CarSCAN
Governments require cost effective solutions for the detection of vehicle borne IEDs. Routine screening of cars and vans for explosives, drugs, currency and stowaways at vehicle checkpoints such as borders and high security government and commercial facilities remains a challenge in terms of cost, ease of implementation and operational effectiveness. Traffic delays exceeding 120 minutes are not uncommon at some international checkpoints. Existing imaging systems designed for cargo screening are not suitable for rapid processing of vehicles since they require drivers and passengers to leave the vehicle due to the high doses of radiation used for inspection of large trucks and cargo. Further, these systems are expensive and difficult to install, requiring large infrastructure modifications as they rely on complex towing equipment to screen the unmanned vehicle. Many such devices also only look at the vehicle's surface, leaving much of the interior volume un-inspected.
CarSCAN addresses the security challenge of effectively screening cars and light trucks. Passengers remain inside the vehicle, so the rate of inspection increases dramatically compared to other methods while not inconveniencing drivers or security personnel. CarSCAN uses a novel dual-energy transmission X-ray technology that penetrates all the way through the vehicle to create an image of the car at normal checkpoint traffic speeds of up to 16 feet per second (10 mph). CarSCAN is unique because it provides a thorough inspection of the entire vehicle with advanced software algorithms making organic materials easier to see.
This rendering shows a CarSCAN checkpoint; as the vehicle approaches the security officer, a complete image of the vehicle and its contents is shown on the monitor screen. The Dual Energy Transmission X-ray image clearly identifies organic materials in the car (explosives, stowaways and contraband): the driver is clearly visible, as well as the gas tank and a 5 gallon water bottle in the rear passenger seat. CarSCAN penetrates through the vehicle unlike backscatter techniques that require three views and still only display surface features.
CarSCAN will benefit embassies, military bases and other critical infrastructure. CarSCAN traffic lanes at United States border crossings could reduce the cost of securing the border against illegal immigration and smuggling while eliminating long wait times, increasing trade and providing convenience and comfort to drivers. In addition, military checkpoints in conflict areas will be able to use CarSCAN to secure personnel against the threat of car bombs.
CarSCAN's X-ray dose is equivalent to about 1 hour of background radiation. The radiation level has been cleared by the FDA and NCRP and complies with all relevant health and safety standards, including the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) N43.17. CarSCAN can be installed in existing traffic lanes in about 4 hours with hand tools. Installation does not require any digging or trenching; the system operates on power supplied by a standard wall outlet. CarSCAN accommodates vehicles up to 9.5 feet wide and 8 feet high. Only a network link connects the computer station and the scanner; a wireless option provides unlimited standoff capability.
Physical Specifications
- Maximum Vehicle Speed:10mph / 16kmh
- Outside Dimensions:129"(W) x 125.3" (H) x 144.2" (L)
3264mm (W) x 3183mm (H) x 3664mm (L) - Tunnel Inside Dimensions:114" (W) x 98.5" (H)
2895mm (W) x 2504mm (H) - Maximum Vehicle Size:114" (W) x 96" (H)
2895mm (W) x 2438mm (H)
108"(W) x 96" (H) (at wheel base)
2743mm (W) x 2438mm (H) (at wheel base) - Weight:System weight 1591 kg (3500 lbs) Shipping weight 2068kg (4550lbs)
Electrical and Environmental Specifications
- Power:110/220 Volts, 15/8 Amps , Single Phase
- Dust and Moisture:Components within 24" of ground rated IP67 Remainder of system rated IP65
- Operating Temperature:-40C to 55C (-40F to 130F)
- Relative Humidity:Operates in 0% to 100% Relative Humidity
Safety
- Radiation:5 µRem per scan typical / ANSI N43.17 compliant
- Electrical:UL 61010-1 compliant
Features
- Drive-through vehicle inspection system
- Detects explosives, stowaways and contraband
- Ultra-low dose dual-energy transmission X-ray technology
- Compact and easy to use (setup in a few hours)
- Remote operation at any distance