NEWS
ARAS 360 Animation Contest!
January 5, 2012
All of us at ARAS 360 would like to see how you're using our products. If you would like to share an ARAS animation you've done, please read the rules and criteria below, and send us your video!
Animations will be judged based on the following criteria:
- 3D scene detail.
- Realism of vehicle motion.
- Creativity in use of animation cameras.
- Complexity of terrain.
Official Rules:
- Winner will receive a FREE Las Vegas Training Seat for ARAS 360 HD, plus roundtrip air fare to and from the 3-day training session.
- One submission per person.
- ARAS 360 animations should be submitted to info@aras360.com in an Xvid .avi format with a subject line of "Animation Contest Submission."
- Deadline for submissions is February 15, 2012 at 12:00pm PST.
- Animations will be judged anonymously by a panel of ARAS 360 trainers.
- Submissions should be based on realistic situations and/or closed cases.
- Submissions will become the property of ARAS 360 Technologies Inc. and may be posted online at ARAS360.com, YouTube, etc. If you do not want an animation to be shared publicly, please do not submit it.
Model Pack 9
January 20, 2012
Please download and enjoy our newest model pack setup. Once installed, these models will appear in the appropriate galleries as snapshots.
Model Pack 9 Includes:
- 37 new cars and pickups (for a complete list, please visit our Model Exchange)
- Sub-animated dummy on a bicycle.
- Seated crash test dummy with a parts option to have the seat belt come over either shoulder.
- 6 new road signs, including several barricades and a generic speed limit sign.
- 2 motorized chairs (one 3-wheel and one 4-wheel).
- 3 streetlights.
- 2 motorcycles.
To Install: Download the Model Pack and save it to your computer (e.g. Desktop). Right click the .zip folder and select "Extract All." Inside the extracted folder, double-click "setup.exe" and click the "Install Models" button in the window that appears.
If you have any issues downloading or installing our new model pack, please do not hesitate to contact us at: support@aras360.com.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
December 21, 2011
The entire ARAS 360 team wishes all of our customers, partners, trainers, and supporters the very best of the season. We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks for all of your support and encouragement.
Thanks to all of you, we have added many customers to the ARAS 360 list and have received fantastic suggestions and ideas which you will see in ARAS 360 HD in early 2012. You've helped us make 2011 a very successful year. We wish you all a happy and prosperous 2012!
ARAS 360 HD - Free Upgrade
December 8, 2011
Pre-release pricing
Purchase the ARAS 360 suite before January 1, 2012 and receive a free upgrade to ARAS 360 HD* - a savings of $2000.
* Not valid with any other offers. Offer only valid on full purchase price of the ARAS 360 suite ($2995 USD).
Scheduled for release in early 2012, ARAS 360 HD offers the following advanced features:
New animation effects: spinning tires and turning wheels. |
New animation effects: shadows. |
Premium graphics. |
Advanced momentum with auto animate/simulate. |
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Advanced crush display and report. |
Environmental effects including fog, rain, and snow. |
ARAS 360 in Arabic
November 14, 2011
ARAS 360 software is now available in Arabic. The Arabic version release follows weeks of language development, which followed many requests from our customers in the Middle East. ARAS 360 remains committed to allowing investigators world wide to utilize this powerful software in their first language.
New Product Released - ARAS Collide
October 20, 2011
ARAS 360 Technologies is pleased to announce the much anticipated release of our new 3D simulation product, ARAS Collide. Collide provides an integration of the original Simulation Model of Automobile Collisions (SMAC) and Highway Vehicle Object Simulation Model (HVOSM) algorithms to provide a fully validated, powerful 3D simulation application.
From scene to simulation, ARAS Collide users now have one, integrated environment for building a scene, animating an event, and simulating an event - all in full 3D.
Collide Customers - Activate Now!
If you have already purchased ARAS Collide, please follow these instructions to activate your new Collide 3D simulation tools.
- If you have not already done so, please update to ARAS 360 v1.4
- Open ARAS 360 v1.4 and navigate to the "Help" tab.
- Click the "Activate Collide" button.
The simulation tools should now be available for you to use. As always, if you require any assistance, please call support at 877.814.2360 or send your questions to support@aras360.com.
Click here to watch our Getting Started video
Click here to download our Getting Started manual
ARAS 360 v1.4 Released!
October 19, 2011
We are pleased to announce the release of ARAS 360 v1.4. This update introduces some powerful new functionality and, as always, is a free update for all ARAS 360 customers. Below is a complete list of all of our newest features, as well as the bugs we have addressed in this version.
New Features of v1.4
- Undo functionality using the "ctrl+z" keyboard shortcut.
- Ability to right-click and Animate stationary models.
- Enabled the zoom feature of the Car Removal Tool
- Ability to color change parts.
- Controls for setting the playback speed of animations.
- Animations now have a loop option and wait time control.
- Further expanded total station import formats.
- Initial default save location now moved to My Documents. Subsequent saves default to last user-defined location.
- Added "All" function for the drag-bar on the Animation Chart, allowing the display of all animated models as they move along their paths.
Bugs Resolved
- Corrected mirroring issue with some total station imports.
- Improved stability when saving and reopening files.
- Corrected professional template input/label reversal.
