Measurement Services: Forensic Analysis

DCM uses science and mathematics to solve, analyze and support solutions for Forensic Measurement problems.  DCM uses state of the art software (PhotoModeler) and technology (Total Station, Cloud Point, Scanners, etc...) with a strong specialization in Photogrammetry to develop image-based modeling, for accurate measurement details and 3D models. 

DCM has extensive experience working to determine forensic measurements with police departments, legal representation, insurance companies and private organizations.
DCM will provide professional, accurate, timely and courteous measurement and analysis solutions to all clients. The following is a summary of many of the measurement services that we offer:

• Surveillance images
  
• Historic pictures
  
• Map visibility
  
• Vehicle damage documentation
  
• Accident scene inspection
  
• Forensic mapping using state of the art survey equipment
  
• CAD diagramming
  
• Seat belt analysis
  
• Air bag system analysis and EDR download
  
• Photogrammetry / photogrammetric measurements from unknown photographs
  
• Forensic photography
  
• Dynamic testing
  
• Visibility analysis
  
• Mechanical design and component failure
  
• Mirror visibility assessment on buses & large trucks
  

Photogrammetry is the science of extracting measurements from photographs. It has uses in all areas of forensics and many other industries. In the field of forensics, DCM Technical Services has applied photogrammetry to solve vehicular crush, map collision scenes, determine dimensions of a suspect from surveillance camera footage and even map visibility snow banks that had long since melted!
There are two types of Photogrammetry classifications.  DCM uses the first classification called Close-range Photogrammetry.  Close-range Photogrammetry uses non-specific, everyday cameras to create drawings and 3D models of items, locations or buildings.

The other classification is Aerial Photogrammetry which typically focuses on topographic products such as terrain or topographic maps.  DCM is capable of processing aerial photographs as well. If you do not already have images for this purpose we can arrange proper flight parameters to ensure proper coverage and accurate results.

DCM is capable of determining measurements using Photogrammetry via two processes.  The first includes processing from pictures to provide scientific conclusions of measurements of the item in question.  These pictures can be historic in nature and age or of recent development.

The second process involves DCM attending a scene or location to take pictures as a component of the service for analysis.

Photogrammetric processing provides reliable, scientific and cost saving metrological services for all clients. Some of the benefits of using Photogrammetry for Forensic analysis include:

The calculation of measurements can be completed for many different types of investigations.
Measurements taken from pictures result in non-intrusive activity of crime and accident scenes.
DCM can use photos from multiple parties, including bystanders, media, etc... All photos can be processed to provide some level of information to support the investigation.
Photogrammetry allows investigators the opportunity to review evidence at a later date should it be necessary, through the photographs (after the scene has long since been cleared).  Investigators could return to the evidence years after an incident with photographs.

DCM staff can attend sites for photo capture. Alternatively, DCM can work with clients to develop safe and proper procedures for ideal photo capture, uploading and processing by qualified DCM staff.

In addition, DCM Technical Services instructs, under contract by Eos Systems (makers of PhotoModeler), the only Eos Systems authorized training course. This course is a 3-day lab intensive course and gives collision reconstructionists practical experience with a valuable measurement tool and base photogrammetric principles. The course is offered in two formats. DCM can train your organization at your location and also hosts courses scheduled by PhotoModeler.  These courses hosted by PhotoModeler are open registration and take place at various locations. Open registration courses schedules, course outline and locations can be seen here.

Photography for Forensics
DCM Technical Services also offers a 3 or 4-day photography course that is designed to meet the needs of the forensic investigator. DCM will bring this course to your location.