Documentation Of Cultural Heritage Research Articles

Web-GIS approach to preventive conservation of heritage buildings

The effective implementation of preventive conservation approaches demands the employment of standardized and robust tools able to integrate the data coming from multiple sources, inspection and diagnosis techniques, as well as to ensure the proper information transfer between expert and non-expert users. Aiming to make a step forward in the state of the art of current conservation approaches, a cutting edge Web-GIS technology resorting to the intuitiveness of 360° panoramas and 3D point clouds in combination with the Internet of Things is presented in this work, demonstrating how physical and digital worlds can be linked for proper documentation and management of cultural heritage. To validate such a pioneering approach, one of the most representative and complex heritage buildings of Spain is used as a case study: the General Historical Library of Salamanca.

Low-cost 3D scanning systems for cultural heritage documentation

PurposeDigital documentation techniques of tunneling excavations at archaeological sites are becoming more common. These methods, such as photogrammetry and LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), are able to create precise three-dimensional models of excavations to complement traditional forms of documentation with millimeter to centimeter accuracy. However, these techniques require either expensive pieces of equipment or a long processing time that can be prohibitive during short field seasons in remote areas. This article aims to determine the effectiveness of various low-cost sensors and real-time algorithms to create digital scans of archaeological excavations.Design/methodology/approachThe authors used a class of algorithms called SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) along with depth-sensing cameras. While these algorithms have largely improved over recent years, the accuracy of the results still depends on the scanning conditions. The authors developed a prototype of a scanning device and collected 3D data at a Maya archaeological site and refined the instrument in a system of natural caves. This article presents an analysis of the resulting 3D models to determine the effectiveness of the various sensors and algorithms employed.FindingsWhile not as accurate as commercial LiDAR systems, the prototype presented, employing a time-of-flight depth sensor and using a feature-based SLAM algorithm, is a rapid and effective way to document archaeological contexts at a fraction of the cost.Practical implicationsThe proposed system is easy to deploy, provides real-time results and would be particularly useful in salvage operations as well as in high-risk areas where cultural heritage is threatened.Originality/valueThis article compares many different low-cost scanning solutions for underground excavations, along with presenting a prototype that can be easily replicated for documentation purposes.

Enhancing Image-Based Multiscale Heritage Recording with Near-Infrared Data

Passive sensors, operating in the visible (VIS) spectrum, have widely been used towards the trans-disciplinary documentation, understanding, and protection of tangible cultural heritage (CH). Although, many heritage science fields benefit significantly from additional information that can be acquired in the near-infrared (NIR) spectrum. NIR imagery, captured for heritage applications, has been mostly investigated with two-dimensional (2D) approaches or by 2D-to-three-dimensional (3D) integrations following complicated techniques, including expensive imaging sensors and setups. The availability of high-resolution digital modified cameras and software implementations of Structure-from-Motion (SfM) and Multiple-View-Stereo (MVS) algorithms, has made the production of models with spectral textures more feasible than ever. In this research, a short review of image-based 3D modeling with NIR data is attempted. The authors aim to investigate the use of near-infrared imagery from relatively low-cost modified sensors for heritage digitization, alongside the usefulness of spectral textures produced, oriented towards heritage science. Therefore, thorough experimentation and assessment with different software are conducted and presented, utilizing NIR imagery and SfM/MVS methods. Dense 3D point clouds and textured meshes have been produced and evaluated for their metric validity and radiometric quality, comparing to results produced from VIS imagery. The datasets employed come from heritage assets of different dimensions, from an archaeological site to a medium-sized artwork, to evaluate implementation on different levels of accuracy and specifications of texture resolution.

Digital Cultural Heritage and Linked Data: Semantically-informed conceptualisations and practices with a focus on intangible cultural heritage

The emerging field of Linked Data for Digital Cultural Heritage presents new challenges and possibilities for memory institutions and the way they model their digital collections for open access. The essay reviews current semantically-informed practices and conceptualisations, standards and applied frameworks on this topic, with a focus on Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH). In particular, the essay identifies and reviews the scope of applied frameworks for a semantically informed digital documentation of intangible cultural heritage by memory institutions, a topic with limited contributions in academic literature so far. The essay starts with an overview of the current digital transformation in the GLAM sector. Following a data centered approach, it analyses conceptual models of linked data in connection to digital heritage. It further reviews the working models and metadata schemas of linked data in particular for Intangible Cultural Heritage including innovative examples and finally, discusses challenges and new concepts for future research on the topic.

