Evaluating Spatial Fidelity of Mobile LiDAR Scanning in Crime Scene Reconstruction: An Experimental Study Using Polycam

Selvin Raj S; Karthik Jayakara Shetty

Evaluating Spatial Fidelity of Mobile LiDAR Scanning in Crime Scene Reconstruction: An Experimental Study Using Polycam

Author(s)	Mr. Selvin Raj S, Mr. Karthik Jayakara Shetty
Country	India
Abstract	Accurate crime scene documentation is essential for reliable reconstruction and courtroom interpretation. Traditional two dimensional methods often fail to capture depth and spatial relationships, leading to potential misinterpretation of evidence. Mobile LiDAR scanning offers a cost effective alternative to professional laser scanners, but its forensic reliability requires validation. A simulated bloodstain pattern was created under controlled laboratory conditions using red acrylic paint to replicate forensic evidence. The pattern was scanned with Polycam’s LiDAR function on a smartphone. Measurements from 3D models were compared with manual tape measurements. Accuracy and reproducibility were assessed using descriptive statistics, mean error, standard deviation, accuracy percentage, and root mean square error (RMSE). Polycam’s LiDAR scanning produced metrically accurate and reproducible 3D models, achieving 95–99% measurement accuracy across repeated trials. RMSE values confirmed consistency, with deviations remaining within forensic tolerance. Mobile based LiDAR scanning provides a reliable, low cost, and accessible tool for forensic documentation. It preserves spatial arrangements, supports evidence interpretation, and enhances courtroom visualization. These findings support the integration of mobile LiDAR into forensic practice, particularly in resource limited settings.
Keywords	Crime Scene Reconstruction; Mobile LiDAR; Polycam; Spatial Fidelity; Forensic Documentation;
Published In	Volume 17, Issue 2, April-June 2026
Published On	2026-06-16

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Evaluating Spatial Fidelity of Mobile LiDAR Scanning in Crime Scene Reconstruction: An Experimental Study Using Polycam

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