Archeotech | Alan Fachini

Archeotech was a project to digitize and reproduce archaeological artifacts from Joinville. Conducted in partnership with the Joinville Sambaqui Archaeological Museum, Fab Lab Joinville, and Univille, the project recorded collection pieces in 3D and produced replicas for educational and outreach activities. Its goal was to broaden access to archaeological heritage without requiring the frequent handling of original objects. The digital models also document the artifacts’ physical characteristics and can support research, exhibitions, and conservation efforts.

Figure 1: Archaeological artifacts from the collection and replicas produced by the project

Digitization and reproduction

The artifacts were digitized with a non-contact, infrared-based 3D scanner. The camera captured surface data for each piece, which was processed to create digital models.

Figure 2: Digital model of an archaeological skull created through 3D scanning

Figure 3: Original archaeological skull beside its 3D-printed replica

Education

Several training workshops were held throughout the project, covering topics such as 3D printing, scanning, and archaeology. The sessions addressed the challenges of archaeology and the use of 3D printing and scanning for documenting, reproducing, and interpreting artifacts. The 3D printer and scanner were presented to the public, who discussed the applications and limitations of these technologies.

Figure 4: Poster for a 3D scanning and printing workshop promoted by Archeotech

Figure 5: Participants at an Archeotech archaeology and digital fabrication workshop

Partners

Fab Lab Joinville: a space for education, innovation, and digital fabrication.
Joinville Sambaqui Archaeological Museum (MASJ): an institution dedicated to preserving archaeological heritage and researching the peoples who inhabited the region.
University of the Joinville Region Archaeology Laboratory (Univille): a laboratory focused on archaeological heritage studies, field activities, and artifact analysis.