SEE MORE. LINK MORE. SOLVE MORE.

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1 Forensic Technology offers the world s most advanced automated ballistic identification solution. SEE MORE. LINK MORE. SOLVE MORE. CLASS-LEADING AUTOMATED BALLISTIC IDENTIFICATION FOR FORENSIC INVESTIGATIONS

2 TECHNOLOGY SERVING LAW ENFORCEMENT Law enforcement agencies are faced with many challenges when processing firearm-related evidence. Traditional manual methods of processing evidence require too much in time and resources, and often result in backlogs of evidence and missed investigative leads. Some agencies have a shortage of qualified firearm examiners, while others need to coordinate national programs across multiple jurisdictions that spread over large geographical areas. An automated ballistic identification system is the answer to many of these challenges. The strength of automation technology comes from its ability to capture digital information from fired bullets and cartridge cases that can be compared against a multitude of other captured ballistic exhibits at speeds well beyond human capability. Digitized data is exchanged through networking based on standardized information that allows consistent comparisons locally as well as internationally, thereby overcoming the obstacles associated with the physical exchange of evidence. Forensic Technology offers the world s most advanced ballistic identification solution, IBIS (Integrated Ballistic Identification System), which enables the sharing and comparison of significant quantities of exhibit information and images across a network of imaging sites, as well as the automated identification of likely matching bullets or cartridge cases. IBIS TRAX-HD3D is the latest generation of IBIS technology and includes exceptional 3D imaging, advanced comparison algorithms, and a robust infrastructure. It has been designed to meet the needs of police and military organizations that gain actionable information from firearms and their fired ammunition components. This technology contributes to the investigation process by helping experts to see more, link more, and solve more firearm-related crimes. WHAT IS IBIS? IBIS links firearm-related crimes by matching bullets or cartridge cases fired from the same firearm. 1. IBIS digitally captures the unique microscopic markings found on fired bullets and cartridge cases. 2. A numerical signature is extracted from each significant region of interest. 3. The signatures are automatically compared in order to find matching candidates on the IBIS network. 4. The most likely matches are ranked for visual comparison by forensic experts.

3 CRIME FIGHTING FIREARM-RELATED VIOLENCE AND THE FEAR THAT IT GENERATES HAVE DRASTIC PERSONAL, SOCIAL, AND ECONOMIC IMPACT IN TERMS OF HUMAN SUFFERING, THE COST TO SOCIETY, AND THE SOCIOECONOMIC STRUCTURE OF THE AFFECTED REGION. Reports from around the world indicate that the diversion of firearms to criminals and the resulting incidence of firearm-related violence are on the rise. The successful investigation of firearm-related crimes relies upon the quantity, quality, and timeliness of forensic ballistics information. This information can only be of value to police if it is properly collected, processed, and disseminated. Every crime gun has a story to tell. A big part of this story is written inside the gun, in the form of unique markings which are transferred to fired bullets and cartridge cases when it is discharged. With so much at stake today, effective solutions are needed to exploit the key information from each crime gun and piece of ballistic evidence in an automated, accurate, and timely manner, so that the guns can be removed from circulation before armed criminals have an opportunity to shoot and kill again. Over the course of the last two decades, IBIS has changed the world of ballistic identification. It has empowered governments and law enforcement agencies to tackle the growing quantities of ballistic evidence and to advance their fight against firearm-related crimes. AUTOMATION With IBIS TRAX-HD3D, only a minimal amount of training is required for users to consistently acquire high-quality data. BRASSTRAX and BULLETTRAX can be operated by people other than expert firearm examiners. Therefore, ballistic evidence collection workloads for IBIS networks can be shifted away from firearm examiners who can then be free to focus on work requiring their expertise. This reduces processing time and increases productivity. Over time, this makes it possible to operate largescale ballistic identification networks with continued effectiveness. Automated acquisition increases uniformity and standardization in data capture, and provides optimal comparison results. The acquisition process automatically initiates and controls parameters such as lighting, focus, and outlining. It takes only a few minutes to set up a bullet or a cartridge case and, once started, the actual image acquisition process is automated, freeing up the operator for other tasks. A high level of automation is particularly valuable in that it facilitates the design of new work processes that break free from traditional boundaries, extend the reach and range of the technology, redirect workloads, and reduce case backlogs.

