Forensic Animation
Definition: “Forensic animation is a branch of forensic science in which audio-visual recreations of incidents or accidents are created to aid investigators. Examples include the use of computer animation, stills and other audio visual aids. Application of computer animation in courtrooms today is becoming more popular.” – Wikipedia.org
Forensic animation is a rapidly expanding field in which animation is used to assist investigators in visually explaining complex ideas. This is undeniably beneficial in conveying expert opinions in a format that jurors can easily and quickly comprehend.
A forensic animation goes hand-in-hand with a simulation. “A simulation is the imitation of some real thing, state of affairs or process.” (Wikipedia.org) Our simulations are incorporated into our animations, where they are enhanced to give them a more realistic look and feel. A simulation, by itself, cannot show the details that may be important to a case, such as lighting and environment.
Whereas forensic animations are sometimes misconceived as being cartoony and unrealistic, our forensic animations are based upon accurate data and expert engineering calculations. Knott Laboratory’s team of experienced forensic animators and engineers work together directly to produce scientifically accurate graphics and animations that exceed engineering and legal standards. Because of our insistence on accuracy, validity and quality, our animations consistently pass Daubert motions and are presented successfully in state and federal court.
Our animators are constantly working to develop and implement cutting-edge technology to revolutionize the field of forensic animation. Richard Ziernicki, Ph.D., P.E., highlighted the collaboration between engineering and animation in his article “Forensic Engineering Use of Computer Animations and Graphics”.
