Hong Kong police to use 3D printers to help make crime scene models
But force admits the new technology will not entirely replace officers, who now build the models for major incidents such as the Luxor hot air balloon crash
Hong Kong’s police are to use two 3D printers to help make scale models of crime scenes for death inquests and crime investigations.
But the force said the advanced technology could not replace the craftsmanship of officers who now build the models with their own hands.
Senior Inspector Chan Shun-wai said it would normally take up to a week to construct a model, and that the newly bought 3D printers, costing HK$10,000 each, could speed up production.
Citing the scale model showing all street stalls and buildings where the fourth-alarm fire broke out in Fa Yuen Street six years ago, Chan said using printers could save time by making large numbers of identical window frames and doors, but they could only serve as a tool to help manual work.
