UK Digital Heritage Centre (DHC)
Lead Research Organisation:
University of Liverpool
Department Name: Inst of Digital Eng & Autonomous Systems
Abstract
The University of Liverpool's Virtual Engineering Centre (VEC) has been working since 2010 to bridge the innovation gap between academic research and new product and process development using virtual reality (VR) and digital twins. Our experienced team works closely with our commercial and heritage partners to deliver impact to the Liverpool City Region and beyond.
As the VEC was one of the first VR facilities set up in the UK, our team is one of the most experienced and skilled in the UK at making use of VR, digital twins, laser scanning, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV's) and photogrammetry to create lifelike and engaging virtual experiences and exhibits. Our multi-disciplinary team includes visualisation professionals, developers and human factor experts.
VEC has a strong focus on collaboration, meaning that we have worked closely with partners across academia, heritage organisations and industry. Our past work means that we are already a trusted partner for many local heritage organisations, and we also have case studies that enable us to showcase our expertise when discussing projects with potential new clients. This has enabled us to develop a local collaboration network across northwest that includes heritage sites, museums and galleries.
We recently completed a project with St. George's Hall to create a lifelike digital copy of the Minton tiled floor, containing over 30,000 hand-crafted individual tiles. Using our scanning technology, we were able to 3D-scan the floor without causing damage to the tiles, capturing the details to a 1mm scale. This model can then be viewed by visitors to St. George's Hall to see a realistic view of the tiles without needing to remove the wooden cover used to protect them.
Recently in collaboration with our partners the VEC led the UK Digital Heritage Symposium 2022 to enable knowledge sharing of our and partners work in Digital Heritage. The event included presentations, demonstrations and panel discussions as well as an SME showcase for companies working in Digital Heritage.
The VEC's digital transformation team will develop a digital heritage ecosystem that will make the UK a world leader in digital heritage. As part of this programme of work, the VEC team will contribute towards the development of a Digital Heritage Strategy for the Liverpool City Region. This strategy will focus on heritage preservation, the promotion of its value, lessons to new generations and the progression of history as a driver for inclusion, education and enterprise. Given our expertise and existing projects that we are undertaking in the Liverpool City Region, the VEC team is uniquely positioned to form the hub for a UK Digital Heritage Centre in the Northwest.
Whilst our existing technology still enables us to work with our partners, in this fast-moving area of technology, some of our equipment is no longer leading edge and has no capability to support this activity. This has the potential to limit our ability to continue to expand upon the work we have already carried out with our local heritage partners.
By supporting these upgrades to our technology, AHRC would be equipping the VEC to deliver impactful projects for many years and enabling us to support the digital preservation of the region's priceless heritage assets and work with our heritage partners to:
1) Contribute to the creation of a more sustainable, inclusive and innovative UK heritage ecosystem
2) Showcase Liverpool's and Northwest heritage to wider networks (e.g., students, local business, industry leaders, heritage stakeholders)
3) Support collaborative projects to improve heritage economy, preservation and engagement
4) Create impactful digital twins and immersive VR exhibits
We are bidding for £912,976.00 Inc VAT under Strand 1 to upgrade our facilities and create a Northwest Digital Heritage Centre in Liverpool.
As the VEC was one of the first VR facilities set up in the UK, our team is one of the most experienced and skilled in the UK at making use of VR, digital twins, laser scanning, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV's) and photogrammetry to create lifelike and engaging virtual experiences and exhibits. Our multi-disciplinary team includes visualisation professionals, developers and human factor experts.
VEC has a strong focus on collaboration, meaning that we have worked closely with partners across academia, heritage organisations and industry. Our past work means that we are already a trusted partner for many local heritage organisations, and we also have case studies that enable us to showcase our expertise when discussing projects with potential new clients. This has enabled us to develop a local collaboration network across northwest that includes heritage sites, museums and galleries.
We recently completed a project with St. George's Hall to create a lifelike digital copy of the Minton tiled floor, containing over 30,000 hand-crafted individual tiles. Using our scanning technology, we were able to 3D-scan the floor without causing damage to the tiles, capturing the details to a 1mm scale. This model can then be viewed by visitors to St. George's Hall to see a realistic view of the tiles without needing to remove the wooden cover used to protect them.
