A new collaboration between Smiths Detection and Pangiam will accelerate the development and adoption of open architecture in aviation security.

Open architecture (OA) enables hardware, software and algorithms from different product suppliers to be plugged together, enabling technology to be managed centrally so customers can achieve operational efficiencies, improve safety outcomes and work with a more relevant, precise data ecosystem.

Smiths Detection will work with computer vision and artificial intelligence (AI) expert Pangiam to enable the transfer of 3D images from its own computed tomography cabin baggage scanner HI-SCAN 6040 CTiX to Pangiam’s Computer Vision insights, enriching the information and analysis available to screening authorities. As part of the collaboration, the companies will run a series of technological demonstrations designed to rapidly develop and field new capabilities, unlocking further innovation.

The collaboration aligns with Smiths Detection’s Ada Initiative – to accelerate open architecture adoption in aviation, ports and borders, defence and urban security – and Pangiam’s Project Dartmouth collaboration with Google Cloud – which uses AI and pattern analysis technologies to digest and analyse vast amounts of data in real time and identify potential prohibited items in carry-on baggage, checked baggage, airline cargo, and shipments.

Smiths Detection vice president of marketing Richard Thompson said: “While Smiths Detection has a successful record of delivering its iCMORE automatic threat recognition technology for example with weapons, currency, and lithium batteries, one of the primary objectives of OA is to offer choice. Through the Ada initiative we enable this choice by allowing customers the freedom to work with companies such as Pangiam. We’re excited to be driving open architecture across our industry and to be working with Pangiam.”

Laboratory demonstrations began in August 2022, with the resulting solution(s) expected to reach international airports for advanced testing by early 2023, ready for full deployment thereafter.

Image: Smiths Detection