Technology

Topics:

• Surveying
• Remote Sensing
• Panoramic Photography
• Laser Scanning
• Kite Photography
• HDR Photography
• HDD Survey
• GPS Surveying
• Digital Video

Surveying

Surveying techniques range from simple manual methods to remote sensing instruments capable of sub-millimeter precision. The choice of survey device depends on the type of information needed and the corresponding degree of accuracy that is required. Manual methods such as chains and tapes can be equally as affective for short distance measurements as more precise techniques. Combined with the use of a clinometer (vertical angle measurement) and compass (horizontal angle), or theodolite (vertical and horizontal) readings, three dimensional coordinate information can be deduced with a reasonable level of accuracy can be obtained.

Total stations provide angle and distance measurement devices within the one instrument, thus enabling the calculation of 3D coordinates without the need for other measurements. Total stations enable distance calculation methods using remote sensing devices typically capable of longer range measurement than manual devices. Traditional survey is often used in conjunction with other forms of surveying and measurement as a source of control.

For more information on the use of this technology in heritage documentation and Digital Preservation, please see the following articles in our Knowledgebase:

Heritage 3D Case Studies
3D Laser Scanning for Heritage Blog
Collection and Archiving of Point Could Data for English Heritage
Caltrans Standards and Specifications

References

• Ozsavasci, A., C. Guney, L. Thys-Senocak, R.N. Celik. The Utility of Geodetic Survey Techniques and Equipments in Architectural Heritage Documentation -- An Assessment of Recent Approaches in Turkey: The Documentation Project of the Ottoman Fortresses of Seddulbahir and Kumkale. 13 March 2006 <http://www.ins.itu.edu.tr/jeodeziabd/kaletakimi/paper%5CCIPAPaperManuscript02.pdf>.
• Tripcevich, N. "Mobile GIS in Archaeological Survey." The SAA Archaeological Record, Vol. 4, No. 3. 2004: 17-22.
• Banning, E.B. Archaeological Survey. Manuals in Archaeological Method and Theory. Plenum, New York: 2002.
• Barber, D., J. Mills and P. Bryan. "Laser Scanning and Photogrammetry: 21st Century Metrology." Proceedings of the Surveying and Documentation of Historic Buildings - Monuments - Sites Traditional and Modern Methods, CIPA 2001 International Symposium, Potsdam (2001).