Application of 3D laser scanning technology for preservation and monitoring of Thai pagoda: A case study of Wat Krachee Ayutthaya

• Published in: IOP conference series. Earth and environmental science 2020-03, Vol.463 (1), p.12082
• Main Authors: Sairuamyat, Phasu, Mahasuwanchai, Peerasit, Athisakul, Chainarong, Leelataviwat, Sutat, Chucheepsakul, Somchai
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Case studies; Conservation; Digital data; Historical structures; Laser applications; Lasers; Masonry; Monitoring; Preservation; Scanners; Scanning; Technology; Terrestrial environments; Three dimensional models
• ISSN: 1755-1307; 1755-1315
• DOI: 10.1088/1755-1315/463/1/012082

3D laser scanning technology is one of the current technologies for developing a sustainable and smart city. This technology is applied to obtain the three-dimensional information of building in digital format. To preserve the historic structure, the current structural information is required for structural assessment, monitoring, and conservation planning. The data obtained by the 3D laser scanner is normally used to generate the three-dimensional point cloud data of the building surface. The high-density point cloud data represented the dimension, shape, and size of the building in the current state can be acquired in more accurate and faster than another technique. This paper aims to present the application of 3D laser scanning technology for preservation and monitoring of heritage pagoda in Thailand. The pagoda of Wat Krachee located in Ayutthaya province of Thailand was selected as a case study. The results obtained in this study are a part of Wat Krachee conservation project, which is led by UNESCO Bangkok and the Fine Arts Department, Thailand. One of the challenges in Wat Krachee project is how to preserve the masonry pagoda with two intertwined trees growing inside and become a part of pagoda structure. The terrestrial 3D laser scanner was applied to develop the digital data documentation and 3D model of pagoda in the current state. The 3D survey work has been started since February 2018. The analysis of data obtained in February 2018, Mar 2018, July 2018, and July 2019 was carried out. The significant dimensions and deformation of pagoda are monitored. According to the results, it is found that the 3D laser scanning technology is very effective for assessment and monitoring. The 3D point cloud model obtained in this study can be used to develop the assume original model of the Wat Krachee pagoda, which is the inverted bell-shape with a square base.