3D Documentation Research Articles

Managing Data from Maritime Archaeology Investigations: AIR at Gribshunden

Abstract Maritime archaeology excavations, even in a more complex environment, have the same objectives and requirements as terrestrial ones: documenting digging operations to analyze data in the best way, interpreting it, and producing new knowledge for the benefit of multiple communities. 3D documentation and management methodologies have spread widely among practitioners; however, 3D comprehensive tools for scholarly publications still require development. This article contributes to the discussion on archaeological data management and its need to encompass every aspect of the archaeological practice (Kansa & Kansa 2021). It presents the evolution of the documentation and data management strategies employed within the multidisciplinary project at the shipwreck site of Gribshunden (Rönnby 2021), profoundly conditioned by the project’s goals to optimize collection and analysis of its multidisciplinary nature. The use of the Archaeological Interactive Report (AIR) represents the most suitable solution for achieving such goals, as it addresses the issue of scattered data and allows for maintaining the connection between archaeological datasets and their interpretation and publication, which is crucial for performing archaeological Digital Data Curation (Dallas 2015a).

Visualising Heritage: using 3D immersive technologies to innovate, document and communicate rich narratives for HS2

The University of Bradford has established wide-ranging skillsets and capabilities as Visualising Heritage that have been built around expertise with 3D imaging for human bioarchaeology and for contextual understanding of archaeological sites, landscapes, heritage structures and associated artefacts. This paper reflects upon how these have been put to use during enabling works for HS2 and also the potential of this work for analysis, public engagement and legacy. The main focus of this paper covers 3D digital documentation of the world's first railway roundhouse designed by Robert Stephenson at Birmingham Curzon Street, together with immersive content that helps to tell the story of its discovery and exposure. We discuss 3D modelling that helps to link both to the original architectural drawings and to the broader narratives for understanding changes to the design of the building during its working life. We also contextualise its place within the historic environment relative to the Principal Building – the original Curzon Street terminus for the London and Birmingham Railway, the Eagle and Tun public house and the former Park Street Cemetery. As HS2 embarks upon the post-excavation phase, we also discuss the potential that recent investment from the Arts and Humanities Research Council in 'Capabilities for Human Bioarchaeology and Digital Collections' offers, building upon our pioneering 3D work at the object scale with 'Digitised Diseases', to bring within reach the potential for high throughput digital capture. This streamlines high fidelity 3D capture for key human bioarchaeology exemplars as legacy assets that would otherwise be lost to future study as they are destined for reburial.

Using of modern technologies for visualization of cultural heritage

This paper explores the historical evolution and contemporary applications of photogrammetry and laser scanning in cultural heritage preservation, focusing on the restoration of the Shush synagogue in Iraqi Kurdistan. It traces the development of documentation techniques, highlighting photogrammetry's pivotal role and the impact of the digital revolution. The case study of Project Shush illustrates the practical use of geomatics techniques, advanced 3D modeling, and collaboration with NGOs and authorities. The methodology outlines the use of technologies like terrestrial laser scanners (BLK360, Zeb-Revo) and UAVs, emphasizing their mobility and accuracy. Results detail the project stages, showcasing the creation of a detailed 3D model and the use of Unreal Engine for visualization. The conclusion emphasizes the importance of 3D documentation in cultural heritage and celebrates the success of the Shush synagogue restoration as a testament to technological advancements in preservation. Our research has shown that the joining of different 3D object documentation technologies significantly improves the quality and speeds up the workflow. Comparison of partial point clouds in software Cloudcompare on a case study of a smaller historic building showed differences in the internal structure in centimeters, while for the external parts that were covered with vegetation the differences reached up to decimeters.

New Dimensions in Conservation Imaging: Combining Photogrammetry and Photometric Stereo for 3D Documentation of Heritage Artefacts

With the increasing ubiquity of digital media engagement it is worth considering how heritage artefact digitisation can evolve and adapt. Twenty-first century computing developments bring low-cost three-dimensional (3D) imaging into reach, creating opportunities for cultural materials conservators to implement efficient and comprehensive new avenues in non-contact documentation and engagement. This research presents a workflow for combining efficient photometric stereo capture workflows with structure-from-motion photogrammetry for comprehensive modelling of high- and low-frequency artefact geometry and surface texture. Presenting a range of potential applications in conservation, the excellent topographic mapping of planar surfaces brings granular accuracy and unparalleled detail to condition documentation and digital reproduction of flat objects with finely textured surfaces, such as paintings or printing plates.

