Preliminary validation of Amped FIVE software for subject height estimation

Abstract

Single view metrology poses a persistent challenge in extracting accurate quantitative information from individual images or video frames within the realm of forensic video analysis. Methods such as reverse projection, projective geometry, and photogrammetry have been used in the past with success but require validation and understanding of the limitations of each method. This study aims to conduct a preliminary validation of the subject height estimation feature in Amped FIVE software, which relies on the principles of single view metrology. A group of 14 individuals assumed an upright posture at distances of 2.4 m, 5.4 m, and 10 m away from two security cameras with different resolutions 4k (3840 × 2160) and HD (1920 × 1080). Prior to recording, participants’ heights were measured but were not provided to the researcher in this study until after the analysis was completed. A height scale with clearly marked black and white graduations was used as a control. Height estimations were subsequently obtained using the Measure 3D tool in Amped FIVE software. On average, the overall error was found to be approximately ± 1.3 cm with a standard deviation of 0.9 cm. This study shows that Amped FIVE can provide accurate height estimates in a controlled environment. Future work should be done to test more difficult scenarios in less-than-ideal conditions.