3D Documentation Research Articles

Zonal Reconstruction of Daylighting in Historic Built Environments: A Workflow to Model and Evaluate Light in Spatial and Temporal Domains

Computer simulation allows to study daylight conditions in the past that afforded activities in antique buildings. The Python module phos4dtools implements the efficient computation of zonal daylight metrics that are considered to indicate affordances. It was employed to solve horizontal and vertical illuminance for different orientations and elevations in the House of the Priestesses, a unit of the Hadrianic Garden Houses complex in Ostia. A reconstruction model of the unit was produced by collating an existing, detailed 3D documentation with other sources and our own survey data. The spatially and temporally resolved results of daylight simulation employing phos4dtools were imported into a GIS database. Assuming typical reflectance properties, illuminance thresholds were determined that are required for the perception of contrast detail and colour differences. Integration over temporal periods and spatial zones that are eligible for residential activities was implemented by queries to the database. First, preliminary results indicated different distributions of affordances by daylight, depending on the characteristics of the considered visual tasks. Horizontal illuminance decreases quickly with increasing distance to the aperture, suggesting that activities bound to a horizontal work plane were constraint to the immediate adjacency of windows and potentially open doors. Vertical illuminance, on the other hand, reaches deep into the building when the receiving surface is oriented to a window, particularly in the absence of exterior obstructions. The exemplary application of phos4dtools shows its potential in the interdisciplinary research on daylight and its implications on living practice in antique buildings.

Neural radiance fields as a complementary method to photogrammetry for forensic 3D documentation: Initial comparative insights

ObjectivesPhotogrammetry is widely used in forensic practice to create 3D models of crime scenes, bodies, living individuals, and objects. However, it has limitations in accurately capturing transparent, reflective, and low-texture surfaces, which can hinder forensic investigations. Neural Radiance Fields (NeRFs), a recently developed method, offer a potential solution by creating more accurate and detailed 3D models in these challenging contexts. This study aims to evaluate whether NeRFs can serve as effective alternatives to structure-from-motion (SfM) photogrammetry for recording forensic autopsies. Materials and MethodsPhotogrammetric scans were performed on a variety of forensic subjects, including a cadaver with skin discoloration and epidermal exfoliation, a metal trashcan, a vehicle, and a mock crime scene. The scans were processed using traditional photogrammetry software (Meshroom) and compared with NeRF-based visualizations generate using instant neural graphics primitives. ResultsNeRF-based models provided more lifelike and detailed visualizations than photogrammetry, particularly when documenting transparent, reflective, or featureless surfaces. NeRF demonstrated superior capability in capturing complex details that photogrammetry struggled with. ConclusionNeRF technology shows considerable promise for improving the documentation of forensic autopsies, offering enhanced visual fidelity for challenging surfaces such as transparent or reflective materials. While the method presents challenges related to editing, software compatibility, and high computational demands, its potential benefits in forensic investigations are evident and merit further exploration.

SfM Photogrammetry for Cost-Effective 3D Documentation and Rock Art Analysis of the Dombate Dolmen (Spain) and the Megalithic Sites of Chã dos Cabanos and Chã da Escusalha (Portugal)

SfM (structure from motion) photogrammetry is a technique developed in the field of computer vision that enables the generation of three-dimensional (3D) models from a set of overlapping images captured from disparate angles. The application of this technique in the field of cultural heritage, particularly in the context of megalithic monuments, is inherently challenging due to the spatial constraints of these environments and the usual limitations posed by their architectural design, which often results in poor lighting conditions. This article presents an accurate and cost-efficient methodology for the study and documentation of rock art, which has been applied to three megalithic monuments in the Iberian Peninsula: one in Spain and two in Portugal. The three working environments are complex, but the combination of techniques used and improvements such as rendering for the enhancement of engravings and the creation of 3D stop-motion models made it possible to integrate all the information in 3D formats that allow its universal dissemination. This not only preserves the heritage in graphic form but also makes it accessible to the public, both for study and for virtual visits.

