Sławomir KOWAL | Krzysztof KOSZEWSKI | Jan SŁYK | Stefan WRONA
(Warsaw University of Technology, Faculty of Architecture, Warsaw, Poland)
Keywords: cultural heritage, parametric design, virtual reconstruction, 3D printing
Abstract:
The interdisciplinary cooperation between architects and archaeologists undertake research issues on use of parametric methods to formulate variants of hypotheses based on archaeological relics. Main theses were related to reflection on the uniqueness of the message, content translation and clear conclusions formulation.
In the 70s (of XX) archaeologists conducted excavations under the castle courtyard in Pultusk town in Poland. The outcome was the wooden huts’ relics of a medieval settlement. Analysis let the scientists form the thesis, that whole foundation represents the severity of the proto-city. In 90s an attempt was made to verify all thesis by virtual models using surface and solid modeling. It soon turned out that effects limit only to spectacular photorealistic renderings.
This paper describes the effects of cooperation between architect and archaeologists started in 2012 on the reconstruction of the medieval proto-urban site based on parametric methods supported by 3D printing. Archeological relics and interpretations delivered input data for the process of parametric reconstruction. Over 140 huts were built with use of Grasshopper for Rhino. Over 50 parameters were defined to control the form on the base of real medieval findings, rules of ancient structural methods and urban tissue characteristics. The program was able to perform reconstruction of each hut in tens minutes. Implementation of the method directly impacted forming hypothesis. It particulary aided the process of recognition original proto-town form in the area were it was not defined by relics. Equally important step was done by implementation of modular models using 3D printing technology. They not only reflect the similarities in form, but also allow dynamic simulations. Urban model, called Rapid Reconstruction Modular Model (scale 1: 100, 120×100 cm) was developed as a set of terrain segments responding to archeological matrix of excavations. Swapping segments allow changing visual result of reconstruction and reacting on the new findings and new interpretations.
In conclusion: Parametric techniques and 3D printing technology have become a platform for almost simultaneous dialogue between scientists from different disciplines. In addition, results are dissemination of knowledge and also bring the arguments in favor for archaeological excavations the remaining 60% of the proto-city. This time in order to verify how the hypotheses are confirmed in the artifacts still hidden under the castle courtyard in Pultusk.
Relevance conference:
The paper describes innovative method which facilitates interdisciplinary cooperation between archeologists and architects, helps to archive and present visual data, and supports constructing hypothes
Relevance session:
The paper concerns the process which ties various digital and physical techniques to facilitate cooperation and understanding within expert team and beyond.
