U.S. patent application number 12/390185 was filed with the patent office on 2009-06-18 for passenger screening system and method.
Invention is credited to Christopher W. Crowley, Oscar Mitchell, Richard Keith Ostrom, Richard Shelby.
Application Number | 20090153346 12/390185 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38948705 |
Filed Date | 2009-06-18 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090153346 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Crowley; Christopher W. ; et
al. |
June 18, 2009 |
PASSENGER SCREENING SYSTEM AND METHOD
Abstract
A method and scanner configured to determine whether a person's
feet are positioned at a predetermined location of a predetermined
scanning area and configured to scan the feet to detect a presence
of a metal, an explosive, or other type of target substance.
Inventors: |
Crowley; Christopher W.;
(San Diego, CA) ; Shelby; Richard; (San Diego,
CA) ; Mitchell; Oscar; (San Diego, CA) ;
Ostrom; Richard Keith; (San Diego, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
General Electric Company;GE Global Patent Operation
PO Box 861, 2 Corporate Drive, Suite 648
Shelton
CT
06484
US
|
Family ID: |
38948705 |
Appl. No.: |
12/390185 |
Filed: |
February 20, 2009 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11456748 |
Jul 11, 2006 |
7511514 |
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12390185 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
340/686.2 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G01T 1/167 20130101;
G07C 9/37 20200101; G01V 3/10 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
340/686.2 |
International
Class: |
G08B 21/00 20060101
G08B021/00 |
Claims
1. A method, comprising: sensing when a person's feet are placed
within a predetermined screening area of a scanner; and verifying
that the feet are at respective predetermined locations within the
predetermined screening area.
2. The method of claim 1, further comprising: scanning the feet
with a magnetic field to detect a presence of metal.
3. The method of claim 2, wherein the scanner is a metal
detector.
4. The method of claim 1, further comprising: scanning the feet
using radio frequency spectroscopy to detect a target
substance.
5. The method of claim 4, wherein the scanner is a quadrupole
resonance scanner.
6. The method of claim 4, wherein the target substance is an
explosive.
7. The method of claim 1, further comprising: generating a distance
profile of the feet when the feet are proximate a sensor array
based on a signal output by the sensor array; and utilizing the
distance profile to determine at least one of: a length of a foot,
a distance from a foot to the sensor array, a position of a foot
along the sensor array, and an angle of a foot with respect to the
sensor array.
8. The method of claim 7, wherein verifying that the feet are at
respective predetermined locations within the predetermined
screening area further comprises: utilizing the distance profile to
calculate a region of the predetermined area that is covered by the
foot; and comparing the calculated region with a predetermined
acceptable foot placement region.
9. The method of claim 1, further comprising: outputting a prompt
to reposition the feet, if the feet are determined not to be at the
respective predetermined locations.
10. The method of claim 9 wherein the prompt is an audio indicator
generated by a computer processor.
11. The method of claim 9, wherein the prompt is a visual indicator
generated by a computer processor.
13. The method of claim 1, wherein the scanner further comprises an
inductive sensor, the method further comprising: outputting a
prompt to reposition the feet symmetrically over the inductive
sensor, if the feet are determined not to be at the respective
predetermined locations.
14. The method of claim 1, wherein the scanner further comprises
two metal detection coils, the method further comprising:
outputting a prompt to reposition the feet symmetrically between
the two metal detection coils, if the feet are determined not to be
at the respective predetermined locations.
15. The method of claim 7, wherein the sensor array is an infrared
sensor array that comprises an infrared transmitter and an infrared
transceiver.
16. The method of claim 1, wherein the scanner further comprises a
first camera and a second camera, the method further comprising:
operating the first camera to generate a first image of the feet;
operating the second camera to generate a second image of the feet;
combining the first image and the second image; and determining a
position of the feet using the combined first image and the second
image.
17. The method of claim 1, wherein the scanner further comprises a
pressure sensor, the method further comprising: outputting a prompt
to reposition the feet to activate the pressure sensor, if the feet
are determined not to be within the respective predetermined
locations.
18. The method of claim 1, wherein the scanner further comprises an
ultrasonic ranging system having an ultrasonic transmitter and an
ultrasonic receiver, the method further comprising: activating the
ultrasonic transmitter to emit a plurality of pulsed electronic
signals into at least a portion of the person; activating the
ultrasonic receiver to receive echoes from the person; and
processing the received echoes to determine whether the feet are
positioned at the respective predetermined locations.
19. The method of claim 1, wherein the scanner further comprises a
laser ranging device having a light emitting device and a light
receiving device, the method further comprising: activating the
light emitting device to emit a light pulse for reflection from the
person; activating the light receiving device to receive the
reflected light pulse; measuring a round trip time interval of the
light pulse; and utilizing the measured round trip time interval to
determine whether the feet are positioned at the respective
predetermined locations.
20. The method of claim 1, wherein verifying that the feet are
positioned at respective predetermined locations further comprises:
verifying that a first foot is positioned at a first predetermined
location; and verifying that a second foot is positioned at second
predetermined location.
21. A scanner, comprising: a metal detector having two metal
detection coils that are spaced apart relative to each other; an
inductive sensor configured to detect a target substance; a
position sensor configured to sense when a person's feet are placed
within a predetermined screening area of the scanner; and a
computer coupled with the metal detector, the inductive sensor, and
the position sensor, the computer configured to: operate the metal
detector to scan the feet for a presence of metal; operate the
inductive sensor to scan the feet for a presence of the target
substance; and operate the position sensor to verify that the feet
are positioned at respective predetermined locations within the
predetermined screening area.
22. The scanner of claim 22, wherein the target substance is an
explosive.
23. The scanner of claim 21, wherein the computer is further
configured to: output a prompt to reposition the feet symmetrically
over the inductive sensor, if the feet are determined not to be
positioned at the respective predetermined locations.
24. The scanner of claim 21, wherein the computer is further
configured to: output a prompt to reposition the feet symmetrically
between the two metal detection coils, if the feet are determined
not to be positioned at the respective predetermined locations.
25. The scanner of claim 21, wherein the position sensor is an
infrared sensor array having an infrared transmitter and having an
infrared receiver positioned to receive an infrared signal emitted
from the infrared transmitter.
26. The scanner of claim 21, wherein the position sensor comprises:
a first camera configured to generate a first image of the feet; a
second camera configured to generate a second image of the feet;
and wherein the computer is further configured to combine the first
image and the second image and to determine from the combined image
whether the feet are positioned at the respective predetermined
locations.
27. The scanner of claim 26, wherein the computer is further
configured to: outputting a prompt to reposition the feet, if the
feet are determined not to be positioned at the respective
predetermined locations.
28. The scanner of claim 21, wherein the position sensor is a
pressure sensor configured to activate when depressed by at least
one of the feet.