- Models being edited no longer automatically switch to the active layer.
- Print tab removed. Print options now shown only under the ARAS menu.
- Users are now prompted before deletion of critical items from a scene (e.g. point sets and models).
- Added exemplar model replacement to substitute for models that are missing in a shared file (i.e. if a custom model is not present on both computers).
Installation Instructions: For step-by-step instructions outlining how to complete this update, please view the article in our Knowledge Base. If you require any assistance, please contact support at 877.814.2360 or send your questions to support@aras360.com.
Las Vegas Special
October 6, 2011
Purchase ARAS 360 for $2995 in the month of October and receive a free seat for our upcoming training in Las Vegas, Nevada - a $695 value. The training will be held from December 13 - 15, 2011. There will be an optional, one-day add-on on December 16th for Nikon total station training. For more information, please contact your ARAS 360 representative or send your questions to info@aras360.com.
Model Pack 8: Tractor-Trailer Update
October 3, 2011
We are happy to announce that Model Pack 8, our tractor-trailer update, is now available for customer download. Once installed, these models will appear in the appropriate galleries as snapshots.
Model Pack 8 Includes:
- 37 New Trucks and Trailers (for a complete list, please visit our Model Exchange)
- 3 buses
- 2 Tractors
- 2 Loader Backhoes
- Bulldozer
- 2 Komatsu Mining Trucks
- Cotton Harvester/Picker
We are continuing to add more models all the time; however, should you require a specific model for one of your cases, please email us and we will create it for you. Remember, this is a free service for our customers. To request a custom model, email jen@aras360.com and send along the specs and photos to allow us to make a good job of it.
If you have any issues downloading or installing our new model pack, please do not hesitate to contact us at support@aras360.com.
Pennsylvania State Police Reconstruction Seminar
September 23, 2011
Come and see us at the 11th Annual Pennsylvania State Police Reconstruction Seminar. The seminar will be held at the Ramada Inn and Conference Center in State College, Pennsylvania from September 27 - 29, 2011. The seminar is open to active law enforcement reconstructionists only. Reconstructionists from out of state are welcome to attend. Prior seminars have been approved for up to 18 ACTAR credits. For more information, please view the Pennsylvania State Police Reconstruction Seminar pamphlet.
Webinar Library New!
September 21, 2011
Missed a webinar? No problem! Our webinar library is now live. The ARAS 360 weekly training webinar runs every Friday from 1pm - 2pm PDT. If you're not available at this time but would like to watch a webinar, or complete our Online Training Program, please visit our webinar library on our Weekly Webinar page. The webinar is also a great way to connect with ARAS 360's support team! Have a question about technique? Submit it to support@aras360.com and let us know if you'd like to see it covered in the next session.
ARAS 360 Continues to Expand Worldwide
September 6, 2011
ARAS 360 Technologies Inc. is pleased to announce that Five Star Electronic Technology Co. Ltd. of Beijing, China has signed an exclusive reseller's agreement to sell ARAS 360 Technologies Inc. products in China. The agreement was signed on September 1, 2011 by Mr. Yanjing Liu, President, Five Star Electronic Technology Co. and Mr. Mike Kennedy, CEO, ARAS 360 Technologies Inc.
Five Star Electronic Technology Co. Ltd. has been a reseller of laser scanners in China since 2003. They are familiar with crash and crime investigation using laser scanners and total stations and have determined that the sale of ARAS 360 reconstruction products are a natural expansion to their current business activities.
This business transaction reaffirms the commitment of ARAS 360 Technologies, Inc. to being the leader in delivering the most technologically advanced products to the crash and crime scene reconstruction industry worldwide.
Labour Day
September 2, 2011
Our office will be closed for Labour Day on September 5th.
For critical support please call:
- Mike Greenfield at (602) 697-8930
- Mike Kennedy at (250) 574-2531
- Or visit our Knowledge Base
Normal office hours will resume on Tuesday, September 6th. From all of us at ARAS 360, have a safe and happy Labour Day weekend!
Online Training Program - Cycle 2
August 24, 2011
After a successful first cycle of our Online Training Program, we are happy to announce the start of our second cycle on August 26, 2011! The online sessions are held during the weekly webinar every Friday at 1pm Pacific Time. Each week we will cover portions of our Training Exercises, in addition to the usual question and answer period. If you choose, you'll be able to complete your ARAS 360 training using the Webinars and self-paced practice sessions! For anyone that would like to participate in this cycle of the online training program, please email support@aras360.com to request your training bundle.
August 20, 2011
Speed caused fatal crash involving police car, experts say -
Former Memphis officer charged with vehicular homicide in 2009 death
By: Lawrence Buser
Two accident reconstruction experts testified Friday that a police officer's "excessive speed" was the cause of a fatal crash in
2009 in Frayser that killed a woman and critically injured her teenage passenger.
Jurors in the vehicular homicide case against former officer Mark Weatherly also viewed computerized animations* that depicted the crash that killed motorist Stephanie Montague, 40, and injured her passenger, Tiffany McGhee, 17.
Weatherly was driving at speeds of up to 101 mph moments before his 2008 Dodge Charger police cruiser, which was northbound on a hilly section of Range Line Road, struck the left front side of Montague's westbound Nissan Altima as she pulled from a stop sign on Orman Avenue. Weatherly was heading back to his North Precinct at the end of his shift.
