Topography and Historic Sites

Using our mid-range laser scanner (Riegl Z210), we are able to produce detailed, extensive topographical recordings in record time. We can document up to around 15 hectares per working day depending on the nature of the terrain.

When making topographical recordings, terrestrial terrain laser scanning is a noteworthy alternative to time-consuming and expensive aerial photography (e.g. airborne laser scanning). The scanner data is processed using specialist software to produce standardised topographical plans, contour line maps and 3D models.

Example: Early Iron Age Grave Mound at Kirchheim-Osterholz, Baden-Wuerttemberg Task: Survey of topography Area: Approx. 10 hectares Data acquisition: Laser scanner and total station survey Data quantity: Approx. 20 million points Survey period: 5 hours Data processing: 5 days Result: 3D model incorporating various information (topography, geomagnetics), CAD plans Click here or on the picture to view an interactive presentation (Flash, approx. 90 KB).

Example: Roman Fort at Saalburg in Hessen Task: Fort / vicus survey Area: Approx. 30 hectares Data acquisition: Laser scanner and total station survey Data quantity: Approx. 125 million points Survey period: 7 days (tachyometry + laser scanning) Data processing: Approx. 25 days Result: 3D point cloud, 3D model, CAD plans During the creation of a new general survey plan of Saalburg, new theories were formulated as a result of blending existing historical documentation with the results of the new detailed laser scan survey. This method enabled us to generate an updated, true-to-scale plan representing a combination of historical research and modern 3D survey results.

Example: Bronze & Iron Age Settlement at Bartholomaeberg, Vorarlberg, Austria Task: Topographical recording Data acquisition: Laser scanner measurements Result: 3D model incorporating various information (topography, partial reconstructions), CAD plans Animations: Flash (approx. 2 MB)   RealVideo, Modem/ISDN   * To view this video you need the RealPlayer software. You can download it here.

Example: Celtic Oppidum at Titelberg, Luxembourg Task: Topographical recording Area: Approx. 50 hectares Data acquisition: Laser scanner and total station surveys Data quantity: Approx. 120 million points Survey period: 1 week Result: 3D model including various information (topography, geomagnetics, aerial photography), CAD plans A combination of total station surveying (polygons and geo-referencing) and 3D laser scanning (over 70 stationings) was used to document almost the entire present-day topography of the late celtic settlement (oppidum) at Titelberg in Luxembourg, an area of over 50 hectares. Click here or on the picture to view an interactive presentation (Flash, approx. 80 KB).