Implementation of ultra-light UAV systems for cultural heritage documentation

Abstract New technologies, such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and terrestrial laser scanning systems, provide opportunities for the digital documentation of cultural heritage. Although ultra-light drones (ULDs) are usually used for recreational activities, in this study, we examined their ability for use in digital documentation. We investigated the efficiency of an ULD for documentation of a selected historical building. In this study, the structure from motion (SfM) method was used to create three-dimensional point cloud data of a historical building using ULD and a low-cost UAV. The resulting point clouds were compared with terrestrial laser scanner data. The maximum standard deviations were calculated as 0.62 cm and 1.87 cm for low-cost UAV and ULD, respectively. The results show that ULDs can be used under suitable circumstances as a low-cost alternative for cultural heritage documentation.

Dominant Color Extraction with K-Means for Camera Characterization in Cultural Heritage Documentation

The camera characterization procedure has been recognized as a convenient methodology to correct color recordings in cultural heritage documentation and preservation tasks. Instead of using a whole color checker as a training sample set, in this paper, we introduce a novel framework named the Patch Adaptive Selection with K-Means (P-ASK) to extract a subset of dominant colors from a digital image and automatically identify their corresponding chips in the color chart used as characterizing colorimetric reference. We tested the methodology on a set of rock art painting images captured with a number of digital cameras. The characterization approach based on the P-ASK framework allows the reduction of the training sample size and a better color adjustment to the chromatic range of the input scene. In addition, the computing time required for model training is less than in the regular approach with all color chips, and obtained average color differences Δ E a b * lower than two CIELAB units. Furthermore, the graphic and numeric results obtained for the characterized images are encouraging and confirms that the P-ASK framework based on the K-means algorithm is suitable for automatic patch selection for camera characterization purposes.

The Importance of Cultural Heritage Conservation in Society: A Review and Prospect for Future Cities, with Bandar Lampung as Cased Study

This paper introduces the special feature of cultural heritage documentation; conservation and society entitled “The Importance of Cultural Heritage Conservation in Society”. The Netherlands Indies Government developed a cultural heritage in 1778 after establishment of Bataviaasch Genootschapvan Kunsten en Wetenschappen and De Outdheidkundige Diest at 1913 – 1928 in Lampung Region. Cultural heritage draw from a theory based in living system, developing strategies both for adopting impact and mitigation those threats by sustaining building and natural environment. Cities like Bandar Lampung are high complex living organism and are subjects to continue transformation produced by the requirement that vary from multi-ethnic of community, the political, economical, cultural and above all changing climate factored. All of factors are able to maintain normative developmental task that occur at various stage of live in the future. However, the preliminary problem of developing future cities in Bandar Lampung is related to existing social condition of modern society, which threatens the existence of local social community. We must prevent the loss of cultural heritage, through conservation and coordination of counterterrorism. To overcome this shortage, we need understanding factors affecting issue, including neighbourhood characteristic such as socio economic factor, residential pattern, social value, and stressful life events and insufficient resources. This paper investigate paradigm the role of cultural heritage conservation in society and become an important approach in develop innovation in both architecture and urban design. With present paper we aim to increase the awareness of learning cultural diversity form cultural heritage conservation and re interpreting them in establishment of urban system strategies for future cities.

Review of Methods for Documentation, Management, and Sustainability of Cultural Heritage. Case Study: Museum of King Jan III’s Palace at Wilanów

All countries around the world are blessed with particularly rich cultural heritage. Nowadays, many researchers are exploring different methods for documentation, management, and sustainability of cultural heritage. The aim of this article is to review the state-of-the-art documentation, management, and sustainability techniques in the field of cultural heritage based on the case study in the Museum of King Jan III’s Palace at Wilanów. Various 2D/3D image and range-based methods are discussed demonstrating their applications and drawbacks. The geographical information system (GIS) is presented as a method for management, storage, and maintenance of cultural heritage documentation.

