Neolithic Dog Revealed with 3D Laser Scanning
Allowing researchers to gain more in-depth insight
Technology is continuously shaping our world in unprecedented ways. When 3D laser scanning was created, we never thought it would allow us to create things from ages ago. Now a team of researchers from HES or Historic Environment of Scotland, has been able to produce a replica of what a neolithic dog would have looked like through this technology.
This team of researchers created a replica using 3D laser scanning mixed with 3D printing—two of the most impressive technologies in the world. After a CT scan, the team was able to use a 3D laser scanning device and then print an exact copy. From there, it went to a digital artist who was able to bring the bones to life.
“WHILE RECONSTRUCTIONS HAVE PREVIOUSLY BEEN MADE OF PEOPLE FROM THE NEOLITHIC ERA, WE DO NOT KNOW OF ANY PREVIOUS ATTEMPT TO FORENSICALLY RECONSTRUCT AN ANIMAL FROM THIS TIME.” Steve Farrar, interpretation manager.
How this technology works
The coolest thing about 3D laser scanning is that it actually makes the printing process much easier too. Instead of creating something on the computer and printing it, a team can easily scan the actual piece and transfer all of the data to the printer. This cuts the collection process in half.
3D laser scanning works by taking rapid pictures of an object faster than anyone could capture with a camera. As the pictures happen, thousands of little lasers capture cloud points on the object. The light is being measured by the machine to see how far it travels to and from the object.
This equipment is much more precise than other ways of capturing information. It means that all of the replicas are almost exact. This team has to speculate on fur color, eye color, and a few other details that make something look like they used to. That part can be done through intense research. We can now easily see what they would have looked like and how they were taken care of by the bones’ state.
Why is 3D laser scanning good for history
There are so many incredible benefits from 3D laser scanning; it is one of the most important tools created for historical objects. Though many museums are hesitant to adopt this high tech, they are slowly coming around.
This equipment allows researchers to gain a more in-depth insight into an object and truly be immersed in the past. No other piece of equipment allows them to learn the inside and outside of an artifact at this level. The best part of 3D laser scanning is that it is entirely non-intrusive. This means none of the artifacts or objects being studied will come to harm. The replicas will be touched, the originals will be preserved.
Final thoughts
3D laser scanning has changed how we learn about history and change the way we recreate artifacts. They are more realistic than ever before, and the originals are kept preserved for much longer. There is less risk of anything being destroyed or broken. Technology has created us a way to preserve history for our future.