In reaction to ongoing interest, we have eventually been able to compile and launch our Forensic Accident Investigation Evidence Kit.

(Actual Item might differ from illustration)
The kit is designed to enable any accident investigator to grab only one case and then to have everything he or she could need available immediately, at any scene.
The kit consists of the following essential items:
Vanguard Weather-proof case
Supreme 53F
Virtually indestructible, the rugged Vanguard Supreme Series hard cases have innovative features for unmatched strength and durability.
They are O-ring sealed, waterproof (up to a depth of 16.5 feet/5 meters), airtight, and built to withstand the most extreme conditions (-40°F/-40°C to 203°F/95°C).
Supreme cases are great for airline travel with an automatic pressure equalization valve and ability to support up to 265 lbs/120 kg. of exterior weight.
Anti-slip rubber feet and a solid carrying handle offer extra durability.
Thick, quick-release latches lock in place and steel-reinforced lock holders are great for use with pad locks for added security.
Supreme 53F has dense, customizable hexagon-shaped foam for an extremely tailored, custom fit for gear. Its wheels and extended handle make travel with your gear a breeze.
Waterproof and airtight (up to a depth of 16.5 feet/5 meters)
Two storage levels
High-density customizable, hexagon-shaped foam interior
Steel-reinforced lock holders
Wheels and extended handle
Although the equipment inside could be placed in any container, it must be remembered that the contents of this kit can make the difference between the proper investigation of an accident scene and the total loss of evidence, and therewith - 3rd Party liabilities.
Read more about this case.
Digital Camera (Fujifilm Finepix S2000HD)
(Actual Item might differ from illustration)
Please note that we (IBF Investigations) use the Sony Alpha 100/200 DSLR cameras AND the Fujifilm S2000HD for our work. The image of the kit above, shows the Sony Camera.
Fujifilm has always been a prolific purveyor of super-zoom or "bridge" cameras.
You can trace the lineage of this new FinePix S2000HD all the way back to the FinePix 4900 Zoom, launched in the summer of 2000.
However camera design has come a long way in eight years. The 4900 Zoom was a 2.4 megapixel camera with a 6x zoom lens.
The S2000HD is a 10.0 megapixel camera with a 15x zoom lens, sensor-shift image stabilization and HD video recording.
Despite its relatively low price it seems that very few corners have been cut in the design of the S2000HD.
Some previous Fuji super-zoom models have been a little short in the build quality department, but the S2000HD feels very solidly made.
It has a plastic body, but feels surprisingly heavy for its size, thanks mostly to the amount of glass in the lens, although this is balanced by the weight of four AA batteries inside the handgrip.
Fujifilm has a lot of experience with SLR-style super-zoom cameras, so it's no surprise that the S2000HD is superbly comfortable and easy to hold.
The large handgrip has a soft high-friction rubber coating, and a textured grip area extends to the sculpted thumb grip on the back. The controls are large, sensibly laid out and clearly labeled, and all operate smoothly.
2 x Battery Pack (set of 4 + charger)
Enough cannot be said about the importance of having spare batteries. If our at-scene protocol, which is part of our at-scene investigation training, is followed, hundreds of photographs are typically taken at each scene.
Since this might be the case, having spare batteries (that are charged) cannot not be over-stressed.
For this purpose, we included two sets, with chargers, in our kit.
Compact Tripod
(Actual Item might differ from illustration)
Not all accidents happen in daylight. Some obviously happen at night.
No camera flash (unless you are willing to pay thousands) will be adequate for most accident scenes.
Incident lights, reflective clothing (fire, ambulance, etc), odd angles, dark surfaces and metallic vehicle paint are just some of the factors that render "point-and-shoot" flash photography nearly useless at accident scenes.
In order to capture "All the evidence," as required in our training, a tripod is an essential item in your investigative arsenal.
If you want to use a tripod, there is also no sense getting the cheapest one you can find, since stability is a definite prerequisite.
We have taken all the guess-work and trial-and-error out of acquiring everything you need, and compiled it into a neat and rugged evidence kit.
Tyre Pressure Gauge
Even Police Investigators forget the importance of this little device.
If you are not going to take the pressures of every and all tyres at every and all accident scenes, you will have lost vital evidence.
Some tyres are deflated, but this cannot be seen on photographs (like on trucks) while others are over-inflated. All these conditions affect your investigative integrity.
Without a proper tyre pressure gauge, capable of recording car and truck tyre pressures, you will be like a hunter with a gun, but no bullets.