4 CAPTURE STORE BRASSTRAX CARTRIDGE CASE ACQUISITION STATION BRASSTRAX captures high-resolution images and topographic information from fired cartridge cases at the micrometer level. Its cutting-edge 3D sensor technology provides optimal performance for the specific characteristics of cartridge case markings. BRASSTRAX offers automated imaging for the full range of cartridge case calibers processed by forensic laboratories. It captures significant regions of interest to produce multiple representations of a cartridge case s markings and shape. BULLETTRAX BULLET ACQUISITION STATION BULLETTRAX captures high-resolution images and topographic information from fired bullets at the nanometer level. Its cutting-edge 3D sensor technology provides optimal performance for the specific characteristics of bullet markings. BULLETTRAX offers automated imaging for the full range of bullet calibers processed by forensic laboratories. It adapts to surface deformations, even for damaged and fragmented evidence, to produce accurate representations of the bullet s markings and shape. DATA CONCENTRATOR STORAGE AND MANAGEMENT The Data Concentrator provides centralized storage for the data collected from multiple BRASSTRAX and BULLETTRAX acquisition stations. For each acquired exhibit, the Data Concentrator automatically extracts image signatures, generates correlation requests which will be processed by the Correlation Server, and stores the correlation results. The Data Concentrator serves as the connection point for users of the MATCHPOINT analysis stations to perform correlation reviews and produce reports.

5 CORRELATE INTERNATIONAL NATIONAL REGIONAL ANALYZE CORRELATION SERVER COMPARISON PROCESSING AND DATA SHARING The IBIS Correlation Server uses highly specialized algorithms to compare the image signatures of an exhibit against all other relevant exhibits in a specified IBIS network. The resulting correlation scores provide a ranking of the potential matching candidates according to similarity. The scope of correlations can be optimized to correspond to known crime patterns, and multiple levels of correlation allow agencies to collaborate regionally, nationally, and internationally. MATCHPOINT ANALYSIS STATION MATCHPOINT provides comparison viewers and analysis tools designed for the rapid elimination of non-matching candidates, as well as for the in-depth analysis of markings from potentially matching cartridge cases or bullets. MATCHPOINT organizes and presents the results obtained from the IBIS correlation algorithms. Using powerful visualization tools, high-confidence matches are identified by comparing both the 2D images and the 3D topographic information of cartridge cases acquired using BRASSTRAX or bullets acquired using BULLETTRAX.

6 BRASSTRAX CARTRIDGE CASE ACQUISITION STATION The BRASSTRAX acquisition station is specialized for the entry of cartridge case information onto an IBIS network. BRASSTRAX captures high-resolution 2D images and precise 3D topographic information of significant regions of interest. For centerfire cartridge cases, this includes the breech face and firing pin impressions on the primer, and the ejector mark. For rimfire cartridge cases, this includes the firing pin impression. A detailed image of the complete head is also captured for reference. The majority of the acquisition process is fully automated, so that minimal user input reduces operator variability. The automation of image focus, image lighting, and region of interest outlining ensures consistent image quality for visualization and uniformity for optimal comparison performance.

7 UNIVERSAL CARTRIDGE CASE HOLDER ACCURATE 3D DATA AT THE MICROMETER LEVEL HIGH-RESOLUTION 2D IMAGES FULL HEADSTAMP IMAGE REGION OF INTEREST OUTLINES BRASSTRAX OTHER FEATURES: Automated flowback and washout detection Automated self-test and adjustment Hands-off operation allows multitasking Multiple magnification levels Full range of calibers:.17 to.50 and from.410 bore to 10-gauge for shot shells Detailed online help and user guides Multiple light sources, including a patented ring light

8 BULLETTRAX BULLET ACQUISITION STATION The BULLETTRAX acquisition station is specialized for the entry of bullet information onto an IBIS network. BULLETTRAX captures high-resolution 2D images and 3D topographic information of a bullet s lands and grooves. It produces an image strip representing a bullet s 360-degree circumference, or a combination of regions from a bullet s fragments. UNIVERSAL BULLET HOLDER The acquisition process is fully automated after the initial setup by the user. This reduces the operator s required training level, and produces consistent image quality. Complex algorithms track the bullet s surface by rotating and moving the bullet, and they precisely capture its markings and its shape at optimal focus and lighting settings.