Tennessee Highway Patrol Sgt. Andy Shelton and private accident reconstructionist Daniel Billington of Crashteams GREAT LAKES in Bay City, Mich., told jurors Weatherly's speed was the primary cause of the crash.
"It's not possible for her to see him coming" over the hilly strech of Range Line, said Shelton. "He clearly could have seen her if he was going the speed limit."
The speed limit on Range Line is 40 mph.
Defense attorney Ted Hansom noted in questioning the experts that the data-retrieval devices in the police vehicle are not monitored for accuracy by any governmental body as are black boxes in airlines.
After viewing a series of short animations* of the crash viewed from different angles, each one showing the Altima stopping at the stop sign before proceeding, the attorney asked Billington what report or witness statement he relied upon in determining that the Altima did not run the stop sign.
"There isn't one," Billington replied.
Billington determined that Montague was going about 12 mph and that Weatherly was traveling at 67 mph at the time of impact. Shelton said his calculations showed the Altima traveling at 18 mph and the police car at 67 mph.
Prosecutors Glen Baity and Doug Carricker rested their case Friday, and the defense will have an opportunity to present proof when the trial before Judge Lee Coffee resumes today.
* While they were accepted in court, these animations cannot be posted at this time as the case is being retried.
If there was a black dog...
August 3, 2011
We've all heard the "black dog" story to explain how a single vehicle accident occurred. Now you can simulate it using ARAS 360's Collide 3D Simulation. In other words:
- IF there was a black dog, and
- IF it walked onto the roadway on a path to intersect the trajectory of the driver, and
- IF the driver applied an evasive manoeuvre of steering inputs,
then Collide simulation will three-dimensionally predict the outcome. This is all dependent, of course, on IF there was a black dog.
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Click here to request a Collide 3D online demo. |
2011 News
July
South Carolina TSO/TSI Conference
July 20, 2011
Come and visit the ARAS 360 booth at the annual Traffic Safety Officer/Traffic Safety Instructor (TSO/TSI) Conference, hosted by the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy. The conference is being held in Columbia, South Carolina and ARAS 360 Technologies will be attending from August 21 - 23, 2011. During this time, our Chief Field Operations Officer, Mike Greenfield ACTAR #2215, will be attending and giving presentations on the topic of "Computer Animation of Vehicle Collisions."
ARAS Genius Released!
July 12, 2011
We are proud to announce the release of our new crash reconstruction calculation program - ARAS Genius!
Our senior math and physics programmer, Paul Hetherington, has created a very unique calculation program that provides users with 4 important pieces of functionality not found in other applications:
- The ability to enter and save your own equation - no matter how complex.
- Simultaneous ranging of all variables - no limitations.
- 3D graphing of any 2 ranged variables.
- Monte Carlo analysis for any equation.
Watch the video below to see how ARAS Genius can work for you:
ARAS Genius is included in the ARAS 360 Suite, or is available as a stand-alone program.
For more information, please contact us:
Toll-Free: 877-814-2360
Email: info@aras360.com
ARAS Genius Equations
ARAS Genius also has the capability to accept user-entered equations. For an extensive list of additional equations you may find useful, click here.
To download and install additional pre-created equation files, please visit our Equation Exchange.
June
Crime Scene Model Pack 1
June 28, 2011
ARAS 360 Technologies is happy to announce the release of Crime Scene Model Pack 1 in anticipation of the upcoming release of our CSI program update.
Soon, ARAS 360 users will enjoy powerful crime scene reconstruction tools including:
- Animated Bullet Paths
- Posable Victim Models
- Blood Spatter Analysis
- Building Genius - Rapid Building Tools
Crime Scene Pack 1 includes:
- 10 new window styles.
- 5 new buildings.
- Various shoes and clothing items.
- 12 new door styles.
Collide 3D Simulation
June 28, 2011
ARAS 360 Technologies has now broken new ground in terms of crash reconstruction software technology. Collide is a new simulation product which combines the original SMAC and HVOSM into one powerful application. For the first time, reconstructionists can simulate collisions on 3D complex terrain. The Collide simulation engine reads terrain, and vehicle behaviour is predicted on 3 axes.
This application is being released in the next few days, in its beta state, to ARAS 360 customers who have purchased Collide.
Watch the movie below to see this exciting technology in action.
Advanced Imagery for Terrain Mapping -
Thanks to Saskatchewan Police Departments
June 20, 2011
At an ARAS 360 software training class in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan we had the unique opportunity to work with the RCMP, Regina Police Services, and Saskatoon Police Services. All of these police organizations utilize remote helicopter platforms to capture at scene aerial images. The results are incredible and work amazingly well with with the ARAS 360 terrain system. Sgt. Dave Domoney and his team were kind enough to supply their electric, 6 rotor, Draganfly mini-chopper - equipped with a digital camera. Less than 5 minutes from the time the storage box was removed from the recon truck, the chopper was airborne and taking shots. The chopper is very easy to manage and provides a very stable aerial platform, thanks to the 6 rotor configuration. It makes very little sound and can be navigated very precisely. An option called GPS hold allows almost hands-free control. The camera we used was a 10 megapixel Luminex. While the RCMP "pilots" were flying their machine, the Saskatoon Police Services experts were shooting the same scene with a Sokkia total station.
