Search Results (16)

This article proposes a method for ontology construction in the field of ancient architecture digitization with the aim of addressing the lack of formalization, sharing, and reusable unified description mechanisms currently observed in the field of ancient architecture digitization. This method defines the related concepts, attributes, and relationships between concepts in the digitization of ancient architecture. It employs the network ontology language OWL to model the ontology in the digitization domain of ancient architecture and realizes the visualization of the ontology in the digitization domain of ancient architecture, thereby providing effective support for the sharing and reuse of digitization knowledge of ancient architecture. Finally, an example of a wooden tower is taken to verify the effectiveness and reliability of the proposed method. Full article

Yuzhen Palace in Wudang Mountain, established in the 10th year of the Yongle reign of the Ming dynasty (1412 AD), is a significant heritage site within the ancient architectural complex of Wudang Mountain, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Despite being entirely relocated, the original paintings on the wooden beams of the Dragon and Tiger Hall exhibit clear characteristics of early Ming dynasty style, potentially being the only surviving wooden painted structures from the Ming dynasty in Wudang Mountain. To protect these valuable cultural relics and provide accurate information regarding the construction period of the paintings, this study sampled the paintings from the central and western sections of the front eaves in the Dragon and Tiger Hall. Using optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Raman spectroscopy, and infrared spectroscopy, the study analyzed the stylistic features, material composition, and craftsmanship of the paintings. The results indicate that the paintings are typical official Xuanzi paintings from the early Ming dynasty, consistent with the style of the Golden Roof in Taihe Palace, Wudang Mountain. The pigments used are all natural minerals: azurite (2CuCO₃·Cu(OH)₂) for blue, malachite (CuCO₃·Cu(OH)₂) for green, and vermilion (HgS) and hematite (Fe₂O₃) for red, reflecting typical early Ming dynasty characteristics. The craftsmanship shows that the paintings were applied directly onto the wooden components without a ground layer, using ink lines to outline the images, and a thin ground layer made of tung oil mixed with lime was applied under the oil coating. This study provides scientific material analysis and data support for the subsequent protection and restoration of the Yuzhen Palace architectural complex, ensuring the preservation of these historically and artistically significant relics for future generations. Full article

In order to study the influence of the cross-sectional area of hidden dovetail mortise (cross-sectional area of the projecting part after dovetail installation is completed) and length of tenon joint dimensions (axial length with dovetail installation completed) on the axial compressive behavior of four-section composite columns, the length of tenon joint dimensions was set to 30 mm, 60 mm, and 90 mm, and the cross-sectional area of hidden dovetail mortise was set to 360 mm², 562 mm² and 810 mm² as experimental variables. Some column models were designed and fabricated accordingly. Axial compression tests were conducted to observe failure modes, load–displacement curves, stress–strain curves, load–strain curves, ultimate bearing capacity, and stiffness of the timber column. The results of the study show that the influence of dark drum mortise and tenon cross-section size and tenon length on the axial compressive mechanical properties of four-section jointed wood columns should not be ignored; the load-carrying capacity of the wood columns decreases with the increase in tenon cross-section size and decreases with the decrease in tenon length; the stability decreases with the increase in tenon cross-section size; and the deformability of specimens of the tenon length group as a whole is obviously superior to the tenon cross-section area group. The increase in ultimate load-carrying capacity of the columns was 7–11.9% when the concealed cross-sectional area of the hidden dovetail mortise was reduced in the range of 30.5–55.5%. When the length of the tenon joint dimensions was reduced from 90 mm to 60 mm, its ultimate bearing capacity decreased by 9%; when it was reduced from 60 mm to 30 mm, its ultimate bearing capacity was almost unchanged, which indicated that after the length of tenon joint dimensions was lower than 60 mm, the influence on the ultimate bearing capacity of the column was more negligible. It is recommended that the length of tenon joint dimensions of 60 mm should be taken as the design standard value of the ultimate bearing capacity for the four-sectioned composite columns of the Pinus sylvestris var. Mongolia (PSVM). Full article