Digital Tread Depth Gauge
(Actual Item might differ from illustration)
There are a wide array of different tread depth gauge models. We only use high quality steel calibrated models.
Gone are the days when "the tyre looked OK" was enough as "proof" that the tyre was - in fact, OK.
Speed calculations relating to aquaplaning, legal definitions of "smooth" and tyre wear patterns relating to wheel alignment all form vital parts of a proper investigative analysis.
Without accurate tyre tread depth readings, taken by reliable means, there can be no reliable evidence for later analysis.
High Accuracy GPS
(Actual Item might differ from illustration)
When you attend an accident scene, you do not always have "Land Marks" available, or there may be no way to accurately judge the distance to a particular location.
Also - where spills are involved, you may have cleaned up and another spill might occur at that location (or near-by) later, and this might come back to haunt you as a liability.
If you can record the accident location to a high degree of accuracy (only possible with a high-sensitivity hand-held GPS), any post-event analysis will be greatly simplified.
In court, your GPS coordinates might later be the only accurate reference to where the accident really occurred.
We cannot emphasize the importance of this piece of equipment enough.
Rolling Measuring Wheel (Does not fit inside case)
(Actual Item might differ from illustration)
We use a digital measuring wheel to ensure accuracy and to eliminate errors.
Of what value would your attendance be if no measurements are taken?
Anything from the vehicles involved, road-widths, length of tyre marks and/or vehicle dimensions could become relevant in court later.
By using this simple, yet accurate, piece of equipment at every scene, you are assured that you will be able to get "All the evidence."
2 x Tape Measures
(Actual Item might differ from illustration)
Measuring wheels have limitations. They do not work well on sand, cannot measure vertical distances and are inaccurate on very uneven surfaces.
They are also not very good at measuring arcs (road curvature).
In these instances, the trusty Tape Measure comes in very handy.
Road Curvature, Damage Height, Depth (of trains, culverts and/or ditches), road edge fall-off and many other aspects of evidence can only be measured reliably with a Tape Measure or TWO.
Digital Voice Recorder
(Actual Item might differ from illustration)
People talk at scenes. You hear things. You talk.
By having (and using) a digital voice recorder at every accident scene, you are in a position to:
a) Record everything said and admitted to.
b) Remember that you are being recorded too, and keep your mouth shut!
c) Assist yourself with recalling elements of evidence later, that you may have forgotten to write down.
d) Provide proof of various elements of the scene.
Remember - invasion of privacy (in relation to illegal surveillance) only applies where you "Set up" a person and "Record" them.
At accident scenes, you are recording YOUR OWN verbal notes, as well as your activities on the scene.
You have no idea what whom will say, or that they would say it, and have no interest in recording any specific conversation.
In this instance, if the "while scene" was recorded, people talking in general are not "set up."
Tactical, Rechargeable LED Torch
(Actual Item might differ from illustration)
Working at night with a "cheap" torch can become very frustrating very quickly.
By using a rechargeable, tactical torch, you are ensured of high visibility, reliability and light quality.
Remember - torches (on accident scenes) are used to see where you are walking, to search for evidence, to illuminate items you want to photograph or to identify individuals/bodies.
And, good light keeps you out of blood spills!
1 x Set of Evidence Markers
(Actual Item might differ from illustration)
We envisage the possibility that you might arrive at an accident (or industrial accident) scene first.
In this instance, you want to be sure as to identify, mark and highlight any/all elements of evidence.
If you use evidence markers (as opposed to nothing), you will be in a position to identify, secure, protect, tag and record evidence better.
We recommend the use of evidence markers very highly.
Marking Spray (1 Can)
(Actual Item might differ from illustration)
There are times when you need to mark the position, orientation, presence and/or final resting positions of vehicles, bodies or items of evidence.
While it remains the job of the SAPS to investigate crimes, not all accident scenes are crime scenes.
It is also often seen that SAPS officers have no marking spray available.
Even allowing them to use yours is better than losing the evidence all together.
Please feel free to contact us for more information, order processing or latest pricing..
Please keep in mind that nothing in this case is "cheapest in class" since we only want to supply technologies that we have tested, evaluated and used for an extended period.
We trust that you will benefit from our experience and trust our selection of the finest tools for this industry!
All orders are subject to payment before delivery and delivery can take up to two weeks from date of order.
Al items, makes, brands, models and/or colors could change without notice, due to technological advancements and/or model replacements.
|
We now use ARAS 360 - the very latest and most innovative 3D Animation / Accident Investigation / Reconstruction Software currently available. We are also distributors for this fantastic product. Be sure to contact us for your personalized quotation and/or for more information. The following information was taken directly from the web site of ARAS360, and can be seen in original context on their site.
LATEST ARAS 360 NEWS:
Forensic Mapping Instruction in Florence, Italy
June 16, 2010
During the week of June 12 – 16, 2010, ARAS 360's Mike Greenfield and Ivan Macella instructed Italy’s first Forensic Mapping class at the University of Florence. The class of 34 students were from all over the country and included members of Italy’s “Carabinieri” (Federal Police), local law enforcement officers, private accident reconstruction consultants and engineers. The class was very well received, with the students learning the principles of forensic mapping and the use of the Total Station for measuring and documenting traffic accidents and crime scenes. In addition, the new ARAS 360 animation and diagramming software program was previewed and demonstrated.
ARC-CSI Crash Conference Update
June 3, 2010