Pasto varnish: 3D virtualization of an intangible cultural heritage

The artisanal technique of "barniz de Pasto" (Pasto varnish) in Colombia is an example of an Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) that requires urgent safeguarding processes due to a number of factors, including weakened practices, disrupted transmission, and environmental deterioration. The term "Pasto varnish" refers to an ancient artistic tradition from southern Colombia, which was designated as an Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) by UNESCO in 2020. This technique entails the decoration of diverse surfaces, including metal and wood, through the application of a thin, malleable film of natural resin derived from the mopa-mopa shrub (Elaeagia pastoensis L.E. Mora), which exhibits the capacity to adhere to a range of surfaces. This article presents the results of the 3D virtualization process of 22 heritage pieces from this technique, which are exhibited on the Virtual Pasto Varnish (VPV) website. The construction of this website entailed the implementation of three domains of virtualization: (i) 3D Documentation, wherein data pertinent to the heritage were collated; (ii) 3D Representation, wherein 3D material corresponding to the heritage artifact was created; and (iii) 3D Dissemination, which facilitated the dissemination and conservation of the 3D data. The results of this project demonstrate that virtual heritage can serve as a collaborative instrument for the integration, safeguarding, and promotion of research on ICH through the data, paradata, and metadata obtained during the 3D virtualization process. This article puts forth the proposition that virtual heritage makes significant contributions to ICH, particularly in regard to the continual recreation of living heritage through self-recognition, the dynamic conservation of its artifacts, and the contextualized research of its data. It can be concluded that for ICH materialized in artifacts—such as the case of Pasto varnish—virtual heritage becomes an important preservation tool when tradition bearers can be actively engaged in the process of "reviving the aura" of the heritage data.

Documentation of a Numismatic Collection from the Period of the Roman Empire Using the Photogrammetry Method

The article describes the possibilities of 3D documentation of historical monuments by photogrammetry on a selected sample of coins. It applies this selected method, verifies its suitability and describes some other digitization methods. It also contains a basic description of the methodology of creating 3D models of ancient coins.

Digital Documentation and Architectural Heritage Restoration with 3-D Geometry: The Ambulatory of the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela

ABSTRACT The SFM photogrammetry (Structure from Motion) is a technique developed in the field of computer vision that allows obtaining 3D models from images taken from different angles. Despite its extensive development, this technique faces methodological challenges when applied to complex heritage environments. Typically, heritage restoration documentation focuses on the initial and final stages when works have not yet begun or have already concluded, and the object of study is free of obstacles and workers, with its use in intermediate stages being uncommon. The aim of this article is to present geometric documentation using SFM-MVS photogrammetry across multiple stages of the roof restoration of the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela (Spain), showcasing an expert application of this technique in a real working scenario with multiple challenges, adapting to complex scenes without interfering with project timelines and providing high-quality outcomes at a low cost, even in areas temporarily obscured by scaffolding or plastic coverings. It provides essential data for geometric assistance in restoration design, adaptation, and stakeout. Moreover, continuous 3D documentation enables the creation of 3D stop-motion models, offering an innovative perspective for understanding and communicating a wide range of restoration and construction projects.

Integrating UAV Photogrammetry and Terrestrial Laser Scanning for the 3D surveying of the Fortress of Bashtova

Through the synergistic application of Aerial Photogrammetry using UAVs and Terrestrial Laser Scanning (TLS), this paper investigates how this combination can be used for conducting a 3D survey of the Fortress of Bashtova thereby demonstrating the effectiveness of such integrated methods in acquiring an all-encompassing image of this historical building. As the efforts towards preservation become intense, there arises the urgency of precise and detailed 3D documentation that will facilitate appropriate conservation processes and further studies. Therefore, combining TLS and UAV photogrammetry offers a powerful tool that can provide accurate architectural data for the documentation of heritage areas. Moreover, the TLS component acquires ground point-cloud data with laser scanners giving a complementary alternative for aerial perspective. The merging of these datasets ensures broad inclusion since it allows the production of accurate, detailed three-dimensional models of the Fortress of Bashtova. Thanks to the research on the case study of the Fortress of Bashtova in the article, it can be stated that the integration of data from aerial photogrammetry and TLS is seamless with the help of modern software while respecting the basic photogrammetric-geodetic rules and demonstrates the possibility of creating a complex 3D model, usable for further analyses for architects and conservation professionals, as well as for restorers and civil engineers. To estimate the accuracy of the point clouds derived from TLS and UAV, we compared the distances between the point clouds using CloudCompare software. We obtained a mean RMS of 2.199073 mm and std. dev was 7.356 mm. Research has shown that the difference between point clouds from TLS and UAV is within 1.7 centimeters.