29. The scanner of claim 28, wherein the computer is further
configured to: output a prompt to reposition the feet to activate
the pressure sensor, if the feet are determined not to be
positioned at the respective predetermined locations.
30. The scanner of claim 21, wherein the position sensor comprises:
an ultrasonic transmitter; and an ultrasonic receiver positioned
and configured to receive an ultrasonic signal emitted by the
ultrasonic transmitter.
31. The scanner of claim 30, wherein the computer is further
configured to: activate the ultrasonic transmitter to emit a
plurality of pulsed ultrasonic signals into at least a portion of
the person; activate the ultrasonic receiver to receive echoes from
the person; and determine from the received echoes whether the feet
are positioned at the respective predetermined locations.
32. The system of claim 21, wherein the position sensor comprises a
laser ranging device having a light emitting device and a light
receiving device, wherein the computer is further configured to:
activate the light emitting device to emit a light pulse for
reflection from the person; activate the light receiving device to
receive the reflected light pulse; measure a round trip time
interval of the light pulse; and utilize the measured round trip
time interval to determine whether the feet are positioned at the
respective predetermined locations.
33. The method of claim 21, wherein the computer is further
configured to operate the position sensor to: verify that a first
foot is positioned at a first predetermined location; and verify
that a second foot is positioned at second predetermined location.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of, and claims benefit
under 35 U.S.C. .sctn.120 or 121, to prior-filed, co-pending U.S.
non-provisional patent application Ser. No. 11/456,748, filed on
Jul. 11, 2006, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its
entirety.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not Applicable
NAMES OF PARTIES TO A JOINT RESEARCH AGREEMENT
[0003] Not Applicable
REFERENCE TO A SEQUENCE LISTING, A TABLE, OR COMPUTER PROGRAM
LISTING APPENDIX SUBMITTED ON COMPACT DISC
[0004] Not Applicable
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0005] This invention relates generally to personnel screening
systems utilized at passenger terminals, and more particularly, to
a system configured to improve passenger handling in a
transportation terminal and a method of operating the same.
[0006] The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has
recently mandated more stringent inspection procedures be
implemented by the travel industry to reduce the possibility of
passengers boarding a carrier such as a plane, for example,
carrying concealed weapons, explosives, or other contraband. To
facilitate preventing passengers boarding a plane carrying
concealed weapons, explosives, etc., the TSA requires that all
passengers be screened prior to boarding the aircraft.
[0007] For example, passengers arriving at the airport terminal
first submit to a manual verification process that generally
includes presenting their boarding pass and a form of
identification such as a driver's license or passport, for example,
to security personnel. The security personnel then manually verify
that the passenger has a valid boarding pass, the name on the
identification corresponds to the name on the boarding pass, and
that the picture on the license or passport corresponds to the
passenger presenting the license and boarding pass to the security
personnel. After the manual verification process is completed, the
passenger is requested to walk through a metal detector to ensure
that the passenger is not carrying any concealed weapons.
[0008] While the current passenger screening process is reliable,
the process may require additional security personnel to perform
the screening procedures. As a result, the cost of implementing an
effective security screening process at a transportation terminal
is increased. Moreover, the time required to perform the screening
process is increased thus necessitating passengers to arrive
relatively early to allow the passenger sufficient time to complete
the screening process.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] In one aspect, a method of operating a passenger screening
kiosk system to perform at least one verify a passenger's identity,
detect the presence of an explosive material, and detect the
presence of a metallic material is provided. The method includes
initiating a prompt to be issued by the passenger screening kiosk
system to prompt the passenger to enter the passenger screening
kiosk system, prompting the passenger to enter the passenger
screening kiosk system, and determining whether the passenger is
within the passenger screening kiosk system.
[0010] In another aspect, a passenger screening kiosk system is
provided. The system includes an identity verification system, a
metal detection system, an explosives detection system, and a
computer coupled to the identity verification system, the metal
detection system, and the explosives detection system. The computer
is configured to prompt a passenger to enter the passenger
screening kiosk system, and determine whether the passenger is
within the passenger screening kiosk system.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] FIG. 1 is a right perspective view of an exemplary kiosk
system;
[0012] FIG. 2 is a front view of the kiosk system shown in FIG.
1;
[0013] FIG. 3 is a side section view of the kiosk system shown in
FIG. 1;
[0014] FIG. 4 is a simplified block diagram of an exemplary kiosk
security system that includes a first modality and a second
modality;
[0015] FIG. 5 is a schematic illustration of an exemplary
Quadrupole Resonance (QR) screening system that may be utilized
with the kiosk shown in FIGS. 1-4;
[0016] FIG. 6 is a right perspective view of the kiosk shown in
FIGS. 1-3 including the screening system shown in FIG. 5;
[0017] FIG. 7 is a schematic illustration of a portion of the
screening system shown in FIG. 6;
[0018] FIG. 8 is a schematic illustration of a portion of the
screening system shown in FIG. 6;
[0019] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method of
operating the screening system shown in FIGS. 1-8;
[0020] FIG. 10 is a front view of the kiosk shown in FIGS. 1-8
including an exemplary system that may be utilized to determine the
passenger's feet position within the kiosk;
[0021] FIG. 11 is a front view of the kiosk shown in FIGS. 1-8
including another exemplary system that may be utilized to
determine the passenger's feet position within the kiosk;
[0022] FIG. 12 is a front view of the kiosk shown in FIGS. 1-8
including another exemplary system that may be utilized to
determine the passenger's feet position within the kiosk;
[0023] FIG. 13 is a front view of the kiosk shown in FIGS. 1-8
including another exemplary system that may be utilized to
determine the passenger's feet position within the kiosk.
[0024] FIG. 14 is a schematic illustration of the system shown in
FIG. 13 during a second mode of operation;
[0025] FIG. 15 is a front view of the kiosk shown in FIGS. 1-8
including another exemplary system that may be utilized to
determine the passenger's feet position within the kiosk;
[0026] FIG. 16 is a first screen shot generated utilizing the
system shown in FIGS. 1-8; and
[0027] FIG. 17 is a second screen shot generated utilizing the
system shown in FIGS. 1-8.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0028] FIG. 1 is a right perspective view of an exemplary passenger
screening system 10. FIG. 2 is a front view of the passenger
screening system shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 3 is a side section view of
the passenger screening system 10 shown in FIG. 1, and FIG. 4 is a
simplified schematic illustration of the passenger screening system
10. As shown in FIG. 4, and in the exemplary embodiment, system 10
includes at least a first modality 12 referred to herein as
passenger identification verification system 12, a second modality
14 referred to herein as passenger screening system 14, and a third
modality 16 referred to herein as a metal detection system 16.
