Journal Published Online: 01 July 1997
Volume 42, Issue 4

Forensic Three-Dimensional Facial Reconstruction: Historical Review and Contemporary Developments

CODEN: JFSCAS

Abstract

Despite varied attempts to achieve standardization in traditional techniques and the promotion of some newly developed ones, facial reconstruction remains on the threshold between art and science. It is the point at which science ends and the medical illustrator takes over that has led to most reservations over this branch of forensic anthropology. The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate that many techniques of facial reconstruction are prima facie questionable and to illustrate some possible solutions to the problems which are currently being explored by the Facial Reconstruction Project at the University of Sheffield (UK). The review includes 15 responses to a questionnaire which was offered to facial reconstruction experts and related specialists. The use of 3D color laser scanning equipment, collection of tissue depth measurements from CT scans and the development of a computer system for 3D forensic facial reconstruction, are described.

Author Information

Tyrrell, AJ
University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
Evison, MP
University of Sheffield, The Medico-Legal Centre, Sheffield, United Kingdom
Chamberlain, AT
University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
Green, MA
University of Sheffield, The Medico-Legal Centre, Sheffield, United Kingdom
Pages: 9
Price: $25.00
Related
Reprints and Permissions
Reprints and copyright permissions can be requested through the
Copyright Clearance Center
Details
Stock #: JFS14176J
ISSN: 0022-1198
DOI: 10.1520/JFS14176J