A Superior Solution

What Makes Forensic Technology’s IBIS TRAX-3D

the Most Advanced Ballistic Imaging Solution in
the World Today?
 Contents

3 Introduction

4 Advancements in IBIS Technology Deliver Substantial and Sustainable Benefits

5 Advanced Technology and Design

6 Collection of Bullet Data
7 Collection of Cartridge Case Data
8 Data Storage and Comparison
9 Analysis and Reporting

10 Powerful Visualization and Analysis Tools

19 About Forensic Technology

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 Introduction

Police forces today must deal with rising tides of urban gun violence while resources dwindle and
unprecedented service demands are made by the public. Governments need and want the most
advanced technology available to achieve increases in productivity at reasonable operating costs.

Forensic Technology has responded to the needs of law enforcers worldwide by developing IBIS®
(Integrated Ballistics Identification System). The latest generation of products, IBIS® TRAX-3D™,
offers a highly automated and comprehensive way of doing ballistic imaging in both two and
three dimensions.

IBIS TRAX-3D’s modular design and high levels of automation provide increased correlation
accuracy and powerful visualization and analysis tools. It can be configured to meet the needs of
police and special military units to derive maximum actionable intelligence from fired ammunition
components and firearms.

IBIS TRAX-3D is the latest advance in IBIS technology and in the field of automated ballistic
imaging technology in general.

Bullet holder on the BULLETTRAX-3D acquisition unit

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Advancements in IBIS Technology Deliver Substantial and Sustainable Benefits

Value Proposition Networking Boosts Crime-Solving Power Faster Than a Speeding Bullet
Firearm-related violence and the fear that it The most compelling crime-solving Speed is important because unless timely
generates have drastic personal, social and advantage of every IBIS system in operation information is put into the hands of law
economic impact in terms of human suffering, today is its capacity to network with other enforcement, armed criminals remain
the cost to society, and on the socioeconomic IBIS systems. Networking makes the evidence undetected and free to victimize more and
structure of the affected region. of one agency virtually the evidence of all more people.
agencies. This is highly significant because
Similar reports from around the world modern organized criminal gangs are IBIS networks can share critical data quickly
indicate that the diversion of firearms to extremely mobile and routinely crisscross across jurisdictions through electronic
criminals and the resulting incidents of local, regional, and international jurisdictions channels. These networks provide enormous
firearm-related violence are on the rise. leaving a trail of evidence behind. strength and value because certain evidence
that may seem insignificant to the entering
The successful investigation of firearm- In 2008, the National Research Council of agency can be the missing link that cracks a
related crimes relies upon the quantity, the National Academies (NRCNA) issued case for an agency in another jurisdiction.
quality, and timeliness of the information. a report following four years of study on
This information can only be of value to various uses of ballistic imaging technology. Remote data collection systems like
police if it is properly collected, processed, A major part of the study involved IBIS IBIS ® BRASSTRAX-3D™ make it easier and
and disseminated. technology and its application in a national faster to feed data through IBIS networks
crime fighting network in the United and start the comparison process at the lab.
Every crime gun has a story to tell. A big States called National Integrated Ballistics
part of this story is written inside the gun Identification Network (NIBIN).
in the form of unique markings which are Please contact Forensic Technology
transferred to fired bullets and cartridge Some key findings of the report about both for more information on the benefits of
cases when it is discharged. NIBIN and IBIS include the following: IBIS technology.

The first IBIS systems, developed over 15 • NIBIN provides a valuable service to
years ago, provided a new and valuable help solve gun-related crimes.
tool that helped change the way crime labs
processed ballistics evidence. • An IBIS match can be particularly
valuable for furthering the investigation
With so much at stake today, new solutions of shooting crimes that lack an obvious
are needed to exploit the key information suspect or even any clear leads.
from each crime gun and piece of ballistics
evidence in a more automated, accurate and • The IBIS matches are associated with
timely manner so the guns can be taken out the arrest of very serious gun offenders
of the hands of armed criminals before they who are well known to the criminal
have an opportunity to shoot and kill again. justice system.

It is to this end that Forensic Technology has • Clearly the IBIS technology significantly
developed IBIS TRAX-3D. IBIS technology increases the ability of law enforcement
provides substantial value in helping connect agencies to make ballistics matches
crime guns to suspects in a wide range of across crime scenes and jurisdictions.
law enforcement and military applications.

