A Virtual Paleolithic: Assays in Photogrammetric Three-Dimensional Modelling.

Abstract

Access to Paleolithic artifact collections is often constrained due to the cost of travel, governmental restrictions, and the rare nature of unique specimens. In the current high-tech climate, researchers are turning their attention to alternative ways of gaining information about and analysing these materials. The recent boom in three-dimension-al replication of cultural materials including lithic, bone, and fossilized specimens, has provided researchers with an invaluable analytical tool with which to carry out new and innovative studies. In this paper, the authors review a cost-effective, photogrammetric-based three-dimensional modelling system that utilizes digital artifact images and commercial software. Requiring only a notebook computer and standard digital camera, this methodology allows for the production of digital computer models from which important morphological information can be ob-tained. The modelling process is exemplified through two case studies—the replication of an Acheulian handaxe and the ongoing modelling and analysis of Middle Paleolithic refitted cores from the site of Taramsa Hill, Egypt. In both cases, the forensic software package iWitnessTM was used to identify points on the artifact surface that were then converted into points in three-dimensions. The wireframe models produced from these points were then im-ported into 3DS Max 9TMwhere the model was skinned and subsequently manipulated to produce cross-sections and calculate morphometrics such as surface area, volume and center-of-mass. Aside from the analytic advantages it affords, three-dimensional modelling ultimately provides the opportunity for increased sharing of data, ideas, and results among members of the geographically distributed paleoarchaeological and paleoanthropological com-munity. Digital models can be sent electronically via the Internet without the restrictions typically associated with valuable archaeological specimens. Photogrammetric modelling methods are ideal for this purpose because the images required to create virtual models can be easily obtained from collaborators worldwide and subsequently processed in a location of the researcher’s choosing. Consequently, photogrammetric three-dimensional modelling represents a useful and accessible alternative to more expensive laser scanning technologies.