Wing Chan, The Ohio State University Research Assistant Professor, getting his scan done by Mo Duncan, EdTech Incubator Coordinator, during the workshop.

Workshop Attendees Test Einstar Vega Hand-Held Scanner

The EdTech Incubator (ETI), located in the Health Sciences Library (HSL), hosts occasional workshops to provide hands-on experiences with new and innovative technology. Most recently, a workshop open to researchers, faculty, staff and learners was held on Thursday, Sept. 18th, from 2 – 4 p.m. for their newly acquired Einstar Vega handheld 3D scanner device that was purchased using donor funds.

This advanced tool allows users to scan and create precise digital models of physical 3D objects. With the tool’s compact size and advanced software, the Einstar Vega opens new possibilities for innovative research that can be conducted in the ETI’s technology zones.

The digital screen on the Einstar Vega hand-held 3D scanner shows a subject’s head and shoulders that was just scanned into the unit’s software.

Practical applications for 3D modeling

The scanner can be used to digitize physical objects that can then be transformed by 3D modeling software for analysis, modification and visualization. 3D modeling is emerging as an effective way to advance health sciences research, teaching and learning. The scanner enables interaction with digital replicas that is not always possible with physical models. The Einstar Vega marks a new step forward for the ETI in integrating advanced technology into academic spaces.

Dr. Leonardo Nassani, DMD, MBA, assistant professor at The Ohio State University College of Dentistry, has expressed his interest in the Einstar Vega as he makes plans to incorporate the scanner into his upcoming digital dentistry courses. One way the scanner will be useful for his workshops is to create precise models of dental structures. Students will gain hands-on experience in digital dentistry techniques as part of Dr. Nassani’s courses. For more information about ETI workshop opportunities, visit the ETI events webpage.