Separate and Integrated Data Processing for the 3D Reconstruction of a Complex Architecture

Abstract. In the last few years, data fusion has been an active research topic for the expected advantages of exploiting and combining different but complementary techniques for 3D documentation. The data fusion process consists of merging data coming from different sensors and platforms, intrinsically different, to produce complete, coherent, and precise 3D reconstructions. Although extensive research has been dedicated to this task, we still have many gaps in the integration process, and the quality of the results is hardly sufficient in several cases. This is especially evident when the integration occurs in a later stage, e.g., merging the results of separate data processing. New opportunities are emerging, with the possibility offered by some proprietary tools to jointly process heterogeneous data, particularly image and range-based data. The article investigates the benefits of data integration at different processing levels: raw, middle, and high levels. The experiments are targeted to explore, in particular, the results of the integration on large and complex architectures.

Evaluation of the Accuracy of Photogrammetric Reconstruction of Bathymetry Using Differential GNSS Synchronized with an Underwater Camera

Abstract. Photogrammetry is a valuable tool for 3D documentation, mapping, and monitoring of underwater environments. However, the ground control surveys necessary for georeferencing and validation of the reconstructed bathymetry are difficult and time consuming to perform underwater, and thus impractical to scale to larger areas. Underwater direct georeferencing, using a differential GNSS receiver synchronized with an underwater camera system, offers an attractive alternative to surveying underwater ground control points in conditions when the seafloor is clearly visible from the surface. In this paper, the design of an underwater direct georeferencing system using mostly commercial off the shelf components is presented. The accuracy of the system is evaluated against geodetic survey based on trilateration and leveling, as well as by RTK (real time kinematic) positioning using a tilt-compensated GNSS receiver mounted on an extended pole to allow measurements of points in up to 7 m in water depth. Tests were conducted in a controlled outdoor pool setting with depths from 1–3 m, as well as in a 10 m × 10 m test plot established on the seafloor in a near-shore environment by Catalina Island, California at depths from 4–10 m. Comparing the geometry of the photogrammetric reconstruction with the geodetic survey yielded sub centimeter consistency, and 1 mm accuracy in length measurement was achieved when compared with calibrated 0.5 m scale bars. Through repeated surveys of the same area, repeatability of georeferencing is demonstrated within expectations for differential GNSS positioning, with horizontal errors at sub centimeter level, and vertical errors of up to 3 cm in the worst cases. These tests demonstrate the benefits of the underwater direct georeferencing approach in shallow waters, which can be scaled up much more easily than measuring underwater ground control points with traditional approaches, making this an ideal option for collecting accurate bathymetry of the seafloor over large coastal areas with clear waters.

The Use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in the 3D Documentation of Historical and Cultural Heritage: The Case of Ceyhan Kurtkulağı Caravanserai

The Use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in the 3D Documentation of Historical and Cultural Heritage: The Case of Ceyhan Kurtkulağı Caravanserai

Multi-Sensor Geomatic Techniques for the 3D Documentation and Virtual Repositioning of Elements of the Church of S. Miguel (Jaén, Spain)

This study describes the methodology and main results obtained after applying several geomatic techniques, based on the fusion of data acquired by several sensors, to document the recovery works carried out in an abandoned church. A century ago, the façade was moved to a museum to ensure its preservation. In addition to documentary purposes, a secondary goal is the virtual repositioning of a model of this element on that of the church. The method takes advantage of the potential of each technique, considering the acquisition of geometry based mainly on laser scanning techniques and radiometry on photogrammetry. The results include 3D models and orthoimages, which are used to perform a stratigraphic study. The 3D model of the façade has been repositioned in the general one, considering common geometries previously fitted in both models and repeating part of the photogrammetric process, using masks to define the image areas related to the church and the façade. Therefore, we obtained a 3D model with the façade included in it. This procedure has demonstrated its feasibility despite the existence of different environmental conditions in both areas. Using these results, we have also developed a BIM to allow for the management of future restoration works.

