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Justice Applications of Computer Animation

NCJ Number
154905
Author(s)
F B Cotton
Date Published
1994
Length
5 pages
Annotation
Improvements in microcomputer graphics in recent years provide the opportunity for law enforcement agencies to have sophisticated applications that were previously restricted to high-cost mid-range and main-frame computers; one example is the adaptation of computer-aided design (CAD) and computer animation software to the criminal justice arena.
Abstract
Although the use of animation technology is gradually being implemented for law enforcement purposes, it is increasingly finding a home in the courtroom. Modern microcomputer CAD software permits a user to create three-dimensional graphic representations of a variety of events, including crime scenes, traffic collision scenes, and mechanical operation of complicated machinery. Once created, the operator can easily change visual perspectives within the 3-D drawing by using a variety of camera angles. Various views of a crime scene can help relate items of evidence and locations where evidence was recovered. When fully animated, the finished product presents a powerful illustration of a particular event. In recent months, computer animation has been used before juries to recreate and illustrate complex events. Animation can benefit law enforcement agencies with illustrations of blood spatter patterns and in analyzing traffic accident scenes.