What is Archaeology?
Archaeology is the study of ancient humans through the artifacts and remains they left behind. Archaeologists research historical records to understand where to dig, then carefully excavate the site. After uncovering objects, they photograph, record, and analyze them to learn what they are and how they were used. Finally, they make conclusions about how people lived long time ago. Today, we will look at one of the challenges archaeologists face and explore a possible solution.
What's the Problem?
When archaeologists try to uncover the past, valuable information is often lost. Fragile artifacts can be damaged during digging, and many carvings or writings are too faded to read. This problem means important history can disappear before we truly understand it.
The Solution
We created the AI Powered Discovery Scanner, a single device that makes uncovering the past safer and smarter.
- Scan Mode: Uses radar, thermal, and magnetic sensors to detect artifacts underground and identify what they might be made of.
- Reader Mode: Uses UV/infrared light and AI to reveal faded details and reconstruct missing writing or patterns.
How It Works
Special Features
- Compact size, about as big as a small vacuum cleaner.
- Solar powered with a rechargeable backup battery.
- Water-resistant and durable for rough terrain and outdoor digs.
- Lightweight handle for easy carrying.
- Non contact scanning to protect fragile artifacts.
The Prototype
Core sensors include radar, thermal, and magnetic sensors...
Lightweight and ergonomic for long field use.
High resolution camera for detailed imaging.
Reveal faded ink, pigments, and patterns.
Shows reconstructed images and AI suggestions.
Why It's Possible
Radar and magnetic sensors are already used in real digs...
Why It's Possible
Radar and magnetic sensors are already used in real digs. UV and infrared light have revealed hidden writing on ancient scrolls. AI is being used to fix damaged writing and translate old languages.
Who Benefits?
- Archaeologists — Safer digs with less risk of breaking artifacts.
- Museums — Can show clearer reconstructions to visitors.
- Students & Communities — Easier access to ancient knowledge.
Feedback from Experts
On a field trip to the Natural History Museum, scientists, educators, and archaeologists provided feedback:
- "Knowing more about the artifact before excavation definitely would be helpful."
- "Tools like CT scans help, but nothing specifically shows materials before excavation."
- "Engineers said the design seems realistic and possible to build."
Software engineers noted that combining scanning and AI reading in one tool is a smart idea and could be expanded with a mobile app in the future.
Robot Design
Robot has 4 motors: 2 for the wheels, a larger front motor for a forklift attachment, and a rear motor used for multiple attachments including a "hand" and a "finger". The forklift moves up and down and the hand with the finger are used for precision tasks and dumping artifacts.
Two small motors for left and right wheels to control movement.
Larger front motor that raises and lowers the forklift.
Controls the hand and finger attachments for fine actions.
Robot Design
Attachments
Attachments are inspired by archaeological tools for mission tasks.
Sensors
Gyro sensor for accurate turns. Distance sensor for stopping at the correct spot. Color sensor to detect markings on the mat for navigation and positioning.
Our Code
We used block coding on the LEGO Education SPIKE website. Code is organized into small programs for each mission and uses sensors like the color sensor and distance sensor to keep performance consistent.
Improvements & Teamwork
We moved from following premade instructions to building a custom robot with stronger builds and sensors. Our teamwork, communication, and problem solving improved, which led to a more reliable robot and better mission performance.
