RTK GNSS Forensic Marker for Crime Scene Reconstruction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current crime scene forensic reconstruction methods fail to accurately record the precise location and relative distances of evidence, leading to uncertainties in expert testimony due to limitations in photographically capturing scaled distances and orientations, especially in outdoor settings and over time.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of RTK/GNSS evidence markers with a 6″ cone structure, featuring a 3-axis digital compass and multi-band, multi-constellation RTK GNSS receiver, providing precise latitude, longitude, and altitude data displayed on a screen, which can be photographed, sent to local or remote computers, and used for electronic scene recreation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If photographs are taken to record evidence locations, then a visual record is created, but accurate scaled distances and relative positions cannot be determined years later
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by embedding RTK/GNSS receivers and digital compasses within evidence markers at the crime scene immediately after evidence collection. These devices continuously record precise latitude, longitude, altitude, azimuth, elevation, and relative position data at the moment of placement. This preliminary recording of accurate spatial information eliminates the need to rely on photographs taken years later, as the markers themselves retain and can transmit the exact location data when retrieved or queried.
2Reliability
If evidence markers are placed at crime scenes, then evidence locations are marked, but accurate relative distances and orientations cannot be determined due to perspective distortion in photographs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/visual measurement system (photographs and manual scaling) with an electronic navigation system. RTK/GNSS receivers provide centimeter-level accuracy for latitude, longitude, and altitude measurements, while digital compasses with gyroscopes provide precise azimuth and elevation data. These electronic instruments automatically calculate and store relative distances and orientations between markers, eliminating perspective distortion issues inherent in photographic methods.
3Loss of information
If traditional evidence markers are used, then evidence locations are recorded, but the data cannot be accurately reconstructed years later due to landscape changes and photographer retirement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by equipping evidence markers with autonomous RTK/GNSS receivers and digital compasses that continuously self-record precise spatial coordinates, altitude, azimuth, and elevation data. The markers independently maintain this information without requiring external photographers or investigators to return to the scene. When queried, the markers can transmit their stored location data or provide real-time coordinates, enabling accurate crime scene reconstruction years later regardless of landscape changes or personnel turnover.
Data Source
AI summary
A crime scene is recorded as to the locations of key evidence such as a knife in relation to a victim's body. The criminalist places a stand next to each piece of evidence. An onboard RTK/GNSS receiver displays the latitude, longitude and altitude of each marker. Additional data such as case number, classification of evidence, number assigned to evidence, weather and comments can be entered into the RTK/GNSS device remotely or by a keyboard attached to the marker. A photo is taken of each marker screen. A UAV is launched over the field of evidence. A local transmission of the RTK/GNSS data can be sent to and stored in a portable electronic device. That device can send the data to a UAV and/or to a central computer. The central computer can use the recorded coordinates to visually recreate the crime scene to a jury years later with accurate representation of relational data among all the items of evidence.