System 10 also includes at least one computer 18, and a
communications bus 20 that is coupled between modalities 12, 14,
and 16, and computer 18 to enable operator commands to be sent to
at least one of modalities 12, 14, and 16 and to allow outputs
generated by modalities 12, 14, and 16 to be delivered to computer
18 and thus utilized by computer 18 for data analysis or utilized
by an operator of computer 18. In one embodiment, modalities 12,
14, and 16 are hardwired to computer 18. In another embodiment,
communications bus 20 is a local area network. Optionally,
communications bus 20 includes an internet connection.
[0029] Modalities 12, 14, and 16 are integrated into a single
screening system 10. In the exemplary embodiment, modalities 12,
14, and 16, and computer 18 are each housed within a single kiosk
or housing 22. Optionally, computer 18 is housed separately from
kiosk 22 and electrically coupled to modalities 12, 14, and 16
utilizing bus 20. As used herein, a kiosk is defined as a
relatively small area that is at least partially enclosed by at
least one wall. In the exemplary embodiment, the kiosk includes a
third, or forward wall, that is coupled between the pair of walls
to at least partially enclose the passenger screening area.
[0030] Referring again to FIGS. 1-3, kiosk 22 includes a first wall
24, a second wall 26 that is positioned substantially parallel to
first wall 24, and a third wall 28 that is positioned substantially
perpendicular to and coupled between first and second walls 24 and
26, respectively. Kiosk 22 also includes a floor 30 extending
between first, second, and third walls 24, 26, and 28, that, in one
exemplary embodiment, includes an inductive sensor unit 32 that is
described in further detail below. For example, and as shown in
FIGS. 1 and 2, the three walls, 24, 26, and 28 define a single
opening such that a passenger may enter and exit kiosk 22 through
the same opening. Optionally, kiosk 22 may include two walls 24 and
26 such that the passenger may enter kiosk 22 through a first
opening, traverse through kiosk 22, and exit kiosk 22 through a
second opening.
[0031] In one embodiment, the kiosk walls each have a height 34 of
between approximately 28-42 inches. The embodiments of FIGS. 1, 2,
and 3 show the left and right walls 24 and 26 formed with an
approximate arcuate shape having a radius which approximates the
height of the walls. Note that walls 24 and 26 have been optionally
truncated at the entrance. Truncating walls 24 and 26 facilitates
the movement of people into and out of system 10, and further
extends the notion of openness of the screening system. Optionally,
kiosk walls 24 and 26 have a height 34 that is greater than a
height of a typical passenger, i.e. like a phone booth for example,
such that the entire passenger's body may be screened.
[0032] In the exemplary embodiment, kiosk 22 also includes a
control panel section 36 that is coupled to forward wall 28 and
extends upwardly from forward wall 28 to a predetermined height to
facilitate providing various operator controls. Control panel
section 36 also includes a monitoring or display device 38 that may
be utilized to prompt a passenger to either input selected
information into the screening system and/or prompt a passenger to
perform various actions within the screening system to facilitate
the system to expediently verify the identity of the passenger and
inspect the passenger for contraband as will be discussed later
herein.
[0033] In the exemplary embodiment, to facilitate verifying a
passenger's identity, system 10 includes a electronic card reader
42 wherein a passenger enters a registration card into a receptacle
provided with kiosk 22. In the exemplary embodiment, the passenger
registration card includes biometric information of the passenger
that has been encoded onto the registration card obtained by the
passenger during a prescreening process. For example, a passenger
may obtain a registration card by registering with the Registered
Traveler Program wherein a passenger is pre-screened by the TSA or
some other authorized screening entity, to obtain biometric
information that is then stored on the passenger's registration
card. The biometric information may include the passengers
fingerprints, iris scan information, hand print information, voice
recognition information, or other suitable biometric information.
The information on the registration may be encoded on a magnetic
strip, use optical read codes, use an RF-read memory chip, or other
embedded media.
[0034] Accordingly, during operation, the passenger inserts their
registration card into electronic card reader 42. Passenger
identity verification system 12 then prompts the passenger to
position a selected body part on a sensor that is utilized to
collect biometric information from the passenger within kiosk 22.
The collected information is then compared to the biometric
information stored on the registration card to verify the identity
of the passenger.
[0035] In one exemplary embodiment, passenger identity verification
system 12 may be implemented utilizing a iris scan device 44 to
generate biometric information that is then compared to the
information on the Registered Traveler's registration card in order
to verify that the passenger being screened is the passenger to
whom the card in fact belongs. In the exemplary embodiment, iris
scan device 44 includes an illuminating device 46 that directs
light having desired characteristics to the eye under observation
such that at least one of the iris and/or pupil of the eye under
observation take a characteristic shape. The exemplary iris scan
device 44 also includes a light imaging apparatus 48 to generate an
image of the iris and/or pupil. The generated image is then
compared to information that is stored on the registration card. It
should be realized that in the exemplary embodiment, the generated
image described herein are computer generated images or data files
of an image that are stored within the computer and not physical
images. Specifically, the systems described herein generate an
electronic image or datafile that is compared to an electronic
image or datafile stored on the registration card or optionally
within system 10 to verify the identity of the passenger.
[0036] In another exemplary embodiment, passenger identity
verification system 12 may be implemented utilizing a fingerprint
scan device 50 wherein a passenger places a finger on the
fingerprint scan device 50 such that the device obtains an image of
the fingerprint of the passenger being verified. The generated
image is then compared to information that is stored on the
registration card or optionally, information stored on computer 18.
It should be realized that in the exemplary embodiment, the
generated image described herein are computer generated images or
data files of an image that are stored within the computer and not
physical images. Specifically, the system described herein generate
an electronic image or datafile that is compared to an electronic
image or datafile stored on the registration card or optionally
within system 10 to verify the identity of the passenger.
Optionally, the passenger identity verification system 12 may be
implemented utilizing a hand scanning device, a facial image
recognition system and/or a voice recognition system in order to
verify the identity of the passenger.
[0037] As discussed above, passenger identity verification systems
12 generally requires a passenger to be prescreened in order to
generate the information that is stored within computer 18. For
example, passengers may participate in the government's Registered
Traveler Program whereby an initial, relatively thorough, screening
of the passenger is conducted to generate information about the
passenger that may be utilized by system 10 at a later date. As
such, the passenger may choose to have a fingerprint scan
completed, an iris scan, a hand scan, a voice scan, and/or a facial
recognition scan completed. The information collected during the
prescreen procedure is then stored within or provided to system 10,
e.g. via a card reader reading a registration card, such that when
a passenger enters kiosk 22, the verified information may be
compared to the information presented by the passenger within kiosk
22 to facilitate reducing the amount of time to complete passenger
screening and thus improve the convenience of passenger screening.
Moreover, prescreening facilitates shifting limited security
resources from lower-risk passengers to passengers that have not be
prescreened.
