Archaeological data models in HBIM

This paper proposes a methodological model for managing archaeological knowledge within current Virtual Archaeology digital ecosystems. Starting from the evolution of the discipline, today no longer limited to three-dimensional visualization but oriented towards integrated platforms for analysis, documentation, conservation, and communication, research addresses the problem of structuring heterogeneous, geometric, spatial, temporal, documentary, and interpretative data. Goal is to define an information system capable of transforming the multiplicity of acquired data into operational, queryable, and shareable knowledge. 

Proposed approach is based on constructing a multilevel HBIM model, divided into four mutually integrated components: spatial model, documentary model, stratigraphic model, and interpretative model. Spatial model provides site’s three-dimensional metric base; documentary model organizes and georeferences sources, surveys, images, and archives; stratigraphic model introduces temporal and relational dimension of archaeological units, also including virtual stratigraphic units; interpretative model formalizes reconstructive hypotheses and scenarios, making degree of reliability explicit through reliability levels. 

Integrating the four models in a Common Data Environment allows correlating material evidence, historical sources, and interpretations, supporting research, protection, management, and enhancement. The paper shows how the proposed system can constitute a dynamic and replicable platform, capable of combining scientific rigor, data interoperability, and new forms of communication for archaeological heritage.