NCJ Number
199290
Journal
Law Enforcement Technology Volume: 30 Issue: 2 Dated: February 2003 Pages: 90-93
Date Published
February 2003
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article describes a new technology called the DeltaSphere-3000 3D Scene Digitizer, which can be used to create a 3D model of a crime scene or an object.
Abstract
The DeltaSphere is a portable, long-range scanner capable of enabling forensic specialists to capture an entire crime scene and take exact measurements of objects. The company that created the DeltaSphere explains that it was not created for a specific forensic application. Instead, the company is still exploring the types of applications that are possible. However, they do know that DeltaSphere can be used to view a crime scene from every angle. It has the capability to scan the crime scene and then allow forensic specialists to zoom in and out and even to create a 3D model of any object for further investigation or for presentation in court. While forensic specialists would love to utilize this new technology, it is currently too expensive for most police agencies to purchase; its price tag is $44,900 with an additional $10,000 for an optional digital color camera. The author explains that DeltaSphere is compatible with software for processing 3D point clouds and software for computer-aided drawing and simulation. Limitations of the DeltaSphere include its capability of scanning an area no larger than 40 feet from the unit. Additionally, detail may be lost when scanning very small objects. The speed of the scanning process varies, with a 360-degree scan of a room taking approximately 20 minutes. Future plans for the DeltaSphere include a less expensive model that is affordable to police agencies around the country.