March 12, 2008 ThruVision’s T5000 Security Imaging System uses passive terahertz imaging technology to reveal concealed weapons in both stationary and mobile subjects, and at a range of up to 25 meters. T-rays can pass through clothing, paper, cardboard, wood, masonry, fog and clouds, but bounce off metal, liquid, and some ceramics and plastics – this allows the T5000 to easily identify weapons even in a moving crowd of people.
Terahertz radiation is the band in the electromagnetic spectrum between high-frequency microwave and long-wavelength infrared light. Because it is non-ionizing, it does not have a damaging effect on tissue and DNA like X-rays, making it potentially very useful to the security and medical industries.
Extending the range and adding outdoor capabilities to its predecessor the T4000, the T5000 is the only commercially available camera of its kind, and is compact, rugged and portable. Capable of operating in both indoor and outdoor environments, the system can be used for a variety of scenarios, including corporate protection, event management, and military and border security. The speed with which it scans an area prevents it from creating unnecessary queues and bottlenecks, making it effective in sporting events, concerts and airports, and it integrates with existing security systems, making it easy to install in corporate environments.
Clive Beattie, ThruVision’s CEO said: “Acts of terrorism have shaken the world in recent years and security precautions have been tightened globally. The T5000 dramatically extends the security surveillance envelope for ThruVision’s passive body scanning products used at important sites and events. The ability to see both metallic and non-metallic items on people out to 25m is certainly a key capability that will enhance any comprehensive security system deployment.” Dr Liz Towns-Andrews, Director of Knowledge Exchange at STFC said: “Astronomers use T-ray cameras that can see through dust and clouds in space, revealing what lies beyond. ThruVision uses them to see weapons hidden by clothing. This is a first-class example of how fundamental scientific research can be applied to benefit the whole of society. Who would have imagined that research carried out by space scientists to study the stars could result in it being used to protect the public from terrorists and therefore save lives? The impact of this will be remarkable.“
The ThruVision’s T5000 Security Imaging System is being launched at the Home Office Scientific Development Branch Exhibition, on March 12 and 13.