3D Scanning Historical sites

3D scans are helping to preserve and document historical sites around the world. Twenty five historical sites have been 3D scanned by CyArk using their digital archaeology techniques which involve laser scans and drones.

The data collected can give multiple opportunities for other media platforms and outlets. Theta can create very immersive tours of the historical sites which create a very unique educational tool. Other uses can be for game designers or CGI designers who use the data to create artificial replicas for their projects. However, the scans are only free for non commercial use.

An example of CyArk’s work is their case study of the Chavin De Huantar, in Peru. The Chavin is located in north central Peruvian highlands at a height of 3,150 feet. The structure is a pre-Hispanic development between 1200 BC to 200 BC.

“A Leica HDS 2500 scanner was used to document all exterior surfaces of the complex and a number of underground gallery segments.”

(JOHN RISTEVSKI,2006)

The data was then used to analyse the depth of parts of the gallery network.

“The Minolta Vivid 910 was used to scan the Lanzon, a 4.5 meter high, elaborately carved stone monolith in addition to a large number of elaborately carved plaques.”

(JOHN RISTEVSKI,2006)

The data will help produce the spatial products needed for developing the overall conservation of the site.

Google has worked with CyArk to create an Open Heritage Project, where the 3D structures can be explored online with a computer or mobile device. This is a great way for modern technology to help preserve history as well as display it to future generations in an interesting and imaginative way.

Bio

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/technology-43797836/google-s-3d-scans-aim-to-preserve-historical-sites

http://www.cyark.org/news/laser-scanning-for-cultural-heritage-applications

https://www.theverge.com/2018/4/16/17241710/google-cyark-partnership-vr-virtual-reality-preserve-historical-sites