Issues of 3D Virtual Collection for Smaller Institutions

Abstract

One of the most significant global trends today is the use of three-dimensional technologies in various segments. 3D models can be created by using special software or by digitizing a real-world object using a 3D scanner. The technologies capable of converting analog objects into digital 3D are also a part of the sphere of memory institutions, where we increasingly come across 3D models of selected historical collections often created under the auspices of specialized workplaces or universities. The process of digitization itself, particularly 3D scanning, can harbour many pitfalls. Creating a virtual museum collection is not an easy task, as there are many ways to present 3D models since each of them can be used in different ways. The objective of the article is to describe the possibilities and the process of creating a 3D virtual collection of smaller historical objects, and its presentation by means of selected online tools or web services designed for the purpose. The article also focuses on the subsequent use of the models in the creation of a virtual web exhibition. Another objective of the article is to outline the basic issues of 3D scanning of selected smaller historical objects.