Techniques and Survey for 3D Modeling of Touristic Caves: Valdemino Case

Nowadays, touristic caves are a relevant topic among topographical and geological studies. Modern techniques allow to elaborate 3D models with high accuracy and precision. Anyway, underground surveys are always delicate to perform, due to narrow and difficult to reach environments. In this paper, we show a case study, “Valdemino” cave, that involved the utilization of different point cloud acquisition methods: UAV, TLS, SLAM. The first purpose was to obtain 3D models of outdoor and indoor environments with a medium and high accuracy. These models were used to calculate the thickness of the rock between surface and cave’s roof and will be used for further studies, taking part in the PRIN 2017 project, concerning the impact of the tourist on show caves. The second purpose was to discuss about the feasibility and precision of the different survey methods, when studying a cave. The results showed how SLAM technology is enough accurate for speleological purposes, if compared with the more accurate TLS method. It is precise, maneuverable, easy to use and it allowed to get into environments that TLS can’t reach, such as non-touristic areas.