Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 13, 2025
12:51
Simultaneous Multicolor Imaging of Biological Structures with Fluorescence Photoactivation Localization Microscopy
Published on: December 9, 2013
9.2K
Bullet signature measurement with chromatic confocal sensor
Applied Optics
|August 5, 2020
Summary
A novel non-contact 3D bullet signature measurement system uses a chromatic confocal sensor for high-speed, precise surface topography analysis. This system achieves measurement uncertainty under 1 µm, revolutionizing forensic ballistics.
Area of Science:
- Metrology
- Forensic Science
- Optical Sensing
Background:
- Accurate bullet signature analysis is crucial for forensic investigations.
- Existing methods may lack precision or speed for detailed surface topography.
- Non-contact measurement techniques offer advantages in preserving evidence integrity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a new non-contact, three-dimensional (3D) system for measuring bullet signatures.
- To leverage chromatic confocal sensing for high-resolution surface topography acquisition.
- To achieve high measurement accuracy and speed for practical forensic applications.
Main Methods:
- A system integrating a precision rotary table and a chromatic confocal sensor was designed.
- The sensor acquires wavelength information, not intensity, for robust surface measurements.
- The system operates in a high-speed point measuring mode for continuous data acquisition.
Main Results:
- The developed system demonstrates a measurement uncertainty of less than 1 µm.
- The chromatic confocal sensor's wavelength-based measurement is highly suitable for bullet signatures.
- A full round section measurement of a bullet body is completed in under 1 minute.
Conclusions:
- The new system provides a precise and rapid method for 3D bullet signature analysis.
- Chromatic confocal sensing offers a significant advantage for non-contact surface topography measurements.
- This technology has the potential to enhance forensic ballistics capabilities.
