A versatile mechanized setup for controlled experiments in archeology

Abstract

Experimentation has always played an important role in archeology, in particular to create reference collections for use-wear studies. Different types of experiments can answer different questions; all types should therefore be combined to obtain a holistic view. In controlled experiments, some factors are tested, while the other factors are kept constant to improve the signal-to-noise ratio. Yet, controlled experiments have been conducted with variable degrees of control. Although they seem decoupled from archeological applications, mechanized experiments and the robust causal relationships they measure are critical to answer archeological questions like understanding the processes of use-wear formation. Here we introduce the concept behind using the SMARTTESTER®, a modular material tester, and we present four different setups (linear, rotary, percussion and oscillating) and their potential archeological applications. Such experiments will contribute to our understanding of causality in human tool use.

Why invent the handle? Electromyography (EMG) and efficiency of use data investigating the prehistoric origin and selection of hafted stone knives

“…The cutting performance of stone tools can be assessed in diverse ways. Broadly, previous studies have been divided into actualistic experiments displaying high external validity (Jones 1980;Toth and Schick 2009;Merritt and Peters 2019), controlled cutting tests performed by machines with high internal validity (Collins 2008;Bebber et al 2019;Calandra et al 2020), and those in a middle range that recruit large numbers of participants to use tools within controlled laboratory based conditions (Prasciunas 2007;Key and Lycett 2019;Bilbao et al 2019;Biermann Gürbüz and Lycett 2021). The present experiment falls into the latter category, with participants being recruited to use three stone tools during two laboratory cutting tasks; thus, balancing some aspects of both internal and external validity (Eren et al 2016;Lycett and Eren 2013;Mesoudi 2011).…”

Characterising the stone artefact raw materials at Liang Bua, Indonesia

“…However, it is important to note that the sample size used in this study is small and our observations need to be verified by future studies with more samples. In addition, further studies should evaluate the functional hypothesis by testing directly the quality and performance of flake edges made from the two chert varieties under controlled tool-use settings (Calandra et al, [16]; Key, [32]; Key et al, [33]; Lin et al, [38]). Another interesting finding here is that the indentation hardness of all of our samples is considerably lower than those of chert from elsewhere (Namen et al, [52]).…”

Virtual skeletons and digital muscles: an experimental bioarchaeological approach to the pre-Hispanic production of millstones (Tenerife, Canary Islands)

“…1b), which connect tools to computers to measure their force and trajectory (Key, 2013;Pfleging et al, 2015). Some authors have even developed mechanized robots to monitor computerguided lithic tools' processes (Calandra et al, 2020).…”