Abstract
In forensic investigations of physical assaults involving weapon use, the analysis of damage to soft tissues, bones, and textiles can yield critical insights into the weapon and the dynamics of the incident. This intelligence is obtained by examining the damage, as well as potentially simulating and reconstructing the incident. Existing simulation models range from human-based trials to mechanical apparatus, though all are inadequate in accurately replicating incidents due to factors such as human variability, lack of controlled force application, and inconsistent reproducibility. This study evaluates the potential of robotic arms to address existing simulation limitations, highlighting their capabilities, such as human-like motions, programmability, precision, and repeatability, that may assist in standardising weapon impact simulations and damage reconstruction.
