University of Dundee develops VR technology for fire scene investigations

Forensic scientists from the University of Dundee are developing virtual reality (VR) technology to assist in the investigation of fire scenes. The technology uses footage from real fires and is being successfully implemented in training exercises with fire services.

Working in partnership with Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and Scottish Police Authority Forensic Services, the VR software has been successfully used in training exercises.

To create immersive VR representations of fire scenes, mocked-up units which replicate residential rooms are created and burned to allow genuine investigation to take place. The team used standard photographic equipment currently in use by crime scene investigators, in conjunction with structure from motion software to produce VR representations of the scene of interest.

A detailed framework called Crime Scene VieweR (CSVR) was created, which allows for the use of original copies from a fire scene. The CSVR will also use a range of calibration tools to assess the scale, positioning and orientation of the scene for virtual reconstructions.

“By simulating fire scenarios and using VR technology to revisit the scene, our fire investigators will be able to identify causes of fires and how these may be prevented.”

Steven Corrigan, Group Commander, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.

Fire investigators and forensic scientists can use this virtual investigation tool, alongside traditional briefing methods, to estimate the start point, cause and development of the fire, revolutionising fire scene investigations.

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