2010
Dr. Danny Roberge
Henderson, NV
In 2008, Forensic Technology developed new algorithms to acquire the topography, the shape and roughness, of pristine and deformed bullets. Side by side comparison software was then designed to enable a detailed visual analysis of the exhibits. While promising, the first version of this virtual comparison microscope could not handle the full magnitude of the available comparison microscope could not handle the full magnitude of the available high resolution information. This limitation has recently been overcome allowing virtual analysis at full resolution. By using the virtual microscope before the conventional microscope, firearm examiners can achieve ideal comparison condition and thus easily identify relevant markings and evaluate bullets. The virtual microscope provides an excellent reference which significantly reduces the effort and time spent on the conventional comparison microscope, especially when dealing with polygonal and deformed bullets. Furthermore, dealing with the digital images on the virtual microscope enables users to see more at a glance and enhance selected marking on the bullet’s surface in a way that is not possible with a conventional microscope.