[CNET]
As part of an exhibit at the National Museum of African American History called “Slavery at Jeffersonâs Monticello: Paradox of Liberty,” curators needed a great statue of Thomas Jefferson, but the one they would most like to have had was on permanent display at Monticello in Virginia. Rather than using traditional methods–with rubber molding and casting–a team at the Smithsonian decided to pursue a museum-quality 3D printed replica.
The result? What the Smithsonian says is the “largest 3D printed museum quality historical replica” on Earth. And now, it’s also the showpiece that begins a much larger effort at the world’s biggest museum and research institution: a move to create digital 3D models and physical 3D prints of a wide variety of the objects in its archive.
This could have a profound effect if the effort is successful over time. Visitors to the Smithsonian’s many arms see just 2 percent of its giant collection, and widespread digitization could mean that the archives are opened up–virtually, at least–to people throughout the country and the world. And that could be a boon to both researchers and educators, as well as students everywhere.
Plus, the museum itself is likely to be able to display a growing number of sophisticated 3D printed models and replicas, with Jefferson being just the first example.
See the original story here: http://news.cnet.com/2300-13772_3-10011411.html