Francesca Picchio

Databases and complexity. Remote use of the data in the virtual space of reliable 3D models

With the advent of digital technology, communication has undergone radical transformation processes. The large amount of information that surrounds us with sociological, cultural and economic aspects, have changed the relationship between the perceiver and the context. The perceiver takes part of space, surrounding it, finding new ways to understand it and new ar-chive systems of the information he may acquire. Through digital survey and the use of skilled software, the elements and the relationships of the contemporaneity become networked and accessible to the public. The database in which all the data acquired is collected, permits an extraction of useful information for the orientation in space. This possibility allows the under-standing of the relationship between elements and an ever-growing conscious approach to the project. Through digitization, the virtual environment can be preserved. This paper describes an innovative methodology that links the complexity of the databases (for the management of ur-ban and architectural systems) with representation systems and three-dimensional space archives. Some experimental researches conducted explain ways in which one can create virtual databases. These instruments can become narrative path systems where the user can find and interface with the elements of space, in a more conscious, critical and structured approach.

The complex of San Lorenzo del Chagres in Panama: historical development and survey project for the documentation of the Caribbean fortress

The aim of this research project was the documentation of the San Lorenzo del Chagres fort using integrated survey instruments: thanks to a total station and a camera has been possible to take pictures aiming at virtually modelling the whole building and its architectural elements present in the site. The methodology of structure from motion allows to obtain a reliable geometric model of each part, starting from a sequence of pictures, in witch is integrated the quality of materic aspect given from the texture. Therefore, San Lorenzo del Chagres fort is a case study for new frontier of the representation: starting from a 3D model, acquired through a fast survey, it is possible to obtain each information about the state of preservation of the building with a digital database of the walls, according to the policy of conservation, monitoring and enhancement of that UNESCO cultural heritage. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4995/FORTMED2015.2015.1771