The researcher María José Iniesto Alba has recently defended her doctoral thesis at the University of Santiago de Compostela, in which she analyzes the role of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in the geometric documentation of archaeological and architectural heritage, within a context of rapid evolution of digital technologies.
The work highlights how these tools, combined with techniques such as photogrammetry and laser scanning, make it possible to obtain highly accurate three-dimensional models, improving the quality, speed, and cost-efficiency of heritage recording processes.
The research focuses on two key aspects: on the one hand, the analysis of the acceptance and use of UAVs by heritage professionals, using an innovative model based on the TAM and UTAUT theories; and, on the other, the study of their integration with other technologies on data capturing, emphasizing the complementarity and efficiency of combined systems.
The results show that UAVs are widely accepted in the sector and that perceived usefulness and the availability of technical resources are determining factors for their adoption. Furthermore, it demonstrates that integrating data from different sensors (UAVs, laser scanners, terrestrial photogrammetry) enables more complete, accurate, and multi-scale heritage documentation.
The thesis also identifies advanced applications such as the generation of 3D models, orthophotos, spatial databases, HBIM, and immersive virtual reality environments, which contribute to the conservation, management, and dissemination of cultural heritage. Finally, it highlights key challenges such as the need for data standardization, technical training, and adaptation to regulatory frameworks, pointing towards a future shaped by automation, interoperability, and the use of artificial intelligence.
Overall, the research reinforces the role of UAVs as a strategic tool for the digital transformation of heritage, with a direct impact on its protection, study, and dissemination.
The thesis was directed by David Miranda Barrós and Mª Amparo Núñez Andrés.