Preserving ancient buildings can be improved using Building Information Modelling (BIM) models created from high-quality point-cloud data. The problems arise from the need for automatic extraction of the characteristics required to meet various security criteria from a high-fidelity point cloud. BIM for Traditional Wooden Architecture (TWA) constructions requires collaboration across various research fields. Two crucial concerns are needed to overcome the current gap and enhance the use of BIM: an automated model for the major components that smartly combines historical information and a Smart Modelling Framework (SMF) to represent these components. First, a parametric model for the usual components, highlighting similarities and properties, was created using a TWA structure as the basis. The next step is creating an automated modelling approach to determine the component type and hidden dimensions automatically. Conservation initiatives for traditional wooden structures will benefit greatly from this research results. The experimental results demonstrate that the suggested technique accomplishes better efficiency, reliability, and effectiveness than other existing technologies. Full article

Cangjie Temple was built to commemorate Cangjie, the legendary inventor of Chinese characters. It stands as one of the few remaining temples in China dedicated to the invention and creation of writing. In this study, the material properties of wooden paintings from the Cangjie temple were characterized using Polarized Light Microscopy (PLM), Scanning Electron Microscopy coupled with Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), Micro-confocal Raman Spectroscopy, X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and Pyrolysis-Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (Py-GC/MS). It was confirmed that the pigments of the paintings included cinnabar, lapis lazuli, lead white, Paris green, and carbon black. The proteinaceous glue was used as an adhesive in the pigment samples, with tung oil likely being utilized as a primer for the wooden structures before painting. This study not only provides valuable data support for the conservation and restoration of the architectural features of Cangjie Temple but also provides useful reference for the maintenance and inheritance of similar ancient buildings. Full article

Wooden Cultural Heritage (WCH) represents a significant portion of the world’s historical and artistic heritage, consisting of immovable and movable artefacts. Despite the expertise developed since ancient times to enhance its durability, wooden artefacts are inevitably prone to degradation. Fungi play a pivotal role in the deterioration of WCH in terrestrial ecosystems, accelerating its decay and leading to alterations in color and strength. Reviewing the literature of the last 25 years, we aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of fungal diversity affecting WCH, the biochemical processes involved in wood decay, and the diagnostic tools available for fungal identification and damage evaluation. Climatic conditions influence the occurrence of fungal species in threatened WCH, characterized by a prevalence of wood-rot fungi (e.g., Serpula lacrymans, Coniophora puteana) in architectural heritage in temperate and continental climates and Ascomycota in indoor and harsh environments. More efforts are needed to address the knowledge fragmentation concerning biodiversity, the biology of the fungi involved, and succession in the degradative process, which is frequently centered solely on the main actors. Multidisciplinary collaboration among engineers, restorers, and life sciences scientists is vital for tackling the challenges posed by climate change with increased awareness. Traditional microbiology and culture collections are fundamental in laying solid foundations for a more comprehensive interpretation of big data. Full article

Investigating the mathematical and geometric principles embedded in ancient classic architecture is a significant tradition in the history of architectural development. Drawing inspiration from the modular design and creative ideology based on the geometric proportions of squareness and roundness in ancient Chinese architecture, we propose a new mode of squareness and roundness composition based on scale proportion specifically for the design of multi-story buildings. Taking Yingxian Wooden Pagoda as the case study, we not only re-evaluate the modular system and proportional rules followed in the design of the entire pagoda, but also reveal the technical approaches and geometric rules for effectively controlling the form of multi-story buildings. In particular, the mode of squareness and roundness composition based on scale proportion, utilizing a modular grid combined with squareness and roundness drawings as decision-making tools, can control the scale and proportion of buildings across different design dimensions and organically coordinate the design of multi-story buildings’ plans and elevations. Thus, it can achieve an effective balance of multi-story architectural forms. This study has potential applications in the creation of traditional multi-story buildings and heritage restoration projects, and offers valuable insights for future research on ancient multi-story buildings. Full article