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Advanced Technology and Design

The technology behind the IBIS TRAX-3D IBIS TRAX-3D’s architecture uses a more Because of the high degree of
product family is a generation beyond modular approach than that of IBIS Heritage. automation, users of IBIS TRAX-3D
that of the earlier IBIS® HeritageTM IBIS TRAX-3D divides the major operations collection systems require little training
products. IBIS TRAX-3D introduces 3D into three general areas of data processing: to consistently collect high-quality data.
capabilities and provides higher-quality Collection, Storage and Comparison, BRASSTRAX-3D was designed to be
2D and 3D images, automation, and and Analysis and Reporting. Also, image used inside or outside a laboratory and
powerful analysis tools. IBIS TRAX-3D has collection sensors are selected to deliver operated by people with a skill set below
the unique ability to integrate with the optimal performance based on the specific that of an expert firearm examiner.
existing IBIS Heritage network, ensuring a characteristics of cartridge case markings in
seamless transition and maintaining high contrast with those of bullet markings. Therefore, ballistic evidence collection
levels of efficiency and effectiveness. workloads for IBIS networks can be
In addition to allowing more flexible shifted away from the firearm examiner
Data sharing and cross-comparison is deployment options and occupying less who can then be free to focus on work
made possible because both product space, this approach overcomes some of requiring expert skills. This reduces
families use standard configurations and the productivity limitations and technical processing time and increases productivity.
methods to capture 2D images. This compromises associated with a single
backward compatibility is imperative for platform configuration.
IBIS Heritage users who invested time and
effort to build a national crime solving
resource of ballistic information.

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“I use all of the tools provided
PRECISION TOPOGRAPHICAL MEASUREMENTS
with BULLETTRAX-3D, including
the “profilometer” and CMS,
they allow me to perform a more
complete comparison.”
From its inception 90 years ago, the use of forensic ballistics to help solve crimes has been
Ms. Margareth Moreira Tristão, Perita
Criminal - Examinadora do IBIS - VI essentially a two-dimensional process in practical application. Forensic experts peering through
Seminario Nacional Balistica Forense, their comparison microscopes have always known full well that they were viewing objects which
Goiania, Brazil – 2008-09-10 were three-dimensional in nature.

However, until the advent of BULLETTRAX-3D there was no automated ballistics technology
system to quantify and make good use of that third dimension accurately without directly
making contact on the surface of the exhibit.

IBIS TRAX-3D provides the ability to access and accurately measure the topographical differences
caused by the markings on a bullet’s surface to the nanometer level and to compare cross-
sectional topographic profiles of a bullet’s surface.

This precision measurement capability provides advanced visualization tools, such as the profile
tool shown here, to help firearm examiners conduct examinations more effectively and in a more
sustainable way.

BULLETTRAX-3D workstation

Collection of Bullet Data Bullet acquisition screen

IBIS® BULLETTRAX-3D™ is a bullet acquisition station powered by
the latest and most effective three-dimensional sensory imaging
technology available. Its non-contact, non-invasive methodology
captures high-resolution 2D and 3D images of the full range of
bullets and fragments encountered by forensic laboratories today.

BULLETTRAX-3D provides 360-degree circumference imaging of a

bullet’s lands and grooves as well as selective imaging of specific
regions. It offers superior and unparalleled image
quality to help increase correlation accuracy while
providing superior visual comparison capability. The
fully automated image acquisition process adapts to
surface deformations by rotating and moving the bullet.
It provides accurate 3D information with the ability to
create a 3D topographic model of the bullet’s surface
measured with precision to the nanometer level.

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Collection of Cartridge Case Data Cartridge case navigation screen
BRASSTRAX-3D is a cartridge case acquisition station that captures
high-resolution images of cartridge cases in both two and
three dimensions – offering considerable impression detail and
multiple viewing perspectives.

BRASSTRAX-3D offers automated imaging of a centerfire

cartridge case’s breech face and firing pin impression in both
2D and 3D, and imaging of a cartridge case’s full headstamp
in 2D. It offers semi-automated imaging of ejector marks
and rimfire cartridge case firing pin impressions. Orientation-
independent annular lighting allows uniformity of comparison
results, and oblique lighting produces a natural view of surface
markings. Access to the 3D shape of the primer area offers
new ways to visualize and analyze cartridge
case markings. The automation of image
focus, image lighting, and region of interest
outlining ensures consistent image quality
and uniformity for optimal comparison
performance, thus reducing operator variability.

