The Digital Studio’s 3D modeling station hosts a range of scanning technologies and is available to the BC community by reservation during times when the Studio is staffed (9 am-5 pm, M-F). It offers the space and equipment to facilitate the 3D scanning of objects of varied scales and materials. Hands on support in the use of these technologies is also available as part of the reservation process.

Equipment

• Photogrammetry (Best for medium to large non-reflective objects, produces very high resolution texture):
  • Lightbox to keep shadows to a minimum
  • Manual turntable with markers approximately every 10 degrees
  • Camera tripod
  • DSLR camera for taking photos
  • Risers for small objects
• Structured Light Scanner (Best for small to medium objects, high geometric detail low texture resolution)
  • Stationary scanner w/stand
  • Automatic turntable
  • Markers
• Hybrid infrared scanner (Best for complex small to large objects, high geometric detail and high texture resolution)
  • Handheld scanner
  • Various platforms to hold and anchor objects
  • IR markers

Software

Agisoft Metashape

To process the 3D models that use photos (photogrammetry), the Digital Studio has Agisoft Metashape on the scanning station laptop, as well as (___). As 3D models may take some time to process, approximately 1 hour for 100 photos or more depending on the desired resolution, we recommend reserving this computer in advance.

• See this Agisoft Metashape introductory tutorial

ExScan Pro

This software is used to capture scans using either the structured light scanner or the hybrid infrared scanner available at the scanning station. It captures and visualizes scanned data in real time, making it easier for the user to understand what areas of the model have been sufficiently covered and which need more coverage. With the structured light scanner it can be used to automate the spinning of the turntable.

Blender

Blender is a powerful open source 3D modeling and animation application that can be used for a variety of applications. For 3D scanning, it is a convenient way to view and edit the models produced by the scanners. Export your model to either .OBJ, .GLB, or .GLTF to open it in Blender where you can delete excess geometry, simplify the models to shrink its file size, or edit its texture. Guidance in the use of this application is available by request at digitalscholarship@bc.edu.

Want to Learn More?

Interested in a 3D modeling project but don’t know where to start? Check out these resources:

• Tips and Tricks for Successful Photo Taking for 3D Modeling
• How to process your 3D model in Agisoft Metashape

To view BCDS 3D models, see the Digital Scholarship 3D Collection on Sketchfab.