Mobile forensic system for on-site analysis and comparison of paint and damage traces on vehicles using integrated multi-sensor fusion

Abstract

Mobile forensic system for on-site analysis and comparison of paint and damage traces on vehicles, comprehensive: a) a 3D scanner module for capturing the three-dimensional surface geometry, local height deviations and the exact position of the damage area relative to the vehicle coordinate system and the ground reference, b) a camera module for macroscopic imaging with automatic focus and optimized lighting, c) at least one spectroscopic analytical module, selected from the group XRF, LIBS and Raman, for chemical characterization of the trace regions, d) optionally a module for optical profilometry for high-resolution analysis, e) a control unit for the automatic co-registration of all measurement data, in particular geometric 3D data, high-resolution image data, spectroscopic analysis data as well as optional profilometry measurement data and other sensor signals, in a common, three-dimensional coordinate system, f) a logging unit that generates a legally valid measurement log with chain-of-custody, ID, timestamp, user identification, calibration data and digital signature, wherein the radiation-carrying analytical modules are arranged in one or more protective hoods and are designed to ensure safe operation and prevent the escape of X-rays and laser light.

Description

Abstract

[0001] The invention relates to a mobile forensic system for on-site analysis and comparison of paint and damage traces on vehicles using integrated multi-sensor fusion.

[0002] The system includes a 3D scanner module, a camera module, at least one spectroscopic analysis module (XRF, LIBS, Raman) and optionally a profilometry module.

[0003] A control unit co-registers all measurement data in a three-dimensional coordinate system.

[0004] A logging unit generates a legally valid, digitally signed measurement log with chain-of-custody.

[0005] Multisensor fusion combines optical, geometric, and chemical data into a consistent trace model that enables an objective assignment of paint and damage traces between two or more vehicles. 1. Technical field

[0006] The invention relates to the field of forensic trace evidence collection and accident analysis in the automotive sector, in particular a mobile system for non-destructive, automated analysis, comparison and legally valid evaluation of paint and damage traces on vehicles directly at the accident site by means of integrated multi-sensor fusion. 2. State of the art

[0007] In current technology, paint traces on vehicles are usually examined by visual inspection, photographic documentation and sampling.

[0008] For chemical analysis, laboratory-based methods such as FTIR spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, pyrolysis-GC / MS, or SEM-EDX are used. These methods provide precise results but require sample collection, transport to the laboratory, and time-consuming analyses.

[0009] 3D scanners for accident reconstruction and portable devices such as handheld XRF or handheld Raman fluorescence (RFA) scanners are also known. However, an integration of these methods into a comprehensive mobile system that coordinates, co-registers, and provides legally admissible documentation of all relevant types of analysis is not yet available.

[0010] A systematic search of patent databases (DEPATISnet, Espacenet) shows that while individual components for forensic applications are known, integrated systems with multisensor fusion and automatic co-registration are lacking. In particular, mobile devices that combine geometric 3D acquisition, spectroscopic analysis, and legally admissible logging in a common, three-dimensional coordinate system are missing. 3. Object of the invention

[0011] The object of the invention is to provide a mobile system that can automatically, non-destructively and in a legally admissible manner record, analyze, compare and evaluate the geometry, optical features, chemical composition and optionally profilometric measurements of paint and damage traces directly on site.

[0012] All measurement data should be automatically co-registered. All work steps and data should be documented in a legally admissible and traceable manner ("chain of custody").

[0013] In accidents involving two or more vehicles, the system is designed to fully record all relevant trace areas on all affected vehicles, compare them mathematically / chemically, and automatically evaluate whether (and with what probability) the damage to one vehicle was caused by the other vehicle(s). 4. Definitions

[0014] Multisensor fusion: Algorithm-based combination of measurement data from different sensor types (optical, geometric, spectroscopic) into a unified, consistent data model with increased informative value compared to individual measurements.

[0015] This type of multi-sensor fusion differs from known multi-sensor systems in robotics or image processing in that it is specifically optimized for forensic trace analysis and ensures legally sound, verifiable documentation of all fusion steps.

[0016] Co-registration: Spatial and temporal assignment of all measurement data in a common three-dimensional coordinate system with a defined origin and known orientation.

[0017] Optical profilometry: Non-contact measurement of surface profiles with submicrometric resolution for the quantitative characterization of surface roughness, scratches and microstructures.

[0018] Typical system parameters: parameter Value Measurement module 3D resolution 0.1 to 1 mm 3D scanner Image resolution larger than 10 megapixels camera Profile resolution 1 to 10 µm Profilometry Spectral resolution 10-50 eV RFA Wavenumber resolution 1-4 cm -1 Raman Positional accuracy < 0.5 mm Co-registration 5. Solution to the task

[0019] The task is solved by a mobile forensic system with the following components: • A 3D scanner module for capturing the three-dimensional surface geometry, local height deviations, and the exact spatial position of the damage area relative to the vehicle coordinate system and the ground reference. • A high-resolution camera module for macroscopic imaging with automatic focus and optimized lighting • At least one spectroscopic analytical module from the XRF, LIBS, Raman group for chemical characterization • Optionally, a module for optical profilometry for high-resolution surface analysis • A control unit for the automatic co-registration of all measurement data in a common three-dimensional coordinate system • A comparison mode with bidirectional material transfer analysis (A↔B comparison) for the probabilistic evaluation of trace correlations between different vehicles • A logging unit for the automated, digital creation of a court-admissible measurement protocol • Protective hood with automatic safety functions for radiation shielding 6. Key advantages of the invention

