Helping Teachers and Students to Obtain The Optimal Capture Results

While we have not been actively creating daily posts about capturing historic objects to create virtual museums, it does not mean that we have not been VERY active in moving this concept forward.  Behind the scene we have been and are laying the groundwork to be the most helpful we can be to teachers and educators that would like to do exactly what John Zingale has done at iTech and we have done at YouthQuest Foiundation.

There is no one-size-fits-all magic bullet when it comes to capturing objects in 3D.  Some things capture well using a handheld 3D scanner.  But, others do not.  They are captured best using photogrammetry.  Therefore, teachers and students might find that they need more than one tool to accomplish the task.

And, coming up with the best possible results does not always rely on the scanning device or the photogrammetry device being used.  The type of platform or the color of the platform on which an item is placed might make quite a difference in the outcome.  How we handle lighting is also an important factor.

And, finally, the tools we apply to the original scan to come up with a completely finished virtual object can make a tremendous difference in the final outcome.

It all sounds so complicated.  But, it is not.

Knowing a few simple tricks that apply to the combination of each individual capture device, shooting platform and lighting requirements can help immensely.  And we have been devoting a lot of time, energy and thought about how to present those tricks in an organized and helpful way.

THE STRATEGY: DYNAMIC ONLINE COURSEWARE

By "Dynamic" I mean a low cost, lifetime, online course (Under $20) that is expanded, at no additional cost to a subscriber, as developments warrant and the means and capabilities of our being able of doing so are available.

A lesson will be created for each capture device or application along with tools that enhance that device's capabilities in positive ways.  These lessons will NOT be reviews.  Whatever the capabilities or limitations of any given device might be, we will address how to capitalize on the capabilities and, as much as possible, overcome the limitations.  We do this because we know teachers aren't always in control of the buying process.  They are simply provided with the device and must make do with what is at hand.

When it comes to creating 3D capture opportunities for deeper student engagement with history, any capture technique or device is way more useful than no technique or device.   The key is to get the most out of whatever tools we have.

INITIAL LESSONS

The initial lessons will follow two tracks, 3D scanners that have been on the market for a while and no-cost or low-cost photogrammetry applications for smart phones and computers.  The 3D scanners to be presented will include standalone devices like the Matter and Form scanner.

Matter and Form Scanner

And, well-known hand-held scanners like the Sense1, Sense2 and xyzPrinting scanner along with their RealSense counterparts.

Sense1 or Sense2 Handheld scanner

xyzPrinting 3D Scanner

With each of these devices we will also cover additional tools, like 3D printed parts that allow better mounting or operation,  And we will include various scanning platforms and lighting devices or techniques that enhance their capabilities.  These might include both manual and programmable turntables.  Anything that we find provides the best result.

HAVING REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS

None of the scanners and/or photogrammetry tools will ever deliver results comparable to $35,000 scanning devices.  But, they don't cost $35,000 either!  Nothing will discourage you or your students more than having unrealistic expectations for any of these devices and applications.  The xyzPrinting scanner has limited resolution; but, it is also one of the easiest to use for a complete beginner.  This make it very useful for learning the skills required for using ANY 3D scanning device. 

The Matter and Form scanner has limitations as to the size of object it can scan.  But, it is a WONDERFUL device for creating virtual museum objects that fit into its scanning parameters.  The ability it provides to quickly and easily combine multiple scans into a single result is pretty amazing.

Our focus is on moving forward and getting better with whatever device you happen to be able to obtain.  It is the process of evaluating, researching, planning and capturing that provides a rich learning experience no matter what the tool.