Photogrammetry for the analysis of plaster technology and ancient painting techniques: A case study on painted plasters from Amarna, Egypt

This paper explores the potential of photogrammetry for the analysis of painted plaster from Amarna, Egypt. The proposed method is applied to two different forms of painted plaster – gypsum floor plaster, and gypsum and mud wall plaster from Amarna in Egypt. The method proposes that the 3D documentation of painted plasters can be used as a non-invasive analytical tool, specifically for studying the stratigraphic structure of plaster layers. Furthermore, the presence of al secco painting techniques is clearly identified, suggesting this method can be implemented for non-destructive analyses and identification of al secco and al fresco painting techniques on plaster, prior to further, more invasive analyses.

3D Indoor Crime Scene Reconstruction from Micro UAV Photogrammetry Technique

The application of micro Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in photogrammetry, particularly within the realm of forensic investigation represents a relatively novel approach and has gained increased attention. By measuring the distances and positions of the scene’s components, it is feasible to document and visualize the scene using the photographs that were taken for the purpose of assisting investigators. Capturing accurate crime scene data within a short time frame is always a challenge. Conventionally, photographs were used to document the scene, but the technical qualities of the photographs depended on the skill of the present forensic personnel. The use of 3-Dimensional (3D) photogrammetry enables the production of highly realistic and detailed 3D documentation of a given scene. As this technique involves capturing a series of photographs, it can be a time-consuming process. Therefore, this study aims to explore an alternative approach that enables the rapid acquisition of the scene while preserving the intricate details, thus ensuring efficiency without compromising the accuracy of the resulting documentation. The study employs a methodological approach wherein data are collected from a simulated crime scene situated within a confined and hard-to-reach area. The data collection is facilitated through the utilization of micro UAVs. The acquired data are then processed utilizing photogrammetry software, leading to the generation of a 3D model point cloud. The collected data will be subjected to a comparative analysis with data generated using a Terrestrial Laser Scanner (TLS) as a reference, alongside Vernier Calliper (VC) measurements. The findings indicate that the Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) of the integrated point clouds from TLS and micro UAVs compared to the conventional method is approximately ±0.217 cm. It can be deduced that the integration of data derived from micro UAVs and TLS in forensic photogrammetry within a confined crime scene is viable and yields a high-precision 3D model point cloud.

3D Modelling of Sanggrahan Temple Using UAV Imagery and Terrestrial Photogrammetry Method

As evidence of ancient Majapahit civilization existence, Sanggrahan Temple has been officially recognized as a cultural heritage building by Indonesian government in 2019. Sanggrahan temple is located in Boyolangu District, Tulungagung Regency, East Java. Conservation efforts in Sanggrahan temple have been done by BPK Wilayah XI Jawa Timur. Many parts of the temple have been damaged and are believed in different condition from its past original design. Therefore, a 3D documentation of Sanggrahan Temple needs to be carried out to provide sufficient data for future conservation efforts. The photogrammetry method which utilizes UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) and terrestrial imagery offers great efficiency in terms of fieldwork and cost. The technique applied close range photogrammetry for image-acquisition and Structure from Motion (SfM) processing. There are roughly 500 images captured for 3D modelling purposes. For georeferencing and geometric accuracy assessment, the Ground Control Point measurement was also carried out using GPS receiver and total station. The result show that the combination of aerial (UAV) and terrestrial images provide complete 3D model. The generated 3D model can provide architectural views of the temple from all sides which help architects and archaeologists to interpret architectural design and detail of the building. Accuracy assessment based on the coordinate measurement shows that the 3D model results meet the specified accuracy standard of 10 cm which is suitable for many architectural drawing applications.

