Opportunities of Geometric Documentation of Historic Buildings with Terrestrial Laser Scanner, Examples from Aksaray/Turkey

Abstract

Detailed and accurate measurements can be done by using laserscanning technology compared to conventional methods indocumentation of cultural heritage. Accuracy of measured data directlyaffects the protection of historical buildings and decision-makingprocess. By processing laser scanning data, multipurpose 3d models canbe obtained and all work and results can be shared via internet.Moreover, a detailed analysis of the building can be made with this dataand it can be transferred to all related engineering and archeologicalfields. Despite the advantages of this technology, it has not been usedwidely yet in production of architectural projects. High cost ofequipment and data processing software have been seen as mainobstacles for widespread using of this technology. As well as, lack ofintegration of this topic into architectural education and less number ofresearcher studying in this field restrict the use of laser scanner. In thispaper, evaluations were made in order to define the possibilities byusing laser scanner technologies in process of restoration projects ofwhich number is getting increased in last decades in Turkey. Positive andnegative aspects of technology observed in survey process were given with a case study, a small traditional house in province of Aksaray andsurroundings.