3D Laser Scanning for CRM

Three-dimensional (3D) laser scanning is a rapidly developing technology that facilitates a wide range of high resolution and highly accurate spatial mapping. Although it was originally developed for engineering and manufacturing applications as well as for medical research, 3D laser scanning can be easily applied to the documentation and analysis of cultural heritage properties and assets.

In recent years, manufacturers of 3D laser scanning equipment have greatly improved the accuracy, resolution, and speed with which these instruments record data. Coupled with improved scanning methodologies on the part of a growing community of practitioners and recent increases in computing capabilities, 3D laser scanning has become an accepted and widespread form of documentation in the European archaeological community and its popularity is growing within the United States as well. This method of documentation is non-invasive and non-destructive, so it is perfectly suited for sensitive sites and objects where conservation is of the utmost importance. 3D laser scanning is also a very rapid method, allowing even large, complex sites or objects to be documented quickly and with a high degree of accuracy.

Data collected with this method are flexible, and commonly used in a variety of CAD, GIS, and ASCII formats. As these data are spatially accurate, scaled metric data, they lend well to a multitude of analytical methods and documentation formats. Furthermore, these data are easily adaptable for use in multimedia museum exhibits and websites, allowing further opportunities for public education and outreach.

GMI has been directly involved in the adaptation of 3D laser scanning for recording cultural artifacts, site contexts, and buildings since 2000. Geo-Marine has been at the leading edge of this development due to the following factors:

  • The need for efficiency and accuracy in recording complex 3D features, site contexts, and artifacts
  • The need for improving 2D recording techniques
  • The need for developing efficient techniques of archiving and dissemination of data
  • The need for enhancing opportunities for public outreach

GMI views 3D laser scanning technology as a necessary tool in providing cost-effective, quality services and providing data in a format that is of interest to the broader public. Our team has experience in:

  • Close-range, high resolution laser scanning [applicable to artifacts, features, etc.]
  • Long-range laser scanning / High Density Survey (HDS) [applicable to architecture, landscape studies, monuments, etc.]

Increasingly, this once cost-prohibitive technology is becoming available to environmental and cultural resources professionals. A robust complement to GPS and traditional survey data, 3D laser scanning and HDS data sets show promise in documenting even the most complex sites and artifacts. Due to its accuracy, resolution, and simplicity, 3D laser scanning is quickly developing into a powerful resource management and project planning tool.

For more information on the application of 3D laser scanning to archaeology, historic preservation, cultural heritage studies, or cultural resources management, see GMI’s 3D Laser Scanning Projects Portfolio or contact Christopher Goodmaster, 3D Laser Scanning Specialist.