Recently in collaboration with our partners the VEC led the UK Digital Heritage Symposium 2022 to enable knowledge sharing of our and partners work in Digital Heritage. The event included presentations, demonstrations and panel discussions as well as an SME showcase for companies working in Digital Heritage.
The VEC's digital transformation team will develop a digital heritage ecosystem that will make the UK a world leader in digital heritage. As part of this programme of work, the VEC team will contribute towards the development of a Digital Heritage Strategy for the Liverpool City Region. This strategy will focus on heritage preservation, the promotion of its value, lessons to new generations and the progression of history as a driver for inclusion, education and enterprise. Given our expertise and existing projects that we are undertaking in the Liverpool City Region, the VEC team is uniquely positioned to form the hub for a UK Digital Heritage Centre in the Northwest.
Whilst our existing technology still enables us to work with our partners, in this fast-moving area of technology, some of our equipment is no longer leading edge and has no capability to support this activity. This has the potential to limit our ability to continue to expand upon the work we have already carried out with our local heritage partners.
By supporting these upgrades to our technology, AHRC would be equipping the VEC to deliver impactful projects for many years and enabling us to support the digital preservation of the region's priceless heritage assets and work with our heritage partners to:
1) Contribute to the creation of a more sustainable, inclusive and innovative UK heritage ecosystem
2) Showcase Liverpool's and Northwest heritage to wider networks (e.g., students, local business, industry leaders, heritage stakeholders)
3) Support collaborative projects to improve heritage economy, preservation and engagement
4) Create impactful digital twins and immersive VR exhibits
We are bidding for £912,976.00 Inc VAT under Strand 1 to upgrade our facilities and create a Northwest Digital Heritage Centre in Liverpool.
| Description | Research and Research Outputs: The grant has been instrumental in advancing our research efforts. It has opened doors for us to engage in several high-impact bids and projects in collaboration with AHRC, Historic England, Norton Priory, and other esteemed institutions. These collaborations have led to the creation of valuable research outputs, contributing significantly to the field of digital heritage preservation and scholarly endeavors. Skills and Capabilities: The grant has played a pivotal role in extending the skills and capabilities of , Institute of Digital Engineering & Autonomous Systems team. Through dedicated training and skill development programs, we have acquired expertise in a range of essential areas, including scanning, photogrammetry, drone piloting, pixel streaming, and even the emerging field of NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens). These expanded capabilities empower us to undertake complex and innovative digital heritage projects effectively. Collaboration and Partnerships: The grant has fostered a culture of collaboration and partnerships. Internally, we have forged valuable collaborations within the University of Liverpool, working closely with academic departments such as the School of Architecture and the School of Arts. Externally, our network of partners extends to renowned heritage organizations like Historic England and Norton Priory, as well as leading universities including the University of Glasgow, Glasgow School of Arts, Queens University Belfast, Bangor University, Portsmouth, and more. These partnerships facilitate knowledge exchange, joint projects, and interdisciplinary research. Innovation and the Economy: Our grant activities have been at the forefront of driving innovation in the digital heritage sector. By harnessing innovative digital technologies and methodologies, we have introduced groundbreaking approaches to heritage preservation, education, and engagement. These innovations hold the potential to make a significant economic impact by enhancing heritage tourism, attracting investment, and supporting related industries. Societal and the Environment: The societal and environmental impact of the grant activities is profound. By leveraging digital technology in heritage preservation, we ensure that cultural and historical treasures are accessible to diverse audiences, fostering a deeper understanding of our shared heritage. This inclusivity promotes cultural diversity and enriches society's fabric. Additionally, our digital approaches are environmentally friendly, reducing the need for resource-intensive physical conservation efforts, which aligns with sustainability goals. |
| Exploitation Route | The outcomes of this funding hold immense potential for further utilisation by various stakeholders. Given that digital and heritage are priority areas, the insights and technologies developed through this funding can be leveraged in several ways. Firstly, the facility established with this funding will be seamlessly integrated into the formation of a Heritage Institute at the University of Liverpool, serving as a cornerstone for ongoing research and innovation in the field. Additionally, the outcomes can be disseminated widely through academic publications, conferences, and workshops, enabling others in the research community to build upon our findings. Furthermore, we plan to actively seek additional funding opportunities to expand our initiatives and collaborate with more organisations in the UK and worldwide, thereby extending the reach and impact of our work. Ultimately, by sharing our outcomes and fostering collaborative partnerships, we aim to catalyse advancements in digital heritage preservation and promote interdisciplinary research in this critical domain |
