New airport security scanner technology to revolutionise travel

A new walk-through security scanner that aims to cut passenger queues is seeking to raise investment.

The Sequestim scanner uses space technology to find hidden objects. By detecting heat from the human body, which acts as a light bulb, it can easily detect and identify concealed items, even through heavy clothing.

Originally developed by researchers at Cardiff University to study the most distant objects in the universe, the scanner films people as they walk by. Unlike the body scanners now in use at airports, no radiation is shone at the passenger, and nobody sees the images, which in any case do not show intimate physical details.

Ken Wood, CEO of Sequestim, said: “Walk-through security screening is the holy grail for the aviation industry. Passenger numbers have risen incredibly fast post-pandemic. The International Civil Aviation Organization – a UN specialised agency – predicts that by the end of 2023, numbers of travellers on most routes will have grown beyond peak passenger numbers in 2019.

“Following a four-year cycle of investment, refinement and technological advance, Sequestim has a product that will impact the global security market. It is now ready for private equity investment.

“By embracing AI [artificial intelligence], the scanner can learn to recognise threats. With passenger numbers expected to double in 20 years, Sequestim can cut waiting times and revolutionise the security experience, giving travellers more time to enjoy airport shops and restaurants. At the same time, we will empower security to keep people safe.”

Sequestim has worked closely with Rapiscan Systems, which manufactures security equipment and systems designed for checkpoints, cargo, vehicle, baggage, parcel and air cargo security inspection.

Ken Mann, Chief Technical Officer of Rapiscan Systems, said: “A walkthrough body screening system that can meet the high standards of the European Civil Aviation Conference and the USA’s Transportation Security Administration in real time would revolutionise aviation security. Sequestim’s high-resolution imaging and ability to discriminate a range of items and materials shows significant potential for people screening applications.”