Dominique Ammann, specialised service Command and Control Systems, competence domain Command and Control + Reconnaissance Systems

People screening systems

The combination of x-ray systems with metal detector archways is a common practice for increasing security at places such as airports, government buildings, military bases and sensitive events. This combination enables a comprehensive examination of persons and luggage, to identify potential threats and to take corresponding measures.

Areas of application

In addition to the obvious use of x-ray systems and metal detectors as people screening systems, x-ray systems in particular are used in a variety of other applications. Portable x-ray systems are used in military and police operations to identify suspicious objects, explosives or weapons in vehicles, containers or items of luggage. They enable fast, efficient screening on the spot and support the security forces in estimating potential threats. The main client of such applications is the EOD Command (Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Mine Action).

Postal x-ray systems are used to examine letters, packages or other postal items for suspicious objects or dangerous substances. These systems enable the contents of letters and packages to be x-rayed in a non-destructive manner and suspicious objects to be identified. They are currently used at the SEM (State Secretariat for Migration) to ensure the security of the recipients.

Röntgensysteme werden auch zur Munitionsüberwachung eingesetzt, um die Vollständigkeit, Integrität und Qualität von Munition zu prüfen. Durch die Röntgenuntersuchung können Beschädigungen, Fehlmanipulationen oder andere Abweichungen erkannt werden, um sicherzustellen, dass die Munition ordnungsgemäß gelagert, transportiert und inventarisiert wird. Diese Systeme werden unter anderem in militärischen Munitionsdepots eingesetzt.

Lorry scanners are used by the FOCBS (Federal Office for Customs and Border Security) at border crossings to screen the contents of lorries and containers. These x-ray systems enable customs personnel to find hidden weapons, drugs, contraband or other illegal substances. They help to combat smuggling and terrorism and improve the efficiency of freight inspection. A distinction is made between mobile and fixed lorry scanners. Mobile lorry scanners are transportable x-ray systems that can be used flexibly. They are integrated in vehicles and can be placed easily at various locations. These scanners are suitable for temporary monitoring points, border controls or unforeseen operations. In addition to transportable scanners, fixed systems also exist. They are positioned in special surveillance zones at border crossings. These scanners are robust and powerful and enable intensive and continuous inspections of lorries and their loads to be carried out.

Technological progress

The basic operating principle of x-ray tubes which are used to generate the x-rays has not changed significantly since they were introduced in 1895. The basic principles have remained the same, and essentially, only improvements with regard to performance and energy have been achieved since then. Major progress has been made in the development of detectors, which provide improved image quality and sensitivity. At the same time, three-dimensional displays are made possible using various different methods. Even more essential for the further development of modern x-ray systems is the advancing technical development of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Modern AI systems can use highly-developed algorithms to analyse x-ray images automatically and to detect suspicious patterns or objects. Through machine learning, these systems can process large quantities of data and identify certain characteristics of threats or abnormalities. This enables faster and more efficient analysis of x-ray images while simultaneously reducing false alarms.

It is important to emphasise that AI support does not replace the role of the person at the screen, but rather supplements it. Human expertise and judgement remain crucial for monitoring the interpretation of x-ray images, making critical decisions and assessing potential threats.

The experts from the specialised service Command and Control Systems work together closely with renowned manufacturers to enable consumers to have access to the latest technologies and most innovative solutions. We offer a wide selection of x-ray and metal detector systems for various different application areas, including security checks, border control, logistics, industry and many more, and are committed to supporting you in your project.

How do x-ray systems work?

X-ray systems function according to the principle of x-radiation. The item of luggage is placed on a conveyor belt and guided through the x-ray generator. The generator produces a narrow, high-energy x-ray beam that penetrates the luggage. A detector is located on the other side of the luggage, which measures the transmitted x-rays. These detectors convert the transmitted x-rays into electric signals which are then processed by a computer. The computer analyses the data received and generates a detailed image of the luggage on the screen.

How do metal detectors work?

Metal detector archways are based on the principle of electromagnetic induction. They consist of at least two coils, a transmitter coil and a receiver coil. The transmitter coil generates the magnetic field while the receiver coil measures changes in this field. If a metallic object now comes close to the metal detector, this will cause a disturbance in the magnetic field. This leads to a change in the electrical resistance in the receiver coil, which converts this change into an alarm signal.