The Use of MATLAB's Computer Vision Function in the Field of lithic Analysis
Abstract: In ancient times most stone tools were manufactured by flaking off the excess stone from a tool stone until it is reduced to the correct size and shape. This flaking processes leaves behind a pattern of scars where stone flakes were removed. This project is designed to use MATLAB's Computer Vision functions, and clustering functions, in order identify characteristic edge patterns of flake scars on lithic artifacts. This will be done by preforming a series of experiments in which, functions designed for uses such as, fingerprint matching, facial recognition, and human identification (Lourde: 2010, Bradski: 1998, Dalal: 2005) will be employed to extract data from photographs of artifact edges. The data gathered with these functions will be clustered using supervised and unsupervised clustering algorithms. The resulting clusters will be compared for similarities and deviation from analyst's clusters, in order to draw conclusions about proper classification of the artifact. Clusters will also be examined to determine if they correlate with known manufacturing techniques. Finally, clusters not correlating with analysts classifications or known manufacturing techniques will be scrutinized to find the cause for that clustering. Those causes will be examined to determine if they have cultural significance.