[0038] In the exemplary embodiment, passenger screening system 14
may be implemented using a quadrupole resonance (QR) detection
system that utilizes quadrupole resonance to detect explosives such
as, but not limited to C4, Semtex, Detasheet, TNT, ANFO, and/or HMX
since the quadrupole resonance signature of these explosives is
unique and measurable in seconds.
[0039] Nuclear Quadrupole Resonance (NQR) is a branch of radio
frequency spectroscopy that exploits the inherent electrical
properties of atomic nuclei and may therefore be utilized to detect
a wide variety of potentially explosive materials. For example,
nuclei having non-spherical electric charge distributions possess
electric quadrupole moments. Quadrupole resonance arises from the
interaction of the nuclear quadrupole moment of the nucleus with
the local applied electrical field gradients produced by the
surrounding atomic environment. Any chemical element's nucleus
which has a spin quantum number greater than one half can exhibit
quadrupole resonance. Such quadrupolar nuclei include: .sup.7Li,
.sup.9Be, .sup.14N, .sup.17O, .sup.23Na, .sup.27Al, .sup.35Cl,
.sup.37Cl, .sup.39K, .sup.55Mn, .sup.75As, .sup.79Br, .sup.81Br,
.sup.127I, .sup.197Au, and .sup.209Bi. Many substances containing
such nuclei, approximately 10,000, have been identified that
exhibit quadrupole resonance.
[0040] It so happens that some of these quadrupolar nuclei are
present in explosive and narcotic materials, among them being
.sup.14N, .sup.17O, .sup.23Na, .sup.35Cl, .sup.37Cl, and .sup.39K.
The most studied quadrupolar nucleus for explosives and narcotics
detection is nitrogen. In solid materials, electrons and atomic
nuclei produce electric field gradients. These gradients modify the
energy levels of any quadrupolar nuclei, and hence their
characteristic transition frequencies. Measurements of these
frequencies or relaxation time constants, or both, can indicate not
only which nuclei are present but also their chemical environment,
or, equivalently, the chemical substance of which they are
part.
[0041] When an atomic quadrupolar nucleus is within an electric
field gradient, variations in the local field associated with the
field gradient affect different parts of the nucleus in different
ways. The combined forces of these fields cause the quadrupole to
experience a torque, which causes it to precess about the electric
field gradient. Precessional motion generates an oscillating
nuclear magnetic moment. An externally applied radio frequency (RF)
magnetic field in phase with the quadrupole's precessional
frequency can tip the orientation of the nucleus momentarily. The
energy levels are briefly not in equilibrium, and immediately begin
to return to equilibrium. As the nuclei return, they produce an RF
signal, known as the free induction decay (FID). A pick-up coil
detects the signal, which is subsequently amplified by a sensitive
receiver to measure its characteristics.
[0042] FIG. 5 is a simplified schematic illustration of an
exemplary quadrupole resonance system 14 that includes a radio
frequency source 62, a pulse programmer and RF gate 64 and an RF
power amplifier 66 that are configured to generate a plurality of
radio frequency pulses having a predetermined frequency to be
applied to a coil such as sensor 32 (also shown in FIGS. 1-3). A
communications network 70 conveys the radio frequency pulses from
radio frequency source 62, pulse programmer and RF gate 64 and RF
power amplifier 66 to sensor 32 that, in the exemplary embodiment,
is positioned within kiosk 22. The communications network 70 also
conducts the signal to a receiver/RF detector 72 from sensor 32
after the passenger is irradiated with the radio frequency
pulses.
[0043] FIG. 6 is a right perspective view of kiosk 22 including
quadrupole resonance (QR) detection system. As stated above,
quadrupole resonance (QR) detection system 14 includes an inductive
sensor 32 that in the exemplary embodiment, is positioned proximate
third wall 28 approximately between first and second walls 24 and
26. In accordance with this embodiment, inductive sensor 32 may be
positioned within a recessed region 80 of floor 30, between an
entrance ramp 82 and third wall 28. This recessed region 80 may
also be referred to as the sensor housing. In FIG. 6, the inductive
sensor 32 has been omitted to show sensor housing 80, which is
recessed within floor 30.
[0044] As shown in FIG. 6, and in the exemplary embodiment,
inductive sensor 32 may be implemented using two anti-symmetric
current branches 90 and 92 that may be located on opposing sides of
a medial plane 94. Specifically, current branch 90 is positioned on
one side of medial plane 94, while current branch 92 is positioned
on the opposite side of medial plane 94.
[0045] Inductive sensor 32 may be configured in such a manner that
both current branches 90 and 92 experience current flow that is
generally or substantially parallel to the left and right walls 24
and 26. For example, the current branches 90 and 92 may be placed
in communication with an electrical source (not shown in this
figure). During operation, current flows through current branch 90
in one direction, while current flows through current branch 92 in
substantially the opposite direction. The term "anti-symmetric
current flow" may be used to refer to the condition in which
current flows through the current branches in substantially
opposite directions.
[0046] In the exemplary embodiment, inductive sensor 32 is
implemented using a quadrupole resonance (QR) sensor. For
convenience only, various embodiments will be described with
reference to the inductive sensor implemented as a QR sensor 32,
but such description is equally applicable to other types of
inductive sensors.
[0047] In the exemplary embodiment, current branches 90 and 92
collectively define a QR sheet coil that is shown as sensor 32 in
FIG. 7. For convenience only, further discussion of the QR sensor
will primarily reference a "QR sheet coil," or simply a "QR coil".
During a typical screening process, a passenger enters the system
at an entrance 96, and then stands within an screening region
defined by QR sensor 32. Specifically, the passenger may stand with
their left feet positioned relative to current branch 90 and their
right feet positioned relative to current branch 92. The QR sensor
then performs a screening process using nuclear quadrupole
resonance (NQR) to detect the presence of a target substance
associated with the passenger.
[0048] As shown in FIG. 5, QR sensor 32 is in communication with
the RF subsystem, defined generally herein to include radio
frequency source 62, pulse programmer and RF gate 64, and RF power
amplifier 66 which provides electrical excitation signals to
current branches 90 and 92. The RF subsystem may utilize a variable
frequency RF source to provide RF excitation signals at a frequency
generally corresponding to a predetermined, characteristic NQR
frequency of a target substance. During the screening process, the
RF excitation signals generated by the RF source may be introduced
to the specimen, which may include the shoes, socks, and clothing
present on the lower extremities of a passenger standing or
otherwise positioned relative to the QR sensor 32. In the exemplary
embodiment, the QR coil 32 also functions as a pickup coil for NQR
signals generated by the specimen, thus providing an NQR output
signal which may be sampled to determine the presence of a target
substance, such as an explosive, utilizing computer 18, for
example.
