Use of SLAM-scanning in the tasks of three-dimensional documentation and analysis of natural and cultural heritage objects

DOI: 10.35595/2414-9179-2025-3-31-595-610

View or download the article (Rus)

About the Authors

Tatiana V. Sukmanova

Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University, Institute of Living Systems,
2, Universitetskaya str., Kaliningrad, 236041, Russia,
E-mail: tanja.sukmanova@yandex.ru

Nikolay S. Belov

Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University, Institute of Living Systems,
2, Universitetskaya str., Kaliningrad, 236041, Russia,
E-mail: belovns@gmail.com

Abstract

The article examines the possibilities of applying SLAM scanning technology (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) for the protection and monitoring of natural and cultural heritage. The study is based on the use of the mobile 3D LiDAR scanner LiGrip H300, which enables the creation of highly accurate spatial models of objects with a precision of ±1 cm and a data collection speed of up to 640 000 points per second. Field research was conducted on two key sites: the ecological trail “Korolevsky Bor” in the Curonian Spit National Park (Kaliningrad Region) and the memorial complex “Command Post of the 43rd Army” in the village of Kholmogorovka. The authors identified significant advantages of SLAM technologies over traditional surveying methods, such as tacheometric surveying. The application of SLAM significantly reduced time expenditures—the average processing time for one object was 1.5 h compared to several days using traditional methods. Increased data detail is another major advantage of this technology. Based on the collected data, digital terrain and relief models were developed with an absolute accuracy of 3–5 cm, along with orthophoto plans with a resolution of 20 mm/pixel. Special attention was paid to integrating point clouds into geographic information systems (GIS). Limitations of standard GIS tools when working with high-density spatial data were identified, necessitating the adaptation of existing software solutions. Approaches for improving software to efficiently process large volumes of laser data directly within the GIS environment were proposed. The study results demonstrate the promise of SLAM technologies not only for monitoring dynamic processes in natural complexes but also for planning restoration work on regional cultural and historical heritage sites. The use of SLAM enhances the speed and accuracy of data collection, which is particularly important for areas with limited access or challenging survey conditions.

Keywords

SLAM-scanning, natural heritage, cultural heritage, Kaliningrad Region, heritage protection

References

  1. Badyukova E.N., Zhindarev L.A., Lukyanova S.A., Solovyova G.D., Shcherbina V.V. Features of the Modern Dynamics of the Lagoon Shores of the Curonian Spit, South-East Baltic Sea. Lithodynamics of the Ocean Bottom Contact Zone. Moscow: GEOS, 2009. P. 124–130 (in Russian).
  2. Barba S., Ferreyra C., Cotella V.A., Di Filippo A., Amalfitano S. A SLAM Integrated Approach for Digital Heritage Documentation. International Conference on Human-Computer Interaction. Cham: Springer, 2021. P. 27–39. DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-77411-0_3.
  3. Gubareva I.Y. Rare and Protected Species of Flora in the Curonian Spit National Park. Kaliningrad: Publishing House of IKBFU, 2017. 106 p. (in Russian).
  4. Kalashnikova E.V. Interpretation of Cultural and Natural Heritage Through Educational Programs on the Adapted Eco-Trail “Korolevsky Bor” in the Curonian Spit National Park. Sustainable Development of Specially Protected Natural Areas. Proceedings of the VIII All-Russian Scientific and Practical Conference, 2021. V. 8. P. 149–153 (in Russian).
  5. Paris L., Rossi M.L. Quantità e Qualità Nell’utilizzo Della Tecnologia SLAM per il Rilievo Dell’architettura. Diségno-Open Access, 2024. P. 1857–1876. DOI: 10.3280/oa-1180-c563.
  6. Sano H., Miura N., Inamori M., Unno Y., Guo W., Isobe S., Iwata H. Quantitative Genetic Aspects of Accuracy of Tree Biomass Measurement Using LiDAR. Remote Sensing, 2024. V. 16. No. 24. DOI: 10.3390/rs16244790.
  7. Vorobyeva Y.S. “…At one time, there were seventeen tourist buses parked behind the museum…” Interview with Natalya Ivanovna Bykova, the Oldest Employee of the Kaliningrad Regional Museum of History and Art. Vremya Muzeya (Museum Time), 2021. Collection of articles. Iss. 4. P. 195–211 (in Russian).

For citation: Sukmanova T.V., Belov N.S. Use of SLAM-scanning in the tasks of three-dimensional documentation and analysis of natural and cultural heritage objects. InterCarto. InterGIS. Moscow: MSU, Faculty of Geography, 2025. V. 31. Part 3. P. 595–610. DOI: 10.35595/2414-9179-2025-3-31-595-610 (in Russian)