CONICET | Buscador de Institutos y Recursos Humanos

Introduction and objective: Until recently, 3D-modelling of small (0.1-10cm3) (bio)structures must be performed using expensive image acquisition systems (microCT or light sheet microscopy) that were not available in most health educational or clinical centres in our region. With the advance of 3D-photogramming softwares and the general accessibility to high resolution digital cameras with macro lens, any interested professional can, with minimal financial and learning efforts, rapidly obtain useful surface 3D-maps for downstream applications in (bio)printing projects [1]. Herein we describe the design, construction and concept's proof of a cost-effective step-motorised 3D-mapping stage for digital photogrammetry of small bony structures.Methodology: We adapted a classic version of a photogrammetry 3D scanner model by OpenScan (CC BY-NC-N). Our setup includes the scanner stage and a dedicated photography light enclosure. The frames parts were fabricated with a FDM 3D printer using standard PLA. The electronics include an inexpensive Arduino UNO R3 board that controls two stepper motors (28byj-48) in a half-step configuration. During testing, a scanning routine is executed to capture object-surrounding images accurately, ensuring consistent lighting conditions. Construction decisions prioritised stability and precision while minimising costs. The estimated cost was ≈U$S 60 including materials and 3D-printer usage. Results and discussion: As a proof of concept about prototypes usability, we performed a collaborative work with a mammal research group that needed to establish discrepancy criteria among two close mastiff bat species (genus Molossus) that were genetically defined but morphologically overlapped (aka: "cryptic species") [2]. Given the size and complexity of the comparing objects (≈1.5cm3 sized skulls) and the subtle shape variation to be expected, this kind of problem implies a challenging scenario for testing our prototypes pros and cons. After scanning 10 skulls (n=5 of each species,

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