The project proposes to develop computational methods and tools for the discovery of spatio-temporal patterns in the distribution and historical development of physical artifacts important to anthropology including the development of a shape recognition system that allows researchers to compare numerous projectile points and petroglyphs according to several criteria. This will involve creation of a set of definitions/ data representations/predicates/algorithms and intuitive and usable software tools to enable the study of the spatio-temporal spread of physical objects. The proposal uses innovative technology to apply to questions central to archaeology. but which also has broad applicability to research in other, diverse domans.
