DIGITAL IMAGE CROSS-CORRELATION TECHNIQUE FOR BITE MARK INVESTIGATIONS

Many techniques of bite mark analysis have been described using direct comparisons, overlays and replication methods, but all opinions are b ased on subjective assessments. This study aimed to produce a non-inte ractive method of bite mark comparison using a digital image correlati on technique to remove operator subjectivity. An image of a real injur y and suspect dental casts were digitally processed and passed through a correlation algorithm. This yielded figures representing correlatio n coefficients between the image of the mark and the dentition of the suspects. An image was displayed demonstrating a particular suspect ca st in maximum correlation with the injury. This system was also applie d to an artificial mark set. In the real mark series, the highest corr elation was noted for an individual not involved in the incident. The reasons and implications of the findings are discussed.