3d Modeling Project - Structure 901

The goal of this project was to develop a three dimensional computer model of a 13th century ceremonial structure (a kiva) from the village of Homol'ovi I.

The kiva had been excavated by the Homol'ovi Research Program and Earthwatch Team members in 1996. The Challenge Grant Students first task was to assemble the field maps and notes, and then draft the final plan view of the excavated kiva.


The plan view of stucture 901.

 

After the plan view of the excavation was drafted, it was then necessary to reexamine the elevation data from the field notes to generate a rough 3D Model of the the room.

Autocad 3d View Of Structure 901

 
After drafting the three dimensional sketch, the next step was to refine the model by using the plan view map and 3d drafting tools to recreate architectural details, adding the stone floor, ladder and loom as well as a detailed roof.


Wire frame model ready for rendering

The model was then draped with texture maps (digital images of existing materials such as stone walls). After the texture maps were assigned, the computer model could then be rendered in a program called 3D Studio to create a realistic simulation of the interior of the kiva, as it might have looked when occupied.

 

Conjectural Reconstruction of Str 901.

This computer model is being used in the continued development of in interactive interpretive kiosk at the Homol’ovi State Park. The model will be used in a virtual walk through of the village that will allow park visitors to better visualize and understand excavation results.

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