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WP4 Non-contact reproduction of Cultural heritage Objects

WPL: RBINS

WP4 Non-contact reproduction of Cultural heritage Objects – WPL: RBINS

Current developments in scanning and 3D printing technologies enables the production of high resolution 3D objects (< 50 µm) based on the virtual model. Non-contact production is a unique opportunity to create a high resolution duplication without using casting products (silicone and polyurethane resin) which can damage the original object and/or are toxic for users. Another limitation of classical moulding reproduction is the smaller size of the replica (reproductions can be up to 2% smaller). The 3D digitisation/3D printing offers a great potential for scientific purpose, curation aspects and valorisation. This project will use the RBINS fossil hominids collection to evaluate the potential of this new method of reproduction for the different applications and establish best practices which can be (re)used for other collections. In the case of fossil hominids, 3D digitisation also provides a virtual backup of the specimen before destructive sampling (e.g. for radiocarbon dating or palaeogenomic and isotopic studies). The non-contact 3D reproduction opens up new opportunities for studying, learning about and disseminating Cultural Heritage objects, including human remains.

 

Task 4.1 Evaluation of the virtual reproduction of physical objects – TL: RBINS

In this task, RBINS and MNHN will compare the level of detail and the resolution/accuracy of the digital reproduction in comparison with the classical moulding protocol. Best practices will be established for the use of this new approach in the routine activities of the RBINS and other Federal Scientific Institutions. This will include following the evolution of the physical object through time and different preservation conditions and making 3D reproductions before restoration or destructive sampling.

 

Task 4.2 Preparing the 3D models for an easy and accurate 3D printing – TL: RBINS

  • ADIA and RBINS will examine the digitised fossils in the collection and decide which fossils have the most priority to be placed on the website and corrected for 3D printing

  • The models will be then be evaluated and corrected with the open source software GOM Inspect and Meshmixer to insure that there are no there are no errors in the models.

  • Each 3D model will then be printed in order to ensure that no problem occurs during the 3D printing.

 

Task 4.3 Creation of a digital space network of non-contact moulds – TL: RBINS

RBINS and ADIA will work to create a digital space which will enable the digitised fossils to be easily produced in 3D. This digital space of non-contact moulds will also be accompanied by information on the fossil which will be of pedagogical use. RBINS will upload all the fossils from the digital collection chosen from task 4.2 onto Sketchfab. RBINS and ADIA will also add information markers on the 3D models of the fossils where necessary.