A Digital Approach to Revisiting the Byzantine Past of Al-Madrassa Al-Halawiyya in Aleppo

The architectural complex of the al-Madrasa al-Halawiyya in Aleppo, Syria, remains one of the most remarkable monuments in the centuries-old city. First founded as the Church of St. Helen in the 6th century to serve as the Cathedral of Byzantine Aleppo, the structure preserves evidence of a complicated building history. For example, the Cathedral was converted into a mosque in 1124; later, parts of the church were integrated into a Madrassa. More recently, damage to the structure due to the war revealed information about Byzantine building methods. This research revisits the building history of the monument by relying on a parametric, Building Information Modelling (BIM) representation to compare the surviving structure with earlier reconstructions. This article addresses the following: (1) A survey of the building's history, topography, and architecture: Over the centuries, al-Madrasa al-Halawiyya has attracted Medieval monks, travellers, brigands, scholars, and more. Their accounts offer exciting opportunities to contextualise structural and functional changes to the complex. (2) An analysis of the historical structure, especially from the Byzantine period: The presented three-dimensional (3D) documentation of the site focused on historical transformations, which the authors then traced and compared by means of BIM to reconstructions proposed by Samuel Guyer (1911) and Michel Écochard (1950). This research demonstrates how a hybrid methodology can be used to establish building phases for comparison with historical and scholarly accounts, revealing new knowledge about building techniques and processes. The presented work started with a field survey of the monument, which was used to generate a hybrid 3D point cloud. Using the point cloud, the Byzantine church was virtually reconstructed and several construction phases were identified. At the same time, Heritage-BIM models were created based on the work of Guyer and Écochard. Finally, the Guyer and Écochard models were compared with the proposed Byzantine reconstruction and point cloud.

A Multimodal Research Approach to Assessing the Karst Structural Conditions of the Ceiling of a Cave with Palaeolithic Cave Art Paintings: Polychrome Hall at Altamira Cave (Spain).

Integrating geomatics remote sensing technologies, including 3D terrestrial laser scanning, unmanned aerial vehicles, and ground penetrating radar enables the generation of comprehensive 2D, 2.5D, and 3D documentation for caves and their surroundings. This study focuses on the Altamira Cave's karst system in Spain, resulting in a thorough 3D mapping encompassing both cave interior and exterior topography along with significant discontinuities and karst features in the vicinity. Crucially, GPR mapping confirms that primary vertical discontinuities extend from the near-surface (Upper Layer) to the base of the Polychrome layer housing prehistoric paintings. This discovery signifies direct interconnections helping with fluid exchange between the cave's interior and exterior, a groundbreaking revelation. Such fluid movement has profound implications for site conservation. The utilization of various GPR antennas corroborates the initial hypothesis regarding fluid exchanges and provides concrete proof of their occurrence. This study underscores the indispensability of integrated 3D mapping and GPR techniques for monitoring fluid dynamics within the cave. These tools are vital for safeguarding Altamira, a site of exceptional significance due to its invaluable prehistoric cave paintings.

The Frinco Castle: From an Integrated Survey to 3D Modelling and a Stratigraphic Analysis for Helping Knowledge and Reconstruction

The Frinco Castle (AT-Italy) was the focus of a critical requalification and restoration project and historical knowledge. The initial medieval nucleus was modified and enriched by other architectural parts giving the current shape over the centuries. These additions gave the castle its actual internal and external complexity and an extreme structural fragility: in 2014, a significant portion collapsed. The main objective of this work was to obtain 3D metric documentation and a historical interpretation of the castle for reconstruction and fruition purposes. The local administration has planned knowledge processes from 2021: an integrated 3D geodetic survey of the entire castle and stratigraphic investigations of masonries. Both surveys were essential for understanding the architectural composition as well as the historical evolution of the court. NURBS modelling and a stratigraphic analysis of masonries allowed for the implementation of 3D immersion related to the historical interpretation. Furthermore, this modelling choice was essential for virtually reconstructing the collapsed area and helping the restoration phase.

A consistent methodology for forensic photogrammetry scanning of human remains using a single handheld DSLR camera.

Close-range photogrammetry is an easy, fast, and cheap way to acquire 3D models of human remains of forensic importance.A carefully composed, tested, and systematic photographing procedure has a key role and can greatly increase the quality of photogrammetry models.A photogrammetry-based 3D-digitalization technique could be developed and adopted as part of the daily routine during autopsies.Photogrammetry-based 3D models are much quicker to acquire, look more photorealistic, and are almost as accurate as certain laser scanner-based models.