3D documentation and classification of incense tree Aquilaria sinensis (Lour.) Spreng. wounds by photogrammetry and its potential conservation applications.

In recent years, illegal felling of and damage to the incense tree Aquilaria sinensis (Lour.) Spreng. have been reported in Hong Kong. Their native populations are under increasingly severe threat. Therefore, the development of a standard and efficient method to classify and document wounds on vulnerable trees is urgently needed for conservation purposes. In this study, photogrammetry was used to document wounds in A. sinensis through 3D modeling. A total of 752 wound records from 484 individual A. sinensis trees from Hong Kong were included to establish a new wound classification system. Our major findings include a novel standardized procedure for photogrammetric documentation and a wound classification system. The results of this study will facilitate A. sinensis conservation, by enhancing wound documentation and information transfer to law enforcement and education.

Moving beyond the Content: 3D Scanning and Post-Processing Analysis of the Cuneiform Tablets of the Turin Collection

This work and manuscript focus on how 3D scanning methodologies and post-processing analyses may help us to gain a deeper investigation of cuneiform tablets beyond the written content. The dataset proposed herein is a key part of the archaeological collection preserved in the Musei Reali of Turin in Italy; these archaeological artefacts enclose further important semantic information extractable through detailed 3D documentation and 3D model filtering. In fact, this scanning process is a fundamental tool for better reading of sealing impressions beneath the cuneiform text, as well as for understanding micrometric evidence of the fingerprints of scribes. Most of the seal impressions were made before the writing (like a watermark), and thus, they are not detectable to the naked eye due to cuneiform signs above them as well as the state of preservation. In this regard, 3D scanning and post-processing analysis could help in the analysis of these nearly invisible features impressed on tablets. For this reason, this work is also based on how 3D analyses may support the identification of the unperceived and almost invisible features concealed in clay tablets. Analysis of fingerprints and the depths of the signs can tell us about the worker’s strategies and the people beyond the artefacts. Three-dimensional models generated inside the Artec 3D ecosystem via Space Spider scanner and Artec Studio software were further investigated by applying specific filters and shaders. Digital light manipulation can reveal, through the dynamic displacement of light and shadows, particular details that can be deeply analysed with specific post-processing operations: for example, the MSII (multi-scale integral invariant) filter is a powerful tool exploited for revealing hidden and unperceived features such as fingerprints and sealing impressions (stratigraphically below cuneiform signs). Finally, the collected data will be handled twofold: in an open-access repository and through a common data environment (CDE) to aid in the data exchange process for project collaborators and common users.

A Paperless and 3D Workflow for Documenting Excavations at Insula I.14, Pompeii, Italy

ABSTRACTIn the summer of 2022, Tulane University, in collaboration with archaeologists from other institutions, began excavations at the site of Pompeii. The archaeological work was focused on Insula 14 of Region 1, located in the southeastern sector of the site. To overcome the challenges of recording a complex urban excavation, and of working with a collaborative team, we designed and implemented a unique workflow that combines paperless and 3D data-capture methods through the use of GIS technologies. The final product of our documentation workflow was a robust and easy-to-use online geodatabase where archaeologists can revisit, explore, visualize, and analyze each excavated context using virtual tools. We present our workflow for digitally documenting observational and spatial data in the field, and how we made these data available to project archaeologists during and after the field season. First, we describe the development of digital forms in ESRI's Survey123. Then, we explain our procedures for 3D documentation through SfM photogrammetric methods and discuss how we integrated the data and transformed it into an accessible format by using interactive dashboards and online 3D web scenes. Finally, we discuss the components of our workflow that are broadly applicable and that can easily be adapted to other projects.