[0049] In the exemplary embodiment, QR sensor 32 utilizes an
EMI/RFI (electromagnetic interference/radio frequency interference)
shield to facilitate shielding sensor 32 from external noise,
interference and/or to facilitate inhibiting RFI from escaping from
the screening system during an screening process. In the exemplary
embodiment, walls 24, 26, and 28 are configured to perform RF
shielding for QR sensor 32. Specifically, walls 24, 26, and 28 are
electrically connected to each other, to entrance ramp 82, and to
sensor housing 80 to form an RF shield 100.
[0050] Each of the shielding components, i.e. walls 24, 26, and 28
may be fabricated from a suitably conductive material such as
aluminum or copper. Typically, the floor components, i.e. ramp 82
and sensor housing 80 are welded together to form a unitary
structure. Additionally, walls 24, 26, and 28 may also be welded to
the floor components, or secured using suitable fasteners such as
bolts, rivets, and/or pins. QR sensor 32 may be secured within
sensor housing 80 using, for example, any of the just-mentioned
fastening techniques. If desired, walls 24, 26, and 28, entrance
ramp 82, and the QR sensor 32 may be covered with non-conductive
materials such as wood, plastic, fabric, fiberglass, and the
like.
[0051] FIG. 7 is a simplified schematic illustration of the
exemplary QR sensor 32 shown in FIG. 6. Left current branch 90 is
shown having upper and lower conductive elements 110 and 112, which
are separated by a non-conductive region. Similarly, right current
branch 92 includes upper and lower conductive elements 114 and 116,
which are also separated by a non-conductive region. The left and
right current branches 90 and 92 collectively define the QR coil of
sensor 32, and may be formed from any suitably conductive materials
such as copper or aluminum, for example.
[0052] No particular length or width for the current branches 90
and 92 is required. In general, each current branch may be
dimensioned so that it is slightly larger than the object or
specimen being inspected. Generally, current branches 90 and 92 are
sized such that a passenger's left feet and right feet (with or
without shoes) may be respectively placed in close proximity to the
left and right current branches 90 and 92. This may be accomplished
by the passenger standing over the left and right current branches.
In this scenario, the left and right branches may each have a width
of about 4-8 inches and a length of about 12-24 inches. It is to be
understood that the terms "left" and "right" are merely used for
expositive convenience and are not definitive of particular sides
of the structure.
[0053] Upper and lower conductive elements 110 and 112 are shown
electrically coupled by fixed-valued resonance capacitor 118 and
tuning capacitor 120, which is a switched capacitor that is used to
vary tuning capacitance. Upper and lower conductive elements 114
and 116 may be similarly configured.
[0054] FIG. 7 also includes several arrows which show the direction
of current flow through the left and right current branches 90 and
92 which in the exemplary embodiment, is in a counter-clockwise
direction. During operation, current flows through left current
branch 90 in one direction, while current flows through right
current branch 92 in substantially the opposite direction. The
reason that current flows through the two current branches in
opposite directions is because the left and right current branches
90 and 92 each have a different arrangement of positive and
negative conductive elements. For instance, left current branch 90
includes a positive upper conductive element 110 and a negative
lower conductive element 112. In contrast, right current branch 92
includes a negative upper conductive element 114 and a positive
lower conductive element 116. This arrangement is one example of a
QR sensor providing counter-directed or anti-symmetric current flow
through the current branches.
[0055] In accordance with the exemplary embodiment, current flows
between the left and right current branches 90 and 92 during
operation since these components are electrically coupled via ramp
82 and the sensor housing 80. During operation, a passenger may
place their left feet over left current branch 90 and their right
feet over right current branch 92. In such a scenario, current is
directed oppositely through each branch resulting in current
flowing from toe to heel along left current branch 90, and from
heel to toe along right current branch 92. In the exemplary
embodiment, QR sensor 32 is positioned within sensor housing 80 to
form a non-conductive gap between current branches of the QR
sensor. This gap allows the magnetic fields to circulate about
their respective current branches.
[0056] In contrast to conventional inductive sensor systems, the
counter-directed magnetic fields generated by QR sensor 32 are
well-attenuated and have a topography that is especially suited for
use with a kiosk that includes a first wall 24, a second wall 26
that is opposite to first wall 24, and a third wall 28 that is
substantially perpendicular to first and second walls 24 and 26,
and a floor 30 that is connected to first wall 24, second wall 26,
and third wall 28.
[0057] As an example of a practical application, the left and right
current branches 90 and 92 may be positioned about 2-7 inches from
respective walls 24, 26, and 28 using a plurality of non-conductive
regions. In addition, current branches 90 and 92 may be positioned
about 4-14 inches from each other using a non-conductive
region.
[0058] Passenger screening system 14 may also be implemented using
a fingertip trace explosive detection system 210 (shown in FIGS. 1
and 2). Fingertip trace explosive detection system 210 is capable
of detecting minute particles of interest such as traces of
narcotics, explosives, and other contraband on the passenger's
finger or hand for example. In the exemplary embodiment, detection
system 210 is located proximate to a boarding pass scanner (not
shown) such that as the passenger scans the boarding pass, at least
a portion of the passenger's hand approximately simultaneously
passes over fingertip trace explosive detection system. Optionally,
the passenger is prompted to press a button to activate fingertip
trace explosive detection system 210 such that trace materials on
the finger surface are collected and then analyzed by fingertip
trace explosive detection system 210. As such, fingertip trace
explosive detection system 10 is configured to determine when a
passenger's finger has been placed over the device to activate the
fingertip trace explosive screening procedure.
[0059] In the exemplary embodiment, fingertip trace explosive
detection system 210 includes an ion trap mobility spectrometer
(not shown) that is utilized to determine whether any substantially
minute particles of interest such as traces of narcotics,
explosives, and other contraband is found on the passenger's
finger. For example, the ion trap mobility spectrometer is
preferentially useful in identifying trace explosives or other
contraband on a passenger's finger that may be indicative of the
passenger recently manipulating explosives or other contraband and
as such does not require imaging or localization.
[0060] In the exemplary embodiment, and referring again to FIGS. 1
and 2, modality 16, i.e. the metal detection system 16 may be
implemented utilizing a pair metal detection coils 130 that are
utilized in conjunction with inductive sensor 32. Each of the metal
detection coils 130 may be configured to detect conductive objects
present within the vicinity of the lower extremities of the
inspected passenger. These signals may be communicated to a
suitable computing device for example computer 18. More
specifically, and as shown in FIG. 6, modality 16 includes a first
metal detection coil 132 and a second metal detection coil 134 that
are each mounted to a side of kiosk 22.
