Replicas Help Researchers
Historical researchers were not always so accepting of the idea of using 3D laser scanning for research. However, over the past several years, they have warmed up to the idea of adopting technology to access more information on historical objects. There are many unique benefits to using 3D laser scanning services, and researchers could no longer ignore how impressive the technology is.
Combined with 3D printing, the tools have become exceptionally impressive over the last few years. They are both used to scan 18th-century Native American tools and print them to be studied and used. All of this can be seen in the Smithsonian collection.
Once the process is learned, it is easy to understand how to do it. An artist named Tania Larsson used 3D laser scanning, a CAD program, and 3D printed the designs for her internship at the Smithsonian. She explains the process and the benefits of using this technology for history.
The process of creating replicas
Most researchers would agree that making exact replicas of artifacts are nearly impossible. Getting something exact takes an enormous amount of time, and it does not always turn out exactly when someone is taking a mold by hand. Using 3D laser scanning services can save a lot of trouble and be much more accurate.
Tania used photogrammetry, which allowed her to capture details from every single side of an object. It ensured she didn’t miss any microscopic detail. She could layer and thread together the images in the CAD system to gather a complete 3D image. She connected and sent the information to a 3D printer where it could print an almost exact copy.
In many ways, this is better than taking a mold because it does not harm the object being studied. There is no touching the object which helps preserve it for the future. It is a faster and more advanced method than other ways of trying to create a copy. One of the best things about this method is that it is so quick that the artifacts can be sent back home where they belong while the copy can be placed in a museum exhibit.
How 3D printing works
The CAD software allows for a user to layer the images taken from the scanner. That information gets sent to another computer that reads the data like coordinates. It has arms and a body that moves according to the data. The arms will move, and hot material will come out of the nozzle layer by layer, creating an object. As the material comes out, it will harden, and this is what created the replica. Paired with 3D laser scanning services, it can have extraordinary outcomes.
Final thoughts
3D laser scanning services are one of the best ways to gather accurate data; pairing it with 3D printing allows that accurate data to be replicated. The pairing is unique and will enable researchers to create more artifacts that will enable guests to interact with museums differently. It will also enable museums to change their exhibits frequently.
