3D Scanning for Historic Building Restoration

HABS/HAER Documentation | Digital Replications | 3D Archives

Laser scanning has become increasingly prevalent in the documentation of historic and landmark structures due to its precise and rapid ability to capture intricate shapes and surfaces. From iconic landmarks like Mount Rushmore to unique structures such as the Long Island Duck, laser scanning technology has been employed to create detailed 3D digital representations of their physical features and characteristics. This digitized data not only serves as a comprehensive resource for analysis but also facilitates the creation of accurate measured drawings for potential restoration or replacement needs.

ECM offers specialized equipment and skilled technicians for both interior and exterior scanning projects. Equipped with an integrated color camera, the scanner enhances the scan data with vivid photography, resulting in a colorized dataset that meticulously inventories artifacts and visually depicts the building’s current condition. Furthermore, by making the scan data accessible online, virtual tours and remote studies become possible. Complementing the scanning process, photoplans derived from high-quality digital photographs offer additional insights into a building’s color, materials, texture, and conservation status, proving invaluable for restoration planning and maintaining a comprehensive record of the landmark’s evolution.