Initial bomb scene analysis
In the event of a bomb explosion, forensic technicians must conduct a lengthy investigation. Police enquiries would benefit from a system able to provide rapid preliminary analysis at a safe distance. The EU-funded HYPERION(opens in new window) (Hyperspectral imaging IED and explosive reconnaissance system) project developed and tested such a system. Using infrared remote sensing technology, the system was able to assess the type of explosive used and point of placement. Such methods provide safety and security during the main investigation, while also minimising interference with the crime scene. The team developed tools for the location and identification of unexploded devices. A 3D registration subsystem mapped crime scenes, showing areas having been analysed in detail. Components included a Kinect camera, a stereo camera and an inertial measurement unit. Quality assured data were collated on site and rapidly provided to police. Project software incorporated crime scene data (including number and location of broken windows, crater size and debris radius) to estimate the bomb size. The figure was provided as an estimate of explosive weight. Researchers investigated various ways of sampling that complement the explosive analysis with conventional methods for use as evidence in court. Various sampling options, including packaging methods, were assessed in terms of efficiency sample degradation. Researchers analysed the samples using techniques such as chromatography and mass spectrometry. The team increased the ruggedness of the prototype device for field usage. HYPERION results demonstrated the project concept. Although needing further refinement, the system was able to provide police with preliminary bomb analysis, thereby speeding apprehension of culprits.