| Sectors | Communities and Social Services/Policy Digital/Communication/Information Technologies (including Software) Education Leisure Activities including Sports Recreation and Tourism Culture Heritage Museums and Collections |
| URL | https://www.virtualengineeringcentre.com/news-views/2023/preserving-heritage-a-key-to-understanding-our-identity-and-generating-economic-benefits/ |
| Description | Our findings have been instrumental in various applications, contributing to cultural events and heritage preservation efforts. Notably, our technology played a key role during Black History Month in Liverpool, where we recreated a digital version of Mary Seacole, an iconic figure in British history. This immersive digital representation allowed audiences to engage with Mary Seacole's story in a dynamic and interactive manner, fostering greater understanding and appreciation of her contributions by local schools students. Additionally, our scanning technology has been employed in collaboration with English Heritage to digitally preserve Furness Abbey, a significant historical site. By capturing detailed scans of the abbey's architecture and surroundings, we have helped ensure the long-term conservation and accessibility of this heritage landmark for future generations to explore and learn from. |
| First Year Of Impact | 2023 |
| Sector | Education,Environment,Leisure Activities, including Sports, Recreation and Tourism |
| Impact Types | Cultural Economic Policy & public services |
| Description | Digital Heritage Strategy in Liverpool City Region |
| Geographic Reach | Local/Municipal/Regional |
| Policy Influence Type | Participation in a guidance/advisory committee |
| Impact | Policy Changes are still in development, but we are looking at funding and application to preservation of two historic building in the Liverpool City: The Wellington Rooms and The Everton Library |
| Title | Streaming Digital Assets using gaming engines |
| Description | The methods for streaming digital assets using gaming engines involve leveraging advanced technology to deliver immersive digital experiences across various devices, including headsets, tablets, and screens. This approach utilises gaming engines, such as Unreal Engine or Unity, which are powerful software platforms commonly used for creating interactive 3D content in video games and virtual environments. To stream digital assets effectively, sophisticated rendering techniques are employed to optimize performance and visual fidelity across different devices and display resolutions. This includes employing real-time rendering algorithms, texture streaming, and dynamic level of detail (LOD) systems to ensure smooth playback and high-quality visuals. Furthermore, the streaming process may involve cloud-based solutions or content delivery networks (CDNs) to efficiently transmit large amounts of data to end-users. By leveraging cloud computing resources, digital assets can be dynamically loaded and rendered on-demand, minimizing latency and bandwidth requirements. Moreover, adaptive streaming techniques may be implemented to adjust the streaming quality based on the capabilities of the user's device and network connection. This ensures an optimal viewing experience regardless of the device being used, whether it's a VR headset, tablet, or traditional screen. Overall, streaming digital assets using gaming engines enables seamless access to immersive content on a wide range of devices, empowering users to explore virtual environments, interact with digital objects, and engage with rich multimedia experiences. |
| Type Of Material | Improvements to research infrastructure |
| Year Produced | 2024 |
| Provided To Others? | No |
| Impact | The notable impacts of our project encompass a range of significant outcomes that have positively influenced both students and heritage professionals alike. One key impact is the increased accessibility afforded by our initiatives. By digitising heritage assets and making them available through online platforms, we have facilitated access to valuable historical and cultural resources for students, researchers, and the general public. This accessibility transcends geographical boundaries, allowing individuals from diverse backgrounds to explore and learn about heritage sites and artifacts remotely. Moreover, our efforts have contributed to increased scalability in the preservation and dissemination of heritage resources. Through the implementation of innovative technologies and digital workflows, we have developed scalable solutions for capturing, storing, and sharing digital replicas of heritage assets. This scalability enables us to extend the reach of heritage preservation efforts, accommodating a larger volume of data and accommodating a broader audience. Additionally, our project has fostered greater public engagement with heritage resources. By leveraging interactive digital platforms, such as virtual reality experiences and online exhibitions, we have created immersive and engaging opportunities for individuals to interact with heritage content. These interactive experiences not only enhance learning and appreciation but also encourage active participation and dialogue surrounding cultural heritage. |
| Title | Mary Seacole Digital Avatar |
