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Evaluation of 3D Measuring Methods for Body Surface Damage and Scars
J M Wang1,2, J Y Mi1,3, W H Hu1,3
1Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
Fa Yi Xue Za Zhi
|June 13, 2020
Summary
Structured-light scanning and single-camera photogrammetry accurately measure forensic body surface damage. Structured-light scanning offers superior accuracy and stability, while photogrammetry excels in color but requires more processing time.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Science
- Medical Imaging
- Metrology
Background:
- Accurate measurement of body surface damage is crucial in forensic investigations.
- Traditional methods like rulers may lack precision for complex surfaces.
- 3D imaging techniques offer potential for enhanced accuracy and documentation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the accuracy and reliability of structured-light scanning and single-camera photogrammetry for forensic body surface damage and scar measurement.
- To compare these 3D methods against traditional ruler measurements and digital analysis techniques.
- To assess the time efficiency and consistency of the evaluated methods.
Main Methods:
- Comparison of measurements from 86 injuries using ruler, structured-light scanning, and single-camera photogrammetry.
- Evaluation of 13 simulated scars using structured-light scanning, photogrammetry, Photoshop lasso, and PDF software.
- Calculation of Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) against known standards.
- Assessment of repeatability and consistency using Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC).
Main Results:
- No statistically significant differences were found between the two 3D methods and the ruler method for injury measurements.
- Measurements of simulated scars showed no significant differences between 3D methods, Photoshop, and PDF software.
- Structured-light scanning demonstrated lower RMSE values than single-camera photogrammetry and the ruler method.
- Both methods achieved excellent consistency (ICC > 0.99) across different operators and sessions.
- Single-camera photogrammetry had a longer post-processing time compared to other methods.
Conclusions:
- Structured-light scanning and single-camera photogrammetry are viable for forensic body surface damage assessment.
- Structured-light scanning provides superior measurement accuracy and stability.
- Single-camera photogrammetry offers good color reproduction but requires more post-processing time.
- Both 3D techniques significantly advance the precision and reliability of forensic documentation.
