Abstract:
3D digitization is a key aspect in the preservation and exhibition of museum artifacts. The objective of this paper is to investigate contemporary technologies for creating accurate three dimensional digital models of artifacts from the Maori and Pacific heritage and to establish a generic digitization methodology so that the 3D models can be archived and exhibited both over the Internet and within Museum displays. This process involves procedures for selecting artifacts that are suitable for laser scanning and then setting up the artifact for scanning. This is followed by the actual scanning and post-processing stages. To achieve this, the Polhemus FastSCAN laser scanner has been used to collect raw point cloud surface data from artifacts of various sizes, shapes, textures, colors and materials. The paper explains the generic steps developed for post-processing of raw scan data in the form of a cloud of geometric data points to a completely rendered 3D model with colors mapped on to the model. These generic steps involve removal of background noise, enhancement of texture, filling of holes, merging of separate scans and color mapping. The results from the scanning and post-processing of a wahaika, (a Maori club-like weapon) and a Polynesian stone pounder reveal that it is important to use a scanner that is flexible enough to capture all the surface information irrespective of the artifact,s geometry, and one with the capability of capturing color information with high accuracy.