HIGHLY AUTOMATED OPERATION IN BRASSTRAX-3D AND BULLETTRAX-3D

The high level of automation in IBIS TRAX-3D systems makes it easier to use and ensures
consistent levels of high quality data collection. It also increases productivity and cost
effectiveness by facilitating multi-tasking and reducing the skill level and associated training
requirements.

Machine automation reduces operator variance in data collection. On the input side, it promotes
uniformity and standardization – on the output side, it produces 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 fully automated freeing up the operator for other tasks.

BRASSTRAX-3D workstation The high level of automation, coupled with the modular architecture of IBIS TRAX-3D, is
particularly valuable in that it facilitates the design of new and innovative work processes to
break free from traditional boundaries, extend the reach and range of the technology, redirect
workloads, and reduce case backlogs.

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 GIANT LEAP FORWARD IN CORRELATION PERFORMANCE
The data comparison processes are continually being optimized by a team of research scientists
renowned for their work in this highly specialized field. They have made a giant leap forward
in automated correlation performance that was necessitated by the significant technological
advancements made in image quality and the additional 3D data collected by the IBIS TRAX-3D systems.

In tests of 9 mm Luger and 45 Auto copper jacketed bullets with BULLETTRAX-3D, we have
achieved up to 85% accuracy in returning matches in the top ten!

In tests combining 2D and 3D imaging techniques, we have increased correlation accuracy for
bullets in general by 25%!

In tests with bullets fired from ten consecutively manufactured barrels, scientists from Toronto’s
Center of Forensic Science achieved 90% accuracy in returning matches in the top ten using 3D
methods— a 65% improvement over 2D alone!1

Consistently acquired image data is a factor for IBIS success—BRASSTRAX-3D is automated

to deliver high levels of consistency which can achieve accuracy as high as 94% in returning
matches of 9 mm cartridge cases in the top ten from databases in the range of 4,000 exhibits.

1
Journal of Forensic Sciences, American Academy of Forensic Sciences, May 2008, Vol. 53, No. 3

Data Storage and Comparison

The IBIS® Data Concentrator provides Remote configurations simply depend on The relevant exhibits are then compared and
scalable storage and backup services the availability of sufficient bandwidth to ranked according to similarity in order of the
for as many as two million exhibits ensure that the analysis stations operate highest probability of a match. The results are
collected from multiple BRASSTRAX-3D efficiently. The Data Concentrator is then reviewed on the MATCHPOINT+ analysis
and BULLETTRAX-3D acquisition stations. designed to host data acquired on IBIS station.
Data Concentrators can be centralized Heritage systems allowing the full scope of
to simplify hardware management and analysis for mixed data sets collected on The scope of the comparison can be configured
backup operations. IBIS Heritage and IBIS TRAX-3D systems. to encompass any number of collection sites in
an IBIS network, to optimize for geographical
The Data Concentrator also serves as the The IBIS® Correlation Server automatically crime patterns. Data comparison can be
connection point for IBIS® MATCHPOINT+™ performs data comparisons for performed automatically
analysis stations which are used to each exhibit that is sent to the Data and manually at regional
perform all reporting and analysis. Concentrator. Using specialized and national levels, as well
Connectivity algorithms, it processes the unique digital as at an international level.
between the signatures extracted from the ballistic
systems can be images as well as other demographic The IBIS correlation
local or remote. data. process is optimized
to minimize the use of
network bandwidth and
infrastructure costs.
Data Concentrator Correlation Server
(rack-mounted)

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Side-by-side bullet and cartridge
case comparison screens

Analysis and Reporting

MATCHPOINT+ is the expert’s analysis station for reviewing the MATCHPOINT+ can help reduce the wait time and lineups when
prospective match results returned by the IBIS Correlation Server. sharing a single comparison microscope in the lab—as experts
The new and dynamic 2D and 3D visualization tools integral to the will need to spend less time there.
system allow firearm examiners to make comparative conclusions
faster and with less effort.

MATCHPOINT+ empowers the firearm examiner to virtually emulate

the functions of a comparison microscope, such as the image
orientation, the adjustment of the magnification, the direction of
the light source, and much more. The unique capabilities of 3D also
open new possibilities beyond the microscope experience.

MATCHPOINT+ allows experts to better visualize images of all types MATCHPOINT+ workstation
of cartridge cases and bullets from the pristine to the most severely
damaged—including bullets fired through polygonal rifled barrels
and many smooth bore or converted firearms as well.

MATCHPOINT+ provides quantitative data to enhance confidence in

findings today, and precision measurements to enhance confidence
in the scientific basis of the process tomorrow.

