Somerset Council’s Library Service is bringing history to life by creating a replica of an historic Roman treasure thanks to 3D scanning and printing.
The Ilminster Ring, dating back to 297 AD, has been digitally scanned using a sophisticated 3D hand scanner, funded by British Library. The scanner creates a highly detailed 3D model that enable people to explore this important local artefact in new ways. As a result, it is possible to 3D print an accurate replica version of the ring, enabling people to see, handle and learn from an object that would otherwise need to remain protected.
The original Ring and the replica will be on display at the Ilminster Roman Ring Discovery Day, organised by South West Heritage Trust and Ilminster Arts Centre, on Thursday 20 August.
Councillor Federica Smith-Roberts, Somerset Council’s Lead Member for Communities, said:
The Discovery Day provides a great opportunity for us to showcase how modern technology can support heritage and local history projects.
Visitors will be able to learn about the scanning process behind the Ilminster Gold Ring, see how digital models can be created from physical objects, and discover how 3D printing can be used to reproduce historical artefacts for education and engagement purposes. Staff from Somerset Libraries will also be on hand to showcase a broad range of digital and other services available to anyone.
Somerset Libraries’ 3D printing offer has been available for around 10 years. During that time, libraries across Somerset have helped individuals, community groups, schools and businesses bring ideas to life through 3D design, scanning and printing technologies. The service allows residents to explore emerging technologies, create prototypes, reproduce objects and develop digital skills in an accessible community setting.
Somerset Libraries has been championing accessible 3D printing technology for a decade, demonstrating how libraries continue to combine innovation, learning and community heritage. It’s a fantastic example of how digital technology can help bring local history to life for new audiences, said Cllr Smith-Roberts.
Projects over the past 10 years include:
Creating Bespoke Parts for a Local Mobility Company
Somerset Libraries worked with local businesses to produce prototype and replacement components using 3D printing technology. One recent example involved creating small bespoke parts for an electric mobility company, demonstrating how libraries can support local innovation, product development and problem-solving in a cost-effective way.
Producing Oversized Dice for a Community Project
The library service supported a local project by designing and printing a set of oversized dice for the “Dice Project” initiative. The project showcased how 3D printing can be used to create custom objects that would be difficult or expensive to source commercially, while encouraging creativity and community engagement.
Supporting Learning and Digital Skills
Over the last decade, Somerset Libraries’ 3D printers have been used by schools, community groups, library users and businesses to transform ideas into physical objects. From educational models and prototypes to personalised creations, the technology has helped hundreds of people gain hands-on experience with digital design and manufacturing.
To find out more about 3D printing, visit the Glass Box webpage.
