Comparing structured light and structure-from-motion modelling techniques at Malapa to determine their utility within the African archaeological context

Abstract

The development of three-dimensional surface modelling has allowed archaeologist to document sites to a degree not yet possible. Numerous approaches and techniques are currently available, with the two most used techniques being structured light and structure-from-motion. Little research has been done as to which of these two mainstream techniques will have the highest utility within the African archaeological landscape. This study examines these two techniques, by use of the Artec EVA scanner and the Agisoft Metashape photogrammetric software, to determine which of these two systems will be best suited for use within Africa. It was found that, despite the Artec system's generally higher accuracy and quality, the physical limitations of the system as well as associated cost made the use of the Agisoft Metashape system more viable for use within African archaeology.