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Powerful Analysis and Visualization Tools

Superior image quality is one of the core strengths of the IBIS TRAX-3D ballistic imaging system, beginning with precise data
collection using BRASSTRAX-3D and BULLETTRAX-3D, and extending to powerful analysis tools in MATCHPOINT+.

The advanced tools in MATCHPOINT+ allow experts to virtually replicate the functions of a comparison microscope and much
more. High-resolution images and three-dimensional models with quantitative data can be viewed and analyzed.

The following are a few examples of the capabilities and tools that are available in MATCHPOINT+.

COMBINING 2D AND 3D
Recent scientific studies indicate that three-dimensional imaging is the key to making significant improvements in the field of
forensic ballistics. Forensic Technology shares the same view and also believes that the strengths of both 2D and 3D must be
combined to produce the best solution possible.
Forensic Technology believes that 2D is good and
that 3D is better, but 2D + 3D is the best. This is
exactly what IBIS TRAX-3D technology provides
to help firearm examiners see more, know more,
and link more.

By combining 2D and 3D data, the 2D texture

can be overlaid over the rendered 3D model
with an adjustable simulated light source, for
superior visualization. This combination allows
dynamic observation of the surface information
by adjusting the mix of 2D texture and 3D
topography. The figure to the right shows a
side-by-side view of two bullets, with the 2D-only
texture on the left, a 50% 2D/3D mix in the
middle, and the full 3D rendering topography on
“When we first started using IBIS BULLETTRAX-3D we only used the 2D images
the right.
for comparison, because that was what we were used to. As we became familiar
Many forensic experts who have had the with the 3D images we quickly migrated to using the 3D images. Now we use the
opportunity to use MATCHPOINT+ to make 3D images because it provides us with so much more detail and resolution for our
comparisons of BULLETTRAX-3D images comment
comparisons.”
that the traditional comparison microscope may
well become redundant because of the state-of-
Ms. Sueli Selma De Santana Lima, Perita Criminal
the-art visualization capabilities made possible Coordenadora III - Administradora do IBIS - VI Seminario
by the IBIS TRAX-3D systems. Furthermore, 3D Nacional Balistica Forense, Goiania, Brazil – 2008-09-10
comparisons can help match bullet pairs that
are challenging when using 2D images or a
comparison microscope. This is especially true
when comparing bullets with different material
compositions, such as when comparing lead bullets
against copper jacketed bullets.

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Bullet Capabilities and Tools

Adjustable 2D/3D Rendering:

Adjusting the level of rendering between 2D and 3D leverages the strengths of both for optimal viewing of surface markings. The 2D
image of the bullet surface is enhanced by being applied to the 3D topographical model which reveals useful marking information.

MultiViewer:
The bullet MultiViewer allows for the high-level comparison of potential matching candidates with the complete view of the
bullet’s circumference.

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Side-by-Side Viewer:
The bullet Side-by-Side Viewer allows for the in-depth comparison of two bullets, similar to the experience when using a comparison
microscope. Many controls and tools are available to assist in making conclusions.

Profile:
The bullet profile is a powerful tool that is based on quantitative information of the bullet surface – never before available to the
firearm examiner. The two bullet surface cross-sections can be visually compared. The more similar the two profiles are, the more
likely it is that the two exhibits match.

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Rulers:
Rulers can be applied to measure distances on a bullet’s surface: the lateral, vertical, and depth differences as well as the total
distance between two points on the bullet surface.

Automated Identification of Consecutive Matching Striae (CMS) on Bullets:

CMS is a scientific approach whose goal is to objectively count groups of matching striae to determine similarity between bullets.
The high-definition of 3D bullet images offers accurate length, width, and depth information about the bullet’s surface topography,
thus enabling MATCHPOINT+ to objectively identify groups of consecutive matching striae (CMS).

Microscopic 3D measurements of the surface topography allow for the exploration of new scientific methods such as CMS to
support analytical conclusions.

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Cartridge Case Capabilities and Tools

Adjustable 2D/3D Rendering of Primer Image:

Adjusting the level of rendering between 2D and 3D leverages the strengths of both for optimal viewing of surface markings. The
2D image of the breech face and firing pin impressions is enhanced by being applied to the 3D topographical model which reveals
useful shape and marking information.

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MultiViewer:
The cartridge case MultiViewer allows for the high-level comparison of potential matching candidates with a simultaneous view of
multiple cartridge case images.

