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Restoring Art in an Instant

Computer Scientists Develop Art Restoration with Light, Leaves Artifact Unchanged

November 1, 2009

Computer scientists developed a virtual restoration technique that visually restores artifacts while leaving them physically unaltered. A digital camera obtains a 3-D model of the object which is then downloaded into a computer program to calculate the position, color and light intensity required to complete the restored appearance. Multiple digital projectors are used to project an illusion onto the object and return ancient artifacts to their original appearances for observers. When the projector is off, the object is returned to its original composition.

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ABOUT ART RESTORATION: Generally, artifacts and art that people want to preserve are governed by principles of conservation and restoration. Usually the museum or person owning an object wants to follow steps that will maintain the object in a condition close to its original state for as long as possible. A restoration specialist attempts to minimize the amount of intervention, use methods and materials that are appropriate and reversible, and fully documents any work done. Efforts may include cleaning and repairs, and preventative care, such as controlling the conditions such as exposure to light, humidity, and temperature.

ANOTHER PROJECTION TRICK: In the 19th century, a number of optical toys were created that also gave the illusion of motion from a rapid succession of still photos. The most well-known is the zoetrope, invented in 1834 by George Horner: A zoetrope is a cylinder with vertical slits cut into the sides. On the inner surface of the cylinder were images from a motion sequence. As the cylinder spins, the user looks through the slits at the images, producing an illusion of motion much like a movie.

The Optical Society of America contributed to the information contained in the TV portion of this report.

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To Go Inside This Science:
Daniel Aliaga, PhD
Assistant Professor
Computer Science
Purdue University
aliaga@cs.purdue.edu

Optical Society of America
Washington, DC 20036-1023
202-223-8130
info@osa.org


© 2011 American Institute of Physics