Integrated systems of geometrical survey for the monitoring of dome structural problems

The particular double curvature shape and the location in space of the domes have hampered for a long time their proper survey. Recently the new laser distantiometers, where the reflecting prism has been removed, together with the traditional theodolites, have overcome this bottleneck. The analyses of the deformation is done by comparing the actual building geometry and the ideal geometrical design configuration. The knowledge of the geometrical shape of the building is the base for the application of other non-destructive techniques. The analytical treatment of the geodetic and photogrammetric observations is the only suitable tool to the task. The studied case is the dome of the Shadi Mulk Aka tomb belonging to tile monumental Shaki Zinda complex at Samarkand (Uzbekistan).