What is Image-Based Survey Techniques

This contribution presents the results of investigations on the reliability of techniques based on the Structure from Motion approach used for 3D digitizations of build heritage. In particular, we tested the performances of different SfM technologies within an architectural survey context and we developed a procedure with the purpose of easing the work of surveyors called to restore digital representations of artifacts at different scales of complexity. The restored 3D models were compared among each other and with a gold standard acquisition. These analysis led to qualitative and quantitative evaluations and to considerations on times and skills required by all tested technologies. In this work strengths and weaknesses are highlighted and the integration of different technologies is presented, as it represents the best solution in many and recurrent multi-scalar contexts.