DHS S&T, IDSS Demonstrate Remote Screening with Checkpoint CT
The Department of Homeland Security Science and Technology Directorate this month successfully demonstrated the ability to conduct remote screening of images taken by a checkpoint computed tomography (CT) system at the Cape Cod Gateway Airport in Hyannis, Mass. S&T did the evaluation on June 23 with Integrated Defense and Security Solutions
(IDSS) and the company’s remote screening software, which sends the CT images that are flagged for threats to remote locations for near-real-time analysis by image interpreters. Remote screening, whether at a central location or different airport elsewhere in the U.S., would allow the Transportation Security Administration to better optimize its workflows, send images to specialists, or other Transportation Security Officers that are available. “The technology will also enable future concepts of operations, such as checkpoint automation, which is a priority for TSA, and allow passengers a more seamless and expeditious screening experience,” says Dr. John Fortune, S&T’s Screening at Speed program manager. S&T has awarded IDSS $500,000 to develop the remote screening capability.
Thales Introduces Checkpoint CT System
France’s Thales Group is entering the checkpoint security market with the launch of the HELIXVIEW system to automatically scan carry-on bags for explosives at airport checkpoints. The company says that HELIXVIEW, which it expects to be certified by the end of 2023, is C3 compliant, which is the next standard in cabin baggage explosive detection systems. The company also says the system draws on its expertise in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. Thales adds that HELIXVIEW can also detect prohibited items such as knives and weapons that have been dismantled and placed in separate parts across several bags. The company said HELIXVIEW also features reduced size, weight and footprint.
Teledyne FLIR Defense Introduces Drone Payload for Remote Bio-Hazard Detection
Teledyne FLIR Defense this month launched its MUVE B330 drone payload for use in detecting deadly biological agents and other airborne biohazards. The MUVE B330 continuously detects and collects while airborne, providing real-time monitoring of biological threats on the move. The company is initially deploying the new payload on its SkyRanger R70 and R80D SkyRaider UAS. The B330 also allows users and disaster relief authorities to source an event and track its progression. The B330 complements the company’s MUVE C360 multi-gas detector that can be deployed on the company’s and commercial UAS systems and robots. Teledyne FLIR is part of Teledyne Technologies [TDY].
ZeroEyes Gun Detection Software Receives SAFETY Act Designation
Video analytics platform developer ZeroEyes said its artificial intelligence-based DeepZero gun detection software has received SAFETY Act developmental testing and evaluation designation from the Department of Homeland Security, providing liability protections. “Having the DT&E designation is immensely important to our existing and potential customers,” said Tim Sulzer, chief technology officer of ZeroEyes. “We are hopeful that this will encourage further deployments, increasing ZeroEyes’ potential to mitigate mass shootings and gun-related violence.” The company says this is the first time video analytics technology has received SAFETY Act designation.
Xoran Technologies Developing 3D X-Ray Scanner
Xoran Technologies, LLC is developing a compact, portable, user-friendly 3D X-Ray scanner for safely detecting hidden explosive devices. The scanner is based on a combination of 2D and 3D computed tomography imaging capabilities. A prototype is being developed under an effort managed by the Department of Homeland Security Science and Technology Directorate. The scanner weighs 70-pounds and is the size of a roller bag when disassembled. It can be used by one or two first responders for use in the field and can be manually deployed or carried to the object of concern by a remote-controlled robotic system. Once onsite, the scanner can be assembled and ready for use within five minutes. Xoran is building two prototypes for delivery to S&T by the end of September. S&T will use the prototypes with law enforcement groups for pilot testing in the field.
TSA Evaluating Digital Identity Created by American Airlines
The Transportation Security Administration at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport is piloting a digital identity issued by American Airlines to its AAdvantage members who are enrolled in the agency’s PreCheck trusted traveler program. These members can use the mobile ID on their smart phone and Precheck their face to have their identify verified at PreCheck lanes throughout the airport. This is the first time that TSA is evaluating a privately-created digital ID. TSA and American plan to expand the pilot to select PreCheck lanes later this year at Miami International, Phoenix Sky Harbor International and Washington Reagan National Airports. “This is a significant milestone for the digital identity ecosystem at large,” Jason Lim, TSA’s Identity Capabilities Manager, says on LinkedIn.