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Both were done within 20 minutes.
In the classroom, we imported the aerial image into ARAS 360, then downloaded the total station measurements. We then aligned the total station points with points in the aerial photo and clicked - "Create 3D Terrain." The resulting 3D terrain model was amazing. This process is illustrated below.
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The Aerial Image. |
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The Sokkia Total Station Points. |
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Then, we simply clicked this button. |
And...
This is the resulting rendered view.
The real scene is almost identical to the ARAS 360 3D Model.
This scene is an excellent example of a precise terrain model in ARAS 360 thanks to a team effort of integrating the remote chopper image with total station points. It was done in the field in a matter of approximately 30 minutes and completed in the classroom in 15 minutes.
Many thanks to the Saskatchewan police departments, and especially Sgt. Dave Domoney of the Saskatchewan RCMP, who have found an excellent way to precisely model any crash or crime scene.
ARAS 360 Receives Great Customer Review
June 17, 2011
I have been involved in accident reconstruction and investigation for the past 14 years and have been associated with Mike Kennedy and his company since the early days of his previous product. Mike has come through with flying colors in developing what I thought at the time was the best accident reconstruction software compared to a range of other AR programs on the market. Since using his new ARAS 360 software, he has surpassed them all. Apart from all the amazing features of the program I am tremendously impressed with the service of his sales and support team and the regular email and telephone contacts made to see that I'm fully satisfied. I feel like I am an involved partner with ARAS as I have the chance to request new models and things that I would like to see in the program as well as the regular weekly webinar sessions. ARAS 360 has far surpassed the competition and in my opinion, it is the most affordable program on the market. Keep it up and congratulations to the entire ARAS 360 team.
K. Mike Webster
Accident Reconstruction & Forensic Animation
Kingston, Jamaica
Animated Model Pack 2 - Now Available!
June 8, 2011
Please download and enjoy our newest animated human model pack setup. Once installed, you will see these models in the appropriate gallery as snapshots.
Animated Pack 2 includes:
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June Special
June 6, 2011
We're happy to offer you our June special - available until end of business on June 30th.
Purchase the ARAS 360 suite with our Collide 3D simulation software, loaded on a new HP Pavilion 15.6" laptop computer, shipping costs included - for only $7495!
Call now to place your order. Toll Free: (877) 814-2360.
ARAS 360 Launches AccidentReconstructionists.com!
June 2, 2011
Many of our customers are reconstruction consultants running their own businesses. To assist in their success, we have launched a new website dedicated to offering the reconstruction services of our customers. All ARAS 360 customers are provided a free, ongoing listing at www.AccidentReconstructionists.com. In addition to the free listing, the ARAS 360 marketing team is broadcasting over 40,000 emails per month to prospective clients like lawyers, insurance companies, and fleet safety managers.
Please contact your ARAS representative or email info@aras360.com
to set up your free listing!
May
G360 Accelerometer - Now Available!
May 20, 2011
The G360 accelerometer is now available to iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch users! The G360 has been tested and validated and is ready to go. iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch users can access this new application via their iTunes applications. Purchases can be made directly through the iTunes App Store.
Come and See Us at the ARC-CSI Conference in Las Vegas
May 3, 2011
Come and visit the ARAS 360 booth at the ARC-CSI Conference in Las Vegas from May 23 to 26, 2011. ARAS 360 Technologies is attending and will be unveiling some new technology that we're sure you will find both interesting and effective. Our CEO, Mike Kennedy ACTAR 715, will be personally attending, along with Mike Greenfield ACTAR 2215, and our partner Brian McHenry of McHenry software. Together, they will present the new Collide 3D simulation program based on McHenry's Simulation Model of Automobile Collisions (SMAC) and Highway Vehicle Object Simulation Model (HVOSM).
Never before has there been a real-time, interactive, fully 3D simulation product integrated into a full-time 3D diagramming and reconstruction software package.
We will also be presenting, for the first time, our new ARAS Genius reconstruction math program. This program is unique in that it allows users to create their own equations and then share them with others.
April
Free One-Day Animation / Simulation Workshop
April 13, 2011
ARAS 360 Technologies Inc. presents a free, one-day animation/simulation workshop. ACTAR CEU credits applied for.
When? April 28, 2011. 0900-1630 hrs.
Where? Santa Ana Police Department
60 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, California.
Who Should Attend?
All crash reconstruction professionals interested in learning a new state of the art technology that produces 3D animations and simulations.
All those who have laptop computers with an independent graphics card (NVIDIA or ATI) with 256 MB dedicated video memory.
Why Should You Attend?
All those attending will install the most advanced version of ARAS 360 software for a free training session and trial. You will be producing high quality animations/simulations before lunch time. You will learn how science is applied to both animation and simulation to guarantee court acceptance.
Simply bring your laptop, and enjoy an unforgettable day. Book soon, space is limited!
Model Pack 6 - Now Available
April 6, 2011
Please download and enjoy our newest model pack. Once installed, you will see these models in the appropriate galleries as snapshots. Please note that new models require current software. Before installing any models, be sure to check that you are running the most current version of ARAS 360.