Towards a Mobile 3D Documentation Solution. Video-Based Photogrammetry and iPhone 12 Pro as Fieldwork Documentation Tools

Towards a Mobile 3D Documentation Solution. Video-Based Photogrammetry and iPhone 12 Pro as Fieldwork Documentation Tools

3D Heterogeneous Database for Structural Analysis of Historic Buildings. A Discussion on Process Pipelines

This paper presents a methodology for creating a comprehensive heterogeneous 3D database for the structural evaluation of a historic building by using both non-destructive and destructive surveys combined with historical information. The availability of adequate data on the actual conditions is crucial when assessing the seismic vulnerability and structural behavior of a historic building and validating the results. A reliable 3D database must accept different kinds of data, e.g., the results of destructive/non-destructive surveys, historical information, etc. It must also be interrogated and enriched at any time. Therefore, creating such a 3D database may present several challenges in terms of data-gathering pipeline, comprehensiveness/redundancy, interpretation, organization, and integration with other heterogeneous data. The methodology we present in this paper includes 3D laser scanning, thermal imaging, and endoscopy combined with information regarding the state of conservation, construction history, materials, and techniques. We tested such methodology to create a database that was later used for Finite Element Modeling (FEM) to assess the seismic vulnerability of Diotti Palace, a neoclassical building that has been the seat of the Prefect of Milan since 1859. The results are analytically presented here. In conclusion, we highlight the pros and cons of the proposed methodology by means of a comparative discussion with the state of the art about 3D documentation pipelines for historic buildings and sites.

Automatic Creation of 3D Documentation in CAD/BIM Based on Topology

This paper deals with reverse engineering, namely the as-built documentation of actual construction. The input is data measured in the field using geodetic methods. In addition to modern methods of surveying 3D objects, such as laser scanning, it is still necessary to use classic surveying using a total station. The bottleneck of the process is the creation of documentation of the construction, which is still created manually in the appropriate CAD/BIM software. The goal of this research was to find a method that would reduce the amount of manual work when drawing documentation in CAD/BIM to a minimum. The core of the solution is the use of a topology that interconnects the points measured in-field. The entire procedure has two parts: (1) creating a topological drawing template in a suitable CAD/GIS software (digital sketch) and (2) adding geometry to this sketch and creating a drawing using topological codes. This method was verified in practice by applying it to several specific buildings in the Czech Republic. The practical application of the method demonstrated 30% time savings and a reduction in work and error rate in the entire process.

Multiscale 3D Documentation of the Medieval Wall of Jaén (Spain) Based on Multi-Sensor Data Fusion

The medieval wall of Jaén is a historical monument that has suffered from the apathy of institutions in recent years, causing its calamitous current status. This study focuses on the previous geomatic tasks developed to obtain a 3D documentation of this site in order to manage future restoration works. The methodology included the integration of data obtained using several geomatic techniques, such as LiDAR and photogrammetry at three scale levels, from the general to the particular. Therefore, data fusion is the main aspect of this methodology, developed in an attempt to take advantage of the benefits of each technique. The application demonstrated the feasibility of using the methodology in order to obtain a complete documentation, including 3D models, orthoimages and DEMs, at several scales with different resolutions and point densities. In addition, we also considered the accuracy of data and products with respect to the project requirements. Another aspect to highlight is the reduction in acquisition time by minimizing the necessity of conducting classic surveying to obtain georeference data. The results show reliable products for supporting restoration tasks and allowing the development of a BIM application to manage them, but also for the dissemination of knowledge regarding this unknown monument.

Methodology for the measurement and 3D modelling of cultural heritage: a case study of the Monument to the Polish Diaspora Bond with the Homeland

Abstract The documentation of cultural heritage objects requires a special approach, as does the collection of materials describing a monument over a period of time. With the development of measurement and information technologies, such documentation can be supplemented by a digital model of the object, a 3D visualization in a computer environment, or a miniature, scaled 3D printout. This paper presents a methodology for developing the 3D documentation of the Monument to the Polish Diaspora Bond with the Homeland, a sculpture located in Koszalin, Poland. In the study, terrestrial laser scanning supplemented with photos was used for non-invasive measurements, and existing free software was used to generate a 3D model. The results of the study can supplement the technical documentation of an object so as to preserve its characteristic features and ease the conservation of monuments. The proposed approach to modelling 3D monuments can be used to create HBIM documentation.

