UCLA

This research looks at the ways in which digital technologies have been applied to the study, display, and conservation of cultural heritage objects. The experimental methodology is informed by existing applications of these technologies and sequentially applies data acquisition techniques, three-dimensional digital modeling, and three-dimensional printing as an approach to the conservation of a fragmented and incomplete ceramic vessel. Triangulation laser scanning and structed light scanning were used to generate a digital mesh and computer-aided design model for each sherd. MeshLab and Blender software programs were used to digitally reconstruct the ceramic fragments. The loss within the digitally reconstructed ceramic body was filled in Blender and 3D printed in a polylactic acid plastic filament. This proposed process was performed by a non-specialist in digital techniques but yielded promising results. The experimental process can be used a platform from which to build on the applications of digital techniques in the conservation of cultural heritage objects.