Museums

Digital models offer a number of opportunities for use in museums.

For museums whose objects have been digitally captured, 3D models provide a 'backup' of the original object, should it be lost or damaged.

More excitingly, 3D models provide new material for interactive and web-based exhibits, linking collections across venues and broadening access.

3D print-outs can be used for object handling in lieu of the actual object, or as a substitution for loans of objects between museums. The use of 3D print-outs for object handling has many applications and can be beneficial for different visitor groups, including families with children, school groups, or the visually-impaired. As 3D printing technology develops, print-outs of digital models will provide a sensory and tactile experience similar to that of the original object.