The Role of Materials Science in Fire Investigations
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Fire causes damage to materials in different ways. Patterns can help track the fire spread identifying where most damage occurred, which is where the fire started.
The Perils of Maintenance
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Maintenance includes preventative routine actions such as cleaning, lubrication, inspection, and thorough examination. It includes corrective actions when a fault is detected or a break-down occurs such as repairs, replacing parts or clearing blockages.
Introduction to Computer Vision and the Role it Plays in Forensic Investigations
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Advancements in digital media offer vast data for analysis but pose challenges. Computers excel in processing large data volumes, surpassing human limitations. Integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Computer Vision (CV) techniques like Optical Flow Tracking, Pose Estimation, and Optical Character Recognition (OCR) bridges this gap. Hawkins leverages CV for objective analysis, enhancing investigations in personal injuries, collisions, and structural failures.
Cargo Liquefaction – Mitigating the Risk
![Picture showing liquefaction of cargo from Hawkins Investigator Nico Zurcher's case](https://www.hawkins.biz/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Liquefaction-from-Nico-resized-1.jpg)
Cargo liquefaction takes place when a dry bulk cargo with high moisture content loses its strength and transforms from a solid dry state to an almost fluid state.
Leveraging Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Digital Forensic Investigations
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Digital Forensic Investigator Callum Hogan, discusses the impact Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning have on digital forensic investigations.
Leaking Pipes & Cylinders: Common Themes Between Industry & Airing Cupboard
![Escape of water from pipe on a previous Hawkins case](https://www.hawkins.biz/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Picture1.jpg)
Philippa reflects on some of the common themes that can lead to leaks and failures; from high integrity industrial sites to the pipework in your home airing cupboard.
Contamination: A Dirty Problem
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The article discusses contamination arising from fire, water damage, and storms, emphasising its diverse forms like soot, odors, water-related issues, mold, and asbestos. It stresses the urgency of identifying and addressing contamination promptly to reinstate properties while minimizing costs, showcasing Hawkins’ expertise in forensic investigations and specialised techniques for mitigation and restoration.
Concrete – Hard Lessons
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Jamie Paterson discusses the issues found within reinforced concrete and how they affect the durability and life-expectancy of reinforced concrete buildings.
Beware the Repair
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Second-hand domestic appliances can appeal to the budget-conscious, environmentally-minded, or bargain lovers alike. Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree and eBay, all offer inexpensive used appliances; however, these appliances come with no guarantees and no certainty over the provenance of the appliance.
Open Plan Office Acoustics (BS ISO 22955)
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To that effect, BS ISO 22955:2021 “Acoustics – Acoustic quality of open office spaces” aims to give guidance in the design and construction of open office space for acoustics and its cognitive effects.