The rapid prototyping package Dr. Siderits uses starts with a NextEngine Desktop 3D Scanner to scan “biological” objects directly into trueSpace as 3D models.  Next, Dr. Siderits uses trueSpace to modify or reverse engineer the models as needed.  Finally, he creates solid models or molds of the objects with the Roland MDX15 CNC milling machine and 4th axis attachment.  The entire system fits on his desktop, costs less than $8K and creates accurate solid models and part molds (within 0.002” accuracy) from start to finish usually in less than an hour.  Other approaches to rapid prototyping were either less accurate or much more expensive.

“The ability to create real models of biological objects in less than an hour right on my desktop is remarkable and trueSpace is at the heart of this system,” said Dr. Siderits.  “trueSpace allows me to assemble and modify 3D models extremely quickly.  For example, a research project sponsored by the Pittsburgh Supercomputing Center involved quickly scanning in all the bones of the human hand to provide files that can be used in advanced robotic applications.  It’s easy to add attachment points for muscle wires to the 3D bone models using trueSpace and then send the new files to the desktop milling machine.  I’ve tried nearly all of the 3D programs on the market and I keep coming back to trueSpace because it is the most flexible program for my medical research and rapid prototyping needs.”

According to Dr. Siderits, the applications for this system are virtually limitless for anyone dependent upon scanning, modifying and creating physical molds or accurate models.  This could include forensic scientists, archeologists, medical researchers, plastic surgeons and even home hobbyists.  A few projects Dr. Siderits is working on include: creating a set of openly available 3D files of the human hand bones so researchers can develop more realistic robotic hand systems; creating a tooth mold from chewing gum collected at a crime scene which can be permanently saved in a forensics file whereas the actual piece of gum would deform or disintegrate over time; and re-creating a virtual bullet’s trajectory through a human skull.  The physics capabilities in trueSpace allow Dr. Siderits to “blow out” the skull pieces to model the bullet impact on actual scanned fragments of the skull.

“We’ve always focused on creating an intuitive and easy-to-use workflow without sacrificing accuracy and functionality, and all at a practical price,” said Caligari CEO Roman Ormandy.  “It’s rewarding to see those features being used to benefit people and their quality of life in areas such as medical research, advanced robotics and forensic sciences.  It’s also satisfying to know we have played a small part in helping talented people, like Dr. Siderits, undertake ground-breaking efforts.”

For an image depicting the work of Dr. Siderits, please contact This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .

About NextEngine Desktop 3D Scanners – www.nextengine.com

About Roland CNC milling machines - http://www.rolanddga.com/asd/products/scanners/MDX15/

About Caligari Corporation Caligari Corporation was founded in 1986 and has remained at the forefront of 3D authoring for the Web age.  Its mission is to develop collaborative 3D authoring technology that enables participants to work and learn online.  The company’s award-winning flagship product, trueSpace, is a 3D modeling, rendering and animation program used by 3D artists, game designers, illustrators and animators worldwide.  The company is headquartered in Mountain View, California.  For more information on Caligari and its products, visit www.caligari.com