Australia’s Elenium Automation has signed a contract with X-ray technology specialist Micro-X to introduce innovative security processing into airports around the world.
Elenium Automation builds self-service systems in Victoria, Australia. Using biometrics and touchless technologies, it enables the passenger to walk into the terminal, drop off their bag, be screened for symptoms of illness, and continue to the lounge or boarding gate without having to touch a boarding pass, bag tag or screen.
In September 2021, Micro-X fulfilled two contracts with the US Government’s Department of Homeland Security to design and manufacture a miniature X-ray baggage scanner and integrate this into a self-screening security portal for airport passengers.
Elenium has now been selected as a key contractor to Micro-X to design and test the self-screening security portal.
Brian Gonzalez, chief scientist and general manager of Micro-X’s US business unit, said: “Every traveller has an airport security horror story to tell, and it is exciting that this innovative international team is now positioned to improve future air travel for all.
“Elenium’s expertise in developing automation tools for aviation across all areas of passenger processing – from health screening, to check-in, bag drop and boarding – has played a key role in securing the DHS trial.”
The prototype for a new, miniature CT baggage scanner detects hidden threats concealed within carry-on luggage. The voice-controlled booth eliminates the traditional, multi-step screening process, ensures passengers are never separated from their baggage, and allows travellers to take control over their own security screening through an intuitive, self-service workflow.
Once the security portal trial is underway, Elenium’s HealthGate technology – a scanning system that detects potential symptoms of infectious illness – can be integrated with Micro-X’s security screening capability.
Aaron Hornlimann, CEO and co-founder of Elenium Automation, said of the trial: “The aviation industry has a unique opportunity to modernise its infrastructure and make the passenger experience seamless, safe and enjoyable, giving back confidence to the travelling public impacted by the global pandemic.”
