Laser scanning and photogrammetry are a modern way of creating documentation for the needs of contemporary archaeology. Digital mesh models resulting from 3D scanning capture the exact dimensions and shapes of objects, complemented by a photorealistic textured surface. They can also be used for presentation - visualization, fly-by animation, or interactive museum exhibition. Implementing the models in a virtual and augmented reality offers an attractive and educational form. We always choose the optimal methods regarding the size of the archaeological site or find with regard to the required accuracy.
3D scanning of archaeological artifacts
A detailed digital 3D model of an archaeological artifact or museum exhibit can be essential for its later reconstruction, 3D printing replicas, or for an online virtual tour. All measurement methods used are completely non-invasive, so the object is not exposed to the risk of physical damage. The object for digitization can be of minimal size – when requiring accuracy in extreme detail, the measurement is carried out using an industrial triangulation scanner.
Documentation of historic buildings
Large objects, such as buildings and structures, can be captured using 3D laser scanning. The result is a complex model, recording both the interior and exterior. According to the requirements, we will process a detailed pointcloud or mesh model with photorealistic texturing, 2D drawings for structural and historical survey, orthophoto plans of facades or BIM - Building Information Models. This introduces a new standard for managing an object and monitoring its state over time.
Digital Surface Models
Digital surface models are used mainly in the documentation of excavation work. Due to the speed of laser scanning and photogrammetric capturing, detailed survey can be carried out several times in a row. The measurement can therefore also be used for archaeological systematic research – a 3D model is created for each step of the field uncovering. The measured data can also be used in GIS applications, for example in analyses of historical development of the territory.