3D Digital Surveying and Modelling of Cave Geometry: Application to Paleolithic Rock Art

3D digital surveying and modelling of cave geometry represents a relevant approach for research, management and preservation of our cultural and geological legacy. In this paper, a multi-sensor approach based on a terrestrial laser scanner, a high-resolution digital camera and a total station is presented. Two emblematic caves of Paleolithic human occupation and situated in northern Spain, “Las Caldas” and “Peña de Candamo”, have been chosen to put in practise this approach. As a result, an integral and multi-scalable 3D model is generated which may allow other scientists, pre-historians, geologists…, to work on two different levels, integrating different Paleolithic Art datasets: (1) a basic level based on the accurate and metric support provided by the laser scanner; and (2) a advanced level using the range and image-based modelling

Geomatics engineering: a traditional discipline transformed in an information technology era

This is a post-print of a paper from AEESEAP '99 Midterm Conference. http://aeeseap.cacee.org.cnThe last decade or so has seen the transformation of the Department of Geomatics at the University of Melbourne from a 'traditional' surveying department into one actively concerned with designing, building and managing the spatial component of the natural and built environments. This paper will present an overview of the Geomatics Engineering program at The University of Melbourne, highlighting the fact that although a firm foundation in the basic sciences is maintained the program has become increasingly aligned with information technology and information systems. Geomatics Engineers now play an increased role in the creation of the data infrastructure that underpins much of the development and economic stability of the information marketplace.12-14 May 199

The spatial dimension of Aboriginal land tenure

The unique relationship Aboriginal peoples have with the land has been highlighted in recent years with the passing of the Native Title Act 1993. The vastly different characteristics of Aboriginal land tenure to the Australian Torrens systems makes it difficult for the integration of the two tenure systems into one land registration system. A better understanding of Aboriginal land tenure and associated boundary definition is a vital first step towards mapping and documenting boundaries for the purposes of resolving native title disputes and developing institutional infrastructures that can better address the duality of tenure systems. Aboriginal land tenure boundaries have been mapped in the past by various anthropologists and historians. Mapping and definition of Aboriginal land boundaries by 'surveyors' are likely to provide alternative ways in which native title boundaries are determined, offering a different perspective on the spatial extent of Aboriginal land tenure. There is a need to accurately and unambiguously define the spatial extent of native title within the Australian cadastral system to support land based infrastructure and the future of native title. The paper highlights: • The characteristics and similarities/differences between the two tenure systems in a spatial context; • The current methods employed in defining and mapping Aboriginal land tenure boundaries and the appropriateness for the purpose of native title determination; • Possible ways in which Aboriginal land tenure could be defined and mapped in the future; and • Possible incorporation of Aboriginal land tenure into the current land administration and land registration systems of Australia.1- 6 November 199