Development of a mobile toolmark characterization/comparison system [Development of a mobile, automated toolmark characterization/comparison system]

Journal Article · Wed Nov 16 00:00:00 EST 2016 · Journal of Forensic Sciences

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1111/1556-4029.13233· OSTI ID:1350049

Chumbley, Scott ^[1]; Zhang, Song ^[1]; Morris, Max ^[1]; Spotts, Ryan ^[1]; Macziewski, Chad ^[1]

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1. Ames Lab. and Iowa State Univ., Ames, IA (United States)

Abstract Since the development of the striagraph, various attempts have been made to enhance forensic investigation through the use of measuring and imaging equipment. This study describes the development of a prototype system employing an easy‐to‐use software interface designed to provide forensic examiners with the ability to measure topography of a toolmarked surface and then conduct various comparisons using a statistical algorithm. Acquisition of the data is carried out using a portable 3D optical profilometer, and comparison of the resulting data files is made using software named “ MANTIS ” (Mark and Tool Inspection Suite). The system has been tested on laboratory‐produced markings that include fully striated marks (e.g., screwdriver markings), quasistriated markings produced by shear‐cut pliers, impression marks left by chisels, rifling marks on bullets, and cut marks produced by knives. Using the system, an examiner has the potential to (i) visually compare two toolmarked surfaces in a manner similar to a comparison microscope and (ii) use the quantitative information embedded within the acquired data to obtain an objective statistical comparison of the data files. This study shows that, based on the results from laboratory samples, the system has great potential for aiding examiners in conducting comparisons of toolmarks.

• Research Organization: Ames Laboratory (AMES), Ames, IA (United States)
• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE
• Grant/Contract Number: AC02-07CH11358; DE‐AC02‐07CH11358
• OSTI ID: 1350049
• Alternate ID(s): OSTI ID: 1401495
• Report Number(s): IS-J-9208; PII: S0925838816337938
• Journal Information: Journal of Forensic Sciences, Vol. 62, Issue 1; ISSN 0022-1198
• Publisher: Wiley
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

47 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION
forensic science
toolmarks
portable prototype
quantitative measurements
statistical comparisons
optical profilometer