Welcome to Roman Systems Engineering

Thank you for visiting! We hope you find our project interesting. We are developing a 3D liquid scanner system that aims to complement or replace existing laser scanning systems for target applications. Our team utilizes ancient Roman technology, by first solving the Mystery of the Roman Dodecahedron, and then modernizing it. By utilizing modern imaging fluids and hybrid binary solvers in conjunction with stereo color imaging, we provide scan information for the object under study. This includes accurate color, shape, and porous density information. Our device, if realized in our current vision, could enable the push for more creative 3d printing applications.

Historical Mystery Solved ?

There are many theories as to what the Roman Dodecahedron was used for. A new hypothesis by John Ladd suggests that the dodecahedron was used as a quality control device on their military sites. With this thought, Greeks and Romans, beginning with Archimedes, would lodge a projectile (particularly sling ammo) into the dodecahedron. They would pour fluid into the dodecahedron tank to measure incremental displacement (Archimedes principle applied so that a change in fluid levels that is indicative of projectile shape) for all twelve angles, based on the hole patterns which dictate the imaging resolution. Combinatorial reconstruction and interpretation of a shape based upon its displacement measurements, thought not documented in antiquity, appears within the mathematical toolset of Archimedes. The mathematics behind the proposed usage of the Roman Dodecahedron can be found at: Hypothesis. By inventing volume immersion techniques, and the mathematics for interpreting the area and under the displacement curves of the ellipsoidal projectiles, Archimedes laid down the foundation for a demonstrably powerful 3d shape recording instrument. It has been documented that wars were won or lost based upon the quality of sling ammo design. We believe the Roman dodecahedron was used to characterize the geometry of the sling projectiles and manufacturing consistency and win wars.

Roman Systems Engineering Using Ancient Technology in Today's World

Roman Systems Engineering (RSE) is using what we believe to be the same technology that Romans used in ancient history, to essentially complete 3D scanning in today's world. Using a computer and the ancient Roman Dodecahedron, the perfect shape to allow multiple angles of measurement, we can obtain the dimensions and shape of any object placed within the device (Roman dodecahedron). Unlike conventional 3D scanners today, this technology could allow for mapping within the object (not limited by line of sight as other scanners on the market), by utilizing modern low-viscosity cavity detection fluids that penetrate opaque and porous medium.

Interviews of RSE and Unveiling the New Roman Hypothesis

Please Check out our featured stories in the EEWeb (Engineering Magazine), and the video explanation on our home page for illustrations of the theory. A formal thesis regarding dodecahedron as a 3D shape recording device is in the works.

For a more in-depth technical video and explanation, please visit our Product Information page.