ABSTRACT
Data visualization and solid modelling are two terms currently experiencing increased circulation in archaeological circles. To many, the two terms are synonymous with advanced state-of-the-art computer graphics. Indeed, the picture generation and visualization aspects of these systems are their key properties. However, the considerable impact that many of these pictures achieve has detracted from other important attributes of systems that successfully structure and maintain complex interactions with enormous volumes of three-dimensional data. Comparatively few archaeologists have direct experience of these advanced systems and most do not fully appreciate the uses to which they can be put. For many, their only contact with this technology is through the generated pictures. They are then regarded as sophisticated presentation tools. While the pictures are indeed impressive, the modelling technology that makes such pictures possible is at least as important and interesting to archaeologists struggling with the problem of recording and interpreting primary archaeological formations.