| Description | The integration of a digital model of Mary Seacole with a large language model represents a groundbreaking advancement in the realm of historical education and interactive experiences. By combining state-of-the-art technologies, we have created a platform that enables human-like interaction with this historic figure, fostering immersive and engaging encounters for users. Through the utilisation of natural language processing and artificial intelligence, users can engage in conversations with the digital model of Mary Seacole, posing questions, seeking information, and engaging in dialogue as if interacting with the historical figure herself. This interactive experience transcends traditional modes of learning, allowing individuals to gain insights into Mary Seacole's life, contributions, and experiences in a dynamic and personalised manner. Furthermore, the integration of a large language model enhances the depth and richness of interactions, enabling the digital model of Mary Seacole to respond intelligently to a wide range of inquiries and topics. Users can delve into various aspects of Mary Seacole's life and legacy, exploring historical contexts, personal anecdotes, and cultural significance with unprecedented depth and detail. |
| Type Of Material | Computer model/algorithm |
| Year Produced | 2023 |
| Provided To Others? | Yes |
| Impact | Being used by over 100 pupils from local schools and heritage professionals. |
| URL | https://www.virtualengineeringcentre.com/projects/talking-through-time-how-ai-can-be-a-medium-for-co... |
| Title | Meta Model of Furness Abbey |
| Description | The ground and aerial scanning of Furness Abbey represents a significant endeavor in the field of medieval architectural research and digital preservation. By employing advanced scanning technologies, both on the ground and from the air, we have been able to capture comprehensive data sets that offer unparalleled insights into the architectural intricacies and historical significance of this iconic landmark. Through ground scanning, we have meticulously documented the physical attributes of Furness Abbey, capturing detailed measurements, intricate carvings, and structural nuances with precision and accuracy. This data serves as a foundational resource for architectural research, allowing scholars to analyze the abbey's construction techniques, design evolution, and artistic elements in unprecedented detail. Additionally, aerial scanning has provided a holistic perspective of Furness Abbey's layout and surrounding landscape, offering valuable insights into its spatial organisation, historical context, and environmental interactions. By capturing high-resolution aerial imagery and generating detailed topographic maps, we have created a comprehensive digital model of the abbey and its surroundings, facilitating in-depth analyses of its architectural setting and evolution over time |
| Type Of Material | Computer model/algorithm |
| Year Produced | 2023 |
| Provided To Others? | Yes |
| Impact | The project has provided researchers at the university with invaluable resources and opportunities to delve into the intricacies of medieval architecture, particularly through the study of Furness Abbey. By leveraging the data captured through ground and aerial scanning, researchers have been able to embark on a journey of discovery, unraveling the mysteries of medieval construction techniques, architectural symbolism, and historical context embedded within Furness Abbey's walls. |
| URL | https://my.matterport.com/show/?m=vDaSrcawaBW |
| Description | Bradford is UK City of Culture 2025 |
| Organisation | Bradford Metropolitan District Council |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Public |
| PI Contribution | Our research team at the University of Liverpool (UoL) has made significant contributions to the collaboration with Bradford Council and the University of Bradford. Specifically, UoL has played a key role in supporting the creation of a virtual model of Bradford and providing digital infrastructure for the virtual component of the event. Leveraging our expertise in digital technologies and heritage preservation, we have contributed to the development of an immersive and interactive virtual environment that accurately represents the city of Bradford. Additionally, our team has provided technical support and guidance to ensure the seamless integration of digital assets and virtual experiences into the event platform. Through our collaborative efforts, we aim to enhance the engagement and accessibility of cultural events while preserving and promoting the heritage of Bradford for future generations |
| Collaborator Contribution | The University of Bradford is making significant contributions to the collaboration by sharing their expertise in the heritage field and providing access to specialized scanning equipment, along with the valuable output derived from it. This equipment, including the Leica TRK 700 Evo for vehicle-mounted mobile mapping and the 360-degree 22K camera (Mosaic Viking and X Camera), enables comprehensive data capture of historic sites and cultural assets. The University's expertise in heritage preservation and advanced scanning techniques enhances the accuracy and detail of the digital models created, facilitating the preservation of tangible heritage assets for future generations. In addition, Bradford City Council is playing a crucial role in the collaboration by providing their extensive knowledge and expertise on Bradford's history and heritage. This includes insights into the significance of various heritage sites, cultural landmarks, and historical events that contribute to the rich tapestry of Bradford's heritage. By leveraging their deep understanding of the local heritage landscape, the council helps ensure that the digital representations and educational materials developed as part of the project accurately reflect Bradford's cultural heritage and resonate with the local community. |
