3D Trace Imaging and Machine Learning for Production Analysis

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for analyzing handwritten or printed traces, such as in forensic science and biometrics, are limited by the loss of dynamic information in 2D analysis, reliance on human expertise, and susceptibility to data quality issues, leading to unreliable and time-consuming conclusions.

Innovation Solution

A method using three-dimensional imaging and deep learning to extract and analyze trace features, including kinematic information, to enrich the analysis with spatio-temporal data and automate the process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of information

If 2D scanning is used to capture trace images, then the analysis can be performed on digitized documents, but the dynamic information of trace production is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedynamic informationVSAvoidimaging system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from 2D scanning to 3D imaging to capture trace information. The 3D imaging system records depth and spatial variations that are invisible in 2D images, preserving dynamic production information such as pressure variations and stroke sequences while enabling comprehensive trace analysis.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Reliability

If manual analysis by human experts is performed, then comprehensive trace authentication is possible, but the process is time-consuming and subjective

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveauthentication reliabilityVSAvoidanalysis speed
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual expert analysis with an automated computer-based system that processes 3D trace images. The system extracts multiple features including spatial, textural, and kinematic characteristics, then applies machine learning algorithms to authenticate traces objectively and rapidly, eliminating human subjectivity and fatigue while maintaining high reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs self-analysis by automatically extracting features from 3D images and applying trained algorithms to generate authentication results without requiring continuous human intervention. The machine learning model has been pre-trained on extensive trace data, enabling it to independently evaluate new traces with high accuracy and consistency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Loss of information

If multiple analysis techniques are combined for complete trace analysis, then more information can be recovered, but the complexity and time required increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetrace information recoveryVSAvoidanalysis system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple analysis techniques into a unified 3D imaging and analysis system. It combines spatial feature extraction, textural analysis, kinematic information recovery, and machine learning classification into a single integrated workflow that processes all trace characteristics simultaneously, reducing the need for separate analytical equipment and procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The 3D imaging system serves multiple functions: it captures spatial geometry, measures pressure variations through depth information, determines stroke sequences through kinematic analysis, and provides textural characteristics. This multi-functional approach replaces numerous specialized devices with a single versatile system that comprehensively analyzes all trace features.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Quantity of substance

If repeated manipulations of the original trace are performed for analysis, then multiple measurements can be obtained, but the trace quality deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of measurementsVSAvoidtrace quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system creates a digital 3D copy of the trace through non-contact imaging, allowing unlimited analysis of the replica without affecting the original. Multiple measurements and re-analyses can be performed on the digital copy indefinitely, preserving the original trace quality while providing abundant measurement data for comprehensive evaluation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Data Source

PatentEP3908962B1Method for generating information about the production of a handwritten, hand-affixed or printed trace
Publication Date: 2025.07.16 INSTITUT MINES TELECOM TELECOM BRETAGNE
  • EP3908962B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3908962B1 patent drawingFigure 2~4(b)

AI summary

The invention relates to a method for generating at least one information about the production of a handwritten, hand-affixed or printed trace on a surface, comprising: - extracting several features describing the trace from at least one three- dimensional image of said trace, acquired by an imagery system, and - inputting said extracted features in a trained module to output said at least one information, said module having been trained beforehand with a plurality of previously- acquired three-dimensional images of traces and corresponding information related to the production of these traces.