Strategy for HBIM implementation using high-resolution 3D architectural documentation based on laser scanning and photogrammetry of the José de Alencar theatre

Cultural heritage (CH) relevant importance to society leads to the need for historical, architectural, historical, and structural documentation. Such documents are necessary for the effective conservation and restoration of heritage buildings. Digitalization and documentation have been challenging and multidisciplinary topics for cultural heritage (CH) involving new technologies for information capture. 3D architectural documentation of existing heritage buildings is possible due to digital survey technologies joined with BIM methodology. The José de Alencar Theatre was surveyed with an integrated approach using a laser scanner and photogrammetry. BIM methodology based on digital scanning and image-based data was applied to generate a 3D model and extensive BIM library. The results indicate that a reliable BIM model of the José de Alencar theatre can be done, generating useful documentation and information on the historical construction based on the laser scanner and photogrammetry data with architectural geometry well-detailed.

Application of photogrammetry and laser scanner on the Bronze Age structures of the Castillejos de Luna cist tomb necropolis (Pizarra, Spain)

The cist tombs necropolis at Castillejos de Luna, in Sierra de Gibralmora-Sierra del Hacho (Pizarra, Málaga, Spain) was known from the graphic documentation and the grave goods of two tombs. New studies have documented nine burials. The aim of this article is to present the new virtualisation work that has been carried out in the necropolis, to generate a new three-dimensional (3D) documentation of the currently known records, which are in acceptable visibility conditions. Using tools to document tombs in 3D offers us great advances in data acquisition and editing, with great precision and realism, thanks to the 3D models generated through techniques such as photogrammetry or laser scanning. Thanks to these tools, it is possible to carry out studies on digital twins and use them as informative material for society. The study this paper describes has generated high quality products for dissemination and future analysis. The results shown here are of metric character, with orientation and geographical location of the structures. In addition, in one of the tombs the authors show the combination of photogrammetric techniques with laser scanners to obtain a single high-resolution 3D model; subsequently a retopology process is carried out to achieve a "light" model with a photorealistic appearance that is both easily manipulated on mobile devices for its dissemination and a guarantee that the general public can enjoy this necropolis in a different way. The preliminary results are published in the web repository of 3D models Sketchfab, where the users can see a preview of one of the tombs before and after being optimised with retopology through Blender. The authors provide a socio-historical analysis of Bronze Age necropolises in central Andalusia, within the framework of a debate on the western expansion of the El Argar Culture.

NERF FOR HERITAGE 3D RECONSTRUCTION

Abstract. Conventional or learning-based 3D reconstruction methods from images have clearly shown their potential for 3D heritage documentation. Nevertheless, Neural Radiance Field (NeRF) approaches are recently revolutionising the way a scene can be rendered or reconstructed in 3D from a set of oriented images. Therefore the paper wants to review some of the last NeRF methods applied to various cultural heritage datasets collected with smartphone videos, touristic approaches or reflex cameras. Firstly several NeRF methods are evaluated. It turned out that Instant-NGP and Nerfacto methods achieved the best outcomes, outperforming all other methods significantly. Successively qualitative and quantitative analyses are performed on various datasets, revealing the good performances of NeRF methods, in particular for areas with uniform texture or shining surfaces, as well as for small datasets of lost artefacts. This is for sure opening new frontiers for 3D documentation, visualization and communication purposes of digital heritage.

PRODUCTION OF DIGITAL CONTENT (3D ASSET) SOURCE RESOURCES FOR CULTURAL HERITAGE

Abstract. In Korea, several 3D digital documentation projects have been carried out to preserve cultural heritage, but limitations in high-capacity/high-quality data have hindered their use in virtual restoration. To address this, organizations have produced low-capacity, high-quality 3D assets since 2020, but disseminating 3D assets with metadata containing cultural heritage information is important to reduce errors in historical research during virtual restoration. To overcome this problem, the Cultural Heritage Administration of Korea initiated the ‘Cultural Heritage Digital Content (3D Asset) Source Resource Production’ project in 2022. The project aims to convey and share the value of cultural heritage through 3D assets, which are complex due to the artistic values of units that must be contextually connected. Spatial and asset characteristics were classified into six categories of cultural heritage 3D assets, with the goal of turning tangible and intangible cultural heritage into 3D assets for comprehensive utilization. The cultural heritage digital source resources are a valuable resource for the creative industry.