

       Recently, we've been getting a flurry of emails asking if we offer 3D scanning services to go with that of our printer. So I thought I'd pop up and give a brief explanation of the process and what services we can offer as an industry!

What is 3D Scanning?

3D scanning involves using a device that analyses a real-world object or environment to collect data and appearance. This can be stored on a computer or even printed off on a 3D printer to make scale replicas of the item analysed! The process has already been used many times in video games and movies (Think Avatar!) to make animated characters massively more realistic!

How's it Work?

Don't worry, the process isn't as boring as it sounds! A scanner is used to create a point cloud (basically, a load of points) onto a surface. These can also determine colour and tone and are finally used to estimate and conclude the shape! Multiple scans of the object are produced to and aligned around a common reference system to make sure the scan is as accurate as possible! Software then can be used to transform the point cloud into a CAD (computer-aided-design) file! We can use these files to make 3D prints!

What's it Used For?

Many things!

• Computer and Video Game Design.
• Making lifelike models - Action figures from movies etc.
• Cultural Heritage - making scale models and realistic plastic copies of history. Stanford University even designed a Michelangelo model so advanced the chisel marks could be seen!
• Architecture - Producing small scale replicas of buildings to highlight spatial issues and design issues.
• Quality Assurance - Checking that parts can fit and work together before they're mass produced.  
• Medical - Used to design hearing aids perfectly fitted to ears and innersoles and braces for back problems. etc.
• Dentistry - Producing bridges and implant bars specifically designed. 

Want more....

If your interested in using 3D scanning and printing for any services. (You may want to plonk your head on top of a character and call yourself an Emperor!) Then use our Facebook and Twitter to contact us and get a quote. We can help with all sorts of daft ideas (and even a few not-so-daft ones!)