Continuing the Documentation of Palmyra by using 3D Techniques
Continuing the Documentation of Palmyra by using 3D Techniques
May 2016
The DGAM in cooperation with ICONEM continue to work out in 3D processing and simulation with the most innovative computing methods in Palmyra.
The aim of the work is to record the status of the antique site and of the museum, in order to provide experts and scientists with accurate documentation before any cleaning work, to document the damaged blocks by using a drone which took several thousands of aerial pictures to the damaged monument from different sides then the photos are processed to generate a precise 3D model help experts in restoration works.
This techniques depends on several phases:
Earlier data collection and processing: by collecting old surveys and many photographs taken by people before the conflict.
3D reconstruction processing: by taken pictures to the current statue to generate a precise 3D model before and after destruction.
Scientific & analyze study: by using computer processed that allows for a theoretical hypotheses contribute to help the experts during their work on the ground.
For example:
Figures (1- 1a):
shows preliminary analysis of the blocks of Temple of Bel through the 3D model of the basted structure. Red blocks are regarded as in good condition, light red ones seem to be half broken, while white ones are in bad condition.
Figure 2.
Shows preliminary reconstruction of the temple of Bel before the explosion (in red), using old surveys and crowd sourced pictures overlapping the actual state of the temple (in white).
Figure 3.
Shows preliminary reconstruction of the Arch of Triumph before the explosion (in red), using old surveys and crowd sourced pictures overlapping the actual state of the temple (in white).
Figure 4.
Shows schema of Theoretical simulation of the dynamics of the explosion with the falling blocks for the Arch of Triumph, this simulation will help experts to understand the explosion process and the disposition of fallen blocks.
It worth to mention that the collaboration between DGAM with ICONEM, and Dr. Hummam Saad, had started since 2015 by launching a training for the DGAM team in Damascus that aimed to support the staff to use new techniques in archaeological documentation and to create a database for the archaeological sites by using 3D processing and simulation .
ICONEM is a French architectural firm based in Paris, managed by Mr. Yves Ublemann, the firm interested in documentation the human heritage in the world by using new techniques and a drone that provide a precise documentation to the archaeological sites in a short time. Mr. Yves Ublemann started his field work in Syria since 2005, he was participated in the processing of the exhibition halls for the sculptures frescoes at the Museum of Palmyra.