Digital 3D Reconstruction of Ancient Chinese Great Wild Goose Pagoda by TLS Point Cloud Hierarchical Registration

Digital reconstruction of ancient buildings is very challenging due to its architectural complexity and structural delicacy. Therefore, how to apply new Earth Observation (EO) technology to digitally reconstruct the complete and real model of ancient buildings without damage has become an urgent issue. This article proposes a multi-scan point cloud hierarchical registration method for 3D reconstruction of the ancient Chinese Great Wild Goose Pagoda based on Terrestrial Laser Scanner (TLS) data. First, a multi-scan point cloud hierarchical registration method is elaborately designed for 3D reconstruction. Then, the outline feature of the ancient Chinese Great Wild Goose Pagoda is automatically extracted by point cloud slicing. Finally, fine modeling is carried out according to the outline feature extracted from the reconstructed point cloud, and after that block combination and texture mapping are conducted for 3D digitalization and documentation. The experiments indicate that the Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) of multi-scan hierarchical registration of the translation and rotation are less than 3 cm and 0.862 ∘ , respectively, and the complete and real model of the Great Wild Goose Pagoda is obtained by fine modeling and texture mapping, which provides an important reference for 3D digital protection of ancient buildings.

Cost-effective 3D documentation device in forensic medicine

3D documentation in forensics and forensic medicine is being introduced more frequently in various institutes around the world. However, several institutes lack capacity in finances as well as staff to perform 3D documentations regularly. This technical paper aims to present a 3D documentation device that is low cost and easy to use and is a viable entry level solution for forensic medical departments. For this the small single-board computer Raspberry Pi 4 was used in conjunction with its high quality (HQ) camera module to create the 3DLamp - a flexible, low cost and easy to use documentation device. Besides a detailed description of the device this paper also presents four case examples where a 3D documentation was performed and analyses the acquired data and the created 3D models. It was found that the device returns feasible 3D models that appear usable for forensic 3D reconstructions.

Archaeology of archaeology at Heloros: Re-interpreting the urban layout of a complex Greek settlement in Sicily using proximal sensing and data fusion

Heloros lies on a low hill situated along Sicily’s Ionian shore. Archaeologists believe this city was the first subcolony of Syracuse. Despite its long history and prowess, Heloros is and therefore less known. This article answers crucial questions regarding the site’s chronology, architecture, and topography. This involves digitizing and verifying legacy data and fusing them in a Geographic Information System with newly acquired 3D and geospatial documentation that we collected using global positioning, digital photogrammetry, drones, terrestrial and airborne Light Detection and Ranging, and ground penetrating radar. Our results present new insights into Heloros' history, including information about its pre-Greek occupation and revisions to the interpretation of important buildings and fortifications. Our research demonstrated that the Archaeology of Archaeology investigation we carried out at Heloros, when enhanced by our ‘digital excavation’ approach can generate new knowledge on archaeological sites without requiring new excavations.

A LIVING LAB APPROACH FOR CONCURRENT 3D DOCUMENTATION OF AN ARCHITECTURAL RENOVATION PROJECT – A SHOWCASE OF GUNSAN CIVIC CULTURAL CENTER

Abstract. This paper explores the integration of 3D documentation within a living lab framework for the renovation of the Gunsan Civic Cultural Center. The study emphasizes the importance of architectural renovation in contemporary sustainability and social resilience, highlighting the unique challenges of adapting existing structures. Our approach combines advanced 3D scanning techniques, such as drone filming, photogrammetry, LiDAR scanning, and hybrid modeling, with the living lab methodology, enabling real-world experimentation and stakeholder engagement. Our showcase on the Gunsan Civic Cultural Center illustrates the practical application of these techniques in material reuse and cultural performance planning, emphasizing community participation and collaborative decision-making. The living lab approach, central to our methodology, fosters dynamic interaction among architects, builders, community members, and local authorities, enhancing communication and project outcomes. This study contributes to the field by showcasing how concurrent 3D documentation in a living lab setting can revitalize heritage sites, ensuring their sustainable future while actively involving the community. The lessons and discussions drawn from this project highlight the potential of this approach in broader architectural and urban development contexts.

