Justice Applications of Computer Animation

• NCJ Number: 154905
• Author(s): F B Cotton
• Date Published: 1994
• Length: 5 pages
• Grant Number(s): 92-DD-CX-0005
• Sponsoring Agency: Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA)
• Corporate Author: SEARCH - National Consortium for Justice Information and Statistics
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/; SEARCH - National Consortium for Justice Information and Statistics; NCJRS Photocopy Services
• Publication Type: Report (Technical)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: From Technical Bulletin, No. 2, 1994.

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.