Digital technologies for underwater cultural heritage surveying
University of Calabria
Reference Teacher: Fabio Bruno
Teacher(s): Fabio Bruno, Antonio Lagudi
The course adopts a hands-on approach to introduce the basic concepts/skills of Computer Graphics, Digital Photography, Photogrammetry, 3D Modelling and 3D Printing as well as their applications for the digital documentation of terrestrial and underwater Cultural Heritage. The course includes some lessons to learn the theory and the basic techniques needed for digitally documenting a historical artefact. Moreover, through the exercises, students will directly experiment with the use of technologies and tools in real case studies related to both terrestrial and underwater heritage.
Single-cycle degree program – equivalent to Master’s Level degree – in Conservation and Restoration of Cultural Heritage
Students will develop a thorough understanding of the principles of digital photography and image processing, with a particular emphasis on their application in documenting cultural heritage. They will explore the theoretical foundations and practical techniques of photogrammetry, including both terrestrial and underwater contexts. Additionally, they will gain insights into the methodologies and tools used in 3D modelling, CAD software, and 3D printing technologies, focusing on their roles in the documentation and restoration of cultural heritage artifacts.
Students will acquire practical digital skills in applying photography and photogrammetry techniques to capture and process images for creating accurate 3D models of terrestrial and underwater cultural heritage artifacts. In particular, the students will acquire the ability to document through digital photography historical artefacts of any dimension; to elaborate and correct digital pictures captured indoors, outdoors and underwater; to employ photogrammetric techniques for the creation of 3D models and orthophoto; to plan the use of aerial and underwater drones for photogrammetric surveys; to create a 3D model of a simple artefact by using a CAD software; and to create a 3D printed object for integrating or supporting an historical artefact.
Students will develop the ability to evaluate the quality and suitability of digital images and photogrammetric data for creating precise 3D models. They will learn to assess the effectiveness of different image processing tools and techniques in enhancing photographs taken in challenging underwater and terrestrial environments. Additionally, they will critique existing 3D models, identify strengths and areas for improvement, and recommend appropriate techniques and tools for achieving better results.
Students will enhance their ability to communicate the processes and outcomes of digital documentation and 3D modelling effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences. They will be able to plan and monitor the execution of restoration intervention through digital techniques and cooperate with other specialists for the management and execution of restoration intervention.
The course will encourage students to develop the ability to independently learn and stay updated with advancements in digital photography, photogrammetry, and 3D modelling technologies. They will hone their problem-solving skills to address challenges encountered during the digital documentation and restoration of cultural heritage artifacts. Reflective practices will be emphasized, enabling students to continuously improve their digital skills and knowledge in digital documentation and restoration techniques, and to adapt to new developments in the field.
Basic skills in MS Windows operating system; Basic skills in projection methods like orthographic projections and perspective.
Lessons and laboratory activities are conducted with the computer and the video-projector. Some lessons present tutorials about digital tools and software for computer graphics, photogrammetry, CAD and 3D printing. Freeware and open-source tools are used whenever possible. Exercises are based on real case studies selected in local cultural sites and museums. Students work on the exercises in small teams and interact with the teacher.
Evaluation methods: during the oral exam (maximum duration 40 minutes) students present the results obtained in the realization of a project assigned during the course. Questions are addressed to evaluate the skills acquired and the ability to autonomously solve the issues that arise in the execution of the project.
Evaluation criteria: students should demonstrate be able to employ the methodologies and techniques learned during the course through the execution of a project assigned by the lecturers. Moreover, students should demonstrate to have acquired the theoretical background given in the course and have learned the practical digital skills about the use of the various tools and software presented in the course.
Measuring criteria: through the presentation of the project the following aspects will be evaluated and measured: accuracy and completeness of the graphical documentation; ability to defend the methodological approach followed for the project implementation; use of the technical language to present the project.
Criteria for assigning the final grade: the grade is established at the oral exams considering the following aspects and their respective weights defined in parentheses: achievements of the project objectives (40%); ability to follow structured methodologies (20%); theoretical knowledge of the main course topics (20%); technical language proficiency (20%). The exam questions will allow the professor to evaluate how much the student has reached the learning objectives and to evaluate how he/she can autonomously solve the issues related to the project implementation.
The examination procedures will be adapted to the particular needs of students with disabilities certified under laws 104/1992 and 118/1971 or with specific learning disabilities (DSA) certified under law 170/2010, referring to the ‘Art. 9 of the “Regulation for the inclusion and right to study of students with disabilities or specific learning disorders” (issued with rectoral decree 01.03.2022, n. 370).
The course includes a specialized module on Underwater 3D Photogrammetry, focusing on fundamental areas essential for gaining expertise in this field. It begins with a detailed exploration of digital photography principles, providing a strong foundation for capturing high-quality images. Following this, students will learn key techniques and tools for processing underwater images, ensuring that photographs taken in challenging underwater environments are optimized for further analysis. The course also covers specific methodologies, tools, and techniques unique to underwater photogrammetry, equipping participants with the skills needed to construct three-dimensional models from underwater imagery. By the end of the course, students will have developed the necessary knowledge and digital skills to effectively perform underwater 3D photogrammetry. Furthermore, by the end of the course, students will have a comprehensive understanding and practical expertise in the digital documentation of cultural heritage, equipping them with the skills needed to effectively apply these technologies in both terrestrial and underwater contexts.
The expected learning outcomes can contribute to the achievement of the following goals: SDG 4: Quality Education; SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure; SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities; SDG 14: Life Below Water; SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.
To attend the course “3D Survey and Graphic Documentation for Restoration” at the University of Calabria, you have two options:
Enroll in the Master’s Degree Program
The course is part of the Conservation and Restoration Master’s Degree Program (Single-Cycle, 5-year). To attend it, you must apply and be admitted to the relevant Master’s degree, then include the course in your study plan.
More information at the following link: https://www.unical.it/didattica/iscriversi-studiare-laurearsi/ammissione-1-anno/conservazione-restauro/?lang=en
Register for the Individual Course
If you already hold a university degree, you can apply to take this course as a single learning activity without enrolling in the full degree program. You will attend classes, take the exam, and earn credits (CFU), which may be recognized later if you enroll in the full program.
More information at the following link: https://www.unical.it/didattica/iscriversi-studiare-laurearsi/iscrizioni-anni-successivi/?lang=en
Foreign students, both EU and non-EU, can find detailed admission requirements and procedures in the “Guidebook for Foreign Students”: https://www.unical.it/didattica/iscriversi-studiare-laurearsi/ammissione-1-anno/guidebook_foreign_students_aa2425/?lang=en
For further information or specific inquiries, you may contact the “Educational Services Area” of the University of Calabria using the contact details and methods provided at the following link: https://www.unical.it/didattica/iscriversi-studiare-laurearsi/contatta-i-servizi-didattici/?lang=en
The course lectures will cover the following topics:
– Principles of digital photography
– Basic techniques and tools for image processing
– Vectorization of raster graphics
– 3D Photogrammetry
– Aerial and underwater drone in photogrammetric surveys
– 3D Modelling through Computer Aided Design (CAD) Software
– 3D printing technologies for the creation of copies, integrations and supports
Regarding classroom exercises, they will cover the following topics:
– Photographic and Photogrammetric recording of cultural heritage
– Mapping surface related to degradation phenomena and restoration actions on 3D models
– Virtual restoration on 3D models
- Teaching material and tutorials will be provided by the lecturers.