ARAS 360's strong presence at the conference was apparent as numerous attendees flocked to our booth to see our software in action.
To summarize, the conference proved to be successful as interest in our software is overwhelming. If you were unable to attend the conference and would like to see ARAS 360 in action, call (877.814.2360) for a free demo.
I was very impressed with the ARAS 360 Software ...I couldn't help but notice that ARAS 360 was very user-friendly by having one's tools available to the left of the screen. Also, having the ability to perform one's work while in 3D was quite helpful. It is a software program like this that makes, not only my work easier, but also easier for all Law Enforcement Agencies across the world - to add such a great tool to their tool box. I have used other software programs and they do not compare to the ARAS 360 software, not even the price. I truly believe ARAS 360 is the next generation in innovation to Accident Reconstruction.
Thank you.
Deputy Chuck Roldan
Traffic Division Pueblo County Sheriff's Office
ARC-CSI Crash Conference 2010
May 24-27, 2010 - Las Vegas, NV
May 19, 2010

ARAS 360 marks its first year as an exhibitor at this event with Chief Operations Manager, Mike Greenfield in attendance.
Visit Mike at booth #11 and see a demo of the latest in 3D Accident Reconstruction Software! While you're there, be sure to jot down your contact information on the supplied form if you're interested in knowing more. We'll be contacting those on the list shortly after the conference is over.
Excitement builds at IPTM Conference
May 5, 2010
Mike Greenfield, Chief Field Operations Manager (USA) for Aras 360 recently attended the IPTM Conference in Orlando, Florida to demonstrate our new software. Overall, an overwhelming success, leaving reconstructionists extremely impressed with the unique features of Aras 360. Don't take our word for it:
I am totally impressed with the new ARAS360 software. The learning curve looks easier than the software I am currently using.
I certainly like the way it takes a Google map and conforms it to the total station information. Working in 3D without stopping and going back to "fix" specific items is great. The library of buildings, cars, etc. far exceeds any software that is currently on the market. And the best part of your software is the free updates and NO yearly fees.
Keep me informed when you launch the program.
Thanks,
Dennis F. Augustyniak
Augustyniak & Associates (MD)
ARAS360 - A COMPLETE SYSTEM

