CT Scanning a LEGO Bugatti

Behind the Scenes of Our High-Tech Exploration

At OR3D, we love two things: technology and LEGO! So, when we had the opportunity to CT scan a LEGO Bugatti, we went full throttle to bring it to life in stunning detail. Using a combination of advanced scanning, analysis and rendering tools, we created an incredible digital representation of the LEGO Bugatti, allowing us to see beyond its exterior. Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at how we put this project together using our state-of-the-art workflow.

The CT Scanning Process

The first step in our journey was to scan the LEGO Bugatti using our EasyTom 230 scanner from RX Solutions. This industrial CT scanner is capable of capturing highly detailed 3D representations of objects, revealing internal structures and hidden details that are impossible to see with the naked eye.

CT scanning works by taking thousands of 2D X-ray images from different angles and reconstructing them into a full 3D model. For our LEGO Bugatti, this allowed us to capture not only the exterior design but also the intricate internal assembly of LEGO bricks.

Processing the Scan Data with Volume Graphics

Once we obtained the raw CT scan data, we processed it using Volume Graphics (VG). This powerful software enabled us to refine and analyse the scan, ensuring accuracy in the final 3D model.

One of the key analyses we performed was porosity analysis, which is typically used in industrial applications to detect voids and defects in materials. While a LEGO Bugatti isn’t a metal casting or composite structure, this analysis provided fascinating insights into the internal construction of the model and the way LEGO bricks fit together at a microscopic level.

Texturing with Substance Painter

Raw CT scans capture geometry, but they don’t contain colour or textures. To bring our LEGO Bugatti to life visually, we used Substance Painter, a professional-grade texturing tool used in game development and visual effects.

In Substance Painter, we applied realistic materials, colours, and surface details to the model. We carefully recreated the iconic blue finish of the LEGO Bugatti, along with subtle wear and detailing to enhance realism. The result was a fully textured 3D model that closely resembled its real-world counterpart.

Rendering and Animation in Unreal Engine

Finally, we brought everything together in Unreal Engine, one of the most advanced real-time rendering engines available. Using Unreal Engine, we created a stunning animated video that showcases the LEGO Bugatti from every angle.

Unreal Engine allowed us to achieve:

• Realistic lighting and reflections to make the model look as lifelike as possible.
• Dynamic animations that highlight different aspects of the LEGO Bugatti, including its assembly and internal structure.
• High-quality rendering for smooth and visually engaging presentation.

By leveraging the power of Unreal Engine, we were able to produce a polished, cinematic experience that showcases the capabilities of CT scanning and digital visualisation.

Explore more with OR3D CT

There’s much more to discover with OR3D CT. Our CT scanning services offer unparalleled insights into a wide range of materials and structures. We assist industries such as aerospace, automotive, electronics, medical devices, archaeology and more, providing precise 3D imaging that helps with quality control, product development, and research. Whether for complex industrial applications, historical artifact preservation, medical device analysis, or just the joy of exploring the unseen – like our LEGO Bugatti project – our team is dedicated to revealing the intricacies that lie beneath the surface.

Final Thoughts

This project was a fantastic opportunity to combine leading CT scanning technology with modern visualisation tools to create something truly unique. The combination of CT scanning, Volume Graphics, Substance Painter, and Unreal Engine opens up endless possibilities for exploring and presenting objects in incredible detail.

What would you like to see CT scanned next? Let us know!

View the full video here – https://www.linkedin.com/posts/or3d-ct_nationallegoday-lego-ctscanning-activity-7289967112360521729-GTYO?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAAHTYNUBKL_rYKjYHiu4nuG62yX2WOAWwxc