Researchers in Canada have begun exploring the potential of underwater smartphone 3D scanning as a more accessible means of investigating stranded marine wildlife.
Using LiDAR-equipped mobile devices, capable of working out their proximity to target objects via laser pulses, it’s possible to scan and analyze such animals without having to haul them to the surface. In a recent interview with Phys.org, McGill University researcher Brendan Cottrell explained how captured data can help us better understand and prevent mass strandings.
“By integrating these tools into necropsy procedures, I aim to improve morphometric data collection, enhance postmortem documentation, and create interactive visualizations for research, education, and conservation,” he told Phys.org. “This work is particularly valuable for remote large whale strandings, where traditional methods may be limited.”
Modernizing marine conservation
Better understanding marine wildlife is not just a case of ensuring animal wellbeing, it’s also vital to keeping tabs on pollution levels, and getting a clear picture of conditions on our planet.
Underwater mammals can be affected by the slightest of changes to their habitat, but gathering clear data on their behaviours can be extremely tricky. Creatures like whales and dolphins often spend a lot of time in the ocean’s depths, where it’s difficult to examine them properly.
Scientists currently rely on data picked up at necropsies – essentially the animal version of autopsies – to monitor strandings on beaches. But this requires access to a physical on-land specimen, Cottrell and his colleagues say there’s a better way: LiDAR. Fitted to many modern iPhones, the technology is easy to use and allows researchers to peer through the depths.
Already, the researchers have demonstrated their technique’s viability by scanning an inflatable whale underwater. According to Cottrell, they’re still working on optimizing distance, ensuring full coverage, and tackling environmental factors. However, having achieved results with a deviation of less than 3%, he’s confident in the technology’s potential to open doors for future research.
“Open science has expanded the reach of this research by making the lessons learned available to a global audience,” he added. “Sharing these tools also improves data collection and standardization, allowing responders and researchers worldwide to contribute to marine mammal conservation.”
Photogrammetry and ‘Open Science’
The prevalence of smartphone technology is putting LiDAR, photogrammetry, and the ability to create 3D models, in the palms of users’ hands. Smartphone scanning is having a profound effect everywhere from retail to CGI and it’s easier than ever to get involved.
While the likes of Scaniverse and Polycam have been available for a while now, there are more options than ever for those seeking a professional solution. Using AI Photogrammetry, for example, it’s possible to create highly accurate models for more intensive use cases.
Overall, this is driving the democratization of data capture and lowering the barrier to entry for makers and manufacturers around the world. Clearly, it’s an exciting time for both 3D modeling and the scientific community. You can find out more about Cottrell’s research here.