ARAS 360 users can generate the most powerful animations, reconstructions, simulations, and illustrations within an intuitive full time 3D graphical environment.
From the time you download directly to ARAS 360 until you have illustrated, animated and analyzed any incident is hours less than any other product. No more 2D - view in 3D back and forth. Do it all in 3D to allow precise model positioning, animation effects, and all other editing tasks.
ARAS 360 provides advanced analytical tools such as 3D Momentum modelling and advanced reconstruction equation processing - with all processes integrated and building a common report.
One environment, incredibly ease to use, and now the choice for more law enforcement and private consultant reconstructionists than any other product. Review the details on the individual components below and see why.
Are you tired of seeing the same pre-rendered demo movies over and over again and want to see what the software is actually like? Then visit the aras360 site to sign up for a live online demo today! If you're not quite ready for a demo, you can either join the mailing list to get exclusive product updates as they become available or contact us to request more information.
REAL 3D ANIMATION
ARAS 360 is always 3D for moving, editing models, creating animations. No longer will you have to work in 2D, then render to a 3D viewer for checking your work.
ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY
For the first time professional investigators have features like headlights, streetlights, and Smart Model technology to streamline their reports and provide truly professional output.
ADVANCED ANALYSIS
ARAS 360 users have true 3D simulation embedded in an intuitive program. Generate your scene in moments, then create powerful simulations to really illustrate the facts.
3D All the time
All your editing is done in 3D in an intuitive and easy to use interface, and all this in real time.
Diagramming in 3D can be this easy.
Crash Genius - 3D Momentum Model
ARAS 360 users now have the most powerful linear momentum tool ever produced. Get results right on your 3D scene in seconds, test them with embedded simulation and then animate your output - of course with a powerful and detailed report.
ARAS 360 MODELS
ARAS360 customers don't have to wait for models. They're already up-to-date, constantly being added to, and free to download. Plus, not only can you download any model for free, but you can upload them to our website and grant access to other ARAS360 users. Why don't you check out what we've put up recently.
One Environment
In the ARAS 360 3 dimensional space you can download your total station data, generate a 3D model of the incident scene; then proceed to anaylze the crash using the most advanced reconstruction tools. While in your 3D workspace you can create lines, sidewalks, buildings, curbs, fences and refine all the properties in 3 dimensions within minutes. You are only ever in a 2D view if you choose our top down view
3D Diagramming Tools
Only ARAS 360 allows you to draw all the drawing shapes, Smart Models, and place precision 3D models while in 3D. Unlike other applications that require users to diagram in 2D and then review in a 3D viewer, ARAS 360 lets you do everything in a 3D environment. All tools work intuitively, and consistently. You no longer have to look in several places and manage annoying popups to draw, place, edit, animate, simulate and analyze.
Integrated Vehicle Specifications
Now when placing a model - choose the exact one involved in the incident and it will be precisely modelled instantly - in 3D. If you don't like how it looks - we let you edit it. When you need to know stiffness value for the integrated crush analysis tool, it is included in the program. If you wish to check for Recalls or Technical Service Bulletins - we have it all for you.
ARAS Genius
Included in the ARAS 360 suite and also available as a stand-alone application. This tool represents the absolute state-of-the-art in reconstruction calculations. Over 700 useful formulas and equations that load instantly, allow simultaneous of 2 variables and flow to professional graphs for reporting. Only ARAS Genius allows you to create, save, and share your own equations.
Real 3D Animation
Advanced technology allows ARAS 360 users to generate powerful real time 3 dimensional animations in minutes. For the first time, users can work in 3D while generating the animations. Unlike other applications, ARAS 360 allows users to create 3D spline paths as well as linear and arc paths. Our animation engine allows unlimited synchronization points so you can eliminate hours of frustrating work when dealing with multi impact animations.
Momentum Genius
This powerful tool represents the next generation of analysis based on the Conservation of Linear Momentum. For the first time, users will have instantaneous feedback when applying properties such as post impact deceleration. No longer is momentum based on a homogenous 2 dimensional plane, but rather on any complex terrain. This is the fastest tool ever built for you to analyze impact speeds for 2 vehicle, intersecting collisions. Once placed, results immediately display, and once satisfied, users can immediately click play to transfer the momentum results to the animation engine.
ARAS GENIUS
RECONSTRUCTION CALCULATIONS
Only ARAS Genius:
- Make your own equations in seconds: save and share them
- 700+ Equations covering all components of reconstruction
- Momentum Analysis with graphic display
- 2 variable simultaneous ranging
- Persuasive charts and graphs (in 3D) in powerful reports
- Allows users to create case/project files containing all the active equations
- Displays all the math steps in real math terms
- Includes the Vehicle specs database (autoupdated)
- Includes the Vehicle Recall Database
- Includes the Technical Services Bulletin database
- Includes the Vehicle stiffness coefficient database
- Allows users to interchange units of measurements at any point in the input and output
If you would like to see any of our products in action and not just the same pre-rendered movies from different angles, be sure to fill out an online demo request, and we'll show just how awesome our products are. All from your desktop via gotomeeting.
THE NEW STANDARD
This program sets a new standard in crash reconstruction calculation technology, designed to cover all equation processes and contains almost every formula or /equation in the field of crash reconstruction science.
700+ equations are included in the application. These equations and formulae are industry standard and many have been contributed from the IPTM Equation Book. In addition many are the standard equations taught at Northwestern University Traffic Insitute.
Choose from speed, energy, momentum, distance, time, acceleration, drag factor, truck rollover, motorcycle, bicycle, pedestrian, and many other categories.
Search using variables, variable names, or categories and you will get a list of results that match your criteria - instantly.
All equations have precise descriptions and display the inputs required to solve the equation. Equation selection is lightning fast.
Momentum Analysis
ARAS Genius is the complete calculating solution, from simple equations to complete linear mometum analysis you can do it all.
Momentum Analysis can be performed using multiple decceleration zones, and provides a real time graphic display.
Solution Steps
Each step of every solution is displayed in real math terms to verify your work - automatically!.
See every mathematical step from beginning to the end. So you know exactly how the result was derived.
Court ready output includes:
Result(s)
Case Information
All the math steps to solve equation
Charts and graphs
Build your own equations
Build them fast and you can share them with other ARAS Genius users. ARAS Genius gives you all the tools to easily build equations and load them to your favorites category.
Incremented Inputs
Incremented inputs allow you to examine how variations in the value of a particular input affect the equation’s output. This is a useful tool for dealing with situations where there is a degree of error or uncertainty as to the precise value of an input.
Charts
Present persuasive charts and graphs
(in 2D & 3D) in powerful reports or copy and paste into an application of your choice.
Demonstrate results graphically for incremented variables, to make the results easy to understand.
RESOURCES
As an ARAS360 user, you will now have access to an array of resources, including:
Vehicle Specs Database