9 HIGH-RESOLUTION 2D IMAGES AND ACCURATE 3D TOPOGRAPHY AT THE NANOMETER LEVEL 360 O WRAPAROUND DAMAGED BULLETS AND FRAGMENTS BULLETTRAX OTHER FEATURES: Automated surface deformation tracking Automated shoulder delimiter placement Hands-off operation allows multitasking Cut or button rifling, polygonal rifling, and smoothbore Full range of calibers:.17 to.50

10 MATCHPOINT ANALYSIS STATION MATCHPOINT is the firearm expert s analysis station for reviewing the potential matches obtained from IBIS correlation algorithms. Access to high-resolution 2D images and precise 3D topography offers remarkable viewing capabilities and useful alternatives when analyzing cartridge case and bullet markings. An extensive array of viewers and functions assist with the identification of similar candidates. High level analysis of correlation results and visual comparisons allow for the rapid elimination of non-matches. Powerful in-depth visualization tools provide capabilities far beyond those of the conventional comparison microscope, and make it easier to recognize high-confidence matches. The work done using MATCHPOINT significantly increases the identification success rate, and decreases the effort required for ultimate confirmation on a conventional comparison microscope. Bullets acquired using BULLETTRAX are viewed as a continuous wraparound image that is always in focus. The flattened image strip can be viewed in 2D, 3D, or a mix of both. This overall view provides a useful perspective for performing high-level phase alignment before comparing the finer markings, and it also simplifies the comparison of damaged bullets. Additionally, the combination of the enhanced surface markings and the realistic shape simultaneously makes it easier to locate and emphasize significant markings, such as those on the bearing surface of polygonal and unrifled bullets. Cartridge cases acquired using BRASSTRAX are viewed based on multiple regions of interest in 2D, 3D, or a mix of both. One or more of these regions can hold the key to finding a match. The high-definition 3D topography provides outstanding clarity of the cartridge case surface, facilitating visual comparisons of the breech face and firing pin impressions, and of the ejector marks. With advanced 3D modeling, the expert has full control over the image, thus helping to reveal the important surface markings. This leads to the accurate interpretation of the markings and to finding the areas of agreement more easily. With today s growing computing power, countless innovative viewing techniques are on the horizon. New comparison and viewing capabilities continue to be added, leading to increased product effectiveness and contributing to scientific progress. CROSS-SECTION PROFILES MATCHPOINT OTHER FEATURES: Reshaping of a deformed bullet to more closely resemble a pristine reference bullet Printouts of information screens, viewer screens, and images Reports with generic and custom templates Variety of output formats Generate manual correlation requests Search and view case and exhibit information User viewing preferences Dynamic 3D viewing REPORTS AND PRINTOUTS SCORE ANALYSIS

11 CARTRIDGE CASE SIDE-BY-SIDE VIEWER CARTRIDGE CASE MULTIVIEWER INDEPENDENT REGIONS OF INTEREST 3D ENHANCEMENTS

12 BULLET SIDE-BY-SIDE VIEWER 2D AND 3D ENHANCEMENTS BULLET MULTIVIEWER BULLET SHAPE VIEWING

13 DATA CONCENTRATOR STORAGE AND MANAGEMENT The Data Concentrator provides scalable storage and backup services for the exhibits acquired using BRASSTRAX and BULLETTRAX acquisition stations. It can store from thousands to millions of exhibits. There is great value in this data, and the Data Concentrator implements rigorous mechanisms to guarantee its preservation and validity over time. Typically, the Data Concentrator automatically generates a correlation request for each exhibit received from its acquisition stations, for comparison against previously captured exhibits. The scope of correlations can be configured to encompass specific acquisition sites on an IBIS network, in order to optimize searches based on crime patterns and geography. The correlation requests are processed by the Correlation Server and the correlation results are returned to the Data Concentrator. According to the size of an IBIS network, one or more Data Concentrators can be centralized or distributed, and can accommodate local and remote connectivity for acquisition stations and analysis stations. Analysis Capture Correlation