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 Side-by-Side Viewer:
The cartridge case Side-by-Side Viewer allows for the in-depth comparison of two cartridge cases, similar to the experience
when using a comparison microscope. Many controls and tools are available to assist in making conclusions.

Full Headstamp Image:

The complete cartridge case headstamp is captured, potentially giving access to additional markings that are not covered by
other acquired images. This image can be used as a record of the exhibit without having the physical cartridge case in hand.
It is useful for quality control and validation, by observing the relative position of the markings and showing caliber and
manufacturer information, if present.

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Primer 3D Reverse Visualization:
The 3D model of the cartridge case primer can be rotated to view the firing pin impression from the underside. This new perspective is
unique to the IBIS TRAX-3D technology and is a key differentiator from modern comparison microscopes and other ballistic analysis systems.
This feature in MATCHPOINT+ can be used to quickly discern differences between exhibits. For example, when comparing the profile of
firing pin impressions, using this feature can sometimes help differentiate firearm types based on the typical characteristics of the firing pin
in the manufacture of firearm models.

Cartridge Case Primer 3D All-In-Focus Image:

This useful visualization mode allows the analysis of the complete primer area with every point in perfect focus on a single image. This
improves the likelihood of finding relevant markings. For example, the figure below is a MATCHPOINT+ side-by-side comparison of two
Makarov cartridge cases showing the breech face and firing pin impressions. The colored rectangles highlight seven visible areas of similarity.
This information could prompt an examiner to continue the examination and consider all available marks in order to increase the probability
of making a match.

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Productivity Tools

Printing and Reporting:

MATCHPOINT+ is equipped with a color printer to print reports, information screens, viewer screens, and images for presentation
purposes.

Correlation Results Filtering:

Multiple correlation scores can be sorted and analyzed from a graphical view to easily distinguish gaps in the scores, thus enabling
operators to expedite their analysis.

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About Forensic Technology

Forensic Technology started its operations Our customer support and training The Last Round
in January 1991, when Walsh Automation facility in Florida is one of our five offices In the field of automated ballistics
Inc. formed a division dedicated to strategically located around the world to technology, Forensic Technology stands
increase the effectiveness of forensic better serve our international client base: alone in terms of experience and
science through the application of expertise with proven and time-tested
automation technology. Today, Forensic • Montreal, Quebec, Canada solutions. The IBIS brand is viewed as
Technology employs approximately 200 • Largo, Florida, USA the ballistics standard by the world’s
people worldwide from a variety of • Sandton, Gauteng, South Africa forensic community – standardization
disciplines, including engineering, forensic • Dublin, Ireland of data formatting is what enables the
science, information technology, law • Bangkok, Thailand cross-processing of data in networks like
enforcement, and security—all engaged in NIBIN in the United States, and others
providing ballistic imaging solutions with Forensic Technology has gained a like it throughout the world. IBIS has
IBIS. Our company has over 17 years of vast experience in understanding the generated over 50,000 hits, which in
experience in providing effective ballistic unique markings left on spent bullets turn have linked, at a minimum, over
imaging solutions, with a highly-qualified and cartridge cases from thousands of 100,000 crimes around the world. The
team of scientists, widely recognized for different firearms and ammunition types. results of these links can be found
their depth of knowledge in the field Forensic Technology has built a series of among the countless documented
of forensic ballistics, as well as technical robust correlation algorithms capable of success stories of criminals being
expertise in the implementation of extensive sifting through thousands of exhibits to disarmed and brought to justice.
national and international IBIS networks. provide prospective matches to firearm
examiners. Forensic Technology has also
Governments around the world depend invested heavily in developing automated
on Forensic Technology for reliable acquisition techniques and analysis tools
solutions that assist their public safety that ensure firearm experts spend their
agencies with ballistics identification precious time solving crime.
and forensic training and services. We
collaborate with hundreds of public Forensic Technology is the world’s
safety agencies in over 45 countries and recognized leader in the research and
territories where we have deployed and development of automated ballistics
continue to support over 400 IBIS units technology. Much of our success is
in various networked configurations, attributable to our reputation as an
providing cost-effective and sustainable innovative company adept at global
solutions that meet laboratory standards. operations and staffed by experts who
Collectively, our customer databases are work in collaboration with clients to
fast approaching three million exhibits deliver unique and highly effective crime-
worldwide. fighting solutions. Forensic Technology
is the leader because it is able to sustain
the development and release of new
advancements that take crime solving to
higher levels of effectiveness.

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