Test and comparison of different digitalization techniques for objects with surfaces difficult to scan

This article presents the results of research conducted as part of the project titled "Improvement of access to culture and activation of disabled and socially excluded persons" Gospostrateg-VI/0022/2021 co-financed by the National Centre for Research and Development. The aim of the research was to compare three widely used digitalization technologies: photogrammetry, structured light 3D scanning, and computer tomography. The comparison was conducted in terms of the quality and accuracy of reproducing the geometry of scanned objects, the complexity of the measurement process, its duration, and costs. One of the research assumptions was that during scanning, no interference with the surface of the scanned object was allowed (e.g., using matting sprays or applied markers), which simulated conditions such as scanning museum exhibits. The selected objects for the research had various challenging characteristics for scanning, such as highly glossy, matte, porous, or blurry surfaces, and were made of different materials such as metal, wood, or plastics. The article briefly discusses the operation of each tested technology, the methods and steps taken to obtain the final 3D models, and presents their comparison. The research showed that highly glossy surfaces posed the greatest challenge for photogrammetry and structured light scanning, while high density and thickness of the object negatively affected the quality of results obtained using computer tomography. The most accurate reproduction of geometry was provided by the most expensive computer tomography, while the least accurate was the cheapest technology, photogrammetry. Both methods require lot of time, knowledge and skills from the operator to achieve best results . Often, the structured light scanner proved to be the best solution, combining simple and fast operation with very satisfactory results in terms of accuracy and detail in reproducing the real object.

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Opracowanie rekordu ze środków MNiSW, umowa nr POPUL/SP/0154/2024/02 w ramach programu "Społeczna odpowiedzialność nauki II" - moduł: Popularyzacja nauki (2025).