The Future of the Ancient World

One of the best things about working at a university museum is having the ability to take part in cutting edge research.  Among the most exciting research projects the Petrie Musuem is involved in is 3D scanning.   Using a laser scanner, images of artefacts taken from many angles can be created and joined together to make a geometrically accurate model of the object.
 

The aim of the research project, done in conjunction with UCL’s Department of Geomatic  Engineering  and commercial partners Arius3D and 3D Encounters, is to create a 3D image library of the 80,000 ancient artefacts in the collection.  The process of scanning and modelling 3D images is not a quick one, so our library won’t be appearing overnight.  In the meantime, we are using 3D models to create a series of computer-based 3D exhibitions.  The first one – Crossing Over – opened at the Petrie and British Library  earlier this year.
 
 

The Petrie wants public input into the development and use of 3D images.  We ran a series of digital technologies days where visitors could test this and other digital technologies we are developing.  

One application for 3D images we have created is iCurator, a 3D exhibition design “game” that will allow users to move 3D images within a 3D space to create new museum displays (Nintendo eat your heart out!).  We are also considering developing touring exhibitions that combine real objects with 3D images that can be projected in the exhibition space. 

With even the most traditional art forms getting into the 3D arena (Royal Opera House screened Carmen in 3D back in March), we are keen to figure out how museums can join the fun.  Hence the following survey:

Which of the following 3D museum activities would you most like to see?

1) Physical exhibition with a cinema where objects are presented as part of a narrated 3D film

2) Virtual “handling sessions” in which 3D images are projected and manoeuvrable using a motion tracking device

3) Online exhibition design game that allows users to create and present bespoke 3D displays that can be shared with friends, colleagues, future musuem employers

4) I hate the idea of 3D technology in museums

Filed under: 3D Encounters by Petrie Museum Staff