Digitization
Artifact digitization is the process of creating digital 3D representations of physical objects. The Waring Center's Artifact Digitization Program utilizes a variety of 3D recording technologies, methods, and applications to create digital products for research, exhibits, and education-outreach. These resources support both in-house projects and external partnerships and programs. Our program also incorporates additive manufacturing technologies to produce highly accurate physical reproductions of artifacts for display and outreach. Those interested in these services can begin the process by submitting the Digitization Request Form.
Einscan Pro HD (3D Digitizer)
The Waring Center currently utilizes the Einscan Pro HD for the majority of digitization projects. The Einscan is a flexible structured light scanner that can be used on both small and large objects with an accuracy of up to 40 microns (in a fixed scan mode). The current digitization system in place also allows for the capture of color data (texture) and accurate object coverage aided by an automated turntable.
Additive Manufacturing (Object Reproduction)
The Waring Center provides two main additive manufacturing technologies—FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) through a LulzBo Mini and SLA (Stereolithography) with a Formlabs Form 3+. FDM is a widely used and known method utilizing durable plastic filaments, while SLA allows for a higher-fidelity resin model better suited for preserving finer details and smoother surfaces. However, SLA is also prone to brittleness and chipping in some applications, and in these cases durable specialty resins can be made available.
The latter is a cartridge-based resin printing system that includes isopropyl alcohol and UV curing stations and is capable of producing accurate models with an XY and Z (layer height) resolution of up to 25 microns. The Form 3+ system also allows for build volume of 14.5 × 14.5 × 19.3 cm, accommodating larger objects. Additional post-processing tasks, such as sanding, filling, and painting, is available through the Waring Center as well.