Using 3D laser scanning to carefully capture minute details
Who doesn’t love learning about dinosaurs? As kids, we grew up learning about the past, but only so many historians and archeologists could tell us. It took years to find artifacts and bones that let us learn how the Earth was and who roamed it 200 million years ago. 3D laser scanning has helped us discover new species and truly understand what may have taken place all those years ago.
An international team of researchers and scientists have documented small reptiles that appeared to be like small dinosaurs that once roamed the skies. Some of this group included researchers from Stony Brook University. They call these small dinosaur-like creatures lagerpetids related to Pterosaurs.
The bones that the teams found were spread across the world, from the United States, Brazil, Madagascar, and Argentina. The bones show they were fully adapted for flight, and their bones look much different than other reptile groups they had previously studied.
Why 3D laser scanning is beneficial for history
3D laser scanning has provided us many benefits to study our history that we did not have before. Many researchers were skeptical of using the latest technology, worried it would not compare to previous studying fossils and artifacts. Over time many researchers and museums have overcome this fear and seen the amazing advantages of using this technology. Here are some of the top reasons why this technology is perfect for research.
Noninvasive
One of the best features is that 3D laser scanning uses sensors and photos to capture accurate details. This means less handling and better preservation than previous methods. Instead of needing to touch, ship, and replicate, it can all be done in a matter of minutes and be much more accurate than someone trying to take molds by hand.
Documented and shared
3D laser scanning allows everything to be documented instantly. Every piece of information and the 3D model is saved to the cloud, which can never be erased. This also allows researchers to share the e-files with any teams across the world. No fossils or objects have to be shipped; everything can stay in their original homes.
In-depth details
This technology is incredibly accurate. Most 3D laser scanning devices can pick up microscopic details, even ones that are below the surface. It can capture hard to analyze colors, all textures, and anything that people could easily miss.
Open access for museums and guests
3D laser scanning allows many museums around the world access to artifacts they would not otherwise have. All without the original museums having to give up their items. It allows them to send electronic files and print exact replicas for museums to have. On top of that, it allows the museums to upload files to their websites and share them with guests.
Final thoughts
3D laser scanning can be the best tool for researchers, scientists, and museums to adopt. It has been a slow and gradual adoption that has led to many historical advancements. We will continue to see impressive results with this technology, and we can’t wait to see the new historical finds 2021 brings.
