Conservation technologies
A portable scanner set up to record an ancient monument at an outdoor location (left) and 3D recording a classical marble statue (right)
Conservation Technologies has extensive experience in using the latest laser scanning techniques to undertake high quality three-dimensional recording of cultural artefacts. Using a low power laser beam, the surface of any object can be precisely measured and recorded in three dimensions, without any contact with its surface. The process is completely harmless.
Scanning can be carried out in either the secure environment of the National Conservation Centre, or on site in almost any location if the object cannot be moved.
Objects with dimensions ranging from a few centimetres to several metres can be scanned. For example, past projects have included small archaeological finds, sculpture and monuments, ancient crosses and a carved Norman doorway.
All 3D data collected during the recording of an artwork is handled with the utmost sensitivity.
A laser scanner projects a thin strip of low power laser light onto the surface of the object. A digital camera records the light as it is reflected from the surface. The relative positions of the light source and camera are known. This allows the surface of an object to be mapped as a series of 3D data points, called a 'point cloud'.
Conservation Technologies currently uses both the Modelmaker System (3D scanners) and the V1-900 scanner (Minolta), giving an outstanding combination of sub-millimetre accuracy and flexibility. The combination of these systems enables us to record an extremely wide range of objects of different sizes. The scanners are portable, so recording can be undertaken in almost any location.
You can download a brochure detailing the services provided by 3d recording below. If you would prefer to receive a hard copy of the brochure by post please email conservation technologies to request a copy (remember to include your full address and state which brochure(s) you are interested in).
Conservation Technologies was commissioned by English Heritage to carry out research investigating the feasibility of laser scanning for documenting an intricately carved gilded 18th-century table at Chiswick House, London. The findings have just been published as part of the English Heritage research department report series and can be downloaded here.
If you can't download the pdf you can email the conservation technologies department to request a paper copy.
We now offer training courses in laser scanning. Have a look at the training courses web page for further information and booking details.
For further information contact Dr Martin Cooper or email the conservation technologies department.