Three-Dimensional Surveying with Optical Sensors in Heritage Science: A Review

Year: 2026

Authors: Vannini E., Dal Fovo A., Fontana R.

Autors Affiliation: Natl Inst Opt CNR INO, Natl Res Council, Largo E Fermi 6, I-50125 Tuscany, Italy; Univ Florence, Dept Phys & Astron, Via Sansone 1, I-50019 Tuscany, Italy; Univ Verona, Dept Comp Sci, Str Grazie 15, I-37134 Veneto, Italy.

Abstract: This review provides a comprehensive overview of the most adopted 3D surveying techniques in Cultural Heritage, offering practical guidance for the selection of appropriate methods when three-dimensional documentation of artworks is required. The analysis focuses on the most effective technologies for the 3D documentation of sites and objects of artistic value, with selection criteria primarily centred on non-invasiveness, given the uniqueness and cultural significance of the case studies, and the instrument flexibility, a crucial requirement for non-transportable items. A broad spectrum of 3D techniques is currently available for the multiscale diagnostic investigation of artworks, providing information at both macroscopic and microscopic levels. This review reports on the state of the art of such systems and evaluates the main characteristics of each technology in relation to its applicability in the heritage field. Particular attention is given to highlighting advantages and limitations, and to assessing performance in terms of resolution, gauge volume/area, acquisition time, and cost. In addition, the review discusses exemplary cases in which 3D methods are integrated with other analytical techniques to enable a more comprehensive understanding of the object under investigation. Finally, recent studies are examined to identify the most suitable approaches and the specific requirements for the digitization of real-world heritage assets.

Journal/Review: SENSORS

Volume: 26 (8)      Pages from: 2297-1  to: 2297-41

More Information: This research was funded by the project PRIN-PNRR AIPAD (Artificial Intelligence and Physics for Art Diagnostics) Project (P2022SFEPN), CUP_B53D23029240001, funded by the European Union-Next Generation EU M4.C2.1.1 and PNRR H2IOSC (Humanities and Cultural Heritage Italian Open Science Cloud) Project (IR0000029), CUP_B63C22000730005, funded by Next Generation EU.
KeyWords: 3D modelling; cultural heritage; non-contact systems; optical sensors
DOI: 10.3390/s26082297