Introducing HORSESHAPE: the first mobile 3D scanner for horse backs

By Erin Ronan

Monday 18 June 2012

Introducing HORSESHAPE: the first mobile 3D scanner for horse backs

Horsemart reader and blogger Erin Ronan tells us about HORSESHAPE, the first mobile 3D scanner for horse backs.

Based on the trend of a growing technological world and the shift of making equestrian sports as horse friendly as possible, the horse’s back and fit of the saddle has become of utmost importance. Following this, HORSESHAPE’s aim is to provide professionals with the best basis for perfectly fitting saddles.

To do this, HORSESHAPE has developed its ScanKit: the first mobile 3D scanner for horse backs. The laser measurement system scans the horse’s back and creates an exact 3D model. The ScanKit (pictured below) outdoes mechanical measurement systems because it is faster, easier to use and considerably more accurate. A three-second-long scan can be executed smoothly by anybody with a short introduction.

Every measurement is then uploaded to the myHORSESHAPE internet platform, where the saddler and the owner have access to the data. Complementary video footage or photos of the horse can be added on here as well. This allows a complete documentation of the history of every horse and saddle.

The 3D data that is collected provides the perfect basis for saddle fitting and reflocking. From the digital 3D model HORSESHAPE produces a physical two-piece life size model of the individual horses back that can be used to customize a saddle for the individual horse. Its compliment, the Shapeproof, can be put on the horses back to prove the accuracy of the scan. It can also be used by the owner to check the horse’s back to show any changes in the future. This helps the owner to decide when it is necessary to consult a professional concerning an adjustment of the saddle.

HORSESHAPE also offers exports of the 3D model into various data formats used by saddle manufacturers. They are currently establishing partnerships simplifying the communications between saddle fitter and manufacturer.

Of course, for me, this is a very exciting prospect. This is a revolutionary piece of kit that I believe could be widely used for not only saddle fitting, but possibly for equine physiotherapists to understand the shape of the horses back more, whether there is more muscle or muscle wastage on either side. The increase in technological uses for understanding our horses better never ceases to amaze me. I genuinely look forward to and am excited about watching this company grow because I think it is an amazing thing that they are doing.

Erin has her own blog at www.strides-eventing.co.uk.