Capturing Bone Stories: Videogrammetry Protocol for Generating 3D Models for Science and Education

Abstract

Studying marine mammal bones is often constrained by limited access to original skeletal material, which limits the possibility of using osteological material for educational and scientific purposes. While high-definition scanners represent valuable tools, their high costs, combined with the challenges of manipulation and transport, pose significant barriers in low-income countries. Alternatively, more affordable and portable techniques, such as photogrammetry, present an accessible solution by utilizing fixed lenses and professional cameras. As part of a research project that focuses on the development and evaluation of cost-effective optical devices (a smartphone and a non-professional camera) in obtaining accurate and high-definition three-dimensional models, we have developed an affordable methodological protocol. This protocol allows the generation of material replicas from osteological materials through videogrammetry to be used in educational activities and scientific communication. To achieve this, we captured videos of vertebrae from two small Odontoceti species from the Argentine Sea (Mar Argentino). The 3D models were constructed using Agisoft Metashape, a versatile software capable of processing various digital and spatial images with high accuracy. The resulting models have been shown to be a good representation of the objects to be used in outreach activities and education. Using more affordable and straightforward techniques to produce 3D models could open up new possibilities to enhance the exchange between scientific and educational institutions.