A Breakthrough AI Application Is Unlocking Secrets of Ancient Cuneiform Tablets, Using 3D Models
Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the study of ancient civilizations, thanks to a new application. Utilizing 3D models, this AI technology is breathing new life into decoding ancient cuneiform tablets, as reported by Tech Xplore.
In a collaboration between Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg (MLU), Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, and Mainz University of Applied Sciences, researchers have developed this groundbreaking AI tool. The technology breaks away from traditional photo-based methods, drastically improving the accuracy of deciphering cuneiform tablets.
With almost 2,000 3D models of cuneiform tablets, including 50 from MLU’s collection, the researchers are pushing the boundaries of unlocking ancient secrets. These tablets, estimated to reach a global number of about 1 million, date back over 5,000 years and stand as some of the oldest surviving written records. The challenge lies in decoding their unfired clay composition with pressed writing, along with the complexity of the ancient writing system encompassing multiple languages.
Taking inspiration from Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software, the AI system operates by converting images of writing into machine-readable text. Its innovative approach offers several advantages, making the writing more accessible for reading and searching once converted into computer text.
This AI system has demonstrated proficiency in recognizing symbols, even in photographs, which are typically considered poor source material, and represents a significant breakthrough in deciphering cuneiform tablets. Its success opens up new avenues for research and holds promise for deciphering weathered inscriptions in cemeteries.
The findings of this research team were published by The Eurographics Association and raise the possibility of decoding inscriptions in various other languages using similar methods. The AI system’s promising success truly represents a leap forward in the study of ancient civilizations and paves the way for new discoveries.
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