National Academies Says X-Ray Body Scanners Comply with Rad Exposure Limits
A new study by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine says that second-generation X-Ray backscatter-based machines being considered for use at U.S. airports for body imaging to detect threats hidden beneath a persons clothing meet radiation exposure limits set by the American National Standards Institute/Health Physics Society. The report also says that backscatter-based body imagers, which the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) calls Advanced Imaging Technology or AIT, that were deployed at U.S. airports between 2008 and 2013 complied with radiation exposure limits. When the first generation of backscatter imaging systems were being used at airports there were concerns that the amounts of radiation travelers were being exposed to might be harmful. The report says some of those same concerns are being raised as the newer systems are being considered for deployment. The backscatter AIT systems that were deployed were produced by OSI Systems [OSIS] Rapiscan Systems division. TSA currently uses non-ionizing millimeter wave-based AIT systems supplied by L-3 Communications [LLL]. The second-generation backscatter machine under consideration by TSA is manufactured by American Science and Engineering [ASEI]. The report also says that the machines adhere to recommended safety mechanisms to prevent overexposure to radiation in the event of a mechanical failure or deliberate tampering. The study was sponsored by the Department of Homeland Security.
AS&E Introduces Next-Gen Z-Portal Cargo and Vehicle Screener
American Science and Engineering [ASEI] in September introduced the next generation of its Z Portal drive through cargo and vehicle inspection system, integrating dual energy transmission with a more compact design. “The integration of dual energy transmission with our proven Z Backscatter and Forwardscatter technologies in the next generation Z Portal system is another example of our commitment to innovation to solve customers’ real-world inspection challenges,” says Chuck Dougherty, AS&E’s president and CEO. “This multi-technology solution delivers even greater visibility into scanned objects, at higher scan speeds and in a smaller footprint, giving our customers the most comprehensive detection in a single, drive-through platform.” Enhancement to the multi-view imaging system include enhanced detection capability, higher throughput—allowing for vehicle speeds of up to 12.4 mph and up to 400 passenger vehicles or 250 trucks per hour—and a more compact design with configurations for passenger vehicles, and trucks and other large vehicles.
Rapiscan Adds Large Tunnel X-Ray System for Air Cargo Screening
OSI Systems [OSIS] Rapiscan Systems division has introduced the Rapiscan 638 Dual View 320kV X-Ray scanner to screening of large items bound for aircraft. The company says the new system meets global requirements for screening of all air cargo being loaded onto a plane. The system is designed for higher throughputs and includes algorithms to detect explosives and narcotics. Rapiscan is also touting the system’s low-power consumption and ability to screen both Unit Load Devices and ISO standard large cargo pallet types. The company says the system was developed to meet requirements of the U.S., U.K., and European regulators for air cargo screening.
Smiths Detection Launches New Compact X-Ray Scanner for Public Buildings
Smiths Detection has introduced the HI-SCAN 6040C compact checkpoint X-Ray scanner designed to screen hand-carried items in the entrances of public buildings. Smiths says the new scanner meets all requirements for the screening of bags, packages and other objects for prohibited or dangerous items in buildings such as correctional facilities, courthouses, embassies, banks and hotels. The software of the system can be upgraded to meet future security requirements.
JENETRIC Introduces Sensor with Integrated Fingerprint Capture and User Display
JENETRIC GmbH, a year-old firm based in Germany, has introduced a new livescan fingerprint sensor that combines the flat fingerprint capture and user display on the same surface. JENETRIC also says its LIVETOUCH Quattro is two-thirds smaller than conventional devices and is the first device fully certified to the FBI standard for Mobile ID FAP 60. “The LIVETOUCH technology opens up new possibilities for capturing biometric features,” says Roberto Wolfer, one of the founders and CEOs of JENETRIC. “Finally we are able to combine the highest image quality requirements with incredibly simple operation. Our customers not only save time and money, but they also increase the public acceptance fingerprint systems.” JENETRIC says that by showing graphical elements, animations or movies on the integrated display avoids errors due to incorrect positioning of fingers, making the devices ideal for self service terminals. The company introduced the new device in September at the Global Identity Summit in Tampa, Fla.
Qognify Introduces New Video Analytics and Monitoring Tool
Qognify, formerly the security business of NICE Systems [NICE], has introduced Object Origin, a video monitoring and analytics tool that can analyze hours of recorded surveillance video in seconds to detect the first appearance of suspicious objects or vehicles. The company says that “With one click, a video replay can reveal the moment an unattended bag was left behind or suspicious vehicle was parked. This allows security personnel to zero in on the individuals responsible and better assess their intent.” The company says its new analytics tool will have applications for transportation hubs, municipalities, tourist sites, and high-traffic commercial areas. Qognifiy also says that Object Origin and be used with its Suspect Search software to expedite the search for a person of interest. Qognify is owned by the private equity firm Battery Ventures, which purchased the business from NICE in September for up to $85 million plus a $15 million earn out provision.