| Impact | The collaboration is still in progress |
| Start Year | 2023 |
| Description | Bradford is UK City of Culture 2025 |
| Organisation | University of Bradford |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Our research team at the University of Liverpool (UoL) has made significant contributions to the collaboration with Bradford Council and the University of Bradford. Specifically, UoL has played a key role in supporting the creation of a virtual model of Bradford and providing digital infrastructure for the virtual component of the event. Leveraging our expertise in digital technologies and heritage preservation, we have contributed to the development of an immersive and interactive virtual environment that accurately represents the city of Bradford. Additionally, our team has provided technical support and guidance to ensure the seamless integration of digital assets and virtual experiences into the event platform. Through our collaborative efforts, we aim to enhance the engagement and accessibility of cultural events while preserving and promoting the heritage of Bradford for future generations |
| Collaborator Contribution | The University of Bradford is making significant contributions to the collaboration by sharing their expertise in the heritage field and providing access to specialized scanning equipment, along with the valuable output derived from it. This equipment, including the Leica TRK 700 Evo for vehicle-mounted mobile mapping and the 360-degree 22K camera (Mosaic Viking and X Camera), enables comprehensive data capture of historic sites and cultural assets. The University's expertise in heritage preservation and advanced scanning techniques enhances the accuracy and detail of the digital models created, facilitating the preservation of tangible heritage assets for future generations. In addition, Bradford City Council is playing a crucial role in the collaboration by providing their extensive knowledge and expertise on Bradford's history and heritage. This includes insights into the significance of various heritage sites, cultural landmarks, and historical events that contribute to the rich tapestry of Bradford's heritage. By leveraging their deep understanding of the local heritage landscape, the council helps ensure that the digital representations and educational materials developed as part of the project accurately reflect Bradford's cultural heritage and resonate with the local community. |
| Impact | The collaboration is still in progress |
| Start Year | 2023 |
| Description | DLUHC Digital Planning Programme Funding 2023 |
| Organisation | Bradford Metropolitan District Council |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Public |
| PI Contribution | The main objectives are (1) to demonstrate and evaluate rapid and scalable digital capture techniques and workflows for LAs to create accessible and engaging 3D immersive visualisation and (2) through evaluation demonstrate how the use of visualisation tools influence transparency, certainty, collaboration and trust between communities and stakeholders. This project will include, but not exclusively, existing ESRI and Autodesk technology, augmented/virtual reality, 3D printing of the model, and immersive group spaces which blend digital and traditional methods of consultation. The outcome is to demonstrate a scalable blueprint for embedding digital tools and knowledge within LAs to create immersive visualisations and evidence the benefits and drawbacks in community engagement. Bradford Council and University of Bradford supported by University of Liverpool and University of Leeds are well positioned having worked in partnership to build 'Virtual Bradford' a high-resolution open digital twin of Bradford city centre. The partnership has existing shared learning and capabilities in rapid capture workflows and visualisation and recent investment in vehicle mounted mobile mapping (Leica TRK 700 Evo) and 360o 22K Camera (Mosaic Viking and X Camera), UAV capabilities including fully integrated LiDRA Drone (Leica BLK2FLY), ground-based handheld scanners, alongside access to immersive spaces ranging up to a 7-metre multi-projection cylinder (Igloo). This project also benefits through collaboration with Leeds City council, on a similar scale regeneration proposal(s) to demonstrate replicability which can be applied in other LAs. |
| Collaborator Contribution | The University of Bradford offers access to vehicle-mounted mobile mapping equipment, including the Leica TRK 700 Evo, and a 360-degree 22K camera such as the Mosaic Viking and X Camera. Additionally, they provide UAV capabilities, including a fully integrated LiDAR drone like the Leica BLK2FLY, along with valuable data generated from these technologies. Bradford Council contributes expertise and access to city assets, enhancing the project's scope and applicability within urban environments. The University of Leeds brings expertise in transport modeling and simulation, enriching the project's analytical capabilities and ensuring a comprehensive approach to data interpretation and utilisation. |
| Impact | The work is in progress at the moment as part of PropTech4 |
| Start Year | 2023 |
