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An automated method for the generation of bloodstain pattern metrics from images of blood spatter patterns

Please note: As of 1 July 2025, the New Zealand Institute for Public Health and Forensic Science (PHF Science) is the new name for the Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR). Research and reports published prior to this date may reference the organisation’s former name.

Abstract

An improved automated bloodstain pattern analysis method has been developed and validated, which utilises computer vision techniques to identify bloodstains on a plain background within a digital image. The method generates metrics relating to the individual stains as well as the overall pattern, including bloodstain pattern specific metrics such as the gamma angle, circularity, solidity, area of convergence, stain density and pattern linearity. This method provides an objective approach to the analysis of bloodstains and bloodstain patterns and can generate a wealth of quantitative data that is currently not obtainable using manual techniques or other image-based programs currently utilised in the discipline. This method will be useful to analysts and researchers investigating the application of quantitative methods to bloodstain pattern analysis.

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