3D Scanning
3D Scanning Service
The LaGuardia Studio 3D Scanning Service provides high-accuracy 3D scanning of objects ranging in size from small to large, low to ultra-high resolution. Service work spans across disciplines which include art and design, conservation heritage, medical, engineering, scientific research, VR and AR end use, and consumer product manufacturing. The LaGuardia Studio 3D Scanning Service features a range of high-end industry 3D scanners to suit all scanning production needs.
Read the Specifications
- Machines - Artec Spider, Artec Eva, Faro Edge
- Manufacturers - Artec, Faro
- Scanning technologies - Artec: Structured White Light, Faro: FaroArm contact measurement and Blue Laser Line Probe (LLC) HD
- Output formats - .obj and .stl
- Resolution - dependent upon object conditions. Please see manufacturer websites for specifications
Read About Job Order Procedures
To schedule a 3D Scan Service consultation appointment for job order drop-off, call or contact us by email specifying available dates with preferred time frames per date.
Job orders needing special arrangements, such as conservation sensitive objects or body-related scans, require pre-planned bookings. Please make sure to allow enough time for scheduling so that we can accommodate the scanning requirements and coordinate a staff specialist with your appointment availability.
All job order scan files are reviewed upon completion of scanning. Clients receive a 3D scan file in raw or auto-fill cleaned state, in .stl or .obj file formats. Clients can expect that additional modeling will be required depending on content destination and end-use formatting.
3D scans are executed in mono unless the job order includes the request for color texture maps.
You will receive notice by email when your job order is complete and your 3D scan files are ready for pick-up. Payment is required in full at the time of job order pick-up.
Read 3D Scanning Service Client Responsibilities
Clients are responsible for project readiness, which includes the organization of project details, direction and objectives. Clients must articulate special requirements for the job order that include unique project conditions, end-use information, critical time frames and formatting considerations at the time of job order submission. These details help determine our approach to the scanning production work.
The Laguardia Studio is responsible for delivering 3D scan data in raw or auto-fill cleaned state, in a .stl or .obj file format. Clients must plan for post-job order refinement modeling for missing data areas due to line of sight issues, where the scanner is unable to “see” surface area and consequently unable to capture geometry. Line of sight issues will occur when scanning complicated organic structures with difficult to reach areas such as internal undercuts or features with thin detail.
Any refinement modeling work taken on by the LaGuardia Studio as part of the job order scope must be pre-approved and will be charged on an hourly basis, with the rate determined by job order complexity. Acceptance of refinement modeling is handled on a case-by-case basis, at the discretion of the LaGuardia Studio and is not guaranteed. Clients need to plan for an alternative modeling source accordingly.
Modeling work related to project content development such as rigging, animation, retopology, rendering, video game engine optimization and reverse engineering, is considered end-use formatting and is the responsibility of the client.
Read Staff Tips
Scanning resolution is dependent on an object’s surface conditions and in certain cases can degrade greatly due to problematic material properties. Clients will need to plan for refinement modeling work after completion of the 3D scan.
Glossy, metallic or translucent surfaces scan best when treated with a dulling powder or matte spray prior to scanning.
Body scans require absolute stillness for an extended period to complete. Poses that are difficult to hold for long periods, and clothing that has a strong pattern or has the potential to shift, could negatively impact the scan result and are not recommended.
The best pose for a successful full body scan is the standard anatomical "Tadasana" standing position, with arms to the side, hands facing forward with fingers closed. This pose allows for the greatest scanning access and accuracy, and offers the most potential for repose during the editing of the scan file, in a range of standard 3D software packages.
Read 3D Scanning Common Terms
Raw scan - what the scanner can capture based on line of site
Auto-fill clean-up - standard automated clean-up executed by software
Refinement modeling - post-processing 3D modeling, as part of content development
Texture maps - color map information specific to a scan object and determined by scanner
Resolution - the smallest increment in which a sensor can measure and identify features in a 3D scan
3D Scanning Service Pricing
Read 3D Scanning Pricing Information
3D scanning charges are calculated by the object’s total cubic inch measurement within a bounding box surround, and by the object’s complexity of detail. Additional charges will apply for texture map production and refinement modeling if applicable.
Please be advised that every job order is unique and requires a careful review of the project details. Consequently, price quotes for 3D scan job orders are issued at the time of consultation appointment only.
Change orders that add or delete from the original job order scope, or that significantly change the production details of the current project, will alter the original job order cost and completion date.
Payment Terms
Read the Payment Terms
Job order payment is required in full before production starts. Production work will not be released to clients until payment is settled in full. LaGuardia Studio accepts credit and debit cards, in addition to New York University chartfield account numbers and departmental grant checks where applicable. LaGuardia Studio reserves the right to hold or terminate any service job order due to problems with payment.
Turnaround Policy
Read the Turnaround Policy
Turnaround policies for the LaGuardia Studio 3D Print and 3D Scanning Service are 10 business days and under. All LaGuardia Studio job orders are expedited in the order of submission. Job orders that include a large volume of parts, complicated prototype design, intensive evaluation testing, and requests submitted during NYU’s end of semester finals periods may require more time. Please consult with the LaGuardia Studio staff prior to job submission for turnaround estimates, particularly in planning for production of time-sensitive projects.