Patent impressions, being obvious or evident, are collected primarily through photography. If possible and necessary, the item bearing the impression is also collected.
Patent impressions are visible forensic evidence, meaning they are already easily seen and generally do not require special techniques like dusting or chemical treatments to be located or enhanced. Their clear visibility dictates a straightforward collection process focused on documentation and preservation.
Key Collection Steps for Patent Impressions
Based on forensic practices, especially as highlighted in the reference material, the collection of patent impressions involves two main steps:
- Photography: The primary method for collecting patent impressions is through comprehensive photography. High-resolution photographs are taken to document the impression's appearance, location, size, and any specific details. Proper scale and lighting are crucial during this step to ensure accuracy and clarity for later analysis. The photograph itself essentially serves as a permanent record and a form of "lift" of the impression.
- Item Collection (If Necessary): In addition to photography, the physical item upon which the patent impression is deposited is collected if it is feasible and practical to do so. Collecting the entire object allows for more detailed laboratory analysis under controlled conditions. This object, like the photograph, becomes part of the collected evidence, acting as the "investigators lift."
Therefore, the collection of patent impressions relies on capturing the visible evidence directly, first with a camera and potentially by physically taking custody of the item it's on. The photograph and/or the collected object represent the successful "lift" or collection of the impression.
