Of all the uses I can imagine for 3D-scanning an object, 3D video mapping might be the coolest. The technology uses 3D models and video projectors to turn any object into a kind of 3D display. It’s spectacular looking–and a great way to make history more dynamic.
For example, see this project by production house Ouchhh.
Ouchhh used 3D video mapping as part of an installation in the Silahtarağa Power Plant in Istanbul. Using abstract visuals and a (pretty great) soundtrack, the installation aims to represent how the plant began its life as a state-of-the-art facility in 1913, slowly fell out of date until its decommissioning in 1983, and then saw a rebirth of sorts as the Santral Energy Museum in the 2000’s.
Even if you don’t think this installation does much to communicate history, you have to admit that this kind of installation—complete with a cool laser show!—will definitely bring more visitors to the museum. And that is half the battle.
For more information about the projection, here’s the full description from the website:
The Silahtarağa Power Plant’s first two engine rooms, built in 1913 and 1921 respectively, were reinforced and converted into the santralistanbul Museum of Energy, retaining as many original elements as possible.
The first step in the power plant’s conversion to Museum of Energy was to halt the corrosion of the turbine generators and other machinery which had set in as a result of disuse since the plant’s decommissioning in 1983. Teams of experts moved in to clean up the machinery and apply a protective anti-corrosion sealant. Thereafter, the number one turbine generator group was restored to its original appearance of 1931. Meanwhile, the number three turbine generator group, which had been dismantled when production stopped at the plant, was preserved exactly as left.
In the Museum of Energy’s number one and two Engine Rooms, visitors currently have the chance to see the AEG, Brown Boveri, Siemens and Thomson Houston made turbine generator groups. These were the key components of electricity generation at the Silahtarağa Power Plant and reflect the advanced technology of the age.