[0061] Specifically, first metal detection coil 132 is mounted to
an inner surface of first wall 24 and second metal detection coil
134 is mounted to an inner surface of second wall 26. In the
exemplary embodiment, metal detection coils 132 and 134 are each
mounted at a height above floor 30 to is most advantageous to
conduct a metal detection screening of the lower extremities of the
passenger. For example, coils 132 and 134 may be positioned
approximately 12-40 inches above floor 30. In the exemplary
embodiment, metal detection coils 132 and 134 are inductive coils
such that when a first current flows through the first metal
detection coil 132 in a first direction a first magnetic field is
formed, and when the current flows through the second metal
detection coil, in a second opposite direction, a second magnetic
field is formed.
[0062] FIG. 8 is a simplified schematic illustration of the metal
detection coils 132 and 134 shown in FIG. 6. Coil 132 and coil 134
are each separated by a non-conductive region 136 which generally
is the utilized for the passenger, i.e. the passenger is positioned
between coils 132 and 134 to facilitate operation of the system.
Coils 132 and 134 may be formed from any suitably conductive
materials such as copper or aluminum, for example, and no
particular length or width for the coils 132 and 134 is required.
In general, each coil is dimensioned so that it is slightly larger
than the object or specimen being inspected. It is to be understood
that the terms "left" and "right" are merely used for expositive
convenience and are not definitive of particular sides of the
structure.
[0063] FIG. 8 also includes several arrows which show the direction
of current flow through the left and right coils 132 and 134 which
in the exemplary embodiment, is in a clockwise direction through
coil 132 and in a counterclockwise direction through coil 134 such
that there is no mutual inductance between the inductive sensor 32
(shown in FIG. 7) the coil pair 130 and 132. Although, an exemplary
metal detection coil 130 is described herein, it should be realized
that a wide variety of coils types may be utilized.
[0064] More specifically, current is supplied to coils 132 and 134
utilizing a line driver circuit or a signal driver, for example,
such that each coil 132 and 134 generates a magnetic field around
each respective coil. In the exemplary embodiment, the QR sensors
32 are utilized to monitor or detect any changes in the magnetic
field generated by coils 132 and 134. More specifically, when no
metallic object is positioned between coils 132 and 134, the coils
are substantially balanced. That is, a balanced or null signal is
injected into the QR sensors 32 such that QR sensors 32 do not
detect any imbalance between coils 132 and 134. However, if a
passenger, carrying a metallic object is positioned between coils
132 and 134, the signals generated by coils 132 and 134 will become
unbalanced, i.e. a signal having some amplitude, will be detected
by QR sensor 32. Accordingly, when system 10 is configured to
operate modality 14, i.e. the metal detection modality, QR sensors
32 are electromagnetically the QR driver circuit to enable the QR
sensors 32 to detect any disturbances in the magnetic field
generated by coils 132 and 134.
[0065] In the exemplary, embodiment, metal detection coils 132 and
134 are each calibrated to ensure that they are substantially in
balance, i.e. produce a magnetic field of similar strength, when no
metallic object is positioned between them. Moreover, QR sensor 32
is calibrated to identify and changes in the magnetic field
generated by coils 132 and 134. As such, and in the exemplary
embodiment, QR sensor 32 is utilized to detect any changes in the
magnetic fields generated by coils 132 and 134. In the exemplary
embodiment, when the QR sensors detects a change in the magnetic
fields generated by coils 132 and 134 has exceeded a predetermined
threshold, an alarm or other indication will be enabled to prompt
an operator that a metallic object has been detected and further,
more detailed screening of the passenger may be required.
[0066] Although the exemplary metal detection system 16 described
herein is generally is directed toward scanning the lower region of
the passenger while the passenger is still wearing shoes, it should
be realized that system 16 may be implemented to scan the entire
passenger with or without the passenger wearing shoes.
[0067] FIG. 9 is a flow diagram of an exemplary method 200 of
operating screening system 10 to verify the identity of a passenger
and detect the presence of at least one of an explosive material
and a metallic material. Method 200 includes prompting 202 the
passenger to enter the passenger screening kiosk, and determining
204 whether the passenger is within the passenger screening kiosk
system.
[0068] As discussed above, to optimize the identification and
screening operation of system 10, the passenger being inspected
should be positioned within system 10 such that the passenger's
feet are positioned within a predetermined screening area the
provides the most optimal screening conditions for both the first
and second screening modalities. However, as discussed above, the
passenger to be screened is generally unaware of the most optimal
screening area. As a result, system 10 also includes a means that
may be utilized to determine that the passenger's feet are within
the predetermined area.
[0069] More specifically, the volume of space interrogated by the
QR coils and the metal detection system is finite, and as such, a
means 220 is provided to ensure that the passenger's feet remain
within the interrogation volume, i.e. the predetermined screening
area, throughout the scan period. Moreover, the metallic detection
system 16 generally relies on the similarity of metallic parts in
shoes and on the presence of a weapon spoiling the symmetry of the
metal distribution between the two feet. As such, to optimize the
performance of system 10, the two feet should be placed nearly
symmetrically over the QR coils and between the metal detection
coils in order that misplacement not generate a false asymmetry
alarm. To accomplish this, system 10 includes at least one
additional system or means 220 that is utilized to determine the
placement of each feet within the inspection system 10.
[0070] FIG. 10 is a front view of screening system 10 including a
means 220 that may be utilized to determine whether the passenger's
feet are positioned within a predetermined screening area within
system 10. In this exemplary embodiment, means 220 may be
implemented utilizing an infrared imaging system 230 that includes
a first infrared sensor array 230 that includes a plurality of
sensors 232 wherein each infrared sensor includes an infrared
transmitter 234 and an infrared receiver 236 that are each utilized
to determine the distance between at least one of the passenger's
feet and the infrared sensor array 230. Specifically, and in the
exemplary embodiment, the sensor array 230 is fabricated such an
infrared transmitter 234 is mounted proximate to a respective
infrared receiver 236 and facing the same direction, such that when
an object, such as the passenger being screened, is positioned in
the path of the transmitter 234, the infrared beam is be reflected
from the passenger being screened back to the receiver 236. In the
exemplary embodiment, the receiver 236 generates a voltage output
that is proportional to the distance to the object that is
reflecting the beam.
[0071] In the exemplary embodiment, system 230 includes a first
sensor array 240 that is positioned on wall 24 and directed
inwardly toward the screening area defined between walls 24 and 26,
and a second sensor array 242 that is positioned on wall 26 and
directed inwardly toward the screening area, i.e. toward the first
sensor array 240, and a third sensor array 244 that is positioned
on wall 28. In the exemplary embodiment, sensors 232 are each
spaced linearly such that the sensors 232 are approximately
parallel to floor 30. Additionally, the sensors 232 within each
sensor array 240 and 242, respectively are spaced approximately one
inch apart, and the arrays are fabricated to include a
predetermined length 246 that is equivalent to or slightly larger
than a predetermined feet size of an average passenger to be
screened.