Case Studies on the Use of UAV’s for Documentation of Cultural Heritage

Abstract In material cultural heritage documentation, the use of measurement methods, i.e. photogrammetry and laser scanning, is becoming more and more common. The increasing availability of hardware and software allows to create the photorealistic models of objects documenting the heritage and the state of its preservation. The virtual object model can carry information about the dimensions, shape, color and texture of the documented object and it can be the basis for the documentation of the archaeological site, architectural and construction inventory, architectural and conservation studies and monitoring the condition of the object. In the paper presented an overview of the most important measurement techniques and methods for acquiring spatial data used in the documentation of monuments, with particular reference to photogrammetric documentation generated on the basis of data obtained from photographs made with the use of UAV. The heritage documentation presented in the paper were created using the Agisoft Photoscan software. The use of geographic information systems in storing, analyzing and sharing information about monuments was also discussed.

3D LOW-COST ACQUISITION FOR THE KNOWLEDGE OF CULTURAL HERITAGE: THE CASE STUDY OF THE BUST OF SAN NICOLA DA TOLENTINO

Abstract. The creation of three-dimensional models for the cataloguing and documentation of cultural heritage is today an emerging need in the cultural sphere and, above all, for museums. The cultural heritage is still catalogued and documented based on descriptive files assorted of photographic images which, however, fail to outline its spatial richness, possible only through the use of 3D artefacts. The essay aims to propose a methodology of digitalization by low-cost and easy-to-use systems, to be employed even by non-expert survey and photogrammetry’s operators. The case study of the statue of San Nicola da Tolentino, preserved at the Sant’Agostino complex in Bergamo, offered the possibility of a comparison between 3D models acquired with different digitalization tools (professional/action/amateur cameras and smartphone) and processed by several image-based 3D Reconstruction software and methods.

ULTRA LIGHT UAV SYSTEMS FOR THE METRICAL DOCUMENTATION OF CULTURAL HERITAGE: APPLICATIONS FOR ARCHITECTURE AND ARCHAEOLOGY

Abstract. The Italian legislation on Remote Pilot Aircraft Systems (SAPR: Sistema Areomobile a Pilotaggio Remoto), as in 2012, regulates the use of drones in controlled and uncontrolled airspace. In 2016, the regulation introduced simplified procedures for the use of ultra-light drones. These instruments are particularly widespread in the field of Cultural Heritage survey. In fact, according to the Italian regulations currently in force it is possible to pilot a drone of less than 300 grams without the need of a flight license and without a specific training course and medical examination and it is not required a special permit to fly in populates areas (although without flying over groups of people). Another possible explanation is the limited cost of these aircrafts and their easy availability on the market, both on the shelves of all electronic shops and in online stores.Following the boom of drones under 300 g, and considering the new European regulations also pay particular attention to a similar segment of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) (in the future for aircraft under 250 g), it is important to evaluate the results that can be obtained through these small instruments and above all to evaluate which are the fields of application compatible with the technical limitations imposed by the need to lighten the components onboard (think in particular of the sensors of digital cameras).The purpose of the study is linked to the documentation of Cultural Heritage, in particular, we want to investigate the quality and metric reliability of photogrammetric surveys carried out through ultra-light drone images. Some application of UAV photogrammetry by ultra-light drones are showed in this paper and they deal with archaeological and architectural survey.

Importance of digitization and integration of paper-based documentation in museums

Purpose: This paper aims to investigate the importance of museum documentation in paper form, which includes various types of documentation related to museum objects, and to explore its position and role in the context of comprehensive documentation of cultural heritage. The next objective is to understand the attitudes of the curators towards paper-based documentation and to provide insight into existing practices and the needs of the curator regarding paper-based documentation. The purpose of the research is to examine the adequate forms of its integration into the documentation system in terms of adherence to the principle of continuity of museum documentation and to explore the possibilities of speeding up and improving the process of computer-based registration and cataloguing of museum material through the digitization of paper-based documentation.Methodology/approach: This paper will provide a theoretical and legislative framework related to preserving the continuity of museum documentation. A blueprint for future empirical research, which will be conducted in two stages, will be presented. In the first phase, an exploratory qualitative research method (focus group) will be applied. In the second phase, a quantitative methodology (survey) will be implemented. The survey method will test research questions on a larger sample of curators so that the results can be generalised to the curator population in Croatia.Results: A relevant theoretical framework and literature review are provided, as well as examples of digitization and integration of paper-based documentation at the Zagreb City Museum. The plan of the empirical research is presented in detail.Research limitations: As the topic is under-researched, exploratory research will identify key thematic units and issues for quantitative research.Originality/practical implications: The originality of the paper is reflected in the fact that this is the first time that the role of paper-based documentation has been explored in detail. The applicability of the research is high because it can be replicated in other countries or in an international context. Thus, it can provide valuable guidance in determining priorities related to digitization of old documentation and its integration into museum information systems. This paper explores and elaborates on the benefits of digitizing old documentation to increase the level of computer-based cataloguing, that is, reduce documentation backlogs and establish the continuity of museum documentation.

