How is 3D laser scanning essential in Forensic Science?

How is 3D Laser Scanning Essential in Forensic Science?

Collecting, documenting, and analysing data are essential processes in forensics.

Forensics experts have been doing crime documentation for decades. From traditional methods, forensic science has greatly evolved and adapted the use of new technology.

In today’s modern age where advanced technology is in demand and all around us, investigators and reconstruction experts have turned to use 3D laser scanning technology. With its high precision, the use of 3D laser scanners is now preferred by most compared to photographic imagery.

How Is 3D Laser Scanning Used in Forensics?

Crime documentation is a meticulous process that requires patience and quick thinking. Besides, the evidence and data gathering can be a challenge due to time constraints, evidence being contaminated due to the number of people at the crime scene, and more.
Apart from the skills, knowledge, and the use of forensic tools such as cameras, measuring wheels, 3D laser scanners have been added to the investigators’ toolbox. From the collection of evidence, visualisation of a crime, blood splatter analysis, and ballistics, 3D laser scanning technology will quickly gather a huge amount of scene data.

How It Works

A laser scanner can capture the object and the surrounding environment by utilising the line of laser light. The conditions of the scene and the precise size and shape of the items within the scene are captured when the light of the laser light sweeps across the screen. The sensors then continuously record the distance and intensity of the returning wavelength in X, Y, and Z axis.

The laser scanner will perform a 360-degrees scan as it moves across the scene to produce a detailed and precise 3D representation consisting of millions of industry 3D point cloud.

The scanning needs to be performed by an operator that will move the 3D laser scanner several times to gather different scans of varying angles. Then, produced point clouds are collected and merged into one big 3D representation and then processed using various 3D software.

What are the Benefits of 3D Laser Scanning Technology

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3D laser scanning is the process of capturing millions of point clouds to produce mirror-like and 3D models quickly and efficiently. Typically, during crime investigations, forensic investigators use traditional tools which can be difficult especially when working on large scenes or complex cases. The tedious process can miss or break the case considering that manual process is prone to human error. Missing one critical detail can be a major drawback.

However, with 3D laser scanning, documentation of crimes, accidents, and other forms of lawlessness can now be done with an unprecedented level of accuracy and precision.

3D laser scanning technology allows investigators and experts in forensic science to data and evidence comprehensively and quickly. All relevant details and evidence are collected swiftly with minimal chances of error.

Not only that, 3D laser scanners will not miss any detail that may be crucial to the investigation. What used to take up hours or days to measure and gather data can now be completed speedily.

3D laser scanners reduce the number of required investigators on the scene. With only one or two investigators or operators at the crime scene, this minimises the possibility of tainting the evidence. It is highly beneficial now that fewer movements are allowed and physical restrictions are implemented due to the COVID19 virus.
The integration of 3D laser scanners in forensic science allows involved parties to revisit the crime scene anytime. Industry 3D point cloud or 3D point clouds and imagery are crucial so jurors can better understand the details of the crime through an immersive environment.
Extremely detailed 3D models represent the actual scenes of the crime which can be visualised as court evidence.

New technology like 3D laser scanning lessens the challenges that investigators face at every crime scene. The difficulty of having to recreate what actually happened is now eliminated through advanced technology.

Whether you are working on a case or simply needs 3D laser scanning services in Bristol, Bristol Measured Survey is ready to help.
Take a look at their wide range of services to see if they can address your laser scanning and survey needs. Their team of professional and expert technicians are equipped with the tools and knowledge to assist in whatever specifications you require.

How is 3D Laser Scanning Essential in Forensic Science?