POMPEII ROBOTIC VISION: UNVEILING FLAWS THROUGH ADVANCED INSPECTION

Archaeological site inspection is crucial for detecting damages and alterations to ancient buildings, structures, and monuments, regardless of their magnitude. This proactive approach helps to limit their degradation due to anthropic and environmental factors, currently exacerbated by massive tourism and climate change. As a result, their conservation and longevity can be ensured. Regular and systematic monitoring is a recognized strategy for effectively preventing structural damage, however, practical constraints in archaeological sites can often interfere with its application. This paper presents a robotic system designed to autonomously identify defects and damages on the walls of archaeological structures within the Archaeological Park of Pompeii. The system consists of an autonomous rover equipped with a vision system mounted on a vibration compensation device fitted for the irregular roads of Pompeii. The methodology applies tailored computer vision techniques to accommodate the unique characteristics of ancient buildings. Rigorous testing has been conducted on a segment of an ancient road leading to Porta Stabia featuring a selection of building wall defects and presenting challenging terrain that is hard to navigate. This research underscores the pivotal role of automated inspection methodologies in safeguarding structures requiring constant monitoring to prevent further degradation. By implementing the proposed methodology, timely measures can be taken to address issues as they arise, ensuring their preservation over time.