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Session 4: 3D Modelling, Computer Aided Design

Gabriel Bodard edited this page Oct 2, 2017 · 6 revisions

Date: Thursday October, 20, 2016, 16h00 (UK)

Session coordinator: Valeria Vitale (King's College London)

YouTube link: https://youtu.be/yk0svk9mCn8

Slides: https://goo.gl/izixVG

Summary

This session will introduce the principles of 3D modelling and computer aided design (CAD) for archaeological heritage, especially the importance of transparency and documentation as requirements for academic seriousness in 3D research. We shall give an overview of one simple software application (Sketchup Make) and give students an exercise to build and document an ancient building for further discussion.

Outline

  • Introduction to 3D modelling and some of its applications in classics, archeology and ancient history (15m)
  • Introduction to CAD and overview of relevant projects. Brief analysis of different styles and purposes (10m)
  • The importance of transparency and the issues with documentation, preservation, publication (20m)
  • The choice of Sketchup and quick overview of other software alternatives (10m)
  • Introduction to Sketchup's basic rules and most common tools (20m)

Required reading

  • Denard, Hugh (2012). “A New Introduction to the London Charter.” In A. Bentkowska-Kafel, D. Baker & H. Denard (eds.) Paradata and Transparency in Virtual Heritage, Digital Research in the Arts and Humanities Series (Ashgate) 57-71. Available: http://www.londoncharter.org/introduction.html
  • Vitale, Valeria (2016). "Transparent, Multivocal, Cross-disciplinary: The Use of Linked Open Data and a Community-developed RDF Ontology to Document and Enrich 3D Visualisation for Cultural Heritage." In: Bodard/Romanello, Digital Classics Outside the Echo-Chamber: Teaching, Knowledge Exchange & Public Engagement, Pp. 147–168. London: Ubiquity Press. Available: http://dx.doi.org/10.5334/bat.i

Further reading

Essay title

Discuss, with reference to one case study, the importance of transparency and documentation in 3D modelling of cultural heritage artefacts.

Practical Exercise

Build a model of the Ekklesiasterion of the Temple of Isis in Pompeii using Sketchup Make, following the details and dimensions given in the handout attached, and place it in its topographical context in the Google Maps landscape.

Preparation:

  • Download and install Sketchup Make, selecting the options “Educational Use” and “Sketchup Make” which will allow you to download the software for free.

Instructions:

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