UAV OBLIQUE DATA AND LASER SCANNING IN AN EXCAVATED AREA

Abstract

This paper discusses some enhancements concerning 3D modelling and integration of 3D data from aerial and terrestrial sensors, developed by geomatics in the field of Cultural Heritage metric documentation. For archaeological purposes, it is interesting to deal with the considerable advantages in term of sustainability (automated acquisition, quickness, precision, time and cost cutting) of new multi-sensors approaches for the data acquisition and the management phases. In particular, the UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) Photogrammetry with the joint use of nadiral and oblique cameras, can be valuably combined with the large-scale details reach by terrestrial LiDAR in vast areas or complex objects, especially in mostly vertical sized objects. Here it will be reported an experience of integrated 3D survey in an archaeological context in Piedmont region (Italy), the Hercules Fountain in the gardens of the Venaria Reale. It has witnessed several historical phases during centuries, from its construction in 16th to the disuse and dismantling in 17th, up to the 21th century in which it was lastly brought back to light. The goal of the test is the generation of a 3D continuous model of the site for documentation purposes, future consolidation and enhancement projects finalized to a public promotion. To meet these aims a terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) survey has been designed combining terrestrial and UAV photogrammetric data acquisition, to produce a high detailed 3D textured model from which infer standard 2D drawings, digital orthoimages and further 3D releases. The entire workflow and outputs were compared together to evaluate the effectiveness of each elaboration according to the survey goals.