CT Scan Shows All

The Transportation Security Administration begins testing an advanced baggage screening system at the Boston Logan Airport on Monday. Analogic Corporation technicians will be running the equipment to gather data in Terminal B in a pilot project.

Analogic's Carry-On Baggage Real time Assessment (COBRA) system provides three-dimensional, color images that can be rotated 360 degrees for best viewing. It uses CT scan technology and can process up to 300 items per hour. Image interpretation software in the system helps to spot dangerous objects.

"We are giving them access to a security checkpoint so that they can test the equipment and perform some engineering data collection," said Ann Davis, a TSA spokeswoman, to the Boston Globe.

These trials are scheduled for up to three months. Analogic already produces many larger systems that screen checked baggage. This smaller system, designed for carry-on bags, has the potential to reduce checkpoint delays and enhance security if it is certified by the TSA according to Analogic vice president for security strategy and development, Peter W. Harris.

"COBRA represents a significant improvement over conventional line scan X-ray systems at our airports," Harris said to the Globe.

The system automatically identifies several different types of explosives and other materials. It will be placed in the secondary screening area for this test, and will only be used as an additional security step. All luggage will continue to go through the normal inspections during this trial.

FMI: www.analogic.com, www.tsa.gov