Security inspection system and security inspection method

The security inspection system addresses inefficiencies in handling rejected luggage by implementing separate follow-up inspection and retrieval stations with automated transport and identification systems, enhancing efficiency and reducing wait times through spatial separation and automation.

JP7829956B2Active Publication Date: 2026-03-16HOERMANN KLATT CONVEYORS GMBH
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Patents
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2022-11-11
Publication Date
2026-03-16

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Conventional security inspection systems face inefficiencies in the handling of rejected luggage, requiring manual intervention and personnel wait times due to spatial constraints and lack of automation in follow-up inspections.

Method used

A security inspection system with separate follow-up inspection and retrieval stations, utilizing automated transport systems to manage luggage-laden carts independently of retrieval point occupancy, and integrated identification and monitoring devices to streamline the process.

Benefits of technology

Enhances efficiency by allowing simultaneous follow-up inspections and reduces personnel wait times by spatially separating follow-up inspection and retrieval processes, enabling automated luggage handling and personalized luggage management.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The present invention relates to a follow-up inspection location of a security inspection system comprising at least one follow-up inspection station accessible from both sides for manual follow-up inspection of baggage rejected at a baggage inspection station, the manual follow-up inspection being carried out by security inspection system staff in the presence of the owner of the baggage, the follow-up inspection location comprising at least one removal station associated with the follow-up inspection station for emptying the pallets by the owner of the baggage, the follow-up inspection location comprising a transport system for automatically transporting pallets loaded with baggage to and from the follow-up inspection station to the associated removal station, the transport system being designed to transport the pallets to the follow-up inspection station regardless of whether the associated removal station is occupied by the pallets or not.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a security inspection system and a security inspection method for inspecting a person's luggage.

Background Art

[0002] Security inspections of people, especially passengers and their luggage, are an essential part of all flights. Whether within Europe or internationally, the procedures and appearance of the associated facilities have evolved only slightly over the past few decades, due to the official requirements that define the facilities to be used and the procedures to be followed. However, in recent years, innovations have been considered, and the use of more up-to-date technologies, such as the use of computed tomography for generating images for luggage inspection, has been gradually approved.

[0003] With the increase in the number of passengers on aircraft, airport operators are increasingly interested in improving the efficiency of security inspections and reducing personnel costs through the automation and monitoring of the process.

[0004] European Patent No. 2684166 (B1) proposes an automatic passenger inspection system for this purpose, in which a passenger deposits luggage on a loading platform at a luggage storage location, the passenger's personal identifier is detected and linked to the loading platform. While the luggage is undergoing imaging luggage inspection, the passenger undergoes a personal inspection. Then, the passenger goes to a luggage collection location, where the loading platform linked to their personal identifier becomes available for emptying.

[0005] International Publication No. 2020 / 249192 (A1) also discloses an automated security inspection system that provides an inspection device after the luggage collection location, which is designed to determine the loading state and the degree of soiling of the loading platform.

Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present invention aims particularly to improve the efficiency of security inspections, especially at follow-up inspection locations.

[0007] According to the present invention, this objective is achieved by the features of claims 1 and 15.

[0008] The security inspection system according to the present invention is essentially, - A baggage storage facility having at least one baggage storage area for unloading people's luggage onto at least one luggage rack, - A baggage inspection area for image inspection of hand luggage, -Baggage claim area for baggage that has not been refused at the baggage inspection area, - A follow-up inspection site having at least one follow-up inspection station accessible from both sides for manual follow-up inspection of baggage that has been rejected at a baggage inspection station by security inspection system personnel in the presence of the baggage owner, A follow-up inspection site has at least one retrieval point associated with the follow-up inspection site for the owner of the baggage to empty the luggage compartment. A follow-up inspection site has at least one transport system for automatically transporting a luggage-laden cart to a follow-up inspection site and from the follow-up inspection site to an associated retrieval point, wherein the transport system is designed to transport the cart to the follow-up inspection site regardless of whether the associated retrieval point is occupied by the cart, - This system consists of transporting a luggage-laden cart from the baggage claim area to the baggage pick-up area or follow-up inspection area via a baggage inspection station, and returning the empty cart to the baggage claim area.

