Towards a methodology for 3D content models: The reconstruction of ancient vaults for maintenance and structural behaviour in the logic of BIM management

The aim of this paper is to identify elements that can contribute to elaborate a proper methodology for 3D content model generation: the availability of advanced surveying technologies (Terrestrial Laser Scanner, Photogrammetry, Multispectral data integration) can have a great potential in generating knowledge, especially if integrated by historical documentation on the ancient constructive technologies. In this sense the use of technological-constructive analysis could better orient 3D Informative Object reconstruction. Such approach has been here applied to the vault structures: the main contribution was the investigation of maintenance analysis and of structural stability, supporting the comprehension of the behaviour of architectural elements within the overall framework of the artefact. The logic of Building Information Models (BIM) approach, such as Object Content Model, has opened interesting scenarios to be investigated for the future, and that could become more useful for the sites´ monitoring and for the life cycle management within planned conservation processes.