Model Pack 6 includes:
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March
New Simulation Technology - Collide 3D
March 24, 2011
Collide 3D simulation represents a technology breakthrough. Collide users can edit vehicle impact positions and orientations and get real time feedback of simulation trajectories. Get accurate damage profiles generated at impact. This is the refined version of the original SMAC program adapted to 3D by Brian McHenry and integrated by ARAS 360 software engineers.
The 3D capabilities include reading complex terrains, sensing roll over conditions, and rolling appropriately. The best part about this product is the fact that you can build your simulation environment in ARAS 360, and be simulating moments later. When you have completed your simulation you can record it just like any ARAS 360 animation - ready for court presentation.
To see a 3D scene created from total station measurements and satellite imagery - combined with a true to physic simulation, call us and book a live GoToMeeting demonstration.
ARAS 360 Saint Patrick's Day Special (Thursday Only)
March 14, 2011
The Luck of the Irish will be with you on St. Patrick’s Day. ARAS 360 with Collide 3D simulation a regular price of $6995 is reduced to $5495 to save you some Green…….but there is more…
Includes a free training seat to any ARAS 360 class – and a free G360 Accelerometer installed on an iPod. For a total saving of $2500.00!!
Give us a call this Thursday during business hours (5AM - 5PM PST) to order your special at 877-814-2360.
Case Settles From ARAS 360 Animation
March 10, 2011
"Using ARAS 360, we have already successfully settled three mediation cases, preventing costly trials in each. ARAS 360 quickly allows us to create an animation consistent with the evidence, accurately representing the events as they occurred. When I needed an animated pedestrian walk pole ARAS delivered in a very short time, helping to demonstrate the energy dissipation after the crash. In that same matter, once we placed a camera into our driver’s position, we realized that the oncoming car causing the crash was totally hidden from view as it raced closely behind a second vehicle. Case settled, justice was served -- ARAS 360 is the real deal. This is an incredible tool!"
Van Kirk | Reconstructionist
Collision Reconstruction Associates
Lexington, KY
Check out Van's movies here:
Video 1
Video 2
Video 3
February
Singapore Summit Results in 3D Simulation
ARAS 360 v1.3, Model Pack 5 and Animated Pack 1 Released
February 16, 2011
Introducing ARAS 360 v1.3, Model Pack 5 and Animated Pack 1. That's right! We're proud to introduce our long anticipated animated human models. In this pack you'll find 14 animated models of women and men walking, jogging, running and even crawling! Model Pack 5 includes 19 additional new models for ARAS 360. Check out our downloads page or knowledge base to get them all today!
New Features of v1.3
- “Save As” button added
- Altus file import updated to allow both RAW and CSV
- Canadian-French language labels added
- Color-change option added for Momentum-tool vehicles
- Active filename now displayed by the ARAS 360 logo
- Pop-up warning added with a Size-limit indicator by surface Density properties. (This will prevent files from becoming too big to save and re-open.)
Bugs Resolved
- New DXF import tool to remedy DXF import issues
- Older saved files no longer missing some objects
- Corrected issue with some saved files not opening
- Mapscenes evidence recorder import now includes v 4.0 files
- Editing of an object in one layer no longer moves it to the selected layer
- Scale tool removed from car removal tool
- Snap-to-terrain no longer crashes for certain objects.
- Measurement log point values are no longer limited to 1000
- Vehicles with a “Wait” no longer move to zero-elevation
- Momentum-tool cars now move with the tool when it is sent to a different layer
- Road lines can now be reduced to 0.1
- Parked vehicles no longer go to zero elevation during animation
- Measurement log no longer duplicates rows below when selecting a row
- Reducing surface density no longer causes unhaneled exception under certain circumstances.
Sweetheart's Deal - Feb 14th Only!
February 10, 2011
This Valentine's Day, for one day only, ARAS 360 will be offering our most deluxe package to date. This suite includes ARAS 360, Collide 3D and a 15" Toshiba Laptop to run it all on for only $4495! That's a savings of over $2000.
Be our sweetheart on February 14th and order the Sweetheart Deal. Call 877-814-2360 to order.
January
Singapore Summit Results in 3D Simulation
January 24, 2011
Senior software engineers, Paul Hetherington, Ponnuchamy Varatharaj, and Brian McHenry met in Singapore to integrate the McHenry simulation component with ARAS 360.
The component is called Collide and will enable ARAS 360 users to generate 3D simulations with the drag and drop ease of the other functions in the ARAS 360 suite.
For the first time in the history of crash reconstruction technology, reconstruction professionals can generate a 3D scene and a 3D simulation in the same environment. Unlike PC Crash or HVE users, ARAS users have all the tools to generate complex terrain models which are read by the simulation engine.
Las Vegas Training Receives Positive Reviews
January 17, 2011
An ARAS 360 training class wrapped up last week in Las Vegas, NV, instructed by Brad Booth.
Brad Booth certainly comprehends and presents the product well - a definite asset to your team with excellent interpersonal skills and teaching skills!
It was a joy to work with him as I picked up quite a few tips. It was nice to present a product that was virtually bug and error free - you guys certainly have hit the mark on this release.
