Abstract: A system and method for spectroscopic mapping, with configurable spatial resolution, of an object include a fiber optic bundle having a plurality of optical fibers arranged in a first array at an input end with each of the plurality of optical fibers spaced one from another and arranged in at least one linear array at an output end. A first mask defining a plurality of apertures equal to or greater in number than the plurality of optical fibers is positioned between an object to be imaged and the input end of the fiber optic bundle. An imaging spectrometer is positioned to receive light from the output end of the fiber optic bundle and to generate spectra of the object. A sensor associated with the imaging spectrometer converts the spectra to electrical output signals for processing by an associated computer.

Abstract: A method of photographing forensic evidence comprising the placing a frame on a stable surface is disclosed. An item of evidence is placed on the frame frame, followed by adjusting the position of said item of evidence; mounting a light source to said frame; adjusting the position of said light source; mounting a camera on said frame; adjusting the position of said camera; and actuating said camera to take a photograph.

Abstract: A forensic light source and method using an inventive light source comprising a short arc gas vapor discharge lamp is disclosed. A support structure is provided for supporting the source of light. A light guide having first and second ends, is coupled to the source of light at the first end to receive light from the source of light and transmit the light to the second end. The light guide is mounted on the support structure. A filter support member supports a plurality of filters. A portable hand holdable and movable light directing assembly is mounted on the second end of the light guide. The light directing assembly supports the filter support member and provides for movement of the filter support member to a plurality of positions.

Abstract: A forensic light source which comprises a flexible liquid light guide receiving light from a light source and transmitting it to a selected interference filter which tilts with respect to the light source is disclosed. The filter is mounted for rotation with respect to the output of the light guide. The light exiting the filter is passed through a mixing member made of a randomized fiber optic bundle, that is positioned to receive the output of the filter. The mixing member defines multiple paths for light between the input face and the output face which are configured to disperse light from one mixing member input face region to a plurality of mixing member output face regions.

Abstract: An electrically powered image intensifier having an output and an input is optically coupled to a zoom lens to receive the focused light image from the lens and provide at the output of the image intensifier an intensified light image. A chassis is configured to support the intensifier and to mainly engage the lens by engaging the mounting structure. The lens is engaged by the mounting structure in a use position, and may be supported by a tripod. The use of the zoom lens allows convenient use in cramped quarters at a short focal length setting, i.e. at a wide angle setting. The intensifier may be used at a distance at a long focal length setting, i.e. at a telephoto setting, advantageously with a tripod and a standard panning handle.

Abstract: An electrically powered image intensifier having an output and an input is optically coupled to the lens to receive the focused light image from the lens and provide at the output of the image intensifier an intensified light image. A chassis is configured to support the intensifier and to mainly engage the lens by engaging the mounting structure. The lens is engaged by the mounting structure in a use position. A power source is coupled to the image intensifier by an electrical switch having an open and a closed state. The switch is connected to couple electrical power from the power source to the image intensifier in the closed state and to decouple electrical power from the power source from the image intensifier in the open state. The electrical switch comprises an operator for configuring the electrical switch in the open state in an open operator position or in a closed state in a closed operator position. The operator is biased in the open operator position.

Abstract: An ultraviolet imager for forensic and other purpose, e.g. for detection of fingerprints and other forensic evidence at crime scenes permits live simultaneous viewing, with live focusing adjustments, of an ultraviolet image, converted to visible light, and capture of the ultraviolet image on light sensitive film. A modified SLR camera provides film image capture and is optically coupled with a light intensifier for viewing and focusing. A preferred viewing system employs optical symmetry between the camera and the intensfier. Both the camera and the viewing system are optimized for processing ultraviolet light by employing ultraviolet transmissive lens elements and ultraviolet-reflective mirrors throughout.