From UAV survey to 3D printing, geomatics techniques for the enhancement of small village cultural heritage

Abstract

Italy is rich in cultural heritage villages and places of interest. This work illustrates the methodology utilized by the Geomatics Laboratory (DICEAM of the Mediterranean University of Reggio Calabria) to create a archaeological structures’ 3D model. 3D modeling is based on the utilization of imaging techniques, such as computer vision and digital photogrammetry. The outcomes obtained determine the value of the technique used in the field of cultural heritage to create a digital models and to replicate them through 3d printing. Furthermore, in the renewed interest in the context of the studies of ancient villages, the implementation of open GIS represents a new method to amplify the number of visitors to the villages despite concerns about returns on investments. In fact, the use of 3D acquisition and modeling tools to enhance the Cultural Heritage represents one of the study’s areas in quickly development in the near future.