How do 3D scanning services work?

3D scanning services enable the digital capture of three dimensional objects. This scan data can then be used to create an accurate 3D digital model. Superscan 360 use a broad range of the latest 3D scanning technologies in order to capture objects at a very high precision accuracy. We are then able to import this 3D digital scan data into advanced sculpting and mastering software in order to create a fully mastered 3D digital model.  This is then typically exported as a 3D digital model file (usually in either OBJ or STL file formats). The exported file can then be used to create a physical replica using either 3D print or CNC milling. Additionally, because the exported 3D model file is digital, any physical model (3D print or CNC) can be scaled up or down as required.

What is 3D scanning used for?

3D scanning services are used for many different applications. A typical example are for producing ‘film props’ and ‘film set elements’ for film productions. We also use the same process to enable artists and sculptors to upscale existing works of art. This enables us to produce mould masters for foundry bronze casting. There are many possible applications. To complement our 3D scanning services, we also offer in-house 3D printing services. We are then able to convert our 3D scans into accurate physical models at various scales.

Ashmolean Museum – Protective Spirit – 3D Scan

Below are photos of a 3D scan we did some years ago for the amazing Oxford Ashmolean Museum, who’s amazing collections are a must see if you are visiting Oxford. This carved slab is one of many such gypsum panels that lined the walls of important rooms in the so-called Northwest Palace at Nimrud, capital of Assyria, in what is now northern Iraq. Reliefs depicting supernatural spirits were erected at doorways and against the walls of ritually significant areas of the palace.

Who are Superscan 3D?

Superscan was founded in 2015 by a team of digital creative professionals, who have worked in film and TV production for many years. We use the very latest 3D digital scanning technologies (Laser arm, Lidar, Photogrammetry etc) to achieve amazing 3D scans at highly competitive rates.

Hence, we now have a long established reputation for delivering outstanding 3D digital to physical output solutions to many UK based film and television production companies, creative design agencies, internationally renowned fine art sculptors and artists, museums, and heritage conservation organisations. 

• High Resolution 3D Scanning Services 
• Film Production 3D Scanning Services
• Film Production Set Decoration & Fabrication
• Fine Art Sculpture 3D Scanning

What 3D scanning technologies do we use?

The simple answer is all of them! We use ‘3D Laser Lidar Scanning’ for acquiring building and set fabrication assets (internal and external) as well as for larger open spaces. We use ‘Photogrammetry 3D Scanning’ for various applications including full 3D body scans for film and television VFX, Props, Set Decoration, 3D assets etc. Additionally, we use ‘3D Laser Arm Scanning’ to acquire smaller high detail objects (see below example). Such high precision 3D scanning systems enable us to cover a broad spectrum of 3D scanning applications. 

Find out how we created this virtually identical replica of a priceless 12th century artefact!

How do we calculate a cost for 3D scanning your object?

The cost of a 3D scan greatly depends on a number of key factors, so it’s really important to understand that every object is different and therefore needs to be quoted for on an individual basis. Accordingly, our 3D scanning costs are generally based upon five factors:

• Size of object to be 3D scanned
• Complexity of object – Level of detail / any line-of-sight challenges
• Material type – Colour, texture, shiny surfaces, dark surfaces etc
• Geographic location – Where is the object the located?
• Post scan digital cleanup requirements (Retopology) – The level of post-scan 3D digital hand cleanup and mastering required in order to deliver a high quality 3D digital model ready for 3D printing or other applications.

From a 3D laser scan to a traditional foundry cast bronze!

Below is an example of a high resolution 3D scan we did of a famous sculpture of T.E Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia) for a private client. The brief was for us to produce an identical foundry cast bronze replica so that the client could enjoy this wonderful piece of art in their other home abroad. The process was: A high resolution 3D scan, to Post scan 3D digital hand mastering, to a high resolution 3D print, to hand finishing of the 3D print in order to create a identical mould master, which was then used in a UK leading traditional bronze foundry that used a traditional lost wax foundry process.  

 

3D scans tailored to your specific requirements

We work with a broad cross-section of clients from a wide range of industries, so projects tend to be very wide-ranging. Some clients simply require a high accuracy 3D scan of an object to be supplied in either OBJ or STL file format. Other clients want a complete end-to-end solution, i.e. ‘From a hi-res 3D scan to a fully finished 1:1 scale physical replica’ (as above and below). So, whatever your requirement, we are happy to provide guidance and advice on the best way to achieve your objective. 

 

Headie One Music Video featuring Stormzy & AJ Tracey

A typical example of an event project we handled was the 3D body-scan of British rapper and songwriter ‘Headie One’ for his debut album hit release “Ain’t it different” video. Our high resolution 3D body scan was used to create a 3D digital asset of the star, that was incorporated into his debut albums music video, where a 300 feet tall statue was super imposed into live action using cgi used in

However, our high resolution 3D scan of Headie was also used to produce a full size statue of the star using CNC milling (another service we can offer). This statue prop was then also used for press and PR promotion purposes in London, for the launch of his debut album Edna.

Headie’s Edna album then scored two back-to-back ‘Top 5’ hits on the UK Singles Chart with the album’s first two singles, ‘Only You Freestyle’ featuring Drake and ‘Ain’t It Different’ featuring Stormzy and AJ Tracey.

We were of course delighted to be retained for this project. With thanks to Headie, Ghandi, Taz, Tia, and the amazing teams at ‘Relentless’ and ‘Sony’.

 

 

Producing 3D scans for film & television productions

We have worked on many fantastic film productions over the years. ‘Tomb Raider 2’ is a particular favourite where we worked alongside Warner Bros amazing art department and production team. We provided 3D scanning services for various sequences in the movie (Special Effects, Set Decoration, Props, CGi, VFX, SFX).  Find out more about our work in Film Production 3D Scanning.