Researchers from Ritsumeikan University and the University of Science and Technology Beijing, have developed an advanced edge-highlighting method aimed at enhancing the clarity of visualized 3D scanned objects.Led by Professor Satoshi Tanaka and involving key team members Ms. Yuri Yamada, Dr. Satoshi Takatori, and Prof. Liang Li, the groups innovative approach addresses common visualization issues by separately emphasizing sharp and soft edges in complex point cloud data, overcoming limitations seen in traditional methods. Published in Remote Sensing, these findings promise clearer representations of intricate 3D objects, particularly useful for preserving and studying cultural artifacts.Explaining the researchs broader significance, Prof. Tanaka notes, Our 3D edge extraction approach is not merely an improvement but rather an extended technique that captures areas not covered by traditional methods. For archaeologists and historians, this tool opens new possibilities for specialized visual analysis of cultural heritage objects. For the general public, it offers a deeper understanding of historical cultural sites, serving as a technology for enhancing exhibitions in museums and art galleries.Dual 3D edge extraction for 3D scanned point cloud data of the cave of the Zuigan-ji Buddhism temple in Miyagi Prefecture, Japan. Image via Ritsumeikan University.Advancing cultural heritage visualization through enhanced 3D scansWith the rapid advancements in 3D scanning, especially through photogrammetry and laser scanning, researchers can now produce accurate digital representations of complex objects, including cultural artifacts, as detailed point cloud data. These scans allow for an in-depth analysis of structural details but can present challenges in visualization, as traditional edge-highlighting methods often produce excessive lines that reduce visual clarity.To address these challenges, the team developed a dual-edge highlighting approach. This dual-edge extraction technique uses separate thresholds to distinguish sharp edges from softer, rounded ones.Sharper edges are identified through high-curvature zones, while soft edges, essential in rounded or subtler contours, are represented with a secondary threshold. By applying distinct visualization techniques to each, the team captures a fuller range of details without the clutter or thickness that can occur when soft edges are visualized as wide bands.Opacity color gradation further enhances visualization by introducing a color and transparency gradient within soft edges, creating a halo effect that naturally distinguishes front and background edges. Depth perception is thus markedly improved, allowing intricate internal structures to be observed more clearly.To achieve this efficient rendering, the team used stochastic point-based rendering (SPBR), a technique that enables real-time visualization without the intensive depth sorting typically required in 3D processing.In testing, the technique was applied to high-value cultural heritage sites, including Japans Tamaki Shinto Shrine and Indonesias Borobudur Temple.Compared to traditional edge-highlighting, the dual-edge method provided enhanced visual clarity, accurately representing both exterior and interior structures without increasing computation times. The halo effect and edge-thinning significantly clarified intricate details, proving essential for preserving cultural heritage objects.Interactive rendering speeds ensure the techniques functionality for real-time exploration, supporting applications like see-through visualization. Rather than relying on standard transparency, this method uses edge clarity to bring internal structures into view without losing visual depth, a significant improvement in comprehensibility.Future enhancements will focus on refining threshold-setting processes and expanding color gradation pathways to further detail subtle features.Plans to incorporate machine learning into this technique aim to combine 3D restorations with information from sharp and soft edges, particularly beneficial in digitally reconstructing artifacts recorded in 2D formats.This new visualization approach opens a valuable pathway in 3D scanning applications, offering researchers sharper tools for digital preservation, analysis, and exploration of cultural heritage with unprecedented clarity and depth.Dual 3D edge extraction for 3D scanned point clouds of wall reliefs in the Borobudur Temple, a UNESCO Worlds Cultural Heritage, in Indonesia. Image via Ritsumeikan University.Novel 3D scanning approaches for cultural preservationOver the years, various developments have been reported in the 3D scanning for cultural preservation, highlighting the technologys potential. Back in 2022, Ukrainian activists began using 3D scanning to digitally preserve cultural heritage sites endangered by Russian military actions.Through the Backup Ukraine initiative, around 6,000 volunteers used the Polycam app to capture 3D models of monuments and historical sites, safeguarding them against potential destruction. Launched by co-creator Tao Thomsen in partnership with UNESCO and Blue Shield Denmark, the initiative quickly expanded as volunteers documented war damage across Ukraine. UNESCO reported significant destruction to religious and historical sites, underscoring the urgent need for digital preservation to protect Ukraines cultural legacy.Previously in 2018, In 2018, Google collaborated with CyArk, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving historical sites at risk from conflict or natural disasters, to launch the Open Heritage project on Google Arts & Culture.Through CyArks 3D laser scanning expertise, this project generates highly detailed models of cultural landmarks, accessible via Googles platform. Using advanced techniques like LiDAR and photogrammetry, CyArk achieves millimeter-level precision, supporting future restoration efforts. As Google Arts & Cultures first venture into 3D heritage sites, Open Heritage also provides model data for developers interested in creating immersive and educational experiences around these digital artifacts.Voting is now open for the2024 3D Printing Industry Awards.Want to share insights on key industry trends and the future of 3D printing? Register now to be included in the2025 3D Printing Industry Executive Survey.What 3D printing trends do the industry leaders anticipate this year?What does the Future of 3D printing hold for the next 10 years?To stay up to date with the latest 3D printing news, dont forget to subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter or follow us on Twitter, or like our page on Facebook.While youre here, why not subscribe to our Youtube channel? Featuring discussion, debriefs, video shorts, and webinar replays.Featured image shows dual 3D edge extraction for 3D scanned point cloud data of the cave of the Zuigan-ji Buddhism temple in Miyagi Prefecture, Japan. Image via Ritsumeikan University.Ada ShaikhnagWith a background in journalism, Ada has a keen interest in frontier technology and its application in the wider world. Ada reports on aspects of 3D printing ranging from aerospace and automotive to medical and dental.