| Description | DLUHC Digital Planning Programme Funding 2023 |
| Organisation | University of Bradford |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | The main objectives are (1) to demonstrate and evaluate rapid and scalable digital capture techniques and workflows for LAs to create accessible and engaging 3D immersive visualisation and (2) through evaluation demonstrate how the use of visualisation tools influence transparency, certainty, collaboration and trust between communities and stakeholders. This project will include, but not exclusively, existing ESRI and Autodesk technology, augmented/virtual reality, 3D printing of the model, and immersive group spaces which blend digital and traditional methods of consultation. The outcome is to demonstrate a scalable blueprint for embedding digital tools and knowledge within LAs to create immersive visualisations and evidence the benefits and drawbacks in community engagement. Bradford Council and University of Bradford supported by University of Liverpool and University of Leeds are well positioned having worked in partnership to build 'Virtual Bradford' a high-resolution open digital twin of Bradford city centre. The partnership has existing shared learning and capabilities in rapid capture workflows and visualisation and recent investment in vehicle mounted mobile mapping (Leica TRK 700 Evo) and 360o 22K Camera (Mosaic Viking and X Camera), UAV capabilities including fully integrated LiDRA Drone (Leica BLK2FLY), ground-based handheld scanners, alongside access to immersive spaces ranging up to a 7-metre multi-projection cylinder (Igloo). This project also benefits through collaboration with Leeds City council, on a similar scale regeneration proposal(s) to demonstrate replicability which can be applied in other LAs. |
| Collaborator Contribution | The University of Bradford offers access to vehicle-mounted mobile mapping equipment, including the Leica TRK 700 Evo, and a 360-degree 22K camera such as the Mosaic Viking and X Camera. Additionally, they provide UAV capabilities, including a fully integrated LiDAR drone like the Leica BLK2FLY, along with valuable data generated from these technologies. Bradford Council contributes expertise and access to city assets, enhancing the project's scope and applicability within urban environments. The University of Leeds brings expertise in transport modeling and simulation, enriching the project's analytical capabilities and ensuring a comprehensive approach to data interpretation and utilisation. |
| Impact | The work is in progress at the moment as part of PropTech4 |
| Start Year | 2023 |
| Description | DLUHC Digital Planning Programme Funding 2023 |
| Organisation | University of Leeds |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | The main objectives are (1) to demonstrate and evaluate rapid and scalable digital capture techniques and workflows for LAs to create accessible and engaging 3D immersive visualisation and (2) through evaluation demonstrate how the use of visualisation tools influence transparency, certainty, collaboration and trust between communities and stakeholders. This project will include, but not exclusively, existing ESRI and Autodesk technology, augmented/virtual reality, 3D printing of the model, and immersive group spaces which blend digital and traditional methods of consultation. The outcome is to demonstrate a scalable blueprint for embedding digital tools and knowledge within LAs to create immersive visualisations and evidence the benefits and drawbacks in community engagement. Bradford Council and University of Bradford supported by University of Liverpool and University of Leeds are well positioned having worked in partnership to build 'Virtual Bradford' a high-resolution open digital twin of Bradford city centre. The partnership has existing shared learning and capabilities in rapid capture workflows and visualisation and recent investment in vehicle mounted mobile mapping (Leica TRK 700 Evo) and 360o 22K Camera (Mosaic Viking and X Camera), UAV capabilities including fully integrated LiDRA Drone (Leica BLK2FLY), ground-based handheld scanners, alongside access to immersive spaces ranging up to a 7-metre multi-projection cylinder (Igloo). This project also benefits through collaboration with Leeds City council, on a similar scale regeneration proposal(s) to demonstrate replicability which can be applied in other LAs. |
| Collaborator Contribution | The University of Bradford offers access to vehicle-mounted mobile mapping equipment, including the Leica TRK 700 Evo, and a 360-degree 22K camera such as the Mosaic Viking and X Camera. Additionally, they provide UAV capabilities, including a fully integrated LiDAR drone like the Leica BLK2FLY, along with valuable data generated from these technologies. Bradford Council contributes expertise and access to city assets, enhancing the project's scope and applicability within urban environments. The University of Leeds brings expertise in transport modeling and simulation, enriching the project's analytical capabilities and ensuring a comprehensive approach to data interpretation and utilisation. |
| Impact | The work is in progress at the moment as part of PropTech4 |
| Start Year | 2023 |
| Description | Strategic Partnership with Liverpool City Council |
| Organisation | Liverpool City Council |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Public |
