Smiths Detection adds lithium battery algorithm to scanner

To increase safety measures, all baggage passing through the HI-SCAN 10080 EDX-2is will be analysed for these items

Global leader in threat recognition and security technologies, Smiths Detection has announced the launch of its new lithium batteries algorithm for the HI-SCAN 10080 EDX-2is – its dual view air cargo and baggage screening system.

All freight and baggage is now checked for these additional items when being screened for explosives. The company has stated that this reduces the burden on image analysts and presents very low false alarm rates.

There is currently growing demand for lithium batteries, as they are used as the primary power source for personal electronic devices.

London Heathrow Airport
Photo London Heathrow Airport 

As these do have the potential to ignite, they are a heightened safety risk. According to the technology firm, 310 incidents of smoke, heat or explosions have been recorded when passengers have been carrying them in luggage.

Richard Thompson, global director of aviation for Smiths Detection, commented: “We are continually striving to develop new technologies to ensure the safety of people globally. Harnessing the power of deep learning is crucial in further developing object recognition algorithms.

“This new technology has been developed by working with our customers to capture thousands of X-ray images to then be analysed by the new algorithm so it can learn to detect lithium batteries based on shape. This algorithm will provide the powerful detection of lithium batteries while increasing efficiency and speed for users,” he added.

The new procedure is part of the technology firm’s family of AI-systems, iCMORE, which was launched in July last year. This provides automatic detection of dangerous goods and weapons, increasing the protection of passengers and staff.