Cargo security method and apparatus

Abstract

A comprehensive and effective system at detecting unauthorized hazardous materials such as explosives potentially placed by terrorists in cargo or freight, such as air cargo, is disclosed. The system is cost effective and is non-disruptive to shippers of cargo. The system provided in one or more embodiments is capable of virtually guaranteeing the continuous security and integrity of cargo or freight during the storage and transit process. The system provides a combination of advanced x-ray technology and packaging technology. A method is disclosed comprising the steps of applying X-rays with an X-ray machine to freight and placing a cover on the freight. The step of placing the cover on the freight may include locking the cover on the freight with a lock. The lock may include an electronic memory, which is programmed with a unique code, which identifies the freight and indicates whether it has been tampered with.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 266,347 filed Oct. 8, 2002.FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0002] This invention relates to improved methods and apparatus concerning preventing cargo from being used by terrorists to send dangerous materials such as explosives into the United States. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] The absence of a comprehensive screening system for cargo, such as air cargo, represents a major soft spot in the current United States security system, such as the air travel security system. A report prepared by the Federal Aviation Administration's office of aviation security research and development in October of 2001 warned of “catastrophic” flaws in the air cargo security system, according to “USA Today”™ in May of 2002. On Jun. 10, 2002, the “Washington Post”™ reported that an internal Transportation Security Administration (TSA) analysis described security for cargo on passenger planes as “easily circu...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention is a system that can detect explosives in cargo, such as air cargo. It is cost-effective and non-disruptive to shippers of cargo. The system uses advanced X-ray technology and packaging technology to provide continuous security and integrity of the cargo during storage and transit. The system includes applying X-rays to freight and placing a cover on the freight, which has an electronic memory that identifies the freight and indicates if it has been tampered with. An alarm is activated if unauthorized explosive or hazardous materials are detected, and the cargo can be visually examined and determined if it is safe for transportation. The cover on the freight can also be visually inspected to determine if it has been tampered with. The system can be used with various carriers such as aircraft, boats, trucks, and trains.

Problems solved by technology

While rules have been tightened since October of 2001, there is broad agreement among experts and officials that nothing in the current system guarantees against determined terrorists gaining access to air-bound cargo and planting an explosive device.

Given that roughly seventy-five million tons of cargo is shipped by air in the United States annually from scores of airports, the system presents potential attackers with multiple points of vulnerability.

Images