Digitizing heritage monuments is a process of spatial data acquisition, geometry modelling and digital archiving. Moreover, there are several survey and digitizing techniques working and developing such as traditional manual methods, topographic methods, photogrammetric methods and scanning methods. The most popular on application and developing is 3D laser scanning technology. Especially for heritage and historical building, the laser scanner is an appropriate tool for the whole process of 3d digitizing.
3D modelling of architectural structures for monitoring, conservation and restoration alterations in heritage sites has special challenges for data acquisition and processing. The accuracy of created 3D model is very important. In general, because of the complexity of the structures, 3D modelling can be time consuming and may include some difficulties.
3D terrestrial laser scanning technique is a reliable and advantageous method for reconstruction and conservation of monuments. This technique is commonly acknowledged due to its accuracy, speed and flexibility. Terrestrial laser scanners can be used for documentation of the cultural heritage for the future. But it is also important to understand the capabilities and right conditions of use and limitations of this technology.
Laser scanning technique is appropriate for:
• Restoration or scientific analysis purposes, for securing protected buildings or for virtual presentations of historical sites that must not be accessed by visitors.
• Complete and detailed documentation of historical structures or excavation sites.
• Thanks to its integrated color camera, photo-realistic 3D images can be created instantly.