Date: June 4, 2020
Time: 10:00am
Location: Join Zoom Meeting
Meeting ID: 970 1767 1288
Password: 140113
Thesis title: "Refining the Data Collection Methodology of Outdoor Forensic Scenes Involving Scattered Human Remains Using Close-Range Photogrammetry
The documentation of outdoor forensic scenes involving human remains poses multiple challenges to law enforcement officials documenting the context. More rigorous protocols for the documentation of these scenes are needed, and recent advances in technology can provide an option for a low cost three-dimensional (3D) documentation of the scene. More commonly used in archaeological contexts, close-range photogrammetry (CRP) creates reliable 3D models through triangulation of overlapping points between multiple photographs. This documentation technique allows for the preservation of the entire 3D context and for the virtual manipulation without evidence destruction. However, CRP has only been preliminarily used in the field of forensic archaeology. To further refine data collection and processing protocols for the use of CRP on forensic scenes, four mock scenes on different complex ground surfaces involving a surface scatter of human remains were created. Photographs were collected using a Nikon D7200 camera and processed using Agisoft Metashape Professional. The first scene, a mixed surface dominated by leaves, was used to test the number of images that should be incorporated into a 3D scene. The second (mixed surface dominated by grass), third (mixed surface dominated by pine needles), and forth (ground surface of mixed leaves and dirt) models were used to test the capability of documenting a scene using CRP on different complex surfaces, as well as to illustrate complex variables that may affect the final model. Accuracy was determined through an estimation of the final root mean square error (RMSE) and visual analysis of qualitative errors. Results demonstrated that CRP can accurately and reliably document the 3D context of real-life scenes in a time-efficient and cost-effective manner. This new methodology should be integrated into current forensic scene documentation protocols, and it may eventually replace current mapping methods of scenes with human remains.
Outline of Studies:
Major: Anthropology
Educational Career:
B.S., 2017, Central Washington University
Committee in Charge:
Dr. John J. Shultz (Chair)
Dr. Scott Branting
Dr. John Walker
Approved for distribution by John Schultz, Committee Chair, on May 19th, 2020.
The public is welcome to attend.
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