Prototype of 3D scanner dedicated to forensic practice

The integration of 3D scanning technology in forensic practice represents a significant advancement in the documentation and analysis of crime scenes and post-mortem autopsy examinations. Traditional 2D imaging methods often fail to capture the complexity of spatial relationships and details vital for thorough investigations and their presentation during court proceedings. As such, the use of a dedicated 3D scanner, specifically designed for forensic applications, is essential to mitigate inaccuracies and reduce the need for open tools in forensic practice. Our newly developed prototype 3D scanner offers superior accuracy and reliability in capturing intricate details during autopsies. It is dedicated specifically to forensic practice due to its closed software circuit, which eliminates the need for open tools. It enables reproducibility in any location and features easy-to-use hardware and software, not to mention user-friendly manipulation. Nowadays, commonly used LiDAR scanners have gained popularity in various fields among both professionals and laypeople. Nevertheless, their limitations in precision have not yet been studied. Another problem might arise due to inaccuracies in point cloud data recovery, which can lead to significant misinterpretations with adverse consequences, especially in legal contexts. Moreover, the security of legally sensitive scanned data stored on open clouds remains questionable. This paper will discuss the advantages of employing a high-resolution, custom-designed 3D scanner over the use of commercially accessible, well-promoted devices during autopsy procedures.