Semantic-based 3D information modelling and documentation of rockeries in Chinese classical gardens: A case study on the rockery at Huanxiu Shanzhuang, Suzhou, China

Abstract

Abstract Rockery, or Jia Shan, representing a high level of artistic achievement and aiming to show Chinese landscapes and culture, is an essential part of Chinese classical gardens. Taking the rockery in the backyard of Huanxiu Shanzhuang as an example, this study undertook digital measurements and 3D reality-based modelling, carried out semantic-based analysis and modelling, and built a 3D information system. The digital survey applied the integrated techniques of terrestrial digital photogrammetry and laser scanning. Once the integrated 3D digital data had been obtained, the rockery was systematically and clearly analyzed for its structure on the base of its relationship with mountains in nature. By obtaining the hierarchical and spatial relationships between rockery components, the rockery and its components were semantically named and modelled. According to the rockery analysis results, the 3D reality-based models were segmented into numbers of rockery components, and a 3D information system was built on the basis of a 3D geographic information systems (3D GIS). Through these methods, all the data and information obtained from the rockery on the study site were documented, stored, managed, and visualized. This research showed that rockeries in Chinese classical gardens and cultural heritage sites with similar characteristics can be digitally, informationally, and systematically documented, studied, and preserved.