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The Application of 3D Photogrammetry for In-Field Documentation of Archaeological Features

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  16 January 2017

Matthew Douglass
Affiliation:
Department of Anthropology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 816 Oldfather Hall, Lincoln, NE 68588-0368
Sam Lin
Affiliation:
Department of Anthropology, University of Pennsylvania, 3260 South Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104-6398
Michael Chodoronek
Affiliation:
Department of Anthropology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 816 Oldfather Hall, Lincoln, NE 68588-0368

Abstract

The logistics of time-efficient yet accurate documentation of archaeological features are a challenge within the context of pedestrian survey. Here we present results of two case studies documenting the use of photogrammetry under field conditions within the Great Plains. Results demonstrate the ease with which high quality models can be obtained with minimal training and by using standard field cameras and computers. Different models of pit hearth and architectural features are presented to demonstrate the versatility of model output formats in terms of their accessibility to broad audiences and the variety of display options available. Comparison with more traditional field measurements indicates the suitability and superiority of this approach in terms of time investment and mapping detail and accuracy. Combined, these efforts demonstrate the potential of this technique to be incorporated into the standard practices of academic and professional field projects with minimal interruption.

La logística para documentar elementos arqueológicos de manera eficiente y precisa constituye un reto dentro de los recorridos de superficie peatonales. Aquí, presentamos los resultados de dos estudios de caso, para los cuales se utiliza la fotogrametría como parte del trabajo de campo realizado en las Grandes Llanuras de los Estados Unidos. Los resultados demuestran la facilidad con la que se pueden obtener modelos de alta calidad en el campo, con un entrenamiento mínimo y con el uso de cámaras y computadoras. Se incluyen diferentes modelos de fogones y elementos arquitectónicos para demostrar la facilidad con la que se les puede presentar bajo distintos formatos, tanto en términos de su accesibilidad a una amplia audiencia, así como las distintas opciones existentes para su presentación. En comparación con otras mediciones tradicionales de campo, este acercamiento resulta ser mucho más apto y excelente en términos del tiempo que se invierte y en el mapeo detallado y preciso. En combinación, estos esfuerzos demuestran el potencial que tiene esta técnica para ser incorporada en las prácticas estándares de proyectos académicos y profesionales, con una mínima interrupción durante el trabajo de campo.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Copyright © Society for American Archaeology 2015

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