Digital Tools for Documentation and Analysis of Vernacular Cultural Heritage in Indian City Centers

ABSTRACT The vernacular historic cities can be defined as an ensemble of local needs and construction materials-based architectures which reflects local traditions and cultures. Very often adaptive processes for sustaining settlements such as the vernacular ones are based on both sustainable resources and cultural practices. This set of indigenous, ecological, biological, and cultural characteristics make vernacular historic cities valuable place for the valorization of local cultures and intangible heritage. Nowadays, dealing with the challenging task of heritage preservation in emerging countries, technologies are very often economically uncompetitive if used without the right methodology and a proper use. This study highlights the application of digital technologies for the documentation of historic city centers in fragile contexts such as global south countries by a deep case studies analysis of the Indian old cities of Ahmedabad and Jodhpur. The main aim of the research was to evaluate accuracy requirement and assess digital tools for heritage preservation end enhancement. By means of affordable use of digital technologies, the research stressed the existence of a strong relation between sustainable economy development and cultural heritage preservation even through capacity building activities carried out on field.

An overview of remote sensing deliverables for rock art research

Archaeology has a long history of appropriating methods from other disciplines. Remote sensing techniques are an underexploited resource that have the potential to advance the study of rock art by improving visualization and analysis, and automating tasks such as detection and tracing. Remote sensing involves acquiring data from an object without making physical contact. Usually it describes data obtained from satellites or aircraft from a distance, but that is a limited definition. Remote sensing is not simply about the distance data is collected from, but it is the process of recording, measuring, and analyzing images and electromagnetic radiant energy (Ebert, 1984). Techniques that are used in satellite imaging can be used on a microscale to record, enhance, and analyze rock art. Documenting cultural heritage gives it meaning, develops understanding, allows it to be defined, and allows for recognition of its value (Haddad, 2011). Recently, there have been good resources for digital documentation of cultural heritage such as artifacts, architectural structures, boats, and manuscripts. (Bassier et al., 2018; Bentkowska-Kafel and MacDonald, 2018; Pavlidis et al., 2007). The aim of this paper is to explore the applications of remote sensing, particularly 3D modelling, that specifically benefit rock art research. Bassier et al. (2018) identified a gap between data gathered and useful end-products in digital cultural heritage documentation. The problem is exacerbated by the exclusivity of proprietary software and technical knowledge. A collaborative study between Intersect and the University of Sydney found that researchers need better support, training and services for the use of digital technologies for data management in research (Intersect, 2009). When the cost of producing data is being considered, the potential of data and the optimization of returns should be cogitated (Haubt and Jalandoni, 2019). Raw data should be recycled into as many useful products as possible. Therefore, this paper addresses the need for clear workflows to turn raw data in to useful products for rock art research. The emphasis is on accessible remote sensing deliverables derived from 3D models of rock art using examples from Australia, the Philippines, and Micronesia. There are undoubtedly other remote sensing techniques not mentioned here, however, the intention of this paper is not to be comprehensive but to serve as an introduction to the ways archaeologists can add value to their 3D models in rock art research.

A Gaussian Process Model for Color Camera Characterization: Assessment in Outdoor Levantine Rock Art Scenes.

In this paper, we propose a novel approach to undertake the colorimetric camera characterization procedure based on a Gaussian process (GP). GPs are powerful and flexible nonparametric models for multivariate nonlinear functions. To validate the GP model, we compare the results achieved with a second-order polynomial model, which is the most widely used regression model for characterization purposes. We applied the methodology on a set of raw images of rock art scenes collected with two different Single Lens Reflex (SLR) cameras. A leave-one-out cross-validation (LOOCV) procedure was used to assess the predictive performance of the models in terms of CIE XYZ residuals and color differences. Values of less than 3 CIELAB units were achieved for . The output sRGB characterized images show that both regression models are suitable for practical applications in cultural heritage documentation. However, the results show that colorimetric characterization based on the Gaussian process provides significantly better results, with lower values for residuals and . We also analyzed the induced noise into the output image after applying the camera characterization. As the noise depends on the specific camera, proper camera selection is essential for the photogrammetric work.