This study analyzes the pigments and binders used in the painted wooden structure of DaZhong Gate in the Confucius Temple in Qufu, Shandong Province, China. Five samples were collected from the building and analyzed using techniques such as polarized light microscopy (PLM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), micro-Raman spectroscopy (m-RS), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The findings reveal that the red, yellow, green, and blue pigments are identified as lead red, lead chromate yellow, emerald green, and ultramarine, respectively. The white pigment is determined to be a combination of chalk and lead white or anglesite. Considering the production period of the yellow and green pigments, it is inferred that architectural paintings underwent restoration or repainting during the late Qing Dynasty. The analysis of the binder in the pigment using pyrolysis–gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (Py-GC/MS) reveals that the binder employed is a protein-based glue. Additionally, the detected presence of Heat-bodied tung oil suggests a potential connection to traditional Chinese painting techniques on wooden surfaces. This discovery not only contributes to the historical research of the Confucius Temple but also provides crucial data for the conservation and restoration efforts of this culturally significant heritage site. Full article

As a digital innovation tool in the field of architecture and engineering, BIM technology can improve the efficiency and quality of projects and also realize all-round information sharing and collaboration throughout the project life cycle. Most of the ancient buildings in China are wooden structures, which often face problems such as damage, corrosion, and insect infestation, but because of their high cultural value, the maintenance of ancient buildings is always subject to problems. The effective combination of BIM technology and ancient buildings is conducive to the all-round, detailed, and in-depth maintenance and protection of ancient buildings. The Han family compound is located in Shangli Ancient Town, Sichuan Province, which is a well-preserved Qing dynasty architectural complex in an ancient town. However, under the dual effects of nature and man, a fire in the Republic of China period, an earthquake in 2008, and tourism development in recent years have caused the ancient buildings to become damaged and collapse, and they tend to assimilate with modern buildings, facing the dilemmas of maintenance and protection. Therefore, this paper is dedicated to exploring the feasibility of combining BIM technology with the maintenance and protection of the Han Family Courtyard and summarizing the specific application of BIM technology in the repair and protection of the Han Family Courtyard through domestic and international cases, so that the Han Family Courtyard can be developed in a sustainable way. Full article

The present work presents and discusses an analysis of the floor types of the Villa of Diomedes (Pompeii archaeological park in the Campania region, Italy) from an architectural, archaeological, and structural point of view. In particular, the geometrical-structural parameters of different floor types and the rules used by ancient builders to design them are investigated by means of interdisciplinary research. The links between structural assumptions, archival sources, geometric survey, in situ visual inspections, and archaeological information make it possible to define the geometrical-structural parameters of eleven barrel vaults, three wooden floors, and three sloped wooden roofs (buried and collapsed during the Vesuvius eruption). A specific study of the barrel vaults is presented to investigate the relationships between the structural parameters of the main vaults. Furthermore, a comparison between the vaults’ dimensions obtained from surveys and those produced by formulations in the literature between the 15th and 20th centuries concerning masonry vault designs is presented and discussed. These analyses, carried out within the framework of the Villa of Diomedes interdisciplinary project, were very useful for interpreting the fabrication of the villa and making a 3D reconstruction model of how the villa probably looked in the fateful year of 79 A.D. Full article

Senile trees in historic church gardens have natural, aesthetic, historical, and cultural value. Cutting them down too hastily annihilates the achievements of entire generations. We should try to preserve the greenery surrounding historic churches and integrate it into a clear compositional arrangement with the sacral architecture. The primary purpose of the paper was to describe the process of inventorying 200-year-old trees and to present the revalorization project for the garden around the historic Orthodox church in Horostyta, located in the Lublin Voivodeship, in southeastern Poland. The church complex consists of a wooden 18th-century building, bell tower, garden, and cemetery. Within the church garden’s boundaries, there are 15 trees, with two predominant species: Acer pseudoplatanus L. and Tilia cordata Mill. These trees are of varying ages and health conditions. We used acoustic tomography to perform tree health diagnostics. Three trees, for which the initial visual assessment was disturbing, were examined thanks to detailed tomography tests. Then, through a project adapting the church garden to the health conditions of the ancient trees, they were separated from users by flowerbeds and no small architectural objects were placed around them. The presented development concept forms a compromise between tradition and the modern user’s needs. In 2007, a general renovation of the temple building was completed. Currently, the presented project for the church garden is being implemented. Full article

