3D modelling of Paleolithic percussive-abrasive stone tools: research opportunities

A functional analysis of the Paleolithic stone percussive-abrasive tools is one of the promising avenues in the archaeological traceology. The study of such artifacts is often associated with many methodological difficulties, for the solution of which researchers use microscopic, photographic, and other special equipment. The aim of the article is to identify the research opportunities for the three-dimensional modelling of Paleolithic percussive-abrasive stone tools analysis. We did the experimental knapping with pebble raw material using anvils, hammerstones, and retouchers. We used the obtained reference samples to demonstrate the differences in accuracy ofmanual and software measurements of the metrics. As a result ofanalysis of percussive-abrasive stone tools, we identified some advantages of using 3D scanning technologies compared to drawing and photography. These are speed and convenience in creating images of artifacts in multiple projections, software control of shadows and contrast during post-processing, use-wear trace visualization. The use of the structured light 3D scanner can significantly reduce errors in linear measurements of artifacts, providing the researcher with the tools for precise recording of the microrelief details, which is challenging to do in a regular traceologicalpractice. In total, the current capabilities of 3D technologies contribute to rising the confidence level of the obtained data thus helping to eliminate subjectivity in the research process.