Modern Methods of Ballistic Research

Aim. Conduct a comprehensive analysis of modern research methods in ballistics, their application in forensic examination and assessment of their effectiveness for solving problems related to the investigation of crimes committed with the use of firearms. Special attention is paid to the integration of numerical modeling, experimental methods and artificial intelligence technologies to improve the accuracy, objectivity of expert conclusions.

Methodology. To achieve the set goal, a multi-stage research procedure was carried out: an analysis of scientific literature, a study of the theoretical foundations of ballistics, including internal, external and terminal ballistics, as well as modern approaches to their study, an analysis of the works of both domestic and foreign authors specializing in the use of ballistic methods in forensic science. Real cases of using various research methods in forensic practice were considered. This made it possible to identify the most effective approaches and limitations of existing technologies. Numerical methods were used to simulate projectile trajectories, taking into account air resistance, the influence of the Coriolis force and other factors. Software tools such as Ballistic Trajectory Simulation (BTS) and Integrated Ballistics Identification System (IBIS) were used. Tests were conducted on ballistic stands to verify hypotheses regarding the characteristics of weapons and ammunition. Laser spectroscopy (LIBS), high-speed shooting and other modern technologies were used. The effectiveness of machine learning algorithms for analyzing ballistic data, comparing traces on bullets and cartridges, and processing video and photo materials is assessed. The results obtained by different methods are compared to determine their complementarity and the possibility of combining them to increase the reliability of conclusions.

Results. Numerical modeling has demonstrated high accuracy in calculating projectile trajectories and reconstructing crime scenes. This method is especially effective when combined with experimental research data. Laser diagnostics allowed for a detailed study of traces of gunpowder carbon and microscopic particles left after a shot. This significantly improved the ability to determine the distance to the shooter and the type of weapon used. High-speed filming provided unique data on the movement of a bullet in the first milliseconds after a shot, which is important for analyzing the nature of gas emissions and the shape of a flame. Ballistic stands have proven their importance for imitation tests and testing hypotheses regarding the penetrating ability of bullets and other weapon characteristics. Artificial intelligence has demonstrated high efficiency in automatically comparing traces on bullets and cartridge cases, as well as in analyzing video materials. Machine learning algorithms allow processing large amounts of data in a short time, which is especially important in complex cases.

Research implications. Thus, this research not only summarizes modern methods of ballistic study but also demonstrates their practical applicability in forensic investigations. The integration of advanced technologies with traditional methods allows achieving high accuracy and objectivity when solving complex tasks arising in modern judicial practice.

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