3D Scanning Used As Forensic Tool

Forensic experts in the United states (US) and anthropologists at the Smithsonian Institute are pioneering the use of three dimensional (3D) scanning technology to slove challenging mysteries in forensic.
Digital 3D Scanners allow authorized professionals to gain quick access to the information they need, regardless of location. There is software that analyzes and compares 3D models that can provide hard data which can be used to convience juries and experts alike. To gain these benefits, the physical shape must somehow be digitally captured.
The kind of scanning bridges the gap between physcial and digital, capturing highly detailed and accurate 3D models of physical objests.
In forensics. there are two types of 3D scanners that will be used to help solve cases. Crime scene scanners capture a large overview map of a crime scene. This overview map is helpful in undertanding the relative position of objects. New close up 3D scanners capture individual objests in full color and high rsolution 3D.
Most 3D scanners today use lasers to measure 3D information. A laser stripe or dot is moved across a target and is photographed by a camera at a slight angle to the laser source.
This kind of scanner is important in forensics today as it is non contact, meaning it does not touch or affect the original physical sample.
The US is home to some of the best known and most comprehensive forensics research facilities in the world. This kind of equipment can contribute to crack tough forensic cases.