We introduce a method for shape similarity based retrieval in 3D object model database. The proposed method leads us to achieve effectiveness and robustness in similar 3D object search supporting both query by 3D model and query by 2D image. Our feature extraction mechanism is based on observation of human behavior in recognizing objects. Our process of extracting spatial arrangement of a 3D object by surface point distribution can be considered as using human tactile sensation without visual information. On the other hand, the process of extracting 2D features from multiple views can be considered as examining an object by moving viewpoints(camera positions). We propose shape signatures for 3D object model by measuring features of surface point and the shape distance distribution from multiple views of 3D model. Our method can be directly applied to industrial part retrieval and inspection system where different geometric representations are used.