3 D Virtual Crime Scenes Models

By Staff

Friday, January 16, 2009, 17:24

The latest 3D technology has made it possible to decipher a crime scene with out actually being present. The Kiwi researchers have developed a 3D scanner that can create a 'virtual' model of any given area.

The computerised 3 D model navigates in a manner that gives the 'real' feel to the experience, the technology is developed by a team lead by Robert Valkenburg of Industrial Research in Auckland, New Zealand

The handy device has a laser scanner combined with a digital camera, that records the scene with supreme accuracy. A 3D model of the scene is created onto which images from the camera are superimposed by the scanner.

The local GPS system has various "satellites" placed on tripods around the scene, that emit laser pulses. As reported by the New Scientist magazine, the sensors fitted in to to the scanner allow the device to calculate its position by triangulation.

As said by Valkenburg,at least 20 of such laser beacons are needed, adding that more beacons give better accuracy. As the device is swiped in front of any objects or surfaces, the 'brushstrokes' vision automatically appear on the screen.

The other application of the device is also found in scanning heritage sites, historical artefacts and movie and video game props.