Smartphone-based digitization of historical built heritage documentation

Abstract

A significant portion of architectural heritage documents remains in analog form. Consequently, there is a genuine risk of permanent loss of invaluable data due to potential hazards such as fires, floods, earthquakes, wars, etc., primarily because digital copies of these documents do not exist. This research showcases the significant potential of mobile phone cameras for digitizing paper drafts of historical buildings. A good-quality electronic copies of paper records were obtained using photo stitching technology and an effective method for eliminating geometric distortions from the resulting mosaics. This approach offers a cost-effective and accessible alternative to traditional digitization methods, which typically rely on expensive large-format scanners and specialized overhead cameras. The described methodology provides an efficient solution for the relatively quick and reliable conversion of original documents into digital formats. Utilizing widely available low-cost hardware and software, this approach aims to ensure the permanent protection and availability of archival material for various research purposes.