14 CORRELATION SERVER COMPARISON PROCESSING AND DATA SHARING The Correlation Server is the search engine of IBIS. It uses highly specialized algorithms to compare the image signatures of an exhibit against all other relevant exhibits on a specified IBIS network. The resulting correlation scores provide a ranking of the potential matching candidates according to similarity. This ranking capability allows operators to rapidly search through hundreds of thousands of exhibits, and to focus only on the candidates with the highest probability of a match. Depending on the size of an IBIS network, one or more Correlation Servers can be deployed to meet growing processing quantities and accommodate multiple levels of correlation allowing agencies to collaborate regionally, nationally, and internationally. The primary correlation requests for each captured cartridge case and bullet are automated, and their scope is optimized for maximum effectiveness. IBIS users can also perform custom correlations based on flexible constraints for particular situations. Separate algorithms are dedicated to specific regions of interest or characteristics, and offer complimentary benefits that enhance matching probability. IBIS correlation algorithms use sophisticated techniques adapted to IBIS image comparisons, including a tolerance to account for variations between firings and for the changing characteristics of firearms and their ammunition. IBIS correlation algorithms compensate for the considerable amount of data noise that is inherent in ballistic image databases. Since the early 1990s, these algorithms have been continuously fine-tuned to improve their performance in large databases of ballistic evidence and to expand their capabilities.

15 INTERNATIONAL STANDARD GOVERNMENTS ARE INCREASINGLY AWARE THAT FIREARM-RELATED CRIMES ARE A GLOBAL PROBLEM, WITH FIREARMS OFTEN CROSSING BORDERS. To combat transnational crimes, INTERPOL has chosen the IBIS technology as the basis for its Ballistic Information Network (IBIN). With this network, INTERPOL s member countries that use IBIS are able to share ballistic data and link firearmrelated crimes involving cross-border firearm movements. IBIS is viewed as the ballistic information standard by the world s forensic community. Standardization makes it possible to share data across large networks throughout the world. This international sharing capability opens new levels of partnership for the development of global firearm-crime reduction strategies. The IBIS correlation algorithms have been designed to continue performing well, even as the quantity of data to process increases. IBIS also provides controls for managing sensitive information, and satisfies the security infrastructure requirements associated with interconnecting IBIS networks. This is yet another way in which IBIS makes it possible to link crimes that would have gone undetected.

16 NETWORKING AND DEPLOYMENT VERSATILITY, SECURITY, AND EFFICIENCY The most compelling crime-solving advantage of IBIS is its capacity to share and compare significant quantities of exhibit information and images across a network of automated imaging sites, and to manage the automated identification of likely matches. Successful law enforcement programs require the networking of their ballistic databases and the timely sharing of information across jurisdictions. Evidence collected by one law enforcement agency can be the missing link that enables another agency to solve a case. The networking capabilities of IBIS are automatic and require no extra effort from its users. Because IBIS data is automatically available to all the sites on an IBIS network, it can be promptly acted upon to help prevent armed criminals from remaining undetected and free to victimize more people. IBIS has been successfully deployed in small and large programs, over private and public networks, with regional, national and international scopes. IBIS uses optimal data compression algorithms, and functional transactions are streamlined to minimize network traffic. Modular IBIS components offer flexible deployment options and scalability to adapt to each agency s needs. Workstations for acquisition and for analysis can be distributed where they are needed, and storage and processing can be strategically located. IBIS networks include a wide range of security features to meet the requirements of the most security-sensitive law enforcement agencies. These features include access controls, data backups, communications protection, system hardening, antivirus, data encryption, monitoring, and regular security updates. IBIS security features are aligned with international standards for information system security. FEATURES Modular architecture Flexible deployment options and scalability Local and remote network connectivity Support for hundreds of networked sites JPEG2000 image compression Remote technical support Centralized user account management Antivirus Audit logs Data encryption Crime and non-crime programs ISO and NIST SP security standards