[0072] During operation of system 230, when a feet are placed near
each respective sensor array 240, 242, and 244, each respective
sensor 232 generates a distance measurement between the part of the
side of the feet that is in line with that respective sensor 132.
Specifically, each sensor array utilizes an angulation technique to
determine the distance between each respective feet and the sensor
arrays. This information is then utilized to generate a distance
profile of the portion of the passengers feet that is proximate to
each respective sensor array 240, 242, and 244. As a result, the
distance profile will substantially match a profile of the
passenger's feet being screened. Utilizing the distance profile
generated by each respective sensor array 240, 242, and 244, a
computer, such as computer 18 for example, determines at least one
of the length of the feet, the distance from the feet to each
respective sensor array 240, 242, and 244, the position of the feet
along each respective sensor array 240, 242, and 244, and the angle
of the feet with respect to each respective sensor array 240, 242,
and 244. Moreover, the distance profile may also be utilized to
estimate the width of the feet from the determined feet length.
Although, the term "feet" is utilized throughout the description,
it should be realized that the term feet generally refers to the
passenger's feet and the feetwear worn by the passenger during the
screening process.
[0073] The distance profile is then utilized to calculate the
region of the floor 30 that is covered by the feet. The calculated
region is then compared to the acceptable feet placement region,
i.e. the predetermined screening area, to determine whether the
passenger's feet are properly within the predetermined screening
area. If the feet are within the acceptable region, then modality
12 is initiated to perform an explosives screening of the
passenger. Optionally, if the feet are not within the acceptable
region, the passenger is prompted to reposition either one or both
feet. System 230 is then activated to generate an additional
distance profile as discussed above. This process is completed
until both feet are positioned within the predetermined screening
area and the explosive scan is completed. In the exemplary
embodiment, the passenger may be prompted to reposition one or both
feet utilizing either an audio or visual indicator, generated and
displayed on computer 18, for example. In the exemplary embodiment,
system 230 may include additional sensors 232 that are mounted
proximate to, or slightly above floor 30 to facilitate the
detection of narrow high heeled shoes and thus improve the
screening process.
[0074] FIG. 11 is a front view of screening system 10 including an
exemplary system 250 that may be utilized to determine whether the
passenger's feet are positioned within a predetermined screening
area within system 10. In this exemplary embodiment, means 220 is
implemented utilizing a machine vision system 250 that includes a
first camera 252. a second camera 254, a third camera 256, and a
fourth camera 258. In the exemplary embodiment, first and second
cameras 252 and 254, are mounted proximate to the left wall 24 such
that the first camera 252 is positioned to image the forward part
of the passenger's left feet, and the second camera 254 is
positioned to image the rearward, or heel portion, of the left
passenger's feet. Additionally, third and fourth cameras 256 and
258, are mounted proximate to the right wall 26 such that the third
camera 256 is positioned to image the forward part of the
passenger's right feet, and the fourth camera 258 is positioned to
image the rearward, or heel portion, of the passenger's right
feet.
[0075] In operation, utilizing two cameras to image both the left
and right feet facilitates generating a three-dimensional image of
the feet region. More specifically, the three-dimensional
representation may not be a physical representation, rather in the
exemplary embodiment, computer 18 utilizes the images generated by
each camera to analyze, in three dimensions, the proper placement
of each feet within the predetermined screening area. If system 250
determines that both feet are properly positioned within the
predetermined screening area, at least one of an explosive scan or
a metal detection scan is completed.
[0076] As such, system 250 facilitates utilizing two cameras to
view a particular feature of the respective feet or shoe region to
determine a three-dimensional position of that feature.
Accordingly, cameras 252, 254, 256, and 258 facilitate determining
when each feet are in the correct position in the plane of the
floor also determine whether the feet or shoe is being lifted off
the floor. In the exemplary embodiment, computer 18 utilizes and
image processing algorithm to determine the shoe type which enables
or alerts security personal of potential problem shoe types which
may not be suitable for this type of explosive scan.
[0077] FIG. 12 is a front view of screening system 10 including an
exemplary system 260 that may be utilized to determine whether the
passenger's feet are positioned within a predetermined screening
area within system 10. In this exemplary embodiment, means 220 is
implemented utilizing a pressure responsive system 260 that
includes a pair of pressure switches 262 that are mounted within
floor 30. In the exemplary embodiment, a first and a second
pressure switch are each mounted in or proximate to floor 30 such
that the pair of pressure switches 262 are activated by the
passenger being screened when the passenger's feet are each
positioned within the predetermined screening area such that at
least one of an explosive scan or a metal detection scan may be
completed.
[0078] FIG. 13 is a front view of screening system 10 including an
exemplary system 300 that may be utilized to determine whether the
passenger's feet are positioned within a predetermined screening
area within system 10. FIG. 14 is a schematic illustration of the
exemplary system 300 shown in FIG. 13. In this exemplary
embodiment, means 220 is implemented utilizing an ultrasonic
ranging system 300 that includes a transmitter 302 that drives
transducer elements 304 within a probe 306 to emit pulsed
ultrasonic signals toward the passenger being screened. A variety
of geometries may be used. The ultrasonic signals are
back-scattered from structures within the body or preferably from
metallic or explosive objects concealed on the passenger, to
produce echoes that return to transducer elements 304. The echoes
are received by a receiver 308. A user input device, such as
computer 18 for example, may be used to control operation of
ultrasonic ranging system 300 and to process the acquired
ultrasound information.
[0079] During operation of system 300, when a feet are placed near
each respective probe 306, the transmitter 302 is activated to emit
ultrasonic radiation toward the passenger being screened. The
reflected or backscattered radiation is detected by each respective
receiver 308 and computer 18 is utilized to generate a distance
measurement between the part of the side of the feet that is in
line with that respective probe 306. Specifically, the round trip
time interval from the ultrasonic wave is emitted and received by
probe 306 is calculated for each respective probe 306. This
information is then utilized to generate a distance profile of the
portion of the passenger's feet that is proximate to each
respective probe 306. As a result, the distance profile will
substantially match a profile of the passenger's feet being
screened. The distance profile is then utilized by system 10 as
described above to determine the proper position of the passenger's
feet within system 10.
[0080] FIG. 15 is a front view of screening system 10 including an
exemplary system 320 that may be utilized to determine whether the
passenger's feet are positioned within a predetermined screening
area within system 10. In this exemplary embodiment, means 220 is
implemented utilizing a rastered laser ranging system 320 that
includes a plurality of laser emitters 322 each having a respective
light receiving device 324. In the exemplary embodiment, the
rastered laser imaging system 320 is positioned and utilized
similar to system 300 discussed previously herein.
[0081] Described herein is a kiosk that is configured to optimize
passenger handling into and out of the passenger screening kiosk
22, and moreover, to control the actions of the passenger within
the kiosk to facilitate reducing the time required to perform
passenger identification and the various screening for both metal
detection and explosives and/or contraband detection.
