SubscribeTransport Agencies in UK and US back Multi-View to toughen Security
Transportation agencies in the UK and United States look set to toughen security by introducing multi-view x-ray machines as standard hand baggage screening equipment, according to reports. Both the UK's Department for Transport and the USA's Transportation Security Administration are likely to adopt this technology as the norm.
It will be an important step in transport security technology, as not only will this type of machinery offer several different views of objects within each piece of luggage, but it will also automatically detect the presence of improvised explosive devices. With a single-view x-ray, it is not possible to visually differentiate between a drinks bottle for example, and liquid explosive. Foods such as apples or chocolate can also be mistaken for high-density explosives. However, by scanning an object with high and low-level x-rays and comparing the results, it is possible to calculate the object's atomic number and therefore decide whether a threat is present.
This latest phase in transport security is vital in light of the August 2006 bombing plot, when terrorists attempted to destroy planes flying between London and the United States using liquid bombs. Multi-view machines will make such terror attempts easier to detect.
This year's TranSec World Expo 25 - 26 June Amsterdam, will provide the perfect platform to showcase the latest multi-view technology, including free technology workshops looking at baggage and cargo screening. These workshops will give attendees the opportunity to hear from manufacturers and end-users regarding the abilities and limitations of existing security systems. A series of panel discussions will also foster debates about future trends and emerging technologies.
Group Events Director, Peter Jones, said, "This year's event will give delegates a unique opportunity to hear from over 50 key speakers on the numerous safety issues facing the transport industry. The advancements in terminal security as well as the terminals of the future are just two of the issues under the spotlight. TranSec World Expo is the perfect forum for information exchange and debate within the transport security industry."
L-3 Communications, Smiths Detection and Rapiscan Systems are just three of the companies exhibiting at TranSec World Expo that have entered the multi-view x-ray machine market.
L-3 Security and Detection Managing Director Jim Gaudoin we continue to work with regulators around the world on our Advanced Checkpoint X-Ray (ACX) system, which includes flexible software architecture to meet the varying levels of security needs. In addition, we have always aimed to continue to be at the cutting edge of x-ray security detection. Our checkpoint x-ray security products are being developed with multi-view technologies based on a cost effective replacement solution; utilising a high degree of variable automated detection capabilities. The technology of multi-view x-ray systems by itself is not the full security advancement at the checkpoint, as we see it. Fusing this multi-sensor technology with our ProVision and Integrated Check Point systems is the way to go for a comprehensive, safe and efficient security process covering both passengers and hand-carry items.
Smiths Detection is to supply 35 of their HI-SCAN 6040aTiX units to London Heathrow's new Terminal 5 for example.
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Attendees at the upcoming TranSec World Expo will be able to see the benefits first hand from a range of different exhibiting manufacturers, including L-3 Communications, Smiths Detection and Rapiscan Systems.
TransSec World Expo will be held at the prestigious PTA Amsterdam Centre, June 25-26, 2008.
