Engineers at Novosibirsk State Technical University (NSTU) have developed a domestic book scanner that could become an affordable alternative to foreign systems for libraries and archives. According to the developers, the complex costs 10–20 times less than imported counterparts while retaining their main capabilities.
The main feature of the device is completely contactless scanning. Pages are automatically turned by a special mechanism, and mathematical algorithms build a three-dimensional model of the open book and "straighten" the image without a pressure glass. This allows for safe digitization of rare and fragile editions without damaging the paper or binding.
The complex can scan up to 1000 pages per hour while maintaining high optical resolution. No special training is required for operation: the operator simply places the book on a V-shaped platform and starts the process, after which the system performs most operations automatically.
The developers also used special LED lighting with minimal ultraviolet and infrared radiation. This helps preserve old documents and simultaneously achieve the most accurate color reproduction.
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