This research has involved an investigation, devoted to historical, archival and academic studies, a theoretical part based on value-assessment and thirdly the practical part, devoted to experiments by testing new digital tools, equipment software and procedures.
All three areas have been developed by providing interesting new approaches from the academic point of view, more linked to teaching experiences and relationship with students, and from the practical point of view through the deepening of technical knowledge on wooden architecture and digital survey methods. The researcher had an important role within the research unit because she introduced new skills by making her knowledge available for colleagues and for the students of the faculty. For each case study, the researcher implemented the state of the art. From the practical point of view, the project offered the possibility to test the latest digital instruments and equipment.
The innovative aspect of this research has been the transformation of survey operations and analysis in the main technical strategy for determining the new values and innovative procedures necessary for intervention projects or restoration activities.
The research project has developed scientific, technical and operational methods for documenting wooden structures, meaning both the historical and the modern architectural heritage. Through the analysis and documentation of each singular case study, it has been possible to define the precise procedures by creating operative procedures, fundamental in supporting the work of architects, engineers and technicians. The project interacted with different sectors of investigation and scientific competences.
The results of these research activities have highlighted that the development of intervention strategies for the preservation of cultural heritage must today be based on updated documentation. It is evident that the careful acquisition of data has a fundamental role in validating each decision in any sector of detection. The elaboration of new analysis and intervention strategies for wooden heritage is an urgent requirement. Companies, academic units, and state officials should start investing in this sector.
The outcome of this MC project is unique. It proves that the triangle combining research, theory and practice was needed in order to come up with a new way of documentation. The fact that this project combined the latest technology of laser-scanning with careful traditional archive studies of architectural history and also with the value-assessment makes this research fundamental for its potential impact.