Increasing accessibility for visually impaired visitors at Leeds City Museum

In May 2024, Leeds City Museum commissioned HELIX Innovation Technologies Specialist Josh Gregg and Innovation Partners Alex Neish and Louis Burnett to 3D scan and print 13 historical objects for a pilot scheme enhancing accessibility for visually impaired visitors. 

Location: Leeds City Museum 

Aim: To enhance accessibility for blind and partially sighted individuals at Leeds City Museum by producing 3D-printed replicas of exhibits that visitors can interact with and handle. 

Output: The HELIX team employed advanced structured light scanning and cross-polarised photogrammetry to create detailed 3D blueprints of 13 museum artefacts, including ceramics, coins, medals, a toy crocodile, and a Victorian toilet. These objects were chosen because they were too fragile or too large for traditional handling sessions, where visitors are typically allowed to touch original items. 

From these scans, the HELIX team produced replicas using state-of-the-art 3D and resin printers – the latter enabling finer detail on the objects. Innovation Design Specialist Adam Dixon further enhanced the models by painting coins and medals to achieve a realistic finish.

Result: The 3D-printed replicas have been warmly received by visitors and community groups such as Arts to Share and the West Yorkshire Sight Loss Council. Leeds City Museum’s Youth Engagement Curator, Jordan Keighley, notes:

It has really enhanced our current offer. Now people who are blind and partially sighted can engage with these objects in a way they never could before. Some, like the toilet and crocodile toy, are sturdy enough for permanent display.

What's next: Leeds City Museum has since used these prints in handling sessions with the general public, with a member from the Leeds Federation of the Blind saying, "I think it's the best solution yet in making things behind glass accessible". Leeds City Museum will be exploring the use of 3D printing, along with other sensory/tactile solutions, within its upcoming Special Exhibition, opening October 2026. This exhibition celebrates the communities of Leeds, with one element focussing on how working relationships and partnerships with blind and partially sighted people can improve access for all.