ARIADNEplus Visual Media Service 3D configurator: toward full guided publication of high-resolution 3D data

The use of digital visual media in everyday work is nowadays a common practice in many different domains, including Cultural Heritage (CH). Because of that, the presence of digital datasets in CH archives and repositories is becoming more and more relevant. However, the correct management of these assets, specialized and often complex, it is not always trivial, especially for communities of users lacking specific training. In these cases, systems enabling assisted data management during the different phases of their life cycle, can be a solution. 

The Visual Media Service (VMS) is a web-based platform that enables the easy publication of complex visual media assets, specifically targeting the CH domain. It allows users to upload high-resolution images, RTI (Reflectance Transformation Imaging) images, and 3D models, transforming them into an efficient format for interactive web visualization. The VMS is an end-to-end solution able to support the entire publishing process, from data uploading to presentation customization. To expand its adoption in the CH community, the ARIADNEplus project aimed to enhance its features, providing innovative services for archaeological data publication.

This paper introduces the VMS 3D configurator, a new tool designed to improve the visual organization of 3D archaeological datasets in the VMS. The configurator guides content creators through a multi-step wizard, offering customization options for the presentation of 3D models. The configurator consists of five different configuration stages, each providing specific customization features, such as model orientation, appearance, scene navigation, viewer interface, and annotation of points of interest.

In addition to provide a detailed description of all the configuration possibilities, the paper will also discuss uses, limitations, and potential developments of the 3D configurator, and of the entire platform too, highlighting the value of the VMS as a tool for publishing, exploring, and disseminating CH data.