Enhancing Archaeological Research with 3D Printing
The Virtual Curation Laboratory (VCL) at Virginia Commonwealth University uses 3D printing technology and traditional 3D digital data collection methods to create a comprehensive digital catalog of Native American artifacts and historical records.
This innovative project supports a wide range of research activities that incorporate new theories and cutting-edge technology, making archaeological discoveries more accessible to educators and researchers worldwide.
Observing Artifacts – A Historical Challenge
One of the critical challenges archaeologists frequently face is access to artifacts.
When valuable materials are stored for long periods, observing their "interior" or intricate details can be time-consuming and costly, potentially hindering research activities.
Additionally, handling actual artifacts carries risks, as many historical materials are extremely fragile and susceptible to damage.
3D printing technology addresses both of these challenges.
Virtualized artifacts allow researchers to obtain digital data files, enabling detailed 3D observation, manipulation, and precise measurements without needing to travel to specific storage facilities.
Furthermore, these data files can be reproduced as models using desktop 3D printers.
3D printed replicas of artifacts allow researchers and students to freely touch and examine them, providing a deeper and more meaningful connection to the past.
This significantly changes the traditional museum concept of "look but don't touch."
Establishment of the Virtual Curation Laboratory
Dr. Bernard K. Means received his BA in Anthropology and Physics from Occidental College in Los Angeles, followed by a PhD in Anthropology from Arizona State University in Tempe.
In August 2011, he established the Virtual Curation Laboratory (VCL) as part of a cultural resource management grant project from the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD).
This project validated the effectiveness of creating digital models of archaeological materials discovered within DoD-managed areas using a NextEngine Desktop 3D Scanner.
The VCL supports the research activities of anthropology students at Virginia Commonwealth University and also funds specialized projects using 3D printing that differ from typical museum activities, through internal and external grants.
This initiative not only expands access to artifacts but also offers a new perspective on the very methods of archaeological research.
Bringing the Past to Life – Layer by Layer
The VCL team uses Ultimaker 3D printers for model production.
The main reason for this choice is the wide selection of 3D printing materials available.
In addition to the rich material options, "operational reliability" and "the ability to consistently produce practical 3D printed models" are also considered important.
3D printed artifact replicas have a wide range of practical applications, including:
◎ Classroom and lecture demonstrations
◎ Student research projects
◎ Public relations activities
◎ Research support
Museums can also provide tactile teaching materials for visually impaired visitors to experience history.
This offers an opportunity for people who previously found it difficult to visit museums to experience history through touch.
By displaying 3D printed models in museums, visitors can not only see precise replicas of important historical artifacts but also touch them, gaining a deeper understanding of their texture and form.
Teaching students how to identify and analyze artifacts is also a crucial educational goal.
Dr. Bernard explains that he primarily produces 3D printed models for use in classrooms.
Interns are also involved in much of the work, particularly in model creation and editing.
This initiative offers many benefits, with the most important ones being:
◎ Expanded Access
3D printing technology provides people worldwide with quicker access to cultural heritage, offering opportunities for a deeper understanding of history and archaeology.
Individuals far from the locations of cultural heritage can now access these materials, making geographical constraints no longer a major barrier.
◎ Shareable Media
Scanned data can be shared and manipulated on various devices, leading to new interpretations and discoveries about archaeological sites and materials.
◎ More Detailed Analysis
Researchers and students can examine 3D scan data in detail from various perspectives.
This allows for easy observation of artifacts from all angles.
◎ Flexibility
3D digital data can be utilized in locations worldwide through 3D printing and 3D scanning technologies.
◎ Seamless Integration
This technology can be easily integrated into traditional archaeological research and cultural property survey methods, opening up new areas of research.
"I want to make archaeology, history, and paleontology more accessible through 3D printing.
Specifically, I want to provide opportunities for people with limited experiences, such as the visually impaired or those living in care facilities, to engage with history and culture."
Production of Artifacts with 3D Printing
Dr. Bernard produces 3D replica models of artifacts using portable equipment.
This allows scanning and printing to be carried out almost anywhere in the United States.
He describes the steps required to create replica models of artifacts as follows:
◎ 3D Scanning
The basic artifact replica production workflow begins with 3D scanning.
At VCL, the primary focus is on 3D scanning existing artifacts, rather than "digitally born" data created on a computer.
Typically, the team travels to excavation sites or storage locations to scan human and animal skeletal remains, historical sites, and, increasingly in recent years, fossils (especially those of Ice Age animals).
The most frequently used equipment is the NextEngine desktop 3D scanner.
Dr. Bernard has used this device across the United States and even brought it to the Cayman Islands for scanning.
The team also uses a structured light scanner connected to an iPad Mini 4.
While this scanner does not offer extremely high resolution, its portability makes it suitable for international surveys and mobile work.
◎ Editing
After scanning with the NextEngine, the team uses the 3D scanner's dedicated software (ScanStudio) to edit the model and integrate multiple scan data into a single model.
Typically, this process requires about two scanning operations.
If necessary, Meshmixer or MeshLab are used to further modify the digital model.
For example, parts of the object may be removed and flattened so that it can be attached to display panels or research posters.
◎ 3D Printing
Once the artifact has been scanned and edited, the 3D printing process begins.
The team uses PLA filament, and after printing, supports are removed using nippers or electric carving tools.
To achieve a more authentic appearance, the finished models are usually colored with acrylic paint.
The hues are adjusted to closely match the original artifact.
◎ Preservation
The 3D printed artifact models are then stored in designated boxes for educational activities and public display by relevant institutions.
They may also be provided to museums and other educational facilities upon request.
Scanning takes approximately 1 hour (using the NextEngine scanner), editing takes about 2 hours, and 3D printing takes about 4 hours.
However, the exact working time varies depending on the size of the model and the required resolution.
Below are scanning examples illustrating differences in complexity and texture.
Future Prospects
Dr. Bernard states that students "collaborate with other staff to preserve and bring the past back to life."
VCL opens up the depths of collections and deep storage areas, previously inaccessible to the general public, making valuable materials available to a wider audience.
This technology allows the team to scan local cultural materials and integrate 3D scan data within the VCL.
Even if students cannot directly participate in the production of 3D printed models, they can access the digital data and view it on the website.
This facilitates learning tailored to each student's interests, enabling a deeper exploration of past history.
Dr. Bernard hopes that more universities and research institutions will adopt 3D printing technology.
This would allow them to promote their own research using completed models and enable educators to incorporate replica models into their teaching materials.
He also wishes to build more collaborative networks worldwide, where researchers and 3D printing experts can complement each other's capabilities to create new value.
What's Next?
3D printing technology clearly demonstrates its potential for technological utilization in the field of archaeology.
Dr. Bernard predicts that in the future, artifacts could be further utilized in virtual reality (VR) environments, allowing students and researchers to view and experience materials from their own settings.
He also believes that 3D printing offers significant potential for people who traditionally had limited access to cultural materials, such as the visually impaired.
3D printed models could serve as educational tools for experiencing history and culture in homes or care facilities.
3D printing technology can be used in various fields, creating an environment where more people can easily participate in education and research.
Article Source: https://ultimaker.com/en/stories/49698-enhancing-archaeological-research-with-3d-printing
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