**10. Safety and other practical benefits of using digital technology**

This type of technology, especially the use of drones to gather large numbers of images of a difficult to access part of a structure enables the production of 'Point Cloud' models with 3 mm accuracy. This methodology also means that the safety of personnel in gathering data such as at the Castle walls and the difficult and dangerous to access breakwater walls, has increased significantly. Also, distance in using this digital technology is not limited and Heritage conservation knowledge has, or should have, no international boundaries. By using LiDAR and drones to produce digital models, I have been able to work on the strengthening and preservation of several Heritage monuments in China. Examples are the Chongching Gate and the Yongying Bridge in Shanghai and the White Pagoda in Guang'an were able to be

#### **Figure 21.**

*The full drone Elizabeth Castle model. The fly through over the complex is along the flight path and St. Helier's Chapel is in the centre of the picture. Screen shot and fly over.*

#### **Figure 22.**

*The drone survey model of the higher in accessible west facing castle walls.*

assessed for strengthening and preservation using the 'secret fix' Cintec anchor method developed in the UK. Through digital communications and from exchanges of data I have been able to provide assistance in these Heritage preservation schemes. Along with the progress of Chinese modernisation and development in recent decades has come the recognition and appreciation by local Government Authorities, the community value of the Heritage monuments being preserved (**Figures 23**–**28**, Ref. [15]).
