Abstract
Aiming at the problem of difficult data collection and modeling in high-rise ancient buildings with narrow interiors, a method is proposed in this paper for modeling and supporting digital restoration based on unmanned aerial vehicle oblique photogrammetry combined with three-dimensional (3D) laser scanning technology. The ancient watchtower complex in the Tibetan region of China is taken as an example. Firstly, the data is collected using an unmanned aerial vehicle and 3D laser scanner. Secondly, the two types of data are merged to generate a three-dimensional status model. Finally, by analyzing the status model and combining the similar remaining conditions, a virtual restoration scheme is proposed, and a 3D restoration model is established. The results show that virtual restoration based on 3D measurement technology can be used as a new method for the research and protection of towering ancient buildings, asrecorded by adopting targeted technology for digital documentation. It is necessary and effective to adopt a method combining unmanned aerial vehicle oblique photogrammetry and the ground 3D laser scanning technology in harsh environments. The digital model can promote the sustainable utilization of cultural heritage. It is necessary to analyze and make full use of the status model of such ancient buildings based on accurately measured data for the virtual restoration of the damaged ancient buildings. The status model of the ancient buildings can be used for display browsing and disaster recording. The restoration model can be dismantled and used to guide the repair work.
Highlights
As cultural heritage is the cultural wealth of all mankind, rich and diverse cultural heritage should be protected by adopting targeted technology
The objectives of this study are to accurately survey and map the seven watchtowers in the Xiuba watchtower complex, within the accuracy of a centimeter; survey and map the overall environment of the watchtower complex, within the accuracy of a decimeter; establish a digital three-dimensional status model that can be used for display and research; establish a three-dimensional virtual restoration model that can be used to guide protection and restoration work; and effectively reveal the appearance and internal structure of the watchtower under good conditions
We found by comparing the status model with the current image of the watchtower that the top of watchtower No 5 had collapsed most severely, and that there was an urgent need for emergency protection
Summary
As cultural heritage is the cultural wealth of all mankind, rich and diverse cultural heritage should be protected by adopting targeted technology. Photogrammetry [5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13], three-dimensional (3D) laser scanning [14,15,16,17,18,19,20], or a combination of both methods [21,22,23,24,25,26] is generally used for ancient buildings, for which the surveying and mapping results can be used for post-display, analysis, and evaluation [27,28,29,30,31]. Watchtowers are tall ancient structures made of natural stones and woods, and usually have stone masonry outside and wooden floors inside. This unique architecture is widely distributed in the plateau areas of Tibet and Sichuan, and is mostly built by Tibetans. It is generally believed that the Tibetan people built it next to the residential buildings for military defense, and it may be used for mysterious religious sacrificial activities
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