Assessment of DSMs Using Backpack-Mounted Systems and Drone Techniques to Characterise Ancient Underground Cellars in the Duero Basin (Spain)

Abstract

In this study, a backpack-mounted 3D mobile scanning system and a fixed-wing drone (UAV) have been used to register terrain data on the same space. The study area is part of the ancient underground cellars in the Duero Basin. The aim of this work is to characterise the state of the roofs of these wine cellars by obtaining digital surface models (DSM) using the previously mentioned systems to detect any possible cases of collapse, using four geomatic products obtained with these systems. The results obtained from the process offer sufficient quality to generate valid DSMs in the study area or in a similar area. One limitation of the DSMs generated by backpack MMS is that the outcome depends on the distance of the points to the axis of the track and on the irregularities in the terrain. Specific parameters have been studied, such as the measuring distance from the scanning point in the laser scanner, the angle of incidence with regard to the ground, the surface vegetation, and any irregularities in the terrain. The registration speed and the high definition of the terrain offered by these systems produce a model that can be used to select the correct conservation priorities for this unique space.

Documentation and Virtualisation of Vernacular Cultural Heritage: The Case of Underground Wine Cellars in Atauta (Soria)

“…Static and mobile terrestrial laser-scanning (TLS) techniques were used inside the wine cellars and other constructions to achieve the required level of detail, particularly in narrow unlit spaces. These techniques were tested previously through experimental work and prior studies [42][43][44]. Figure 4 schematically illustrates the process of geomatic data collection.…”

“…The vast array of data on this platform are accessible and available to all types of users [39][40][41]. Conejo [42], López-Cuervo [43], and Herrero [44] carried out research at the same site using the geomatic tools and techniques that contributed to the foundation of the current study. The digital models obtained can be accessed on the web platform and offer a high degree of immersion in a context of mixed reality, which is becoming increasingly widespread in the context of preserving cultural heritage [45][46][47][48].…”