They can compare the unique shapes and angles of each skull to the images they have on file and match specific points until they can positively identify the remains. Forensic scientists have long known that our skull shapes can reveal race and sex, but the 3D printed models allow JPAC’s scientists to do far more than that. Next, the 3D models are superimposed onto photos of known MIA soldiers to see if there is a match. Now, thanks to 3D printing it’s fast, cheap and efficient. Then, the scans get printed out into a physical model – a process that used to be an expensive procedure (and one they had to outsource).
#Bleeding edge technology software#
First, they use special software to scan them and create blueprints for their Projet 3D printer. Scan, print, superimpose, solve.Īt JPAC they primarily work with the skulls of unidentified soldiers. As the 3D printing technology becomes cheaper and more accessible it is going to open up opportunities for the identification of previously unidentifiable remains and may help close cases that are decades old. It’s a fairly involved process but it bodes well for forensic scientists throughout the United States.
The experts at the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command (JPAC) are using this cutting-edge technology to identify fallen soldiers so that their families can have closure and their remains can be appropriately laid to rest.
3D printing is revolutionizing many industries and forensic science is no exception.
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