Abstract
Abstract. The work presented here is part of a broader study concerning the biomechanical analysis of the movement of dinosaurs, which will be done by the finite element method (FEM). For this aim, it will be necessary to count on virtual models of the walking system (that is to say, the foot, leg, etc.) and the substrate on which the dinosaur moved. Both kinds of models can be approximately inferred from fossil remains: bones for the former and ichnites (fossil footprints) for the latter. Obviously, there are important challenges in these models, let us see, for example, that a group of fossil bones (probably incomplete and deteriorate) is very far from a walking animal with not only the bones and the articulations but also with flesh, tendons, skin, claws and so on. In any case, fossil bones are the only material we have to start modelling. Therefore, the first step will be their 3D digitization. As the expected use of the 3D models defines, the technical characteristics that these models need to comply with, the manuscript will reflect on the qualities that the models for biomechanical purposes need, paying attention to the completeness, geometric accuracy and resolution. Moreover, a practical case is presented with a comparison of a scanning technology (fringe projection) and close range photogrammetry in order to model a 2 meters tall leg of a specimen of Edmontosaurus.
Highlights
Dinosaurs are, probably, the most fascinating extinct fauna
In this article we have reviewed two complementary options for dinosaur bones that might give response to a wide variety of situations
Some ichnites like Iguanodontipus and Caririchnium, present in the Lower Cretaceous of the Iberian Peninsula, are attributed to iguanodontians (Díaz-Martínez, 2011). Taxa included in this clade have a more or less constant body plan: primarily bipedal with a quite robust hind limb and a relatively stiff foot, with limited movement of the toes especially when compared with another bipedal dinosaurs like theropods, whose feet joints were more mobile
Summary
The most fascinating extinct fauna. Proofs of that are the many fictional novels, films, video games, toys, etc., that are released every year. Apart from the leisure, their study is a field of the greatest concern for the knowledge of the evolution of life on Earth and, the aim of studies of extremely active researchers worldwide. There is a third reason that justifies the interest: the undeniable value of the fossil remains –both the ones related to the specimens themselves such as bones or eggs and the ones concerning their behaviour such as the fossil tracks- as part of our natural (and even cultural) heritage. As part of the heritage, it has to be conveniently documented in order to ensure its proper preservation, study, knowledge and widespread use. The three-dimensional geometry is an essential part of this documentation and, in this regard, the techniques of laser scanning and photogrammetry should pay an indispensable role
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