Communications of the ACM
3D Mapping Is a 'pisa' Cake For Aussie Scientists
The new Zebedee handheld 3D mapping system can reduce the time needed to map a site from days or weeks to just a few hours.
Credit: CSIRO (Australia)
Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO) researchers have developed Zebedee, a handheld three-dimensional (3D) mapping system that includes a laser scanner swaying on a spring to capture millions of detailed measurements of a site. Specialized software then converts the system's laser data into a detailed 3D map.
The researchers have used the technology to create the first-ever interior 3D map of Italy's Leaning Tower of Pisa. "It can often take a whole research team a number of days or weeks to map a site with the accuracy and detail of what we can produce in a few hours," says CSIRO researcher Jonathan Roberts. "Within 20 minutes we were able to use Zebedee to complete an entire scan of the building's interior. This allowed us to create a uniquely comprehensive and accurate 3D map of the tower's structure and composition, including small details in the stairs and stonework."
The researchers also collaborated with Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna researchers who believe the research will have significant impact on preserving the cultural heritage of the site.
"Having a detailed 3D model of the world’s most significant cultural heritage sites could also be used to allow people who cannot physically visit these sites to better understand and appreciate their history and architecture," says Perceptual Robotics Laboratory assistant professor Franco Tecchia.
From CSIRO (Australia)
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