The Department of Homeland Security Science and Technology Directorate (DHS S&T) Silicon Valley Innovation Program (SVIP) has announced a Phase 1 funding award to Lauretta AI, LLC to adapt their video analytic solution towards the goal of self-screening portals at airport security checkpoints.
The Phase 1 award was made under SVIP’s Emerging Needs: COVID-19 Response & Future Mitigation solicitation. This effort began prior to the pandemic, but now has accelerated due to COVID-19-related protective measures to minimize exposure and physical contact between TSA transportation security officers and airline passengers.
SVIP and ITF are seeking solutions to validate that passengers are properly progressing through the screening process, abnormal behaviors are detected when going through a self-screening portal, and social distancing measures are maintained.
The project proposes to adapt commercially available behavior recognition systems, which use artificial intelligence (AI) technology, to anonymously monitor passengers, their personal items, and carry-on luggage throughout TSA’s airport security screening process.
Lauretta AI’s video analytics solution uses off-the-shelf closed-circuit television cameras at screening stations to deter passenger from attempting to circumvent or evade airport security screening protocols and to identify passengers who may need assistance.
The system does not use biometric data, such as facial recognition. Instead, the system places a unique identifier on passengers as they move through the airport security screening that expires immediately after they leave the checkpoint. The project proposes to also integrate with automated baggage and body scanning software to create a robust self-service screening solution.