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3D Reconstruction |
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In cases of severely decomposed or completely skeletonized remains, a facial reconstruction on the skull is an option to assist with identification of unknown remains. Reconstruction is very often a last resort in the identification process and is usually sought after procedural processes, such as a thorough check of national missing persons records, a check of fingerprints if available through national databases, and a comparison of dental records, to name a few. The process begins with the collection of available scene information regarding descriptive specifics such as clothing size, clothing style, and accessories like jewelry, all of which lend themselves to the individuality of the subject. The next step is to get an anthropological analysis of the skull. The outcome of the analysis will be a scientific determination of gender, race, and an approximate age range. This evaluation by a Forensic Anthropologist can be done with just a skull, but a much larger amount of information can be gleaned from the entire skeleton if it’s available. After obtaining all available scene and anthropological information, the physical facial reconstruction can begin.
There are several processes available to achieve a reconstructed face. The most commonly used method is the tissue depth or American method, pioneered here in the United States by Ms. Betty Pat Gatliff of SKULLpture Lab, in Norman, Oklahoma. Ms. Gatliff’s contribution to the development of this system is so significant that it is recognized internationally and commonly referred to as the “Gatliff” method. The system is based on the “Rhine / Moore” tissue depth tables that require the placement of tissue depth markers on 21 different anthropological landmarks on the facial plane of the skull. Clay is then filled in using a multitude of specific facial feature measurements to reach, in most cases, a close approximation of the facial features of the person in life. The likeness of a facial reconstruction, if done correctly, is almost assured due to the simple fact that one’s skull dictates an individual’s facial proportions in life. Factors affecting subtle changes in one’s facial features, such as increased weight or hair color and length, are why scene information is critical to the successful outcome of the reconstruction. Other methods, such as the anatomical method, require the placement of known facial muscles, one at a time. The combination method is a combination of the tissue depth method and the anatomical method. Upon completion of the facial reconstruction, the requesting investigator prepares fliers and possibly some news coverage in an effort to get the reconstruction identified.
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3D Reconstruction
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