3D COLOUR IMAGING FOR CULTURAL HERITAGE ARTEFACTS

This paper will discuss work in progress for the metric 3D recording and colour imaging of museum objects and the opportunities it opens up to broaden scientific knowledge about these artefacts. The following recording technologies will be discussed and compared with regard to imaging complex objects: phase-shift laser scanning, handheld laser scanning, high-resolution 3D colour laser scanning, PTM and photogrammetry. The evaluation criteria will include resolution, accuracy, noise, colour fidelity, mobility of the sensor, and data processing chain. The paper will explore the possibilities of integration of 3D image analysis with the daily work in a museum, tailored to conservation and curation. To plan and predict results, a decision tree will be delineated suggesting one or more techniques to answer specific curatorial or conservation questions. Integration with other imaging techniques for cultural artefacts, including IR and UV photography, microscopic imaging and SEM surface recording will also be considered. Available imaging technology will be discussed keeping in mind the UK museum framework; the research focus lies on the evaluation of diverse recording technologies while producing quantitative and qualitative evidence of geometry, surface and damage. The approach will therefore develop a bridge between conservation analysis methods and engineering metrology, by closely analyzing the possibilities and limitations of imaging technologies, with the goal to lead to a comprehensive knowledge about cultural heritage artefacts.