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Tech4Tracing — 3D-Printable Ammunition Photogrammetry

Background​

Tech 4 Tracing (T4T) is a non-profit applied technology lab that builds AI tools for detecting illicit arms, ammunition, landmines, and explosives. Among their core methods is a distinctive reconstruction pipeline: they use photogrammetry on authentic FFE (free-from-explosive) ordnance to generate 3D models that are accurate enough to act as AI training data, and then turn those reconstructions into rugged 3D-printable replicas for explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) training and explosive ordnance risk education.

How it's likely made​

  1. Photogrammetry capture: scanning authentic FFE ordnance from multiple angles to produce millimetre-accurate 3D reconstructions — visually near-indistinguishable from the real objects.
  2. Modeling / repair in Blender: cleanup and preparation of the photogrammetry scans for reliable output (mesh repair, retopology, scale).
  3. 3D-print preparation: preparing the model geometry for physical fabrication so replicas can be ruggedized and used (and potentially taught) in EOD / risk-education training.

Why it matters for visual investigation​

This is a training-and-replication use of photogrammetry, distinct from the scene/object reconstruction cases in this collection. It shows the same capture-and-reconstruct skill being applied to a different downstream: physical training aids rather than presentation or evidence — a reminder that the reconstruction asset has multiple valid end-uses beyond the screen.

To be filled during the #45/#47 restructure — link photogrammetry, sourcing-models, 3D-print-toolbox.

Last updated on by blender-visual-investigation