Published: August 1, 2025
The University of West Bohemia’s Regional Technological Institute (RTI) is using advanced scanning and 3D printing techniques to create precise replicas of medieval artifacts, making them accessible for hands-on interaction at castles and museums. Their latest project involves reproducing a 13th-century ceramic jug, originally discovered in the 1960s at a fortified settlement near Tlestky and notable for containing nearly 400 glass rings. The original is housed in the T. G. Masaryk Museum in Rakovník.
“First, we place positioning markers on the object to help the laser scanner navigate the space,” explained Václav Blábol, a third-year undergraduate student working under RTI researchers. “Then I scan the object from all angles to create a digital 3D model on the computer. The scanning process takes only about 10 minutes.” This reverse engineering approach allows the team to convert the scan into a physical replica in their virtual prototyping lab.
The replicas are made from plastic filled with glass fibers, printed in batches over about 16 hours, and then cleaned, coated, and patinated to closely match the original’s look and weight. “With one key difference—no one will mind if visitors pick it up,” said archaeologist Kateřina Blažková from the T. G. Masaryk Museum. These tactile items are also valuable for exhibitions catering to people with visual impairments.
Since 2020, RTI has reproduced numerous archaeological finds, such as an iron spearhead and a miniature firearm barrel, now displayed at Křivoklát Castle and regional museums. “We also present these replicas at events like Science and Technology Days or Researchers’ Night at the University of West Bohemia,” added Josef Hložek from the Faculty of Arts’ Department of Archaeology.
The reverse engineering expertise at RTI extends beyond archaeology. “Companies come to us when they lack technical drawings for parts—whether it’s a car component or a turbine blade,” said Jan Kutlwašer from the RTI metrology lab.
Source: University of West Bohemia
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