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Preserving Ancient Inscription Stones of Bangalore: Where Technology meets Heritage!

Manivannan Selvaraj
Technical Specialist

The “Inscription Stones of Bangalore” are a series of ancient engraved tablets distributed throughout the city. These inscriptions hold historical and cultural importance, shedding light on rulers, grants, and cultural practices. They help scholars understand Bangalore’s past and its socio-political development.Many of these inscription stones in Bengaluru date back several centuries (as early as 750CE) and are currently located in derelict conditions, amidst communities that are unaware of their existence or relevance.

Inscription stones of Bangalore is a civic activism project aimed at raising awareness and protecting ancient inscription stones found in the Bengaluru region. The project has been using technology (social media, mapping, 3D scanning, 3D printing, OCR) to protect & preserve the dwindling inscription stones.

High resolution 3D models of inscription stones have been generated. Apart from enhanced readability of the inscription, the scans allow a myriad of possibilities for preservation.

The stone was first scanned using Artec Eva scanner by Altem Technologies through their team expertized in 3D Scanning services in Bangalore. Subsequently, Artec Space Spider 3D Scanning machine was also used to scan the inscription part since it demanded high resolution for capturing the shallow inscription. The scans obtained from both 3D Scanning machine  were merged and post processed using photogrammetry software.

‘Inscription Stones of Bangalore’ is a civic activism project to raise awareness and protect ancient inscription stones (shila shaasanas) found in the Bengaluru region. Inscription stones across Bengaluru have been located, mapped and documented by photos through extensive exploration & visits. However, the larger goal is to document the remaining inscription stones in Bengaluru by 3D scanning process . Several films and documentaries are being produced to raise awareness among the youth and to educate them about our rich cultural heritage.

YKC Wadiyar – The Maharaja of Mysore, recently said “We are obligated to preserve our heritage”. He also mentioned that modern technologies such as 3D scanning technology & 3D printing technology were used to create highly accurate replicas of these inscription stones and urged citizens to extend their support to the project”

Artec Space Spider 3D scanning machine and Stratasys 3D printer, based on PolyJet technology, served as the best 3d printer scanner combo in creating a scaled-down replica of the oldest written Kannada inscription in Bangalore, dating back to the Ganga period (750 AD). The original inscription stone, discovered in the Hebbal area of Bangalore, was relocated and preserved.

Publication Date : November, 2018

About Altem Technologies Pvt. Ltd

Altem Technologies is a well-established 3D digital experience company that has been actively contributing to the industry for nearly 15 years. Initially rooted in PLM software and 3D Printing, Altem has successfully transformed into a prominent provider of comprehensive 3D digital solutions. Altem’s 3D Innovation platform offers an extensive array of products catering to various applications, including design, reverse engineering process, asset digitization, prototype manufacturing, life science, healthcare, culture and heritage, and consultancy services, among others.

With a diverse clientele spanning automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, healthcare, research academia, and more, Altem adeptly addresses the unique requirements of each industry through a combination of expertise and innovation. Our team comprises skilled professionals, including Scientists, Application Engineers, Designers, domain experts, and software specialists, all working collectively to deliver exceptional solutions to our valued customers.

Altem Technologies Pvt Ltd, besides being a major provider of 3D Scanning services in India, is also a leading provider of 3D Printing Services in India with 3D Printing technologies like FDM, Polyjet, DLP, Metal, etc. Altem offers a complete solution around 3D Digitization and Innovation, and has emerged as a one-stop-shop for all 3D Printing, 3D Scanning, CAE, PLM, and Life Sciences needs, offering a wide spectrum of products for engineering and life sciences companies in India.

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