Smytec integrates Vigilate’s leading ROC AFIS technology into its revolutionary BlindSite crime scene solution.

1^st December 2024, London –  Smytec, a global leader in advanced forensic imaging technologies, today announced the integration of Vigilate’s cutting-edge Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) powered by ROC into its BlindSite product. This partnership transforms crime scene investigation by enabling on-the-spot and ‘on device’ matching of latent fingerprints with unparalleled speed, accuracy, and efficiency. BlindSite, already a game-changer in forensic technology, utilises hyperspectral and multispectral imaging to capture contactless evidence non-destructively from distances of up to 5 meters. The integration of the ROC AFIS now allows captured fingerprints to be instantly analysed at the scene, providing matching  results in under a minute. This reduces the identification process from hours  to seconds, delivering crucial breakthroughs in situations where response time is critical.  

The combination of Smytec’s cutting edge Blindsite technology and the ultra-fast and accurate ROC AFIS algorithms , transforms on-site fingerprint collection ‘From Analytics to Actionable Intelligence’   

Revolutionising Crime Scene Investigation 

The BlindSite system accelerates crime scene investigations by up to sixty times, while preserving evidence integrity through its non-contact, non-destructive application. Traditional methods often rely on powders, chemicals, or manual handling, which pose risks of contamination and evidence degradation. By combining this innovative technology with Vigilate’s AFIS powered by ROC, the benefits extend beyond speed, significantly improving evidence quality, operational efficiency, response times, and environmental sustainability.

“Integrating ROC AFIS with BlindSite addresses long-standing challenges in forensic science,” said
Dr. Alexander Smyth, CEO at Smytec. “From reducing evidential backlogs to saving lives in high-stakes situations, this partnership exemplifies how technology can empower the entire criminal justice system.”

Cost Savings and Sustainability

Adoption of BlindSite as the primary crime scene tool could lead to estimated savings of £100 million annually for policing budgets in England and Wales alone, by reducing reliance on traditional processing methods. Additionally, the system eliminates the need for toxic chemicals, powders, and single-use plastics, making it an environmentally responsible solution.

Why Vigilate’s solution?

Smytec selected Vigilate’s AFIS solution powered by ROC for its unparalleled speed, accuracy, and scalability. Recent NIST tests demonstrated that  the underlaying technology provides the fastest latent fingerprint matching capabilities in the market (15 seconds against over 1 hour). Moreover, the biometric platform offers opportunities for future integration of facial and iris recognition technologies, catering to broader applications in defence and security sectors.

Unique Features of BlindSite

BlindSite’s capabilities extend beyond fingerprint recognition:

• Digital Non-Contact Scalebar: Eliminates contamination risks from physical rulers.
• Integrated Scene Context Recording: Simultaneously captures a secondary still image with every evidence capture, preserving the spatial context.
• Versatile Imaging Range: Operates from 15cm to over 5 meters, adapting to various crime scene needs.
• Enhanced DNA Options: Preserved evidence can be swabbed for DNA analysis if AFIS does not yield results.

“BlindSite’s unique features deliver unmatched value to forensic teams,” added Dr. Alexander Smyth. “This integration not only transforms how evidence is captured and analysed but also redefines investigative workflows, delivering faster justice and enhanced public safety.”

About Smytec
Smytec Ltd specializes in advanced forensic imaging technologies that empower crime scene investigators with innovative, non-contact solutions. Their flagship product, BlindSite, combines state-of-the-art optics and imaging science to deliver unparalleled capabilities for evidence capture and analysis.