FlashScan3D Awarded SBIR Phase I Grant
07/21/16 05:27 PM
FlashScan3D, a pioneer in advanced 3D scanning solutions, was awarded a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I grant to develop a groundbreaking contactless 3D scanning device designed to transform the way forensic scientists capture, analyze, and search fingerprint evidence at crime scenes. This innovative technology aimed to address critical challenges in forensic investigations by eliminating the risk of altering or destroying fingerprint impressions, accelerating recovery times, and improving the quality of evidence collected.
Fingerprints were one of the most important yet fragile types of evidence, but traditional methods of processing crime scenes required trained technicians, specialized supplies, and significant time. Once collected, fingerprint impressions had to undergo multiple steps to be digitized and searched against existing databases. FlashScan3D’s project sought to streamline this process by developing a contactless 3D scanning device capable of acquiring latent, patent, and plastic fingerprint impressions from various surfaces. The device converted these 3D scans into 2D images compatible with current fingerprint databases and matching algorithms, ensuring seamless integration into forensic workflows.
The Phase I project focused on determining the technical and commercial feasibility of this technology. FlashScan3D’s research team built a prototype 3D scanner, developed advanced unrolling and segmentation algorithms, and tested the system’s ability to match recovered fingerprints against a database of exemplar records. By addressing key concerns outlined in the National Research Council’s 2009 report, Strengthening Forensic Science in the United States: A Path Forward, this project had the potential to significantly enhance the accuracy, efficiency, and reliability of forensic investigations.
The broader impact of this project extended beyond forensic science, offering commercial potential for applications in law enforcement, security, and beyond. By improving the quality and accessibility of fingerprint evidence, FlashScan3D’s technology supported more accurate and timely investigations, helping to bring justice to victims and their families.
Read more here:
• https://legacy.www.sbir.gov/sbirsearch/detail/1192251
Fingerprints were one of the most important yet fragile types of evidence, but traditional methods of processing crime scenes required trained technicians, specialized supplies, and significant time. Once collected, fingerprint impressions had to undergo multiple steps to be digitized and searched against existing databases. FlashScan3D’s project sought to streamline this process by developing a contactless 3D scanning device capable of acquiring latent, patent, and plastic fingerprint impressions from various surfaces. The device converted these 3D scans into 2D images compatible with current fingerprint databases and matching algorithms, ensuring seamless integration into forensic workflows.
The Phase I project focused on determining the technical and commercial feasibility of this technology. FlashScan3D’s research team built a prototype 3D scanner, developed advanced unrolling and segmentation algorithms, and tested the system’s ability to match recovered fingerprints against a database of exemplar records. By addressing key concerns outlined in the National Research Council’s 2009 report, Strengthening Forensic Science in the United States: A Path Forward, this project had the potential to significantly enhance the accuracy, efficiency, and reliability of forensic investigations.
The broader impact of this project extended beyond forensic science, offering commercial potential for applications in law enforcement, security, and beyond. By improving the quality and accessibility of fingerprint evidence, FlashScan3D’s technology supported more accurate and timely investigations, helping to bring justice to victims and their families.
Read more here:
• https://legacy.www.sbir.gov/sbirsearch/detail/1192251
