2026-11-03 –, Tofanelli
3D printing LiDAR data offers a unique way to transform digital landscapes into tangible objects. This talk discusses a workflow for turning an open-source point cloud into an STL file to be 3D printed and applications within community archaeology.
3D printing LiDAR data offers a unique way to transform digital landscapes into tangible objects. This talk discusses a workflow for turning an open-source point cloud into an STL file to be 3D printed as well as its applications within community archaeology.
Workflow will include acquiring and converting open source point cloud files, generating a 3D mesh, and exporting the maps for printing.
Applications will include Participatory 3D mapping during community archaeology days to share tactile interpretation of remote sensing, including opportunities for mapping with youth populations and emphasize how making these tangible models employs a methodology which documents living, changing, and culturally significant landscapes and protects them from destruction.
Speaker will have sample 3D maps for guests to interact with.
Caitlyn is an archaeologist and cultural geographer. Her research centers on the intersection of digital technology and landscape archaeology, applying community-engaged approaches to heritage preservation. She has contributed to projects integrating GIS, LiDAR, satellite imagery, and 3D printing to reconstruct historical landscapes and analyze cultural site distributions. Her current work uses GIS and remote sensing to increase native plant harvests in Surprise Valley, CA.
Caitlyn is a member of the #maptimeDavis council and a graduate student at UC Davis.