Research Projects

Masada archaeological site, Israel

The digital documentation methodology through laser scanning is applied on the archaeological site of Masada. This is a research project that is spread over 3 years, during which the whole archaeological site of Masada is documented through laser scanning and photogrammetry (from the ground and from the air). The point cloud that results from this documentation serves as a raw data base and from there 2D drawings, details and 3D meshes are extracted. The research explores how to combine the different methodologies for purposes of documentation; compares them and concludes on their advantages and disadvantages. Further, it deals with data management of such complex data bases and their contribution to our understanding of the archaeological site.

Villa Petraia, Florence, Italy

The research project aims to combine several scales and methods of digital documentation: long range laser scanning, ground photogrammetry, small element scanning.

Water Channel, Tel Gezer, Israel

This project deals with the documentation of an underground water channel that dates back to the Iron Age. Because of the amorphic shape of the water channel, its documentation presents a challenge for conventional documentation methods. Laser scanning is used for the data acquisition. The site is still under excavation, so further scans can show the progress of the excavation process.

Ottoman Soap Factory, Lod, Israel

This project aims to present the documentation process of an Ottoman Soap factory in Lod, Israel and the challenges of the documentation because parts of the building have collapsed within the structure. The use of the laser scanner methodology, allowed for a fast, accurate and comprehensive survey, as well as a good understanding of the building and the areas which are concealed, as a result of the collapse. At the same time, digital photos were taken and through photogrammetry, three-dimensional geometries of areas of the building were produced.

Plastics Department of Shenkar, Israel

This research project deals with how data acquired from laser scanning and photogrammetry, for the purposes of documentation can be integrated in the BIM data base of the project and contribute as the first stage in the sustainable process of building reuse and retrofit and for an appropriate design intervention for a building under preservation. The site in question is a building under preservation in Ramat Gan, Israel. All phases of the design process were integrated into a comprehensive BIM data base: the digital documentation of the building, through laser scanning and photogrammetry, the architectural geometry, the structural information, the HVAC and electrical planning. This case-study demonstrates how the compilation of the various phases in a BIM database facilitated a smooth workflow in a complicated project under preservation, allowed for an immediate coordination between the various consultants and resulted in a non-invasive design intervention

British Mandate Watch Towers,

Rosh Ein, Israel

The project deals with the challenge of documenting from the ground tall watch towers that are not in a structural condition to be climbed upon. Data acquisition through laser scanning is applied both from the ground and from cranes that lift the scanner above ground.

Ben Gurion Residence, Ramat Gan, Israel

This project deals with the digital documentation and representation of a historical site, both for purposes of design strategies for the site and for saving this important site for the collective memory.