Teaching Unit in Geotechnologies for Mapping Changes of the Built and Natural Environment
ISBN 978-85-88783-11-9
Authors
1Gillieron, P.; 2Zufferey, J.; 3Vincent, G.; 4Feihl, O.
1EPFL Email: pierre-yves.gillieron@epfl.ch
2EPFL Email: jerome.zufferey@epfl.ch
3EPFL Email: geoffrey.vincent@epfl.ch
4ARCHEOTECH Email: info@archeotech.ch
Abstract
Teaching geomatics is a continuous challenge with the evolution of technologies which enables more and more accurate measurement and modelling of the environment. This paper will present an original pedagogical approach based on a teaching unit gathering students in architecture, civil an environmental engineering. Working together in collecting and visualizing data from the built and natural environment with advanced tools like laser scanners is a very stimulating approach that requires multiple competences in mapping and data analysis. A number of practical examples (bridge maintenance, archaeological site, city management) are presented from the field operations to the 3D visualisation and mapping. Each of these topics is illustrated with comparison maps. A first exercise consists in a detailed survey of an antique theatre with a laser scanner and a drone. These collected geodata were combined in a 3D terrain model which has been used for the comparison of the archaeological site at different epochs. The second example is based on a series of digital surface models on the City of Geneva, which allows the students to create several map changes. This mode of visualisation is very useful for the characterisation of the evolution of urban and natural areas.