Mon, May 09, 2005
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.
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