3D multi-scale scanning of the archaeological cave les Fraux in Dordogne (France)

Abstract

The archaeological cave « Les Fraux » (Saint-Martin-de- Fressengeas, Dordogne) forms a great network of galleries, characterized by the exceptional richness of its archaeological Bronze Age remains such as domestic fireplaces, ceramic and metal deposits, fingerings incised in the clayey-walls. The cave has been closed according to the collapse of its entrance, at the end of the Bronze Age. The study in progress takes place in a new kind of tool founded by the Institute of Ecology and Environment (INEE): sites dedicated to the study of global ecology. In that framework, we develop new methods of data acquiring based on 3D contact-free measurement techniques, according to an interdisciplinary way. A partnership among archaeologists and surveyors from INSA allow the 3D recording and modeling of the global volume cave. In the same time, we implement the high resolution recording of parietal representations (engravings and fingerings). The aim of this paper is focusing on the complementarity of data which are produced by the different scales of 3D recording used in the cave. Another purpose is to issue a statement of the different 3D technologies tested in Les Fraux. Finally, we propose to start a discussion about the way we try to produce an accurate 3D documentation and adapted to the researchers needs. © 2012 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.