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3D forensic facial approximation: Implementation protocol in a forensic activity
Rosane Pérez Baldasso1,2, Cicero Moraes3, Elisa Gallardo4
1Forensic Expert, Department of Criminalistics, Department of Forensic Medicine, General Institute of Forensic Expertises, State Public Safety Office, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
Journal of Forensic Sciences
|October 7, 2020
Summary
Forensic facial approximation using 3D technology successfully identified a skull, leading to quicker body identification. This method aids in narrowing searches and reducing costly DNA testing for families.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Science
- Anthropology
- Computer Graphics
Background:
- Forensic facial approximation aids in identifying unidentified human remains.
- Traditional methods can be time-consuming and resource-intensive.
Observation:
- A novel 3D facial approximation protocol was implemented in a real forensic case.
- Photogrammetry and free software (Blender, MakeHuman) were utilized for digital reconstruction.
Findings:
- The 3D facial approximation was successfully recognized, initiating legal identification.
- The digital reconstruction accurately represented the skull's soft tissue markers.
Implications:
- Facial approximation serves as a valuable tool for individual recognition in forensic investigations.
- This technique can expedite the identification process, reduce the need for DNA testing, and facilitate timely body release to next of kin.
