A suite of software tools, currently under development, tries to address these problems - first by helping to structure the on-site survey process so that more consistent data is collected, and then, by automatically creating a 2D or 3D CAD model from the resulting database. We do this on a laptop computer, so that the model can be compared with reality and faulty or missing measurements corrected before the recording team leaves the site.
While the software supports virtually any source of geometric information the point collection system which will be described uses an electronic theodolite with a visible laser EDM which, not requiring a reflector, offers fast data collection, up to 4 points per minute, and has more than adequate precision for most architectural objects.
However, more significant than the automatic drafting is the fact that this combination of database and CAD drawing is linked, allowing queries of associated data by clicking on an object inside Autocad or the assembly of a drawing based on a database query of object characteristics.
Case studies involving two Canadian Heritage sites recorded in this way will be used to illustrate the presentation.
Royal Suite, Rideau Hall - Ottawa, Ontario
Skoki Ski Lodge - Banff, Alberta
