The Overseas Buildings Operations (OBO) project in Malta, conducted in collaboration with Iowa State University, involved the meticulous documentation and analysis of a historic structure. This project required a combination of traditional measurement techniques, advanced laser scanning, 3D modeling, and virtual reality (VR) technology to create an accurate representation of the building while also uncovering key structural issues. The work involved extensive collaboration with experts in historic preservation and architectural modeling, underscoring the project’s technical and cultural significance.

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Development:

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The project began with a hands-on approach to data collection, as much of the structure was measured by hand, followed by comprehensive laser scanning to capture detailed information about the building’s dimensions and condition. This stage required a precise approach to ensure that every element of the building was documented, down to an accuracy of 1 inch. The combination of manual measurement and laser scanning allowed for a comprehensive dataset that formed the foundation for the 3D modeling phase.

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Using 3DS Max, each element of the building was modeled with extreme precision, adhering to a 1-inch error ratio. This phase of the project was particularly challenging due to the age and condition of the structure, but the detailed modeling allowed for a highly accurate digital reconstruction. The modeling process also enabled the identification of structural issues that were not immediately visible during the initial site surveys. In particular, the study revealed structural problems at the corners of the building, as demonstrated by changes in height and the cracking of stones around the base. These findings provided valuable insights into the building’s integrity and helped guide future preservation efforts.

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The final phase of the project involved the creation of a virtual reality (VR) walkthrough of the building exterior. This VR experience allowed stakeholders to explore the structure in an immersive environment, providing a comprehensive view of the building’s current condition and potential structural concerns. The VR walkthrough was particularly valuable for presenting the project’s findings to non-technical stakeholders, allowing them to visualize the structural issues and engage with the building in a new way.

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Outcome:

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The project achieved significant results, offering a comprehensive and detailed documentation of a historic structure through advanced 3D modeling and virtual reality (VR) technology. The project not only produced an accurate digital representation of the building but also uncovered critical structural issues that had previously gone unnoticed. The discovery of these issues, such as variations in height and cracking stones at the building's corners, has provided invaluable insights into the structural integrity of the site.

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The 3D model and VR walkthrough became essential tools for stakeholders, allowing both technical and non-technical audiences to engage with the building's current condition in a meaningful way. The VR experience, in particular, facilitated a deeper understanding of the structural challenges, making the project's findings accessible and actionable for preservation experts.

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