Assessment of Apple’s object capture photogrammetry API for rapidly creating research quality cultural heritage 3D models

Abstract

Photogrammetry is a significant tool museums utilize to produce high-quality 3D models for research and exhibit content. As advancements in computer hardware and software continue, it is crucial to assess the effectiveness of photogrammetry software in producing research-quality 3D models. This study evaluates the efficacy of Apple’s Object Capture photogrammetry API to create high-quality 3D models. The results indicate that Object Capture is a viable option to create research-quality models efficiently for a variety of natural and cultural heritage objects. Object Capture is notable for its minimal need for masking backgrounds within images and its ability to create models with fewer than 100 images and process 3D models in under 10 minutes.