Integration of 3D and multispectral data for cultural heritage applications: Survey and perspectives

Cultural heritage is increasingly put through imaging systems such as multispectral cameras and 3D scanners. Though these acquisition systems are often used independently, they collect complementary information (spectral vs. spatial) used for the study, archiving and visualization of cultural heritage. Recording 3D and multispectral data in a single coordinate system enhances the potential insights in data analysis. We present the state of the art of such acquisition systems and their applications for the study of cultural heritage. We also describe existing registration techniques that can be used to obtain 3D models with multispectral texture and explore the idea of optically tracking acquisition systems to ensure an easy and precise registration. [Display omitted] ► 3D digitization and multispectral imaging of cultural heritage is increasing. ► There are specificities to applying these techniques to heritage objects. ► These techniques are complementary for the analysis of an object. ► If data is provided from different sensors it must be registered. ► Photogrammetry can be used to guide the registration process.