Towards a SLAM-based augmented reality application for the 3D annotation of rock art

The digital technologies developed in recent decades have considerably enriched the survey and documentation practices in the field of cultural heritage. They now raise new issues and challenges, particularly in the management of multidimensional datasets, which require the development of new methods for the analysis, interpretation and sharing of heterogeneous data. In the case of rock art sites, additional challenges are added to this context, due to their nature and fragility. In many cases, digital data alone is not sufficient to meet contextualization, analysis or traceability needs.
 In this context, we propose to develop an application dedicated to rock art survey, allowing 3D annotation in augmented reality. This work is a part of an ongoing project about an information system dedicated to cultural heritage documentation. For this purpose, we propose a registration method based on a spatial resection calculation. We will also raise the perspectives that this opens up for heritage survey and documentation, in particular in terms of visualization enhancement.

CIPA - Heritage Documentation: 50 Years: Looking Backwards

Abstract. The ICOMOS-ISPRS Scientific Committee, CIPA-Heritage Documentation is proud to present this publication in the occasion of its 50th birthday.Our intention with this publication is to look backwards at the achievements of CIPA while at the same time to look ahead the future of cultural heritage documentation.The publication begins with the introductory messages from the Presidents of CIPA, ISPRS and ICOMOS respectively. The first contribution concerns the future of cultural heritage documentation, with respect to the editor’s perspective. Andreas Georgopoulos, current CIPA President (2015–2019) discusses the CIPA slides on architectural photogrammetry and the application of contemporary technologies from its early years. Peter Waldhäusl, past and honorary President of CIPA, writes on the foundation and fundamentals of CIPA in memory of Maurice Carbonnell (1923–2015) and Hans Foramitti (1923–1982), the so-called “fathers of CIPA”. Ross Dallas, an honorary committee member of CIPA, is looking backwards to the late 80s to share some personal thoughts. Bill Blake also is looking towards the history of CIPA and the English Heritage Metric Survey Publication Programme 2000–2009. The publication concludes with the contribution of Fulvio Rinaudo, concerning two CIPA initiatives, the "O. Wagner Pavillon Test" and the "RecorDIM Initiative".

ALEPPO BEFORE AND AFTER THE WAR 2010–2018

ALEPPO BEFORE AND AFTER THE WAR 2010–2018

CORRECT USE OF COLOR FOR CULTURAL HERITAGE DOCUMENTATION

Abstract. Accurate color recording is a fundamental feature for proper cultural heritage documentation, cataloging and preservation. However, the methodology used in most cases limits the results since it is based either on perceptual procedures or on the application of digital enhancement techniques only. The objective of this study is to apply a rigorous procedure for the characterization of cameras based on a second-order polynomial model. Trichromatic digital cameras capture color information in the well-known RGB format. Nevertheless, the signal generated by the digital camera is device dependent. By means of the characterization, we establish the relationship between device-dependent RGB values and the tristimulus coordinates defined by the CIE standard colorimetric observer. Once the camera is characterized, users obtain output images in the sRGB space that is independent of the sensor of the camera. We applied the methodology on a set of pictures targeting Levantine rock art motifs in Cova Civil (Castellón, Spain) which is considered part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We used raw image files, with different exposure conditions, with raw RGB values captured by the sensor. The outcomes obtained are satisfactory and very promising for proper color documentation in cultural heritage documentation.

ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE RECOGNITION IN HISTORICAL FILM FOOTAGE USING NEURAL NETWORKS

Abstract. Researching historical archives for material suitable for photogrammetry is essential for the documentation and 3D reconstruction of Cultural Heritage, especially when this heritage has been lost or transformed over time. This research presents an innovative workflow which combines the photogrammetric procedure with Machine Learning for the processing of historical film footage. A Neural Network is trained to automatically detect frames in which architectural heritage appears. These frames are subsequently processed using photogrammetry and finally the resulting model is assessed for metric quality. This paper proposes best practises in training and validation on a Cultural Heritage asset. The algorithm was tested through a case study of the Tour Saint Jacques in Paris for which an entirely new dataset was created. The findings are encouraging both in terms of saving human effort and of improvement of the photogrammetric survey pipeline. This new tool can help researchers to better manage and organize historical information.