From Artifacts to Access: Digital Preservation at The Amelia with 3D Scanning

In the field of cultural heritage preservation, 3D scanning technology has become an invaluable tool for museums, offering an innovative way to digitally capture and preserve artifacts. This approach not only ensures the longevity of delicate objects but also provides a platform for global access and study.

The Amelia’s Journey with 3D Scanning Technology

The Amelia museum, located in Tunbridge Wells, UK, has been at the forefront of utilizing 3D scanning technology to preserve its vast collection of over 60,000 objects.

The Amelia

To digitize its artifacts, the museum previously relied on EinScan Pro HD, a multifunctional handheld 3D scanner capable of capturing both the geometric details and texture of objects. 3D scanning technology has been crucial not only for documenting the condition of the artifacts but also for expanding the museum’s digital outreach, allowing a wider audience to engage with its collection.

Introduction and Application of EinScan Libre

Building on its experience with EinScan Pro HD, The Amelia has now upgraded its preservation efforts with the introduction of EinScan Libre. This all-in-one 3D scanner enhances the museum's capabilities with its wireless standalone design and versatile scanning modes. Whether it’s delicate fossils or intricate historical artifacts, EinScan Libre offers the flexibility and texture needed to preserve these treasures in digital form.

EinScan Libre: All-in-one laser 3D scanner

• Scanning the Iguanodon Footprint Fossil

To fully understand the size and detailed features of a Jurassic Iguanodon footprint fossil, the museum scanned it using EinScan Libre’s Laser HD mode. This mode effectively captured intricate details and color data without markers, which are typically avoided on artifacts to prevent potential damage.

• Digitizing the George and Westcott Artifact

IR Rapid mode of EinScan Libre was used to scan a historical George and Westcott artifact from the Tudor era, benefiting from the scanner’s extended working distance to speed up the process.

A Vision for the Future of Cultural Heritage Preservation

“Being able to send our sort of digital copies of our objects that have been 3D scanned to anyone in the world, whether that be academic or into the classroom or around the world for just simple viewing, this sort of cutting edge technology is really leading the way. And this is what the museum of the future looks like.”

－ Matthew Simpson, Collections Officer of The Amelia

The integration of 3D scanning technologies, such as EinScan Libre and EinScan Pro HD, represents a significant leap forward in the preservation and digital documentation of cultural heritage. The Amelia museum’s use of these tools not only helps preserve artifacts for future generations but also fosters global access to cultural treasures.

If you want to learn more about how 3D scanning can transform cultural preservation, contact us today to discuss how we can support your preservation efforts.