Application of 3D scanning and 3D printing in forensic practices - A preliminary survey among forensic practitioners in India

Abstract

Three-dimensional scanning and printing technologies have influenced our society in recent years. It is gaining favour in forensic science and medicine, as the depth and spatial information are retained when the virtual models are 3D printed. To assess the knowledge, attitude and practice of forensic professionals in India regarding the use of 3D scanning and 3D printing in forensic practice. In this descriptive cross-sectional study, we collected data through online self-administered questionnaire consisting of 20 questions circulated among the forensic practitioners in India. 64 participants responded, out of those, 54 were forensic medicine experts and 10 were scientific officers at Govt. Forensic Science Laboratory. The findings highlight the knowledge regarding this technology is limited amongst the forensic practitioners in India. The technology is practised only by the scientific officers at handful laboratories and not by any of the forensic medicine doctors. With developing technologies, there is no doubt that for better investigation of crime in 21st century, 3D technology can be of great aid. This would further encourage researches to include this high potential modality and transform the current forensic practices in India and abroad.