Member Article

Young Teesside entrepreneur brings 3D printing startup to market for Christmas run-in

The latest company to spin out of Teesside University’s business incubator is offering North East consumers an alternative means of Christmas giftware this year.

Moments in 3D, a new firm utilising the allure of 3D technology, has taken a concession at department store Fenwick Newcastle, where it will be selling bespoke 3D figurines.

Creating a scanning booth to 3D scan family members and loved ones, Moments in 3D then transforms the scan into a miniature model, using its printer technology.

Creating a scanning booth to to 3D scan family members, the firm will enable people to preserve their memories with the scan converted into a miniature model using the latest 3D printer technology.

The booth uses more than 100 digital cameras connected to computers, triggered simultaneously, to capture every angle of the model’s body as easily as taking a normal photo.

The image is then rendered using 3D software before being printed, layer upon layer, by the latest colour 3D printer. The figurine is printed in full colour in a sandstone effect high performance composite which captures every detail of the model from facial expressions to the creases in their clothing.

Company founder: Behzad Parniani

With a background in Aerospace and Technology, founder Behzad Parniani has used his expertise to create the scanning booth.

Based in Teesside University’s business incubator at Victoria Road, the young entrepreneur said: “By using the latest 3D technology and the best 3D artists, we’re able to construct figurines that are extremely lifelike and incredibly detailed.

“The technology offers endless possibilities and is already proving incredibly popular.”

Behzad was given assistance by Teesside University to help him get his business off the ground. This included help and support from the University’s graduate enterprise team and access to facilities and equipment.

Laura Woods, Director of The Forge, Teesside University’s business hub, said: “At Teesside University we are constantly looking at ways in which businesses can make the most of opportunities arising from new technologies such as 3D printing.

“Moments in 3D has applied technology and ingenuity to produce a very successful business model and we are delighted to have been able to support Behzad.”

Behzad added: “The University has been a fantastic source of help and advice. The support I received enabled me to take the business to the next level.”

With the service proving popular, Behzad is now exploring ways to expand the business by offering it out to different outlets nationwide.