Paper #: 2276-24 (SPIE Conference)
ARPA Nonintrusive [Cargo] Inspection Technology Testbed
 pp.192-199
Author(s): Andrew J. Johnson
Roy W. Volberding
Robert F. Reiter
Analytical Systems Engineering Corp.
Alexandria, VA, USA.

Abstract: The Advanced Research Projects Agency (ARPA) Nonintrusive [Cargo] Inspection Technology Testbed, located in the port of Tacoma, Washington, began operation on 21 May 1993. The testbed is a part of the Department of Defense Counterdrug Research and Development Program. It is used to evaluate the ability of existing inspection technologies, as well as new technologies and prototype systems, to detect contraband, primarily drugs, hidden in large intermodal cargo containers and vehicles without the need to open them or manually remove the cargo. Currently, a dual-image, high-energy radiographic imaging system and an advanced information processing and display system are being evaluated at the testbed. Work is under way to install and begin testing of a pulsed fast neutron analysis cargo inspection system in early 1995. The testbed can also accommodate other sensors such as particle/vapor detection systems. The testbed was designed, constructed, and is now operated for ARPA by Analytical Systems Engineering Corporation. This paper provides a brief overview of the testbed, the high-energy radiographic imaging system, the information processing and display system, and the test program.