The Yingxian Wooden Pagoda (1056 AD), located in Shanxi province, China, is a unique architectural pure-wooden artifact standing for a millennium. Despite its longevity, the structures and properties of the ancient architectural woods used in its construction have been significantly degraded due to long-term natural aging, which has profoundly impacted the preservation of this valuable cultural heritage. To better understand this degradation, we studied the deterioration of a baluster (Larix principis-rupprechtii Mayr.) from Yingxian Wooden Pagoda. The study employed various analytical techniques, including optical microscopy, atomic force microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, solid-state ¹³C nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and nanoindentation technology, to evaluate the microstructures and properties of the ancient architectural woods. Results indicated that the destruction of wood cell walls was primarily transverse transwall destruction and interfacial debonding and that the degradation of chemical components was primarily in the hemicellulose (xylan) and amorphous region of cellulose. The reduced elastic modulus and hardness of tracheid cell walls in the ancient architectural woods were higher than in recent larch woods. This study would help deepen understanding of wood deterioration during long-term natural aging for the subsequent preservation and protection of wooden cultural heritages and longer use of ancient timber constructions. Full article

This research sheds light on the analysis of pigments and adhesives applied on a color painting on wooden architecture in Taiping Heavenly Kingdom Prince Dai’s mansion, located in Changzhou, Jiangsu Province in China. Four samples were collected from the painting above the building beam in the mansion, and the samples were analyzed and identified using a series of techniques, including polarized light microscopy (PLM), scanning electron microscope coupled with an energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), micro-Raman spectroscopy (m-RS) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The results indicate that the red, black, blue, and green pigments were identified to be cinnabar, ivory black, indigo, and phthalocyanine green, respectively. The green pigment was inferred to be a lately repainted pigment based on its production age, suggesting that this ancient building had been refurbished or repaired. Given the good stability and visual effect of this green pigment, it is suggested to be used in future conservation processes. The pyrolysis-gas chromatography/mass Spectrometry (Py-Gc/Ms) results indicate that glue containing protein was used as a binder for the pigment samples, and that walnut oil might have been applied to the wooden architecture as a primer before painting. Our findings can well inform curators and conservators of the selection of appropriate restoration materials if necessary, and also provide data support for conservation of similar ancient buildings in southern China. Full article

Building-information-modeling for cultural heritage (HBIM), which is established using surveying data, can be used to conserve architectural heritage. The development of an HBIM model for ancient wooden architecture (AWA) structures requires interdisciplinary integration. A parametric model for the main components that intelligently integrates the historical knowledge, as well as an intelligent modeling method for these components, are two critical issues required to bridge the existing gap and improve the application of HBIM. Taking an AWA structure constructed during the Liao and Song Dynasties as an example, the parametric model for the typical components, with emphasis on commonality and characteristics, were first proposed. Subsequently, an intelligent automated modeling method was developed and programmed using Dynamo, which can intelligently identify the component type and determine the invisible dimensions. A complicated dou-gong was successfully established with surveying data using the proposed method within five minutes, thereby validating the reliability and efficiency of this method. Furthermore, the proposed method was used to establish the HBIM model of Yingxian Wood Pagoda, which is the oldest and tallest AWA structure in China with a height of 65.88 m. The research findings will provide an essential reference for the conservation of wooden architectural heritage structures. Full article

Wooden structures in China’s ancient buildings hold highly historical and cultural values. There is an urgent need to repair and replace the damaged wooden structures after hundreds and thousands of years of exposure to weather. Unfortunately, to date there is still a lack of insightful understanding on how the chemical structure, composition, and micro-morphology evolve over the long-term natural aging before artificial ancient timbers can be developed. This work aims to systematically examine the outer surface, middle layer, and inner surface of the same piece of Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolate) collected from an ancient Chinese building. Based on qualitative and quantitative analysis, both cellulose and hemicellulose in aged woods are found to experience significant degrees of degradation. The crystalline regions of cellulose are also determined to undergo moderate degradation as compared to the control fresh wood. In comparison, the lignin basically remains unchanged and its content in the inner layer slightly increases, as evidenced by more free phenol groups determined. Relative to the outer and inner layer, the middle layer of the ancient wood shows the lowest degree of degradation close to that of the fresh wood. This work offers guidelines for fabricating artificial ancient woods to repair the destroyed ones in China’s ancient architectures. Full article