Cost-effective 3D documentation device in forensic medicine.

Area of Science:

• Forensic Science
• Medical Imaging
• 3D Technology

Background:

• 3D documentation is increasingly adopted in forensic medicine globally.
• Many institutions face financial and staffing limitations for regular 3D documentation.
• There is a need for accessible, entry-level 3D documentation solutions in forensic medicine.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a low-cost, user-friendly 3D documentation device for forensic medical departments.
• To introduce the 3DLamp, an affordable 3D documentation system.
• To demonstrate the viability of a Raspberry Pi 4-based solution for forensic 3D documentation.

Main Methods:

• Development of the 3DLamp using a Raspberry Pi 4 and its high-quality camera module.
• Detailed description of the 3DLamp device's design and functionality.
• Application of the 3DLamp in four forensic case documentation examples.

Main Results:

• The 3DLamp was successfully implemented as a flexible and easy-to-use documentation device.
• Analysis of data acquired from four case studies.
• Evaluation of the feasibility and usability of generated 3D models for forensic purposes.

Conclusions:

• The 3DLamp provides a viable, low-cost entry-level solution for 3D documentation in forensic medicine.
• The device produces feasible 3D models suitable for forensic 3D reconstructions.
• The 3DLamp addresses the need for accessible 3D documentation technology in resource-limited settings.