Bill Mael
Adjunct Instructor - ACTAR Registration #42
Crash Sciences Program - Crash Technologies
US Department of Justice - A program of the National Institute of Justice
Need Training? See our Training Schedule
ARAS 360 Training Well Worth the Long Journey
January 12, 2011
Dalton Brown, Motor Vehicle Collision (MVC) Forensics, Ontario, Canada, travelled all the way to Las Vegas, NV to attend ARAS 360 training with ARAS' professional instructor, Brad Booth.
I found the course very enlightening, I learned a lot. In my mind, it was well worth the expense and travelling round trip the 6,880 kms (4,275 miles) to be there.
The webinars are great but it doesn't beat being there for formal training and being able to talk one on one with the instructor and having the other attendees to help out with their knowledge and assistance. The reference manual was very good. Now it is up to me to continue on and keep learning as well.
Need Training? See our Training Schedule.
ARAS 360 Kicks Off 2011 with 'Outstanding' Training
January 7, 2011
ARAS customers continue to be impressed with outstanding training classes throughout the United States. Our ACTAR certified instructors provide superior training and all possess several years of experience in accident reconstruction.
Recent feedback from ARAS customers:
The ARAS training put on by Chet was outstanding - the guy really knows his stuff.
Bob Snook
Reichenberg and Snook
(Vallejo Training Class) Elk Grove, CA
Had a great class the past couple of days...Brad was a terrific instructor and the software is amazing. It's clear a lot of thought and effort went into the product. Thanks very much
for all your help.
Trp Bob Lynn, #687
Nevada DPS
(Las Vegas Training Class)
Need Training? See our Training Schedule | Customer Reviews
2010 News
December
KING County Switches to ARAS 360
December 31, 2010
ARAS 360 Technologies welcomes another Recon Team to the family!
KING County (Washington State) Sherriff's MARR (Major Accident Response and Reconstruction), lead by Sgt. Thad Frampton, has switched to ARAS 360.
Welcome, KING County, we look forward to working with you!
ARAS Releases Model Pack 4
December 24, 2010
You've asked for it ... now you've got it!
Our latest model pack release has more trees than you can shake a stick at and represents about half of the trees that will be available in the future.
Click on the download icon for the new model pack.
Preview ARAS' Human Model
December 17, 2010
ARAS human models look and move like real humans!
Check back soon for updates on development.
ARAS RCM Slashes Reporting Time
December 21, 2010
I am very excited about using the new ARAS RCM online software.
After working cases for 27 years, it will be a relief to be able to get all of my files organized and in one place for rapid data retrieval. The template system will really cut my report processing time to a minimum and enable me to keep the presentation professional looking!
Eugene B. Keith | CEO/Senior Machinery Consultant
Industrial Loss Consulting, Inc.
New Castle, IN
ARAS 360 Model Pack Release
December 15, 2010
ARAS' new model pack includes:
Lexus GS (1998 – 2003)
4 Light Posts
1 Power Line
4 Traffic Lights
5 Roadway Arrow Markings
3 Additional Road Signs
Click on the download icon for the new model pack.
ARAS 360 Animation Averts Trial
December 10, 2010
In the early morning hours of May 19, 2007, a weary tractor trailer driver travelling north on Interstate 95 in Connecticut pulled over and parked illegally on the shoulder of an exit ramp. The driver, unfortunately, did not display any emergency markers, flares or even have his emergency lights flashing.
Some time later, a van exiting the same ramp apparently unable to recognize the truck as a hazard, struck the back of it. The driver was killed.
We could have called this article ARAS 360's First Court Accepted Case except the ARAS 360 animation produced for this accident was so convincing, the case was settled before it went to trial: the plaintiff side was awarded the maximum.
Reflective triangles were used in the animation even though they were not present at the scene of the accident to 
demonstrate that if the driver, in fact, had fallen asleep at the wheel, which was speculated, running over them would have surely woken him up and may have averted the crash in the first place. The tractor trailer driver was cited for illegal and improper parking.
The animator, Chet Tomlinson out of St. Johns, FL (also a professional ARAS 360 trainer) was able to create this animation in a fraction of the time it would have taken using his previous accident reconstruction software. Chet says he actually would not have been able to effectively recreate this animation using the competitor's software because it would have simply bogged down his computer. Watch the video.
See ARAS in action! Book an online demo
Read our recent customer reviews.
ARAS 360 completes three International Trainings
December 6, 2010
Puerto Vallarta México | Bogotá Colombia | Santiago Chile
ARAS 360 professional trainers completed three international training sessions in the past week.
The students were impressed with ARAS' ease of use and powerful 3D animations and are anxious to put their new knowledge to use.
... ARAS 360 will undoubtedly change the way we work in our country. The three days of training were very nice and the knowledge gained will be very useful to me ...
Jose, Accident Reconstructionist
Santiago, Chile
... the instruction and collaboration has been very valuable and needed to undertake the challenges of new technology in the world of accident reconstruction. ARAS 360 will raise our professional standards and be recognized as such before the various courts of the country.
Julio E. Bahamondes Quevedo
Lieut.Crl (R) of Police
Perito Ema C. Supreme Judicial Court
See ARAS in action! Book an online demo
Read our recent customer reviews.
Willkommen Deutschland!
