3D MODELING AND PRINTING AS A RESOURCE IN PALEONTOLOGICAL OUTREACH

Many communities, particularly rural ones, have low exposure to STEM fields and role models. In unfossiliferous areas, this is particularly true of paleontology but can be mediated through the use of digital modeling and 3D printing. Here we document efforts to increase outreach through such technology at Appalachian State University. A variety of challenges present themselves, but this technology can permit small museums or interested individuals to view and print replicas of fossils for education. Recently undergraduates working at Appalachian’s McKinney Geology Teaching Museum pushed the limits of this technology, producing life-sized models of transitional fossils like Tiktaalik and Tullimonstrum, but also a life-sized (~1.5 m long) skull panel mount of Tyrannosaurus based on the “Stan” specimen. “Stan” presented unique challenges in printing and assembly, but is our new flagship exhibit at a facility visited by hundreds of K-12 children annually.

Through this process the undergraduate authors (IP and JC), assisted by several other undergraduates in the AppPaleo research group, have learned to evaluate potential models and printer capabilities, methods to mediate minor flaws in printed replicas, and how to exploit model scaling for outreach. “Stan'' was modified to be a half skull, printed in 31 pieces, assembled using epoxy, touched up with spackle, and painted to match the original specimen. Numerous technical challenges arose during the project, but we found ways to reduce vibrations, improve plate leveling, and reduce waste material. While “Stan” is our most obvious use of scaling, miniature versions of “Archie” (the aetosaur Gorgetosuchus) have been produced for outreach. Specimens relevant to research have been printed and painted to help train new student researchers in fossil ID. Though many specimens are unavailable for 3D printing or have never been modeled at all, we have found that, in some cases, digital sculpts can substitute for fossil scans, such as with Tullimonstrum and “Stan.” Beyond these educational outcomes, the panel mount of “Stan” cost far less (~$585) than would a cast of similar quality, largely due to using under 13 kg of plastic. This project proves the value and flexibility of digital models and 3D printing technology for those seeking to both learn and teach about paleontology.