INTEGRATION OF HBIM, XR AND BEACONS FOR CULTURAL MEDIATION OF HISTORICAL HERITAGE: THE CASE OF “AL-QUARAOUIYINE MOSQUE” IN FES

Abstract. The mediation of cultural heritage is a significant concern in the field of history and culture valorization. Technologies such as HBIM (Historic Building Information Modeling), XR (Extended Reality), and Beacons offer highly promising solutions that have demonstrated their value in various heritage-related applications, namely 3D reconstruction, documentation, restoration, preservation, and mediation. The primary objective of this paper is to propose an approach that combines HBIM () and XR (), integrating Beacon sensors to create a rich cultural mediation experience. Our approach is based on an HBIM model of the site, enriched with multi-source semantic information stored in a NoSQL database. It also leverages Beacon sensors to deliver historical content related to the study site (Mosque Al-Quaraouiyine) based on the user's position, thereby providing a cultural mediation experience within an XR environment. This study resulted in the creation of an HBIM model of the study site, the integration of a MongoDB database for storing semantic data, the utilization of the Unity SDK to retrieve this data, and the deployment of Beacons for user position detection within the XR environment. These advancements led to the display of contextual historical and multimedia information through interactive panels, offering a rich and interactive experience. The added value of this project lies in its innovative combination of several modern technologies to provide an educational and immersive experience to users, while also paving the way for future developments towards the dissemination of cultural information based on new technologies.

DEVELOPING ENHANCED AND ENRICHED 3D MODELS OF CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSETS AS PART OF THE EU CO-FUNDED 5DCULTURE PROJECT

Abstract. 5Dculture is a 24-month collaborative project co-funded by the European Union. It includes twelve partners from diverse sectors of cultural heritage, including archaeology, museums and fashion. It aims to enrich the offer of European 3D digital cultural heritage assets in the data space and fosters their reuse in important domains such as education, tourism and the wider cultural and creative sectors towards socially and economically sustainable outcomes. In particular, the project will deliver high-quality 3D content by identifying and engaging existing datasets from partners’ collections focusing on topics of fashion, archaeology and architecture, all of which occupy a central place in the vast cultural heritage of Europe. It will also develop several reuse scenarios, which will experiment with the aforementioned assets in their complexity (from high-quality to derivatives).The Discovery Programme has a long research interest in 3D digital documentation and has participated in collaborative projects in the past, notably 3D-ICONS. However, opportunities and challenges in the reuse of 3D archaeological content exist, including the reuse of 3D content to enhance visitors experience at archaeological sites and the ability to exploit 3D surrogates for different sectors (tourism, education, gaming, the arts, conservation and heritage management).This paper will present the research that has been undertaken in this context, through the development of an enhanced processing pipeline to improve the quality of 3D models of cultural heritage assets, resulting in their improved re-use. It will present the approaches to improving model geometry, generating and applying enhanced textures, creating rich and functional metadata and strategies for persistence and archiving.A core component of our research has been the development of the processing pipeline to improve 3D model appearance through the application of parametric materials in the development of synthetic textures which artificially enhance the visualising of cultural heritage objects. Through the visual enhancements of 3D content improvements to the interpretation and aesthetic appearance of monuments and artefacts can be achieved, adding value to the original surveyed data. The paper will detail the processing pipeline, working from prime survey data in survey specific software, through 3D modelling techniques, and finally visualising and presentation approaches which enable increased accessibility and usability.The paper will conclude with a discussion of deliverables, particularly in the context of value to conservation. The Discovery Programme works together with many of the state agencies in Ireland on heritage and conservation projects, and it is the delivery of enhanced but practical outputs that their archaeologists and architects require. These include the Office of Public Works, National Monuments Service & the Heritage Council.