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Smithsonian unveils laser-scanned 3D model of Wright Flyer

By General Aviation News Staff · August 28, 2014 ·

The Wright brothers are credited with inventing and building the world’s first successful airplane. With that same pioneer spirit, the Smithsonian recently unveiled its X 3D Collection and state-of-the-art 3D explorer.

As part of the X 3D Collection, the 1903 Wright Flyer was scanned using a laser, producing an accurate 3D model.

Wright_Flyer_3DBy creating a 3D model from the laser scan, the Smithsonian will save money on future preservation and rehabilitation projects, according to museum officials.

The 3D scan of the Wright Flyer lets users analyze the fine details of the flyer, creating a new understanding and glance into the Wright brothers inventive genius.

The team at API Services modeled the Wright Flyer’s scanned data.

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