Merge 3D includes web apps for both the Merge EDU Suite and the Merge Creator Suite of apps.

However, Merge 3D Scanner is the only Merge app that must remain an app store download due to the nature of the technology, and requires an iOS or Android smartphone or tablet to use.

With Merge 3D Scanner, students and educators can scan real-world objects and convert them to virtual 3D models. You can capture your artwork and sculptures in 3D, create 3D replicas of local artifacts, fossils and family heirlooms, or make digital copies of objects around you.

Note: You must have a Merge Creator Suite subscription to access Merge 3D scanner. 

To create a digital 3D model from a physical object, follow the steps below:

Download Merge 3D Scanner + Sign in

Merge Scanner is the only app that needs to be downloaded from the app store. It’s compatible with many iOS and Android mobile devices. You can download it here:

Download for iOS

Download for Android

To sign in to Merge Merge Scanner for the first time,  you will need to first launch it on the Merge 3D Dashboard here.

Start a New Scan and follow the steps

Note: Your object needs to be more than 3 inches or more in every direction in order to scan properly. Very small objects will not scan properly.

1. Ensure your object is on a table or pedestal that you can walk around completely.
2. Once you're signed in, you'll see the Start a new Scan button. Tap the button.
3. Give your object a Title and Description. 
4. Mark your scan as Public or Private. 
   • If you mark your scan Public, you will be able to share it with anybody in the world using a QR code or a link that is generated automatically, and it will be added to Community content. 
   • If you Toggle that setting off, your object will be marked as Private. You can still share a private object with others, but only those who have a Merge subscription will be able to access it. Learn more about Public vs. Private objects here.
5. Press Start Scan
6. Follow the directions on the screen to ensure your physical 3D object appears in the box. Press Continue and adjust the box around your object to ensure it will all be scanned.
7. Select Start Capture
8. A compass will appear near your object. Walk around the object carefully keeping your camera pointed at the object. The dashes on the compass will start to fill in as you make progress.
9. After the compass fills in completely, you will be asked to scan again. Read the message about object flipping. Press Continue or Flip Object Anyway. **NOTE: If the shape is unique on all sides, you should flip the object. However, flipping is not always recommended if the object is very large or fragile. Often, the scanner will fill in the bottom automatically.
10. Optional Step: You will scan your object for the 2nd time, this time aiming the camera lower as you scan. Follow the tips on the screen, such as Move Closer. Follow the direction of the arrow, if one pops up. The second segment should say Complete when done.
11. Optional Step: Last, you will be asked to capture your object a third time from a higher angle. Follow the directions on the screen such as Move Closer, ensuring you are filling in the compass dashes.
12. You will get a message that says All Segments Complete. Tap Finish to process your object. Object processing may take several minutes.
13. That’s it! Once your model has finished processing, you will be able to access it in your Merge Scanner library on the Merge 3D Dashboard.

To add multimedia labels or interactions to your 3D scan, see these other help articles below!

Adding Multimedia Labels to your own 3D objects

Using Merge Builder - Help Article Coming soon!