# Preliminary Application of the Algorithm Highlighting Petroglyph Patterns
## 6 Discussion  
The 3D scanning process of petroglyphs allowed for detailed mapping of the object in the virtual world. The 3D spatial inventory provides a complete set of data on the monument, which in turn can be used for further work. It is an excellent solution for scientists, archaeologists and historians who would like to conduct research. The prepared 3D model of the object will be perfect as a basis for creating reconstruction or revitalisation projects. There are many reasons why 3D scanning should become a widely used method of documenting in the protection of monuments:  
* 3D scanning poses no risk to scanned objects. 3D scanners look like cameras and the equipment never touches the object or emits harmful radiation. This technology deserves the name of a fully non-invasive method of examining historic buildings.
* 3D scanning offers an extremely accurate representation of the object. Mapping unusual and complex shapes with the help of documentation made by hand would be impossible. In addition, 3D scanners are able to document the colours and textures of the scanned surfaces, which makes them useful also in the case of the presence of paint layers, which is very important in the case of petroglyphs.
* While scanning petroglyphs, data related to the surrounding space, e.g., the shape of rocks, is simultaneously collected [20].
* 3D scanning is fast and efficient, especially compared to traditional measurement and documentation methods. Making a 3D model of a petroglyph, without laser scanning, but only on the basis of photos and traditional measurements, also involves a huge expenditure of time and work. However, the time needed to obtain a point cloud of even a very complex object is several minutes [21; 22].
* 3D scanning of petroglyphs is considered to be the most accurate monument recording technology that we can create today.
* Virtual objects can be used as exhibits to create virtual museums. These types of exhibitions are increasingly used in the field of museology.
* 3D scans of monuments and cultural heritage are an invaluable aid for museums that want to present their exhibits online. Regardless of their command of the relevant language or their knowledge, recipients can discover the common cultural heritage in an interesting and modern way from anywhere in the world.
* Digital mapping of historic objects also gives the opportunity to assess the level of their damage. This may prove invaluable especially in the case of monuments that have been destroyed or devastated.
* The 3D scans were suitable for further processing and were not rejected by the software due to too many errors.
* Processing data from a point cloud to obtain a mesh model of a petroglyph using Artec Studio 12 is a time-consuming operation and requires quite a lot of computing power [23].
* The model highlighting algorithm can be used for preparatory operations, e.g., before 3D printing. It allows to better visualise the pattern in the digital model.  
In the models used, the number of points in the cloud originally exceeded 250 and 300 thousand (file sizes: 10.8 MB and 12.6 MB), respectively; after processing it was reduced to about 70 thousand (reduction rate is over 70%). An interesting functionality of 3D scanning processes is also modern education and promotion, where visualisations of historic architecture in virtual reality are used to disseminate knowledge about monuments. The development of knowledge and active participation in getting to know the cultural heritage contributes to the protection of monuments for future generations [24].