17 BENEFITS OF 3D The comparative examination of bullets or cartridge cases involves determining if there is significant agreement in the relative depth, width, curvature, and spatial relationship of the individual peaks, ridges, and furrows between sets of surface contours (inspired from the AFTE Theory of Identification). The viewing of surface markings, using a conventional comparison microscope, is based on 2D image interpreted from the effect of light on a 3D surface. A more accurate interpretation is made possible when it is based on a true 3D surface topography that is independent of lighting. IBIS technology gives access to the accurate 3D topography of cartridge cases and bullets. This contributes to the improvement of correlation as well as visualization, and helps firearm examiners conduct examinations more effectively. Because 3D models provide an unlimited freedom of visualization, the exhibits being compared can be moved in any direction while maintaining a consistent appearance, and a natural viewing experience. Even more important, the significant markings can be easily located and emphasized. The comparison of highly deformed bullets and bullet fragments is greatly simplified because the bullet models can be automatically reshaped to accommodate side-by-side comparison. The comparison of polygonal and smooth bore bullets also benefits from the detection of bearing surfaces. The advantages of such technology are endless. Looking forward, it is expected that microscopic 3D surface topography will be used as the basis for exploring new scientific methods to support comparative conclusions. The enhanced viewing capabilities, made possible by precise 3D modeling, are particularly useful when comparing challenging potential matches that would have otherwise been next to impossible to match using traditional methods on a conventional comparison microscope, for example, when comparing bullets of different material compositions or bullets fired through a polygonal rifled barrel.

18 TECHNOLOGICAL EVOLUTION The first generation of IBIS, created in the 1990s, captured 2D images at a relatively low resolution when compared to today s technology. Although visual comparisons were not ideal, especially when comparing bullets, these images were sufficient to establish successful ballistic identification programs using the early IBIS correlation technology. Ten years later, new technology was introduced with IBIS TRAX-3D. The automated acquisition of higher-resolution 2D images noticeably improved visualization. But it is the introduction of 3D topography that marked a key turning point. In addition to its ground-breaking visualization capabilities, the accuracy of 3D bullet acquisitions resulted in a huge increase in correlation performance. The latest innovations introduced with IBIS TRAX-HD3D strengthen the current 3D capabilities. The addition of highdefinition 3D topography captured from cartridge cases provides even better visualization capabilities, but more importantly, it significantly boosts cartridge case correlation performance. Additionally, a more realistic view of a bullet surface can be obtained by combining the macroscopic shape with the microscopic detail. This more complete 3D surface modeling gives access to useful information for comparisons and enables a more-specialized correlation of particular bullets types. IBIS HERITAGE 1991 IBIS TRAX-3D

19 BACKWARD COMPATIBILITY IBIS TRAX-HD3D has been designed to integrate into an existing IBIS network while preserving compatibility with previous data, to ensure a seamless transition and to maintain effectiveness. The data acquired using IBIS Heritage and IBIS TRAX-3D products can continue to be correlated and visually compared with IBIS TRAX-HD3D data. All IBIS products use standard configurations and methods to capture information and images. IBIS technology is in continuous evolution, and IBIS networks are periodically upgraded to enhance their functionality and increase their capabilities. Backward compatibility is imperative for ballistic identification programs that began with older IBIS technology, and have invested time and effort to build a national ballistic information resource. IBIS TRAX-HD3D 2013

20 ABOUT FORENSIC TECHNOLOGY TWENTY YEARS OF RESULTS Forensic Technology pioneered automated ballistic identification and analysis over 20 years ago and continues to be a leader in forensic ballistic and firearm identification technologies. Our Integrated Ballistic Identification System (IBIS ) revolutionized ballistic identification by helping investigators find matches between pairs of spent bullets or cartridge cases. Since the early 1990s, IBIS technology has been used to acquire over 5 million exhibits and link hundreds of thousands of crimes, firearms, and suspects. A DIVISION OF FORENSIC TECHNOLOGY TM Today, Forensic Technology currently partners with hundreds of law enforcement agencies in nearly 70 countries, providing cost-effective and sustainable solutions. With six offices around the world, we are a customer-driven company, with a global, 24/7 customer support network and dedicated training facilities. GLOBAL CUSTOMER SERVICES Forensic Technology strives to achieve excellence in delivering exceptional customer service. Our mission is to provide customers with first-class services in terms of quality, security, and customer satisfaction. Forensic Technology s global support network is only a phone call away. In our effort to continually improve our service offerings, the support staff at Forensic Technology is both ISO 9001 and ITIL certified. We strive to provide customers with high-quality services that can be measured against the highest international standards. CANADA IRELAND SWITZERLAND SOUTH AFRICA THAILAND USA samesame comment as last comment onbrochure logo and placement Visit for more information Forensic Technology WAI Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Forensic Technology WAI Inc. is strictly forbidden. DOC