E!11297 A see-through object scanner for common consumers and 3D printing use

We want to realize a novel concept of 3D "see-through" scanning of objects for the purpose of visualizing and copying such objects by 3D printing, and addressing the consumer market. The product will be a unique and non-harmful micro flux CT (computed tomography) scanner called VisualiXe, usable for common consumers. VisualiXe includes the features of 3D "see-through" object visualization, as well as export of the scanner's 3D data to a standard 3D printer format to allow for immediate 3D printing. This novel CT machine is an Internet-Of-Things device being light in weight and with cloud connectivity. We have developed two scanner prototypes. Testing is done with the generation of data for analysis and visualization. This has provided important input to specifications of improvements that must be developed and implemented in the commercialization of the system, including improved speed and visualization, as well as protection for regulatory approval.

The project has entailed substantial increase in competency, new personnel hires, international network, and knowledge about market needs and opportunities. The long-term changes in society brought about by the project's results and outcomes will be enabling consumers to utilize technology (X-ray technology) that only has been available for use within medicine, physics and industrial/luggage inspection.

We want to realize a novel concept of 3D "see-through" scanning of objects for the purpose of visualizing and copying such objects by 3D printing, and addressing the consumer market. Delivery will be a unique and non-harmful micro flux CT (computed tomography) scanner called VisualiXe, usable for common consumers. VisualiXe includes the features of 3D "see-through" object visualization, as well as export of the scanner's 3D data to a standard 3D printer format to allow for immediate 3D printing. This novel CT machine is an Internet-Of-Things device being very light in weight, optional battery-driven, and with cloud connectivity. The main R&D challenges are advanced geometry optimization, precise mechanical rotary and axial movement of detector and source versus scan-object, advanced detector development, real-time data-acquisition synchronized with detector/object position, and 3D reconstruction algorithms development. A fast growing business with substantial revenue and profit can be made by reaching the common-consumer market with our product, and thereby tag along on the big and fast expanding 3D-printing market (est. Euro 3.3 Billion in 2015). We will be the first to offer an affordable price for a "see-through" 3D scanner on the consumer market. This is achievable through designingthe product for very low cost production, and overcoming the hurdle of combining X-ray technology with common consumer usage.