December 1, 2010
ARAS 360 is pleased to announce our website is fully operational for German speaking customers.
ARAS 360 is the only accident reconstruction software company in the world to offer software / support in five languages: English, Spanish, Italian, French and now German.
November
ARAS 360 dazzles the "Land of Enchantment"
November 26, 2010
Our professional trainer, Dennis O'Brien, recently completed a training session in his home town of Santa Fe, New Mexico. Dennis says "... the students were totally pumped about ARAS 360 and took to it like ducks to water."
One of the students commented "ARAS 360 is a fast, responsive, user-friendly, accurate, affordable program exceeding the needs and expectations of the reconstruction profession and our clients. This is as close to all in one of all the available products, as advertised."
Read more comments from our satisfied customers.
Model Pack Release
November 19, 2010
ARAS 360 Technologies Inc. has released another model pack:
Dodge Challenger (2008 – Present)
Toyota Tundra Reg Cab (2000-2006)
4 Additional Traffic Lights
International Conventional Cab
Modern Conventional Cab with Sleeper
Logging Truck/Trailer Combo
Delivery Truck
Heavy Duty Tow Truck
Short Tanker Truck
Tractor with Dry Bulk Grain Carrier Trailer
Go to the Model Exchange page to download.
Another impressed ARAS 360 user
November 18, 2010
ARAS 360 Technologies Inc. recently completed another training session in Sacramento, California.
Kirk Barry of Barry Investigations, Inc. was among students in the class and simply put ...
I LOVE this program. You guys make me look good.
ARAS 360 and National Geographic Collaboration
November 9, 2010
ARAS 360 Technologies Inc. and Crashteams Inc. have collaborated on supplying technical assistance to a new National Geographic series called Survival 360.
Survival 360 takes a 360 degree look at the science of surviving an extreme disaster. With this novel approach, the series will retell amazing stories of survival using original footage and will uncover the hard and fast science behind some of the most amazing survival stories of our time. At the center of each one hour episode is a harrowing and personal story of survival-against-all-odds.
Filming of the first episode began in Dayton, OH last week. Crashteams Inc. CEO, Tim Leggett, was the Lead Investigator, and Forensic Dynamics Inc. Animator, Ryan Leggett, supplied animation services using ARAS 360 software. Crashteams SOUTHERN OHIO supplied on-scene investigation equipment and support personnel. ARAS 360 CEO, Mike Kennedy, will provide post production review of the animation. This new probe by Investigator Leggett results in a startling new finding of this 8-year old case involving a pedestrian's escape from death. The episode will air in the Spring of 2011.
Stay tuned!
ARAS 360 receives impressive reviews
November 8, 2010
Since ARAS 360's release, we have received impressive reviews from our customers:
ARAS 360 is the most amazing cutting edge software that I have seen. I have been reconstructing accidents for 30 years and have purchased virtually every other program available. ARAS 360 will perform all of the functions of the other programs and more. I have always looked for the one program that does it all. I can finally stop looking.
Randall B. Dodd
Accident Reconstructionist
Houston, Texas
October
ARAS 360 releases a new model pack
October 29, 2010
ARAS 360 is pleased to share a brand new model release pack:
1997 – 2004 Audi A6
2002 – Present Cadillac Escalade EXT
1995 – 2003 BMW 5-Series
2005 – 2010 Chevrolet Cobalt SS
2005 – Present Chrysler 300
Proceed to the Model Exchange page to download.
ARAS 360 is on the move!
October 25, 2010
The past three weeks have been a whirlwind of activity for ARAS 360 with its presence at three notable conferences across the United States.
In late September, ARAS 360 attended the Penn State Police Reconstruction Conference attended by approximately 250 law enforcement officers from 17 states.
In early October, ARAS was in attendance at the Maryland Combined Crash Conference in Ocean City, the largest Crash Conference on the east coast of the United States.
Finally, the CAARS Conference, held in South Lake Tahoe from October 14 - 16 saw a 'flurry of activity at the ARAS 360 booth" reports Mike Greenfield, who manned our booth at all three conferences. Several visitors were so impressed with our product, they purchased ARAS 360 software on the spot.
Your software package is on its way!
October 5, 2010
We are pleased to announce ARAS 360 software packages are now shipping!
Your software package will arrive soon. Please be aware of the extra services provided by ARAS 360 including a weekly webinar.
Every Friday at 1:00 PM (PST), ARAS 360 hosts streaming video featuring how-to's and answer your questions. Tune in and become a master at ARAS 360.
Sign up for a training course and receive instruction from one of our professional trainers. Click here to view our training schedule.
September
ARAS 360 Welcomes Paul Hetherington to its Development Team
September 15, 2010
Mike Kennedy, President/CEO of ARAS 360 Technologies Inc. is very pleased to announce that Paul Hetherington, BTACS, has joined ARAS 360 Technologies Inc. as "Senior Graphics Developer".
Paul is a most welcome addition to our development team as he has 12 years experience as a programmer of 2D and 3D drawing, reconstruction, animation and simulation software applications.
Mike and Paul worked together at VS Visual Statement Incorporated from 1999 to 2008. Paul developed all the diagramming, reconstruction and animation applications such as FX3, Edge FX and other components. Paul is now working on some exciting new technology as well as assisting with various components within the ARAS 360 application.
