My interest in photogrammetry and laser scanning began in my final year of study at NUA when I began to write my dissertation based on the technologies. The topic I focused on for the dissertation was how our architectural heritage could benefit from the technology and how accessible it currently is for practices to access and use in their work.
First hand experience was key in my dissertation to find out how easily this technology can be utilised in an architectural office. Using only basic free software and my mobile phone as a camera I attempted some photogrammetry with a variety of items. After many failed attempts (some shown at the bottom) I successfully managed to digitally replicate and model some basic items. The first successful item was a simple ball of string as seen below.
An original image of the string used for the photogrammetry process.
A point cloud model produced which can then be further developed into a 3D digital model.
The final rendered model of the string produced in the same software. I was able to export this into other softwares for further editing if necessary.
How can photogrammetry be used in a conservation project?
Once I had successfully produced digital models of various items I decided to take an architectural focus on my next attempt. Below is a boss found in the Norwich Cathedral cloisters and shows the original and the digital model I developed.
This digital model has the potential to be used in the repair or reproduction of the original boss if it were damaged as it could be digitally repaired ready for 3D printing or sent off to a craftsman to replicate.
Below are a few examples of my failed attempts.
The left shows a geometric model constructed from laser cut MDF sheets that I tried to model. This specific object proved difficult to replicate due to the dark colour shades and poor lighting at the time. This proved that the quality of light and object clarity plays a big factor in its final results. The right shows the well known Hull telephone boxes and while the telephone box itself modelled ok, although not brilliant, it showed that windows are difficult to model due to the reflections and sun glare.
I thoroughly enjoyed my research into using these technologies and plan to develop my skills and understanding of them further throughout my career. If you have any questions about my dissertation or the process feel free to contact me here.