Steeped in history and nestled in the heart of Braşov, Romania, the Black Church stands as a symbol of architectural grandeur and cultural heritage. The church’s magnificent tower, with its intricate details and majestic presence, has long captivated both locals and visitors alike. Recently, as part of a preservation project, the need arose to replace the tower’s bells. This endeavor required a comprehensive understanding of the tower’s structural integrity and the potential impact of the new bells. To accomplish this, a cutting-edge solution utilizing 3D laser scanning technology was implemented, providing accurate measurements and facilitating informed decision-making.

Unveiling the Past:
The Black Church, also known as Biserica Neagră, traces its roots back to the late 14th century. Its construction spanned several centuries, blending architectural styles such as Gothic and Renaissance, resulting in a truly unique masterpiece. Over the years, the tower has witnessed historical events, withstanding the test of time as a silent observer.

Project Overview:
To prepare for the replacement of the tower’s bells, the project required precise calculations of the tower’s elements and an assessment of their ability to withstand the new bells’ overloading. At the beginning, our team was focused to capture the intricate details and measurements necessary for accurate analysis. 3D laser scanning technology was employed to capture the entire tower’s structure. Our team utilized two Faro Focus devices to scan the spiral staircases and seamlessly registered multiple scans using Trimble Real Works.

A Scanning Process of Precision:
Over the course of 8 hours, the scanning process unfolded, meticulously capturing every aspect of the tower. The target-based registration method ensured precise alignment and accuracy. The result? A comprehensive point cloud representing all the tower’s element joints, creating a virtual replica of the Black Church Tower.

Transforming Data into Insights:
The vast amount of data collected through 3D laser scanning served as the foundation for generating deliverable drawings. A dedicated team of experts invested over 60 hours in creating detailed 2D plans using AutoCAD. The final drawings comprised 4 elevations, 2D plans at eight different heights, 2 cuts at two and six meters, a roofing drawing, and cuts for the attic at various elevations.

Empowering Informed Decision-Making:
The drawings became a crucial resource for structural engineers involved in the bell replacement project. By representing the tower’s elements and joints with utmost precision, the point cloud generated by the scan facilitated comprehensive analysis. Structural engineers could now make informed decisions based on accurate measurements and data, ensuring the preservation of the tower’s structural integrity.

Preserving History, Honoring Heritage:
Through the successful implementation of 3D laser scanning technology, the Black Church Tower’s secrets were unveiled, and its history preserved. This groundbreaking approach allowed for a meticulous assessment of the tower’s elements and ensured a seamless replacement of the bells while maintaining the integrity of this iconic landmark.

The Black Church Tower stands as a testament to the rich history and architectural marvels of Braşov. Thanks to the utilization of 3D laser scanning technology, the preservation project took a significant leap forward, offering invaluable insights into the tower’s structure. The precision of the point cloud and the resulting 2D drawings empowered structural engineers to make informed decisions, safeguarding the tower’s heritage for future generations. As the bells toll once again, the Black Church Tower stands tall, a true testament to the fusion of technology, history, and preservation.