Polynomial Texture Mapping for Footwear and Tire Impressions - A Technology Transition Workshop

The PTM technology is applied to footwear and tire track impression evidence. The class will include lecture, demonstration, and laboratory exercises for the student to learn about the use of PTM technology to footwear and tire track impression comparisons. The theory and application of Polynomial Texture Mapping will be discussed and practical applications will be demonstrated. The various PTM components will be discussed including the building of a PTM dome, camera/lens selection and PTM files. Various samples will be used to demonstrate this technique including casts, impressions in blood and other matrices. The student will gain an appreciation of the principles underlying the software as well as the use of various functions available. The student will build their own PTM files and utilize the PTM software to practice the different modes used in analyzing impressions with the PTM software. The student will be given the tools to build their own PTM files.