Strain measurement on historic tapestries
Experimental methods used to measure strain on a surface can be applied across a range of materials. Digital image correlation usually requires the application of a painted speckle-pattern. However, for priceless items like historic tapestries, this isn't an option. In this cross-disciplinary Leverhulme-funded project, working with the Centre for Textile Conservation and Technical Art History, we created engineering tools to evaluate the use of the inherent tapestry image to track displacements and strains. The idea was to use this information to better understand the influence of loading and humidity changes on the conservation of these ancient works of art. The software tools created during this project are freely available on GitHub.
[1] Lennard, F. , Costantini, R. and Harrison, P. (2023) Investigating stitched support techniques for tapestry using digital image correlation. Studies in Conservation, 68(5), pp. 558-574. (doi: 10.1080/00393630.2022.2083414)
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[2] Nwanoro, K., Harrison, P. and Lennard, F. (2022) Investigating the accuracy of digital image correlation in monitoring strain fields across historical tapestries. Strain, 58(1), e12401. (doi: 10.1111/str.12401)
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[3] Lennard, F. , Costantini, R. and Harrison, P. (2021) Understanding the role of friction and adhesion in the display of tapestries on slanted supports. Studies in Conservation, 66(1), pp. 32-43. (doi: 10.1080/00393630.2020.1761184)
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[4] Costantini, R., Lennard, F. , Alsayednoor, J. and Harrison, P. (2020) Investigating mechanical damage mechanisms of tapestries displayed at different angles using 2D DIC. European Physical Journal Plus, 135, 515. (doi: 10.1140/epjp/s13360-020-00520-7)
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[5] Alsayednoor, J., Harrison, P. , Dobbie, M., Costantini, R. and Lennard, F. (2019) Evaluating the use of digital image correlation for strain measurement in historic tapestries using representative deformation fields. Strain, 55(2), e12308. (doi: 10.1111/str.12308)
