3D Laser Scanning and Modelling for Heritage

3D printing and scanning have been on the rise over the past decade. More individuals are recognizing the many benefits that these techniques are able to present to researchers, scientists, engineers, and the average individual. As science continues to fine tune these devices and improve 3D scanning techniques, then the face of the world and its understanding of history could drastically change. With inaccuracies and guesses for how certain items would have looked out of the way, the understanding of history will change.

3D scanning is a highly complex and accurate process. When an item is scanned with a 3D scanner, a fine laser light is shot into the space where the hidden or obscure item is located. The laser light traces over 100 % of the surface of the object recording up to 750.000 different points that are quickly connected to recreate a 3D image of the object.

That 3D image is sent to the 3D scanner where engineers and scientists analyze the object, its purpose, and its origin. Once that data has been collected from the 3D scanner and confirmed, scientists may then decide to use the information that they have obtained to 3D print the object that they have 3D scanned.

How Are These Techniques Used to Model for Heritage?

It is estimated that a significant number of historically important artifacts are located in areas that are hard to reach. Some of these objects are located deep inside of Egyptian tombs. Some of these objects are located at the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean.

Many of these objects have yet to have been uncovered. Scientists estimate that the majority of artifacts are safer where they are located and could be damaged irreversibly if unearthed. That is why 3D scanning and 3D printing are so important to scientists. These scientists can use lasers to reach and trace these hard-to-reach objects. Once they are traced, they can be printed for scientists to examine and understand them.

Many objects are recreated with 3D technology to understand their historical significance. These models can be put on display and used in museums to teach future generations about the various cultures and heritages of certain areas of the world.

Myths About 3D Scanning

3D Printing and 3D Scanning are relatively new developments in the world of technology. 3D printing and 3D scanning have only been in existence for about a decade and are therefore still under investigation by those that do not understand the technology.

3D Printing and 3D scanning are not at all magical. There are hundreds of thousands of brilliant minds working out the details regarding the use and construction of 3D printing technology. Because the techniques and construction involved are so complex, many individuals do not understand how they could possibly work.

3D Scanning and 3D printing do not harm the environment. The lasers used are fine and do not cause harm to the objects that they scan. If these lasers caused harm, scientists and engineers would not be using the technology to discover and recreate ancient objects of historical significance. If these individuals were to use harmful techniques, then the objects would be lost in time forever. 3D Scanning and 3D printing are, to date, the safest way to see these objects without disturbing them.


Images courtesy of Trigonart.com

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