Ballistic Identification System

Ballistic Identification System

The BalScan system by Laboratory Imaging has been developed for examination and comparison of markings on fired ammunition. Cartridge cases and bullets are examined, compared, scanned in 2D or 3D, and saved to a database. A special software application searches the database and displays a hit list of possible matches. The forensic expert has a full set of comparison functions at hand to confirm the match.

Bullets and Cartridge Cases Digitization

Wide range of calibers can be digitized in BalScan, from smallbore rifle ammunition to .12 Gauge shotgun shells. Bullets, cartridge case bottoms, or cartridge case surfaces are scanned in high 3μm resolution including 3D information. BalScan is very suitable for scanning and comparison of deformed bullets, bullet fragments and even direct scanning of the breech face and the firing pin of a firearm.

Database and Networking

The reliable Oracle database is an important part of the BalScan system. The database is organized in two distinct forms. The database of criminal cases contains evidences related to the crime scene along with test bullets and cartridge cases. The firearms database includes fired bullets and cartridge cases linked to a particular registered firearm.

The database can be installed on a standalone server connected to other BalScan workstations within a private network. Active workstations provide live examination, digitizing of bullets/cartridge cases, searching the database, and comparisons. Passive workstations (without the BalScan device) provide search and comparison only. A minimal setup contains just one active workstation which covers the complete functionality (digitization, database, comparisons).

Comparison of markings

There is a rich set of 2D and 3D comparison tools available with user friendly interface and intuitive image handling. The compared surfaces can be visualized texture free, highlighting the topography under any illumination direction which can be easily varied and synchronized. A breech face and a firing pin of a firearm can be directly compared with the markings on the cartridge case

Device Features

Acquisition Features

• Top quality monochrome digital camera (optionally color)
• Top quality telecentric lens developed specially for the BalScan device
• Precise laser focus
• Segmented circular LED illuminator, LED linear side light
• High resolution of 3μm/px

Motorization and Control

• The device is fully controllable via the BalScan software and a programmable joystick
• Precision stepper motors are used to move the object in four axes: X, Y, Z, and rotation.

Included System Accessories

• Bullet holders for calibres .177; .22; 6.35mm Browning; 7x57mm; 7.65 Br.; 8x57mm; 9mm; 9.5; .40 S&W; .45 ACP; .50 BMG
• Universal cartridge case holder – up to the size .12 Gauge shotgun shell