The 12 January issue of New Scientist has, in its technology section, an item about dealing with fossils by cat scanning them and using the information gained to make a 3D life size model.
The researchers in the field took a portable cat scanner to scan a rock containing a fossil of a 75 million year old crocodile, and determined the orientation of the fossil, permitting them to cut the rock around the fossil and return it intact to the lab. They then used a larger cat scanner in the lab to make a detailed model, and the data on a 3D printer produced a detailed model of the fossil.
How cool is that?
I see real possibilities here. If the data for 3D printing of fossils and other research objects is made available on the internet, anyone interested could print their own 3D model, and study the item. A much wider collaboration than could otherwise be possible.
You could have your own collection of 3D printed model fossils. Imagine having Archaeopteryx on display in your living room.