[0082] As such, the kiosk includes a modality utilized to perform
explosives and or drug detection, a second modality that is
utilized to perform metal detection, a third modality that is
utilized to verify the identity of the passenger within the kiosk,
and a means to ensure that that the passenger's feet are positioned
properly within the kiosk to facilitate improving the accuracy of
the first and second screening modalities.
[0083] Specifically, the kiosk discussed herein is utilized to
enhance passenger movement through a screening portion of a travel
terminal, such as for example, an airport terminal. To accomplish
this, a passenger is prompted to enter kiosk 22. In one embodiment,
kiosk 22 is configured to generate an indication that the kiosk is
available to perform screening, for example, computer 18 may
generate a visual "ENTER" indication that may be viewed by the
passenger on display 38. Optionally, local security personnel may
prompt a passenger to enter kiosk 22. As such, kiosk 22 includes a
sensor that is utilized to determine when a passenger has entered
kiosk 22. For example, in one embodiment, system 10 is configured
to automatically determine when a passenger has entered kiosk 22
utilizing a pressure sensor installed within floor 30 or a
photodetector 390 (shown in FIG. 17), for example. As such, when a
passenger has entered kiosk 22, the photodetector 390 or pressure
sensor will activate to provide computer 18 an indication that a
passenger is within kiosk 22.
[0084] After system 10 has determined that a passenger to be
inspected is within kiosk 22, system 10 may then prompts the
passenger to enter identity information. For example, as discussed
above, kiosk 22 may request that a passenger enter a registration
card having the passenger's previously verified biometric
information into the electronic card reader 42. System 10 then
automatically prompts the passenger to place a body part onto one
of the identity verification systems. For example, system 10 may
prompt the passenger to place at least one eye in front of the iris
scan device 44. System 10 then determines whether the passenger's
eye is positioned in front of the iris scan device 44 and
automatically initiates scanning the passenger's eye to produce an
image of the iris as discussed above. The generated image is then
compared to the biometric information stored on the passenger's
registration card to verify the identity of the passenger.
[0085] In another embodiment, system 10 automatically prompts the
passenger to place a finger on the fingerprint scan device 50.
System 10 then determines whether the passenger's finger is
positioned on the fingerprint scan device 50 and automatically
initiates scanning the passenger's finger to produce an image of
the iris as discussed above. The generated image is then compared
to the biometric information stored on the passenger's registration
card to verify the identity of the passenger.
[0086] After the identity of the passenger has been determined,
system 10 then prompts a passenger to perform an explosives
detection search. For example, system 10 may prompt the passenger
to press their thumb on the fingertip trace explosive detection
system 210. In the exemplary embodiment, system 210 is configured
to determined whether the passenger's finger is positioned on
system 21- and automatically initiate a trace explosives scan on
the fingertip of the passenger within kiosk 22 in a relatively
short time period, thus decreasing the time required to inspect a
passenger for explosives.
[0087] To facilitate performing either a metal scan or an
explosives scanning procedure of the lower leg and feet region of
the passenger, system 10 is configured to automatically prompt the
passenger to correctly position their feet within kiosk 22.
[0088] Specifically, system 10 first prompts the passenger to
position their feet within the predetermined scanning area as
discussed above. System 10 then determines the relative location of
a passenger's feet within the screening system to verify that the
passenger's feet are positioned within the predetermined screening
area. In the exemplary embodiment, the position of the passenger's
feet within kiosk 22 is determined utilizing means 220 described
above.
[0089] For example, FIG. 16 illustrates a first screen shot
generated utilizing the system shown in FIGS. 1-8, and FIG. 17 is a
second screen shot generated utilizing the system shown in FIGS.
1-8. As shown in FIG. 16, a passenger being inspected is positioned
incorrectly within the screening area. Specifically, neither feet
are positioned within the predetermined screening area, roughly
outlined by the feet shaped outlines 400. As a result, means 220
will not initiate either a metal detection or explosive scan to
screen the passenger. System 10 may then prompt the passenger to
reposition their feet correctly within system 10.
[0090] As shown in FIG. 17, means 220 has determined that passenger
being inspected is positioned correctly within the screening area.
Specifically, both feet are positioned within the predetermined
screening area, roughly outlined by the feet shaped outlines 400.
As a result, system 10 automatically initiates a metal detection
and/or explosive scan to screen the passenger. Although, FIGS. 16
and 17 illustrate exemplary locations, illustrated as feet on the
floor of the kiosk. It should be realized that in the exemplary
embodiment, kiosk 22 does not include any visual indications
installed on the floor of the kiosk to assist the passenger in
properly aligning their feet to perform the inspection, rather
kiosk 22 prompts the passenger utilizing the computer screen or an
audio command to reposition their feet, as discussed above.
However, in an optional embodiment, visual prompts may be installed
on the floor of the kiosk to assist the passenger.
[0091] The screening system described herein is configured to
automatically prompt a passenger to enter identity information and
compare the entered information to information stored on a
passenger's registration card. The screening system then prompts
the passenger to position a body part on an identity verification
apparatus, such as an iris scan device or a fingerprint scan
device. System 10 then determines when the passenger's body part is
positioned on the identity verification apparatus and performs a
scan. System 10 is also configured to prompt a person to position
portions of the body, such as the legs and feet for example, in a
predetermined position to optimized both metal detection scanning
and explosive scanning of the lower regions of the legs and feet.
After determining that the passenger's body is properly positioned,
system 10 automatically initiates the screening process to detect
both metal and explosive materials that may be attached to the
passenger's body.
[0092] Specifically, the system described herein is configured to
prompt a passenger to enter the screening system, automatically
determine when a passenger is within the screening system. The
system then prompts the passenger to enter information that may be
utilized by the screening system to verify the identity of the
passenger. Once the passenger's identity is verified the screening
system prompts the passenger to position a body part and then
determines that the body part is correctly positioned.
[0093] The system described herein facilitates improving passenger
flow through a security checkpoint within a travel terminal.
Specifically, the system automatically prompts a passenger to be
inspected to enter the system, prompts the passenger to position
selected body parts in front of or on selected screening systems,
determines that the body part is positioned on the screening
system, and automatically initiates the screening process. As such,
the system described herein facilitates guiding a passenger through
a screening process and thus substantially reduces the amount of
time required to screen a passenger within the travel terminal. As
a result, more travelers may be screened in a reduced amount of
time to further improve travel efficiency. Moreover, the system
described herein is highly reliable. As a result, the detection of
contraband and other possible dangerous devices is increased, while
reducing the overall time required to detect the same items.
[0094] While the invention has been described in terms of various
specific embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that
the invention can be practiced with modification within the spirit
and scope of the claims.
* * * * *