Real world modelling through high resolution digital 3D imaging of objectsand structures

This gaper summarises the results achieved from a number of laser scanning experiments performed in our laboratories and on remote sites. The potentia l of this technology for imaging applications and as an input to virtualise d reality environments is discussed. Parameters to he considered for this t ype of activity are related to the design of laser scanners with adequate d epth of field, image resolution, shape reproduction fidelity, registered co lour information, robustness to ambient light interference and scanning str ategies. The first case reviewed is an application geared towards improving access to art collections belonging to museums. A number of digital 3D mod els acquired in Italy in 1997-1998 are presented, e.g. marble statue from G . Pisano (circa 1305). The second case aims at digitising large structures. Examples of a large sculpture located outside of the Canadian Museum of Ci vilisation in Hull, Canada and the Orbiter Docking System (ODS) located at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an presented. Crown Copyright (C) 2000 Published by Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.