SBIR-STTR Award

Soldiers operating the AFs X-ray machines at Entry Control Points (ECPs) are the last line of defense from individuals entering with weapons and threats such as guns, knives or IEDs. However, these AF security personnel are responsible for operating and tracking a number of security systems, which can be distracting from X-ray image interpretation. Scanning image interpretation is a time consuming and specialized skill requiring training processes inconsistent with Security Forces rotation schedule.Finally, assessing X-ray images requires security personnel to be at the systems and close to potential IEDs and attackers, putting soldiers at risk and limiting their mission flexibility. Synapse will augment its existing Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning technology, Syntech ONE (SAFETY Act DT&E certified), which uses computer vision techniques to automatically detect weapons and IEDs.The Synapse technology will be deployable on legacy AF ECP X-ray machines.The automatic detection capabilities will improve detection and allow AF operators to more efficiently and safely manage ECP operations.artificial intelligence,Computer Vision,Algorithms,X-Ray,detection,weapons,Air Force

The tested and proven Syntech ONE, which holds a SAFETY Act DT&E Designation, assists security officers by automatically detecting handguns, handgun components, ammunition and various sharp weapons in security X-ray images. Air Force personnel operating the AF's X-ray machines at Entry Control Points (ECPs) are the last line of defense from individuals entering with weapons and threats such as guns, knives or IEDs. However, these AF security personnel are responsible for operating and tracking a number of security systems, which can be distracting from X-ray image interpretation. Scanning image interpretation is a time consuming and specialized skill requiring training processes inconsistent with the Air Force's rotation schedule. Finally, assessing X-ray images requires security personnel to be at the systems and close to potential Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and attackers, putting personnel at risk and limiting their mission flexibility. As part of the Phase II effort, Syntech ONE will be adapted to detect IED components and grenades. Syntech ONE directly connects to legacy installed checkpoint X-ray systems (Rapiscan, Smith and Astrophysics models) commonly used at the AF's ECPs in the U.S., internationally and in war zones