DHS funds target passenger self-screening solution

A Federal Way, Wash.-based firm has secured two Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) Screening at Speed Program contracts to develop a passenger self-screening solution.

Micro-X, Inc., would receive $1,311,682 to design a screening solution utilizing the motion of passengers divesting belongings to achieve thorough inspection for prohibited and/or concealed items. Further, it would provide near real-time feedback to the passenger if additional screening is necessary.

Via a second contract totaling $1,569,059, Micro-X is slated to develop a small form-factor computed tomography (CT) X-ray system allowing for a compact, integrated screening solution needed for a self-screening experience.

The work is expected to advance S&T’s efforts to provide a next generation screening experience bolstering security, alleviating the cognitive load on Transportation Security Officers (TSOs), reducing contact between travelers and decreasing traveler screening time.

“Future passenger self-screening technology is expected to not only keep travelers and TSOs safer in pandemic situations like the one we face today, but will also improve the quality of screening from a security perspective and provide an innovative and convenient experience for airline passengers,” John Fortune, Screening at Speed Program manager, said. “Screening at Speed continues to work across our portfolio of projects to meet TSA’s short-, mid- and long-term capability needs.”