High-detail geomatic 3D surveying and processing for small-objects robust documentation and investigation in heritage science

Heritage Science lies at the intersection of the humanities and sciences, embracing a multidisciplinary approach to studying and preserving cultural heritage. Integrating fields such as history, archaeology, philology, chemistry, biology, physics, and informatics provides a cohesive framework that deepens the understanding of cultural assets. This interdisciplinary collaboration not only enriches historical and archaeological perspectives but also addresses critical material challenges, advancing methods for the conservation and valorisation of heritage. In recent years, geomatic surveying, especially high-detail 3D surveying, has become essential in Heritage Science while also expanding its application to diverse fields such as medicine and industry. This widespread usage has led to inconsistencies in terminology, methodologies, and theoretical frameworks, which may risk positioning 3D surveying as merely a technical tool rather than as a scientific discipline with intrinsic value. This thesis addresses these challenges by providing a structured and comprehensive examination of the theoretical and practical foundations of high-detail 3D surveying within geomatics, particularly in its applications to cultural assets investigation. It opens with an extensive literature review highlighting terminological and conceptual inconsistencies, focusing on three main technologies: laser triangulators, structured-light projection scanning, and close-range digital photogrammetry. Building on this theoretical groundwork, the thesis details the methodologies employed in the experimental phase, particularly emphasising the comparative and integrative applications of structured-light projection scanning and digital photogrammetry. Real-world case studies are also presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of these technologies in the detailed 3D documentation and analysis of cultural assets. Finally, the thesis concludes by discussing the broader implications of its findings and proposing avenues for future research and innovation within the discipline.