This system allows for the use of many forms of media as input and displays this media throughout the courtroom on flat panel LCD monitors. Examples of media input include documents, photographs, x-rays, 3 dimensional objects, VHS tapes, video-conferencing and computer based presentation software.
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The focal point of the evidence
presentation system is the podium. The podium
contains a recessed monitor for viewing the source media as well as the Elmo
document camera and touch screen monitor. |
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The Elmo document camera is capable of displaying documents, x-rays, 3-D objects, photographs, slides and overhead transparencies. By simply placing a document or object on the Elmo platform, the image is displayed throughout the courtroom. |
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The podium based 12" touch screen monitor allows for “mark-up” augmentation to the media being presented. By applying the flesh part of a finger to the monitor surface, the user is capable of drawing freeform lines or applying an assortment of arrows or crosshairs that are super imposed on the display. |
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There is also a touch screen monitor at the witness stand. This monitor is identical in size and functionality to the one at the podium. |
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The podium contains a user operated video source selector. This allows the user to switch between several system inputs such as the document camera, VCR and laptop computer (at the podium). |
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The podium also contains a VCR. This is a professional
grade VCR that operates in normal fashion. It differs from standard VCRs in that it provides a much cleaner picture when in “freeze” mode. There is a remote for the VCR that can be operated from either counsel table. The podium also houses the electronic components that gather and disseminate the media throughout the courtroom. |
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Images are displayed throughout the courtroom via 12 and 17 inch flat panel LCD monitors. There are a total of 13 LCD monitors: 1 each for the podium, judge, court reporter, courtroom deputy, law clerk / probation officer, plaintiff counsel and witness; 2 monitors for the defense counsel and 4 monitors for the jury. |
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The judge and/or courtroom deputy control who may view the media via desktop control units. These control units allow for the specific control of both input and output to the system. For example, the judge may only allow the podium and counsel to view an image until admitted. Once admitted, the witness and jury would then be allowed to view the image. |
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Also, the system allows for input
from each counsel table. This enables counsel to use a laptop computer as an input into the system. With this option, counsel would be able to use their own application software to present information in the courtroom. |