Applying Virtual Restoration Modeling and Sand Printing of Weathered Rampart Stone Based on Three-dimensional Scanning

Abstract

The Seoul City Wall is a fortress of the Joseon Dynasty built approximately six hundred years ago (fourteenth century). It represents Korean cultural heritage, which has a distinct construction-type in each dynasty. However, some rampart stones have been partly destroyed because of exposure to various weathering environments and artificial damage resulting from building the fortress. Accordingly, structural and aesthetic problems have consistently increased. Generally, repair and restoration of the rampart stone is undertaken from functional or aesthetic recovery perspectives. This study focuses on aesthetic restoration for two sections that hinder viewing conditions owing to missing ramparts. This goal is achieved using various digital technologies such as digital documentation using three-dimensional (3D) close-range scanning, virtual restoration via 3D haptic modeling, and 3D printing for the application of the design mock-up. In particular, weathered ramparts surrounding the missing stones are scanned and surface textures are reflected in the three-dimensional virtual model. The completed models are obtained through a binder jetting 3D printer with sand. The digital virtual restoration and printing based on 3D scanning positively affected the original restoration and aesthetics of the missing ramparts. In the future, an in-depth study should be conducted to extend the application of these techniques.