[0020] The combination of multi-sensor fusion, co-registration, and court-admissible logging in a mobile system enables, for the first time, objective and verifiable trace comparisons directly at the crime scene. This reduces risks associated with the chain of evidence, shortens analysis time, and increases the legal certainty of forensic reports. Further advantages:

[0021] Fast, objective, non-destructive on-site analysis Automatic co-registration of all measurement data in a single coordinate system Digital, legally compliant logging of all data including score-based "matching" evaluation Directly usable evidence for police, court and insurance companies Interfaces for cloud and blockchain, optional digital and distributed backup Maximum workplace safety thanks to radiation-shielding hood(s). 7. Example of implementation

[0022] The system is designed as a mobile, portable unit and can easily be transported in the trunk of a car. It features a retractable handle and wheels for easy transport.

[0023] After positioning at the respective lane area, all relevant areas of several vehicles involved are digitally measured one after the other using the 3D scanner and the macro camera.

[0024] Following the initial 3D scan and photographic documentation, the spectroscopic measurement modules are automatically or semi-automatically positioned at the optimal measurement points identified by hotspot detection. This can be achieved using a robotic positioning system, motorized adjustment axes, or guided manual positioning with visual feedback.

[0025] Critical areas are identified through automatic hotspot detection, which is based on image analysis and geometry evaluation. This is followed by individual spectroscopic measurements (XRF, Raman, possibly LIBS) and optional profilometric measurements.

[0026] All data is recorded by the control unit with millimeter precision and stored encrypted in the measurement log. Multisensor fusion combines the different data types into a consistent trace model.

[0027] In comparison mode, the geometries, morphological features and chemical-spectroscopic properties of the track areas of all vehicles are systematically compared.

[0028] The system generates an objective, probabilistic statement about whether and with what probability damage to one vehicle was caused by another.

[0029] The entire measuring unit is installed in a radiation-shielding protective hood according to DIN EN 60825 (laser) and DIN EN 61331 (X-rays), which prevents the escape of X-rays and laser light and ensures automatic deactivation with a response time of less than 1 second.

Claims

[1] Mobile forensic system for on-site analysis and comparison of paint and damage traces on vehicles, including: a) a 3D scanner module for capturing the three-dimensional surface geometry, local height deviations and the exact position of the damage area relative to the vehicle coordinate system and the ground reference, b) a camera module for macroscopic imaging with automatic focus and optimized lighting, c) at least one spectroscopic analysis module, selected from the group XRF, LIBS and Raman, for chemical characterization of the trace regions, d) optionally a module for optical profilometry for high-resolution analysis, e) a control unit for the automatic co-registration of all measurement data, in particular geometric 3D data, high-resolution image data, spectroscopic analysis data as well as optional profilometry measurement data and other sensor signals, in a common, three-dimensional coordinate system, f) a logging unit that generates a legally valid measurement log with chain-of-custody, ID, timestamp, user identification, calibration data and digital signature, wherein the radiation-carrying analytical modules are arranged in one or more protective hoods and are designed to ensure safe operation and prevent the escape of X-rays and laser light. [2] System according to claim 1, characterized by that the control unit performs a multi-sensor fusion that algorithmically combines optical, geometric and chemical measurement data into a consistent trace model. [3] System according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by , that a comparison mode is implemented in which measurement data, image data and spectroscopic analysis data of two or more vehicles are automatically mathematically compared and evaluated in the measurement protocol to determine whether damage to one vehicle was caused by another vehicle. [4] System according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the comparison mode performs a bidirectional material transfer analysis and creates probabilistic assessments of the trace correlations. [5] System according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the co-registration achieves a very high positional accuracy. [6] System according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the system is designed as a mobile, portable unit and has an extendable handle and wheels for transport. [7] System according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that an automatic hotspot detection is implemented which identifies and prioritizes the scanning of critical trace areas. [8] System according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the protective hood is designed according to the standards DIN EN 60825 (laser) and DIN EN 61331 (X-ray radiation) and enables automatic deactivation with a response time of less than 1 second. [9] System according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the camera module has the required high resolution and is equipped with automatic focus and optimized LED lighting. [10] System according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the 3D scanner module achieves the required high spatial resolution. [11] System according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the optional profilometry module achieves a depth resolution in the range of at least 1-10 µm. [12] System according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the logging unit implements blockchain-based security for the measurement data. [13] System according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that a cloud interface is provided for the transmission and archiving of the measurement data. [14] System according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that a quality monitoring module is implemented which continuously monitors the signal-to-noise ratio, calibration accuracy and other metrics. [15] System according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that multisensor fusion uses weighted combination algorithms that take into account the reliability and precision of the different sensor data. [16] System according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that a graphical user interface with 3D visualization of the co-registered measurement data is implemented. [17] System according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that a positioning system is provided which automatically or semi-automatically positions the spectroscopic analysis modules at the optimal measurement points identified by hotspot detection. [18] System according to claim 17, characterized by , that the positioning system is selected from the group: robotic positioning system with motorized axes, semi-automatic guidance with visual feedback, or manual positioning with optical target guidance. [19] System according to claim 17 or 18, characterized by that the positioning accuracy of the spectroscopic modules is at least 0.2 mm relative to the identified hotspots.