History made digital
3D laser scanning services have helped us make many great discoveries over the past few years. Now it is also helping us preserve historical artifacts in ways we could not imagine. The Naval History and Heritage Command have some amazing valuable artifacts that represent different chapters in U.S. history. They have now contacted the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Carderock Division in West Bethesda, Maryland, to help them 3D laser scan a small whaling boat. They did this to help mark the 150th anniversary of this famous boat.
There were two types of 3D laser scanning devices involved in digitally preserving this whaling boat. One of the FARO-Focus S70s and the other was FARO-Focus X330. This allowed them to capture the details inside the boat and every dimension outside the boat. Using two of the most high-tech pieces of equipment, they could fully capture the boat and create a model from the scans.
Digitized copies will last much longer than any physical replicas. Many times a museum cannot showcase everything they own or have. There simply isn’t enough space. 3D laser scanning allows everything to be put online. This means guests can see a bigger collection and as precisely as they would see something in person. 3D laser scanning services are changing how we interact and view museums.
Why 3D laser scanning services are good for museums
There are so many benefits a 3D laser scanning device brings to museums. Many researchers and museum owners were extremely hesitant about adopting this technology. However, we slowly see the adoption spread worldwide due to some of these reasons.
Noninvasive
This is one of the best ways to collect information rapidly without harming the object. Very little handling is involved in the process. Rapid pictures are being taken, all while a laser is being projected over the object. All the researcher has to do is aim it while it is on.
Editing
The best part of creating a digitized copy is that before anything else, the researcher has the option to edit it. This allows extra detail to be put into the digital model and can help create a more life-like appearance on the web. Most details will come out almost exactly as someone would see them in person, but this editing allows it to become more precise.
Sharing
Another amazing feature of 3D laser scanning is it allows for open communication with other museums. If a museum in China wants something from an American museum, all they have to do is send each other the artifact’s files. This allows artifacts to stay in their rightful homes but also share the information.
Final thoughts
3D laser scanning services are changing the way we interact with museums. Guests can look at objects closer and up close without having to worry about breaking anything. It is allowing us to see more of an exhibit that we love without overwhelming the museum. This technology is allowing us to openly share artifacts and preserve them for the next generation.