Professional 3D Object Scanning Services for Precision Documentation
With 3D Engineering Solutions’ 3D scanning technology, you can digitally catalog and capture intricate details from historic relics, artifacts, and objects quickly and efficiently. Using advanced non-contact 3D scanning technology and 3D digital imaging, our measurement equipment never touches or damages the physical object in the digitizing process. It’s much like taking a 3-dimensional picture of an object with highly detailed and accurate geometric data.
Once generated, the data can be used to create a 3D CAD model for exact reproduction of the object’s physical shape through computer graphics media, rapid prototyping or manufacturing.
Emerging applications for using this digital archiving technology includes: museum piece preservation, dental/orthopedic, virtual reality/animation, media presentations and more.
Non-destructive Scanning of Artifacts
Our industrial CT scanning capabilities have become invaluable for museums and historical societies who wish to scan artifacts without the risk of damage. Using thousands of X-ray images, our CT scanning process allows for a precise scan of both external and internal features, while never touching or damaging the piece itself.
A perfect example can be found in a fossilized dinosaur eggs project. The inside of the eggs were to scanned to search for fetal development without ever endangering the fossils.
This technology allows for incredibly accurate digital archiving of artifacts, offering advanced solutions for cataloging fragile and irreplaceable pieces of history.
Advanced Equipment for Every Scanning Challenge
High-Precision Industrial Scanners
Our metrology laboratory houses industrial-grade scanning equipment that delivers the accuracy required for demanding engineering applications. These systems capture detailed surface data with the precision needed for quality control, inspection, and reverse engineering projects across multiple industries.
Portable Scanning Equipment
Our mobile scanning technologies bring measurement capabilities directly to your location when objects cannot be transported to our facility. These portable systems provide the flexibility needed for on-site data collection while maintaining the accuracy standards required for professional engineering work.
Where 3D Scanning Makes a Difference
Digitizing Structures
Large structures including monuments, buildings, and industrial machinery can be digitized using our scanning technologies. The resulting digital models support analysis, documentation, and replication efforts across various engineering and preservation applications.
Documenting Archaeological Findings
Our nondestructive scanning methods protect valuable artifacts during the documentation process. Our CT scanning work on fossilized dinosaur eggs demonstrates this capability—we examined internal structures without any risk to these irreplaceable specimens, supporting archaeological research while maintaining artifact integrity.
Preservation
Museums and historical societies rely on our scanning services to create permanent digital records of their collections. This approach protects fragile artifacts from handling while creating detailed archives that can be accessed without risk to the original pieces.
Education and Research
Digital models created through our scanning services support educational programs by allowing students and researchers to study detailed reproductions without handling original artifacts. This approach reduces wear on valuable pieces while providing access to detailed geometric information for academic study.
How We Turn Objects into Data: The 3D Scanning Process
Initial Consultation & Requirements
Our engineering team begins each project with a detailed consultation to understand your specific requirements. We assess the scope of work, determine the most appropriate scanning technology for your application, and establish project specifications based on your intended use of the data.
Object Preparation & Setup
The preparation phase involves positioning and securing objects for optimal scanning results. Our degreed engineers follow established procedures to protect valuable or delicate items throughout the setup process, with particular care taken when working with irreplaceable artifacts or precision components.
Scanning & Data Capture
Data collection involves capturing millions of measurement points using the selected scanning technology. Our equipment records XYZ coordinates and surface normal information from multiple angles, creating point cloud datasets that accurately represent the physical object’s geometry.
What Sets Our Scanning Apart
Accuracy & Precision
Our ISO/IEC 17025 certification requires documented measurement uncertainty for all scanning work, providing confidence in data reliability. We select appropriate scanning technologies based on your accuracy requirements and follow calibrated procedures to deliver dependable measurement results.
Expert Support
Our staff of degreed engineers brings decades of experience in metrology, reverse engineering processes, and quality inspection to every scanning project. This engineering background allows us to provide technical guidance throughout the process and deliver results that meet professional engineering standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of objects can you scan with your 3D scanning services?
We scan a wide variety of objects using our laser scanning, structured light scanning, and industrial CT scanning technologies. Our equipment handles everything from small artifacts and museum pieces to large structures and industrial components. Our industrial CT scanners are particularly valuable for fragile artifacts like fossilized dinosaur eggs, allowing us to examine internal features without any physical contact or risk of damage.
Can you scan objects on-site or do they need to come to your facility?
We offer both options. Our 24,000-square-foot temperature-controlled facility in Cincinnati houses our complete range of scanning equipment. However, we also have portable scanning technologies that allow us to bring our services directly to your location when objects cannot be transported. This includes our laser scanning systems and other mobile technologies.
What industries do you serve with 3D object scanning?
Our advanced engineering metrology services have applications across multiple industries including aeronautics, automotive, manufacturing, forensics, archaeology, medicine, and maritime applications. We also work extensively with museums and educational institutions for digital archiving and preservation projects.