Vehicle Recall Database

Technical Service Bulletins

Stiffness Coefficient Database

Sisters and Clones List

Sun Position Calculator
SAMPLE ANIMATIONS
See out sample animations for the latest diagramming technology:






|
During 2009, we received numerous requests for further training, additional education, practical examples, personal tuition, internships and even job shadow programs.

We found that - as reasonable as these requests and inquiries are - IBF Investigations is simply not geared to accommodate all needs at present.

Some people want 'just the basics' and would like to have enough knowledge with which to explore the field and establish whether they think there is a future in Forensic for them while others seek training at very advanced levels and would like to make a career out of it.

We explored the option of internships, short courses, correspondence courses and even long courses (three years). But, the shortage of training in our field, the diversity of interests, geographical challenges and fee structures all played a role in conspiring against our best efforts.

Yet, we realized that the one thing that we can do is perpetuate our training, if we were able to find a way to reproduce the same training at many locations, at minimal cost - so we opted to start filming a DVD Training Series in 2010.

Currently named "All the Evidence," the series is designed to present students with a progressive learning experience. The first DVD (DVD 1 - Introduction to Forensic Awareness) will be designed to address the basic information needs so many people have. It will cover at-scene protocols, role-players, evidence identification, documentation and basic photography. This DVD will be distributed for FREE, and students will be allowed to make and distribute as many copies as they see fit - subject to the DVD remaining a total work (no cutting, editing, extraction or commercial duplication allowed).

DVD 1 will be designed to enable any road-user, assessor, transport manager or controller, truck-driver, policeman, traffic officer and even fire- and ambulance-men, to identify evidence at a road traffic collision scene, to protect the evidence, to know what the roles and responsibilities of all services present are, and to photograph the scene properly.

After this, a number of additional general-topic DVD's will be produced, ranging from Incident Management through Vehicle Collision Dynamics, The Laws of Physics, Tactical Scene Approach and Personal Defense, Effective Emergency Communication and Photographic Techniques for night photography.

After this, there will be DVD's produced that will cover specific technical topics, like Airbags and Seatbelts, Brake Systems, Tyres, Lights, Suspension Systems and Electronic Vehicle recording Solutions and Systems.

The 'special' DVD's that will follow will cover specific topics like Truck Crash Investigation, Motorcycle Accident Investigation, Pedestrian and Bicycle Investigation and Hit-and-run Accident Investigation.

Finally, very specific topics will be covered, including Photogrammetry, Drawings using special software (VS Vista Fx) and Specialized Photographic Techniques.

In total, we expect to produce a total of over 20 DVD's, containing as much as 80 hours of training, or more.
Please visit our site regularly to see updates, clips, extracts and 'behind-the-scenes' clips of our efforts.
|