Welcome Paul!
Global Representation for ARAS 360 software Training
September 6, 2010
Trainers from as far away as South Africa and Italy are present at the ARAS 360 head office to begin training with ARAS 360 software. Other trainers hailing from all over the United States including Virginia, Florida, Texas and New Mexico are also here this week. Who are our trainers?
A high level of enthusiasm resonates from the training room as our trainers get their feet wet with ARAS 360 software.
ARAS 360's official launch is scheduled for later this month.
August
ARAS 360 Technologies now scheduling Training Classes
August 20, 2010
ARAS 360 Technologies Inc. is now scheduling training classes for its ARAS 360 product. If you have purchased ARAS 360 software, you are encouraged to book soon as the schedule is starting to fill up.
Please refer to our training schedule to see if there is a class scheduled near you.
July
ARAS 360 Impresses Attendess at SATAI Conference
Glendale, AZ
July 16-17, 2010
Mike Greenfield of ARAS 360 demonstrated the software's power and ease of use when tasked to use ARAS 360 to animate a two vehicle collision T intersection crash.
During the conference I was given the opportunity to address all the attendees and present ARAS 360. I animated the crash in front of the entire class over a real clear Google image after merging the total station measurements with the image. The entire process took less than 10 minutes. I answered all their questions by showing examples of the ARAS 360 program. It was a major "demo " for everyone, and they were all impressed with ARAS 360.
Mike Greenfield, ACTAR #2115
Chief Field Operations Manager, ARAS 360
(SATAI Past President & Board Director)
Reconstructionists around the world are talking about ARAS 360
July 12, 2010
I took a (forensic mapping) class recently where ARAS 360 was introduced to the audience. My first thought was "FANTASTIC!"
Yes, ARAS 360, compared to the software that I've used in the past, is beyond the imagination of every AR software user.
I've already bought ARAS 360 and I can't wait to use it!
Roberto Tuveri, Ispettore Capo of Polizia Stradale
(Federal Highway Police) Oristano - Italy
June
Terrain Mesh Feature
June 24, 2010
 |
ARAS 360 software engineers break new ground by allowing users to create animation over complex surfaces. Animated models automatically pitch and roll based on the surface geometry. Users can also choose to apply terrain following at the CG – and allow free yaw, pitch, and roll while the model still does not move below the surface. Once again ARAS 360 brings new technology in an incredibly easy environment. |
Forensic Mapping Instruction in Florence, Italy
June 16, 2010
During the week of June 12 – 16, 2010, ARAS 360's Mike Greenfield and Ivan Macella instructed Italy’s first Forensic Mapping class at the University of Florence. The class of 34 students were from all over the country and included members of Italy’s “Carabinieri” (Federal Police), local law enforcement officers, private accident reconstruction consultants and engineers. The class was very well received, with the students learning the principles of forensic mapping and the use of the Total Station for measuring and documenting traffic accidents and crime scenes. In addition, the new ARAS 360 animation and diagramming software program was previewed and demonstrated.
ARC-CSI Crash Conference Update
June 3, 2010
ARAS 360's strong presence at the conference was apparent as numerous attendees flocked to our booth to see our software in action.
To summarize, the conference proved to be successful as interest in our software is overwhelming. If you were unable to attend the conference and would like to see ARAS 360 in action, call (877.814.2360) for a free demo.
I was very impressed with the ARAS 360 Software ... I couldn't help but notice that ARAS 360 was very user-friendly by having one's tools available to the left of the screen. Also, having the ability to perform one's work while in 3D was quite helpful. It is a software program like this that makes, not only my work easier, but also easier for all Law Enforcement Agencies across the world - to add such a great tool to their tool box. I have used other software programs and they do not compare to the ARAS 360 software, not even the price. I truly believe ARAS 360 is the next generation in innovation to Accident Reconstruction.
Thank you.
Deputy Chuck Roldan
Traffic Division
Pueblo County Sheriff's Office
May
ARC-CSI Crash Conference 2010
May 24-27, 2010 - Las Vegas, NV
May 19, 2010
ARAS 360 marks its first year as an exhibitor at this event with Chief Operations Manager, Mike Greenfield, in attendance.
Visit Mike at booth #11 and see a demo of the latest in 3D Accident Reconstruction Software! While you're there, be sure to jot down your contact information on the supplied form if you're interested in knowing more. We'll be contacting those on the list shortly after the conference is over.
Excitement builds at IPTM Conference
May 5, 2010
Mike Greenfield, Chief Field Operations Manager (USA) for ARAS 360 recently attended the IPTM Conference in Orlando, Florida to demonstrate our new software. Overall, it was an overwhelming success, leaving reconstructionists extremely impressed with the unique features of ARAS 360. Don't take our word for it!
"I am totally impressed with the new ARAS 360 software. The learning curve looks easier than the software I am currently using.
I certainly like the way it takes a Google map and conforms it to the total station information. Working in 3D without stopping and going back to "fix " specific items is great. The library of buildings, cars, etc far exceeds any software that is currently on the market. And the best part of your software is the free updates and NO yearly fees.
Keep me informed when you launch the program."
Thanks,
Dennis F. Augustyniak
Augustyniak & Associates (MD)
