System Overview

When used in conjunction, the various ArcTron software components form a complete archaeological information system. The corner stone of this system is the ArcTron CAD application, ArchaeoCAD. ArchaeoCAD itself is an application for AutoCAD, the standard CAD software from AutoDesk. The diagram below illustrates shows how the individual modules interact:

aSPECT3D enables the user to visually monitor survey data from a total station whilst still in the field. The survey data can then be transferred to ArchaeoCAD. ArchaeoCAD features numerous tools, specifically designed for archaeological requirements, which can be used to rapidly create publication standard plans. ArchaeoCAD also contains a photogrammetry interface which allows users to align scaled and rectified photographs within a grid system of control points (we recommend using Kubit PhoToPlan software for editing photogrammetry).

ArchaeoMAP and ArchaeoDATA 2004 (an application for MS Access 2000) can be used to create archaeological mapping, a process which is largely automated. The resulting mapping can then be transferred to ArchaeoDTM and used to generate three dimensional terrain models. This 3D model can in turn be further refined and/or animated using 3D graphics software, e.g. 3D Studio MAX.

see also: ArchaeoCAD