3D Scanning Technology Used to Preserve Coffins
Changing the way guests interact with museums
A team of researchers from the Harvard Semitic Museum created a 3D scan of three ancient Egyptian sarcophagi. The goal was to provide guests with a way to see the coffins up close in a new light, these scans can now be viewed through a program called SketchFab. Not only that, but the aim is to preserve more artifacts digitally. The team of researchers faced many challenges in this exciting new technology.
They had to find ways to noninvasively take accurate scans to produce precise and detailed images for guests to view and observe. The researchers adopted 3D laser scanning because this technology provided the perfect way to capture accurate details that would typically not be seen by humans.
How did the team capture information
The team at Harvard Semitic Museum used a 3D laser scanning device called Artec Leo as well as a camera to produce high-resolution images. They also performed other more traditional ways of collecting information on the coffins.
The team was able to capture more information by taking photos, measurements by hand, pigment, residue analysis, and wood sampling. The challenging part was to capture these details traditionally without being invasive or ruining the ancient artifact. Some of the objects the team has to work with have not been touched or open in years.
These researchers had an exhilarating task to digitally preserve the outside of the coffin but the inside too. However, there were no mummies in the coffins. This means it took a lot of time to figure out how to accomplish capturing every detail because the team in no way wanted to destroy this historic piece.
In the end, with the help of 3D laser scanning and other technology, they were able to capture every viewpoint very carefully. Not only creating a digital copy for future generations but a way for guests to view the artifacts online spreading free knowledge.
What is 3D laser scanning
This technology takes thousands of pictures per second, creating a very detailed image for researchers to observe. 3D laser scanning was initially created in the 1960s but didn’t gain much use until later developments in the 1990s.
It can now capture highly specific details that would take someone hours to observe. It gathers information in a noninvasive way, using lasers to capture detail. It collects information like color, texture, sizes, dimensions, and anything in between like scratches and marks.
It has shaped how consumers gather and share information and have created a way to save things for the future. 3D laser scanning no longer belongs to just researchers and scientists, but anyone who wants to learn and has an interest in using technology for a brighter future.
Final thoughts
3D laser scanning has continuously changed the way guests interact with museums. It has started creating replicas of artifacts that guests can pick up, touch, and explore without destroying anything valuable. As our world moves foreword, it is building a digital copy for future generations to explore and study from the comfort of their home.