Computer Modeling, Analysis and Visualization of Angkor Wat Style Temples in Cambodia

Project of the Visualization and Numerical Geometry Group

Project supported by the "Gottlieb Daimler- und Karl Benz-Stiftung"

Temple Reconstruction

The main aim is to develop computational methods and fast as well as flexible CAD-tools for reconstruction of Angkor Wat style temples. The final output will be adaptable to other educational and cultural issues such as databases of virtual museums or tours accessible through Internet. A successive refinement from the whole complex temple down to an individual temple block is applied. The analysis of the temple (based on 2D plans, digital images) is done including block identification and classification (23 different blocks). Implementation will be done on PLASM (Programming LAnguage for Solid Modeling), a functional language which provides a complex 3D model with very simple syntax rules. Moreover it provides VRML file format, ideal for direct transformation and handling via Internet. This format can also be used for visualization in a virtual reality environment.

The final product is the software package ATG (Angkor Wat style Temple Generator). However, the developed methods and algorithms will be applicable to any complex modern and historic building but with its own building blocks.

Picture Galery of the Simulated Reconstruction

Symmetric building blocks of the basement and a reconstruction of a complete tower in Angkor Wat style.










Detail of a complex relief at Angkor Wat and its reduction to an abstract form.












Actual state of the so called Library. Simulated reconstruction fitted into the original photo. Raytraced image of the so called Library:
View from above Click to see the fullsized image
Geometric model without texturing The so called Library
Central perspective