SIMPLE METHODS FOR CLOSE RANGE PHOTOGRAMMETRY 
SURVEYING OF RURAL INDUSTRIAL CONSTRUCTIONS 
P. Arias, H. Lorenzo, C. Ordoñez 
EUET Industrial, University of Vigo. r/ Torrecedeira 86, 36208-Vigo, Spain. 
TIf.- +34 986 81 36 45. Fax.- 986 81 36 44. E-mail: parias(@uvigo.es 
KEY WORDS: Rapid photogrammetry, Low-cost system, Industrial constructions, Inventory, Rendering, Virtual Reality, Photo- 
realism. 
ABSTRACT: 
Classical methodologies used in data collection for architectural documentation are studied (surveying topographic, photogrammetry, 
manual methods, etc). Different aspects are analysed in order to select the most suitable approach, always taking into account the 
specific determining factors. 
The suggested technique is in line with the so-called close range photogrammetry by simple methods. Its utilization as an easy 
application, low-cost method is analysed so that it can be used without need of specialized training, thus facilitating its 
universalization by means of an increase in the number of users and, consequently, a rise in the number of records. The suggested 
method is based on the use of low-cost conventional digital cameras, plumb lines and monoscopic digital photogrammetric stations, 
complying with the directives of the International Committee for Architectural Photogrammetry (CIPA). The studies is presented 
with the obtained numerical results and the graphical results in plan form, as well as three-dimensional models of the structures, 
rendered with their original textures, as a proposal for their documentation and conservation. Once digital data is archived, everyone 
can access the full document through internet in order to obtain metric information of the constructions, to make 3D models or to 
develop photo-models using realistic textures. 
1. INTRODUCTION 
1.1 Motivation 
The conservation of large monuments and some groups of 
monumental groups has taken place for many years. However, 1f 
we only protect them without any other type of consideration, 
we will save an important part of our cultural heritage but it will 
be without roots and out of its environmental context site .We 
will pass on part of the cultural heritage but the entire heritage, 
which is a cultural reflection on ones country, will be 
irretrievably lost. 
There has been a threat that has affected cultural heritage and 
traditional architecture for many years in Galicia (Spain) due to 
social-economic changes that are necessary but at the same time 
destructive as well as uncontrollable that lead to this 
transformation. As De Llano (1981) indicates, prior to 70's an 
alarming disappearing of the cultural heritage began to happen in 
Galicia. There are several reasons that have caused the decadence 
of traditional rural constructions. Emigration to cities due to 
crisis in the agriculture economy, the rapid development of 
construction modern techniques, the changes in the productive 
orientation which has caused an increase in new construction, 
drastic reforms and the abandonment of many traditional 
buildings which are still in use. 
This abandonment generally ends in the dilapidation of 
constructions that, apart from representing a cultural heritage 
that should not be lost, also represents an architectural heritage 
576 
of major importance for the region. Its study becomes 
imperative in order to avoid the disappearance of old ways of 
life, which is the heritage from a not too distant past. The 
situation of deterioration, 
knowledge of the present 
abandonment makes it necessary to document. 
This problem is stressed in the traditional agro-business 
constructions which have been studied in depth in the works of 
Bas, 1991; Vázquez, 1999; Arias, 2003. In this work the present 
problematic that threatens the conservation of these buildings is 
studied. The usefulness of photogrammetry of close objects is 
analysed through simple methods to graphically and metrically 
document traditional agro-industrial constructions (Arias et al., 
2002). In this way we will be able to contribute efficiently to its 
understanding and consequently to its conservation. 
1.2 Aims 
There are a wide range of documentation and measuring 
techniques (Bohler & Nickerson 2003), but because of the 
volume and characteristics of these constructions, the search for 
simple, fast and economical methods are needed to make easier 
to understand them in accordance to the recommendations of the 
CIPA (Almagro & Grussenmeyer, 2003). The simplicity of the 
method adopted is a key point so many people who do not have 
previous specific studies or knowledge can apply it. A reduction 
in time is advantageous due to the mmber of constructions 
included in this typology. 
  
    
   
    
  
    
   
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
   
   
   
   
  
   
    
   
    
     
   
    
  
  
      
       
   
    
  
     
  
  
    
    
   
   
   
   
   
     
   
    
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