Virtual Reconstruction Information Management. A scientific method and 3D visualization of Virtual Reconstruction Processes.

Abstract

This research project takes up the challenge of creating a system to document transparency of processes creating virtual 3D reconstructions. The virtual reconstruction of artefacts just designed, no longer existing, or nor fully documented is obviously a subjective process that simplifies a visualization of the original one. Nowadays, due to a growing number of multidisciplinary projects, scholars commonly recognize the importance of transparency in 3D virtual reconstructions. The goal of this research project is defining a methodological procedure focused on the validation of the 3D reconstructive model and finding a methodological solution to visualize its multiple representations, defining standards from data processing through documentation to visualization of each 3D hypothetical reconstruction of Cultural Heritage (CH) artefacts. Transparency and traceability of interpretation processes are necessary for a better understanding of knowledge embodied by 3D models and their visualizations. Transparency is also necessary for interdisciplinary communication and evaluation of results for the benefit of future generations. The problem of interpretation which features reconstructions where multidisciplinary approaches is crucial to re-use information by those who own a different background but are called to collaborate on the same project. In any research related to virtual reconstructions, the first step, acquiring a “pre-knowledge”, it is necessary to define a system where everyone can be user and creator of traceable knowledge. The proposed methodology, named ”Virtual Reconstruction Information Management” (VRIM), aspires to systematize some general processes related to 3D Virtual Reconstructions (VR) and the management of data information related to those models.