| PI Contribution | Our research team has made significant contributions to our collaboration with Liverpool City Council. We have provided expertise in digital heritage preservation and data management, which aligns with the council's objectives for heritage preservation policy. Additionally, we have actively engaged with the council in identifying tangible assets that can be utilised for our research purposes. We are collaborating with City Council in evaluating economic and cultural impact of the Eurovision 2023. |
| Collaborator Contribution | City Council providing access to their intangible assets and consulting with University of Liverpool. Furthermore, Liverpool City Council has played a crucial role in leveraging funding opportunities by collaborating with the UoL on funding calls and grant applications, ensuring the sustainability and success of our joint initiatives. |
| Impact | 1. Conversational Avatars for Education and Cultural Events: Through the research, we have developed and implemented conversational avatars tailored for educational purposes and cultural events. These avatars serve as virtual guides, engaging with audiences in real-time conversations, answering questions, and providing valuable insights into various cultural topics and historical events. By leveraging conversational AI technology, we have enhanced the educational experience, making it more interactive, immersive, and accessible to diverse audiences. 2. Heritage Preservation of Tangible Assets Using Laser Scanning and Digitising Workflow: Our research has focused on advancing heritage preservation efforts through the use of cutting-edge laser scanning and digitizing workflows. By employing state-of-the-art scanning technologies, we have captured highly detailed 3D models of tangible heritage assets such as artifacts, buildings, and archaeological sites. These digital replicas serve as invaluable records, documenting cultural heritage with unprecedented accuracy and fidelity. Through meticulous digitisation, we ensure the long-term preservation and accessibility of these assets for future generations to study, appreciate, and learn from. 3. Inputs to the Digital Heritage Strategy for Liverpool City: As part of our research, we have actively contributed insights and recommendations to inform the development of the Digital Heritage Strategy for Liverpool City. By collaborating with key stakeholders, including local government authorities, heritage organisations, and community groups, we have provided valuable input on leveraging digital technologies to promote and preserve Liverpool's rich cultural heritage. Our contributions aim to shape a comprehensive strategy that addresses key challenges and opportunities in heritage conservation, digital innovation, and public engagement, ultimately fostering a more vibrant and inclusive cultural landscape in the city. |
| Start Year | 2023 |
| Description | Black History Month 2023 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
| Results and Impact | Over 100 pupils from various local schools were given the unique opportunity to attend an educational event that featured an innovative Digital Mary Seacole avatar. This cutting-edge digital representation of Mary Seacole, a pioneering nurse and businesswoman of the 19th century, was designed to make history come alive through interactive storytelling and augmented reality experiences. The pupils actively engaged with the avatar, asking questions and receiving insights into Seacole's significant contributions to nursing and her remarkable life story. Following the interactive session with the students, a private event was organised, targeting heritage professionals from around the region. This exclusive gathering served as a platform for experts in historical preservation, museum curators, and educators to delve into discussions about the integration of technology in heritage education and preservation. It fostered an environment of collaboration, where participants shared innovative ideas, best practices, and potential challenges in making history accessible to a digital-savvy generation. The event proved to be a fruitful avenue for exchange, with professionals exploring various topics such as the ethical considerations of digital representations, the role of augmented and virtual reality in museums, and strategies for engaging younger audiences with historical content. Moreover, the discussions highlighted the importance of ensuring cultural sensitivity and accuracy in digital portrayals, and the potential of such technologies to enhance visitor experiences and educational outreach. Overall, the event underscored the evolving landscape of heritage education, illustrating the dynamic ways in which technology can be leveraged to enrich historical understanding and appreciation among both young learners and seasoned professionals in the field |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
| URL | https://www.linkedin.com/posts/garymillar_as-one-of-the-trustees-from-st-georges-hall-activity-71243... |
| Description | Capability for Collections in Human Bioarchaeology and Digital Collections |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an open day or visit at my research institution |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
| Results and Impact | School of Archaeology, University of Bradford showcases multi-million pound tech, including robot dog. Heritage projects were showcase. University of Bradford has also invited a lot of equipment vendors, who was demonstrated various applications in the area of Archeology and Heritage. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
| URL | https://www.bradford.ac.uk/news/archive/2023/school-of-archaeology-showcases-multi-million-pound-tec... |