Objectives

At the conclusion of this module the student should be able to do the following:

Identify the common metal shaping operations used in the manufacture of tools, including
- common cutting operations based on the formation of metal chips,
- common metal forming operations not involving cutting,
- modern metal machining techniques.
Describe the following concepts as they relate to the formulation of conclusions relating to toolmark examination and comparison:
- Class characteristics
- Individual characteristics
- Subclass characteristics
- AFTE Theory of Identification
- Pattern matching
- Sufficient agreement
- Best known nonmatch
- Consecutive matching striae (CMS)
- AFTE Range of Conclusions
Explain the differences between the terms
- identification,
- inconclusive,
- elimination,
- unsuitable.
Itemize the essential items of equipment necessary to carry out the comparison microscopy of toolmarks.
Summarize the prerequisites that must be addressed prior to initiating any examination or comparison of toolmarked evidence.
Describe the examination protocol for the microscopic comparison of the class and individual characteristics represented by toolmarks.
Describe the examination protocol for the examination and comparison of fracture marks.