Evaluating the Effect of Using Mirrors in 3D Reconstruction of Small Artefacts

Small artefacts pose many challenges to 3D documentation techniques due to their often complex details, which are very difficult to capture completely in 3D. Small objects may also have characteristics that are not optimal for 3D documentation, e.g. glossiness, shininess, textureless surfaces, etc. Furthermore, hidden parts of the artefact cause occlusions and obstructions, which may complicate the data acquisition process, since additional images or scan data are necessary in order to compensate for these restrictions. All these aspects increase acquisition and data processing times. Currently, the two main categories of 3D documentation methods are Image Based Modelling (IBM) and Range Based Modelling (RBM). In this paper, preliminary investigations aimed at evaluating the accuracy and performance of a front surface mirror in Image Based Modelling for small artefacts are presented. These results are then compared to a reference model generated from the artefact using a structured light system.