Arion Defense Aims to Fill Gap in Shoe Scanning Technology

Strategic Insights -

Arion Defense, a Vancouver company, is working to commercialize and scale the manufacturing of a footwear-scanning device developed by the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory to screen shoes for potential threats. The technology was funded by the US Department of Homeland Security's Science and Technology Directorate before Arion Defense licensed it. The decision to abandon the nearly 20-year-old policy requiring passengers to remove their footwear at security checkpoints has left travelers at risk without a feasible alternative in place. Arion Defense aims to implement its shoe scanners in TSA security checkpoints, but the technology could also be used in other settings such as stadiums, event venues, or prisons.

Key Takeaways:

  • Arion Defense is commercializing a footwear-scanning device developed by the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory to screen shoes for potential threats.
  • The technology was funded by the US Department of Homeland Security's Science and Technology Directorate before Arion Defense licensed it.
  • The shoe scanner uses millimetre-wave technology, similar to full-body scanning devices, and takes about two seconds to complete a scan.
  • The device can detect anomalies in the image of the shoes, prompting further inspection or the shoes to be scanned alongside carry-on luggage.
  • Arion Defense is working on a contract with the TSA to implement the shoe scanners, but the technology can also be used in other settings.
  • The company aims to strike a balance between safety and efficiency, reducing the need for security pat downs and friction.
  • The shoe scanner technology has the potential to be implemented in the next generation of security checkpoints, with real-time imaging capabilities.
  • Arion Defense hopes to see the government and other security sectors using its technology to prevent threats.

Statistics:

  • 20 years: The duration of the policy requiring passengers to remove their footwear at security checkpoints before it was abandoned.
  • 2006: The year the shoe removal policy was introduced as a response to the shoe-bomber incident.
  • 2013: The year work on the shoe scanner began at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory.
  • 2 seconds: The time it takes for the shoe scanner to complete a scan.
  • 100%: The millimetre-wave technology used in the shoe scanner, similar to full-body scanning devices.

Sources:

  • The Globe and Mail (exact reference not provided)
  • Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
  • US Department of Homeland Security's Science and Technology Directorate
  • Arion Defense
  • Pacific Northwest National Laboratory