journal article·2025-07-28Open access

Automatic 3D Reconstruction: Mesh Extraction Based on Gaussian Splatting from Romanesque–Mudéjar Churches

Nelson Montas-Laracuente, Emilio Delgado Martos, Carlos Pesqueira-Calvo, Giovanni Intra Sidola, Ana Maitín, Alberto Nogales, Álvaro José García-Tejedor

Applied Sciences· Volume 15· Issue 15

Abstract

This research introduces an automated 3D virtual reconstruction system tailored for architectural heritage (AH) applications, contributing to the ongoing paradigm shift from traditional CAD-based workflows to artificial intelligence-driven methodologies. It reviews recent advancements in machine learning and deep learning—particularly neural radiance fields (NeRFs) and its successor, Gaussian splatting (GS)—as state-of-the-art techniques in the domain. The study advocates for replacing point cloud data in heritage building information modeling workflows with image-based inputs, proposing a novel “photo-to-BIM” pipeline. A proof-of-concept system is presented, capable of processing photographs or video footage of ancient ruins—specifically, Romanesque–Mudéjar churches—to automatically generate 3D mesh reconstructions. The system’s performance is assessed using both objective metrics and subjective evaluations of mesh quality. The results confirm the feasibility and promise of image-based reconstruction as a viable alternative to conventional methods. The study successfully developed a system for automated 3D mesh reconstruction of AH from images. It applied GS and Mip-splatting for NeRFs, proving superior in noise reduction for subsequent mesh extraction via surface-aligned Gaussian splatting for efficient 3D mesh reconstruction. This photo-to-mesh pipeline signifies a viable step towards HBIM.
Source: crossref · Quality: baseline

Research context

OpenAlex topics: 3D Surveying and Cultural Heritage · Remote Sensing and LiDAR Applications · Conservation Techniques and Studies

SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.

Affiliations

Architecture School, Polytechnic School, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Ctra. M-515 Pozuelo-Majadahonda km. 1800, 28223 Pozuelo de Alarcón, Spain

CEIEC Research Institute, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Ctra. M-515 Pozuelo-Majadahonda km. 1800, 28223 Pozuelo de Alarcón, Spain

Funding

MICIU/AEI

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