Archimedes – Multipurpose Scanner for Art Diagnostics
CHSOS developed Archimedes, the multipurpose scanner for Art Diagnostics. By designing it to be modular, low-cost, mobile, and lightweight, CHSOS offers a flexible solution for a wide range of imaging needs.
Archimedes accommodates several diagnostic imaging methods, including Technical Photography, Infrared Reflectography, and Multispectral Imaging. This versatility makes it an ideal tool for conservators and researchers who require portability without sacrificing scientific precision.
High Resolution Imaging
This scanner for art captures high-resolution images of library and archival assets—such as manuscripts, prints, and drawings—that must remain flat during examination. To protect these delicate materials, users keep the document stationary on the table while the scanner moves an imaging camera (weighing up to 3 kg) across its surface with high precision (0.1 mm resolution).
Archimedes can scan areas up to 70 × 70 cm, making it suitable for various formats. Users connect the scanner to a computer to control the XY movement of the camera and select the optimal scanning path for each object. This approach ensures both accuracy and safety when documenting fragile works.
Archimedes for Paper Conservation high resolution imaging
This scanner works particularly well for library and archival assets—such as manuscripts, prints, and drawings—that must remain flat during examination. Rather than moving the object, users glide the imaging camera over the surface while the item rests safely on the table.
CHSOS designed the Archimedes scanner to support even large and heavy equipment, including infrared reflectography cameras, which makes it a versatile tool for a variety of imaging needs. Its ability to capture high-resolution images allows users to document delicate paper-based materials in detail while minimizing handling and risk.
Scanner for Art, Real-world applications
Archimedes used by the Houston Museum of Natural Science to study Aztec manuscripts. CLICK
Archimedes scanner for art used at the Qatar National Library CLICK
Installed Archimedes
Making Archimedes
Step one
We start manufacturing Archimedes collecting its essential components. Archimedes is made of a microcontroller, 3 motors, aluminum extrusions plus nuts and bolts.
Step two
We 3D print the parts to hold motors and the camera.
Archimedes: Versatile Scanner for Art and Heritage Diagnostics
The Archimedes Multipurpose Scanner offers a flexible and efficient solution for art and cultural heritage diagnostics. CHSOS developed it to seamlessly integrate multiple imaging techniques—UV, Visible, Infrared, and Multispectral Imaging—into a single compact and mobile unit. Its modular design allows users to adapt the scanner easily to both fieldwork and studio environments, making it ideal for conservators, archaeologists, and researchers.
Users can mount Archimedes vertically or horizontally to accommodate a wide variety of artworks, from paintings and manuscripts to archaeological materials. As a highly accessible scanner for art, it includes open-source control software that supports full customization and thorough documentation. This flexibility enables users to tailor imaging workflows to meet the specific needs of each project.
By combining portability, precision, and affordability, Archimedes delivers advanced diagnostic capabilities to small institutions and independent professionals. Whether users need to perform condition assessments, technical analyses, or academic research, Archimedes provides a comprehensive toolset for uncovering the hidden layers of cultural objects.
