3D models of wear states of an Early Neolithic (Linearbandkeramik) flat axe (WEAR project)

Project WEAR is developing a methodological framework for the functional analysis of stone tools through controlled experiments and computational modelling of shape transformations resulting from use and deformation. Replicas of Neolithic stone axes (9500–4500 BC) that have been used for different tasks in experiments are documented as 3D models of wear states in successive working units. Here, we present the dataset for Experiment Exp_002a_FA11_02_Ma_A, which involved producing flat surfaces ("planks") for floors and wells using long stone axes, replicas of Central European Neolithic flat axes, with a machine ("7of9"). The main experiment is presented below. This dataset comprises wear states WS0–WS10 from the main experiment. Each wear state was documented and 3D modelled in 1,800 stroke steps. The 3D documentation was carried out using a ZEISS GOM Scan 1 MV 100. The specifications are as follows: measuring points per scan: 6 million; point spacing: 0.037 mm; measuring range: 100 x 65 mm²; working distance: 400 mm; light source: LED; weight: approx. 2.5 kg; dimensions: 290 x 215 x 80 mm; software: ZEISS INSPECT. The 3D models are exported as .ply files.