Award Data

This Phase I proposal describes the development of an Automatic Threat Recognition (ATR) algorithm for volumetric CT data. Our ATR algorithm consists of four stages: (1) preprocessing of CT data, (2) object segmentation of preprocessed CT data, (3) post-processing of segmentation results, and (4) explosive detection from the segmented objects. The ATR algorithm will be made computationally efficie ...

This Phase I proposal describes (1) an automated image quality assessment (IQA) software to objectively quantify image quality of airport security X-ray imaging systems for both checked and carry-on baggage and (2) a design for a novel test phantom specialized for security CT scanners. For fixed images, automated algorithms will measure the Modulation Transfer Function (MTF) and Contrast-to-Noise ...

Trusted biometric validation of individual identities has never been more important. Several contributing factors are the increase in global terrorism, identity theft and the increase in legislation which are driving the accelerated adoption of biometric technology. Unfortunately, the biometrics industry has not actively responded to the changing market conditions being driven by the explosion in ...

X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy is a widely used and extremely sensitive analytical technique for qualitative as well as quantitative chemical analysis. Superconducting Transition Edge Sensor (TES) microcalorimeter detectors have now been developed that achieve an energy resolution of 2 eV (full width at half maximum) for 1.5 keV X-rays, which is sufficient to enable the measurement of the small s ...

We propose the development of a near infrared/shortwave infrared (NIR/SWIR) sensor based on mercury cadmium telluride (HgCdTe) in an n-type/barrier/n-type (nBn) architecture, designed for room-temperature operation in the 0.7 to 2.8µm NIR/SWIR spectral range. The sensor will compete as a low cost/high performance alternative to near infrared indium gallium arsenide (InGaAs)-based cameras by prov ...

There is an urgent need detect humans hiding in shipping containers. ANI proposes an innovative chemical sensor that is miniaturized, robust, low power, low power, maintanence free, rapid responsive chemical sensor that reliably detects human(s) hiding in cargo shipping containers. ANI`s multi-sensor module is well capable of handling challenging environmental conditions in the container with mini ...

Concerns over chemical and biological weapons motivate interest in ¿smart¿ building technologies that incorporate a network of sensors for Chemical and Biological (CB) threat agents. Applied Nanotech, Inc. (ANI) proposes to collaborate with Lagus Applied Technology, Inc. (LAT) to develop and demonstrate a Sensor Network Design Tool (SNDT) for the optimal, rapid and verifiable deployment of CB se ...

In the recent past, government agencies from the US and other foreign countries have recognized the problem of orphaned radioactive sources worldwide. Such sources pose a security risk in the form of potential material for a ¿dirty bomb¿ or other illicit applications. We propose to replace Ni-63 beta emitters with a carbon nanotube based electric field ionization source. This CNT-based ionizatio ...

With the increasing number of biological agents that are likely to be used in terrorists¿ attacks, there is a significant need for an easy-to-use and practical biothreat detection system for homeland security. Lynntech`s fully automated BioAdvise biothreat evaluation module utilizes well-established sample preparation technology and an innovative, rapid, and multiplexed real-time PCR technology i ...

Optimized Network Sensing (ONS) is a Modeling and Simulation Toolset which provides the capability for rapid and cost effective evaluation of currently deployed Chemical/Biological sensor networks or design of new networks. The Phase I effort will demonstarte the feasibility of such a toolset and determine which software modules best optimize the solution. Proven modules will be integrated in a fl ...