Exeter Cathedral - A colour reconstruction for use in augmented reality devices

Abstract

In this paper, we present a digital craft-based approach for 3D colour reconstruction that utilises high-quality texture maps applied to low poly triangulated meshes for augmented reality applications. We present a case study based on a scanned 3D model of the Exeter Cathedral west front which was digitally painted to recreate the colours that had existed on the real building centuries ago. These colours were informed by previous research into remnant colour samples collected from the building stonework. The manual digital painting process based on a reference study of the actual colour samples from the building stonework allowed for a colour representation that is very close to the original colours that existed on the stonework. This project was developed to be used as an augmented reality application case study for the VistaAR project. In order to ensure optimal viewing experience, highly detailed textures were applied to low poly triangulated meshes that could be zoomed into by the viewer without compromising significant details ensuring a good immersive experience for the viewer.