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Remote Recording of Archaeological and Architectural Site Features

The 3D modeling of environments or heritage sites is more difficult than object modeling because of the size and complexity involved. We have collaborated with Canadian and international partners on several projects to demonstrate the applications of the Large Volume of View and BIRIS systems for remote archaeological and architectural site recording applications as well as to develop a technique to prepare photo-realistic 3D models of sites by accurate mapping of high-resolution textures recorded by digital photography to 3D models recorded by range cameras.

An accurate 3D site model contains a wealth of information that can be analyzed and enhanced. Features, such as tool marks or surface texture that are small or only visible from a distance can be interactively examined, thus, allowing the study of fine details. To compliment or help plan physical restoration of the site, “virtual restoration” can be applied directly to the digital copy. For example, faded images can be enhanced and architectural elements that have been added over the years can be removed.

Collaborations involving the documentation and digitization of sculpture, tombs, crypts, or architectural site features have included such partners as: the Canadian Museum of Civilization, the Bill Reid Foundation, the Royal British Columbia Museum, the Israel Antiquities Authority; University of Padova; University of Ferrara; University of Lecce; Innovision 3D (now MCG3D); the Canadian Foundation for the Preservation of Chinese Cultural and Historical Treasures; and the State Administration of Cultural Heritage (SACH).

• Fusion of 3D Information for Efficient Modeling of Cultural Heritage Sites with Objects, Italy, 2003-2004
• Carpiniana: A Virtual Representation of the Byzantine Crypt of Santa Cristina, Italy, 2002
• 3D Archaeological Site Recording in The Three Gorges area, China, 1999
• Mythic Messenger by Bill Reid at the Canadian Museum of Civilization, Gatineau, Canada, 1998
• Applications of BIRIS Technology to Heritage, Italy 1997-1998
• 3D Heritage Recording of Archaeological Site Features, Israel, 1996
• Queen’s Gate 3D Digital Imaging on Canadian Parliament Hill, Ottawa, Canada, 1996