[0009] The security inspection method according to the present invention is -A person in a baggage storage facility with one or more storage areas will unload their baggage onto a luggage rack provided at the storage area. -Baggage will undergo image inspection at the baggage inspection area. -If baggage is not rejected at the baggage inspection area, a person may retrieve their baggage at a baggage claim area that has one or more retrieval points. -If baggage is refused at the baggage inspection area, the person shall proceed to a follow-up inspection area having at least one follow-up inspection station accessible from both sides for manual inspection, the follow-up inspection station being accessible on one side to security inspection system personnel and on the other side to the owner of the refused baggage. -The system is characterized by the fact that luggage-laden carts are transported from the baggage claim area to the baggage claim area or follow-up inspection area via the baggage inspection area, and empty carts are transported back to the baggage claim area. -After manual baggage inspection, the person goes to the assigned retrieval area from the follow-up inspection station, emptys their luggage, - The luggage compartments of passengers carrying luggage are transported in an automated manner from the follow-up inspection station to their assigned retrieval point, and the transport of new luggage compartments carrying luggage to the follow-up inspection station will occur regardless of whether the assigned retrieval point is occupied by a luggage compartment.

[0010] In conventional systems, rejected baggage is usually inspected at a separate table by security personnel in the presence of the baggage owner. Computed tomography scanners are already widely used for baggage inspection today and can inspect a considerable amount of baggage in a single tray, so in the future, larger trays will be used accordingly. However, this means that such trays can no longer be transported, and people must remove or empty the tray on-site at the same table after a follow-up inspection has been conducted. Security personnel then must wait until the person has removed all items from the tray before the next follow-up inspection is conducted.

[0011] According to the present invention, the processes of "follow-up inspection" and "retrieval" are spatially separated from each other by providing a follow-up inspection station and at least one associated retrieval station, so that a security guard can already perform the next follow-up inspection while the previous person is still emptying their luggage. Accordingly, a transport system is also provided that is appropriately designed for the transfer of luggage to and from the follow-up inspection station and between the follow-up inspection station and the retrieval station. Of course, in principle, if there is little luggage or the assigned retrieval station is still blocked by the previous person, it is also possible for a person or passenger to retrieve their luggage directly at the follow-up inspection station.

[0012] Further embodiments of the present invention are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0013] According to one embodiment of the present invention, there is a first waiting area for security inspection system personnel behind the follow-up inspection area, and a second waiting area in front of it for people whose baggage is to be inspected. Furthermore, a third waiting area is provided for people emptying their luggage from the associated retrieval area. The three waiting areas are sized so that at least one officer or person can be in each of them at the same time. Ideally, the follow-up inspection and retrieval areas are separated from each other by appropriate means such as a partition wall to ensure privacy.

[0014] The luggage rack is made available at a follow-up inspection station between the first and second lodging locations, and a preferably retractable transparent security partition can be provided between the luggage rack and the second lodging location for the persons whose baggage is to be inspected. In this way, a person can observe the baggage inspection, but the activated security barrier can also prevent a person from interfering with the follow-up inspection by manually intervening.

[0015] Furthermore, the follow-up inspection area may have at least one buffer system for temporarily storing baggage-laden carts, and the transport system is designed to transport the baggage-laden carts temporarily stored in the buffer system to the follow-up inspection area. The buffer system may have at least two buffer areas, preferably designed to re-sort the baggage-laden carts, so that the order of follow-up inspections is linked to the arrival of people in the follow-up inspection area, and not to the order in which the baggage enters the buffer system. Re-sorting of the carts can be performed, for example, by moving them in at least two different, particularly orthogonal, axes.

[0016] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, each baggage claim area is provided with a first identification device for detecting a person's personal identifier, particularly biometric features, and this first identification device cooperates with a data processing device for linking the person's personal identifier to a luggage rack where the person's luggage is located. Thus, at each baggage claim area, a person's personal identifier can be detected by the first identification device, and the person's personal identifier is linked by the data processing device to the luggage rack where the person's luggage is located. If a person requires multiple luggage racks, these are also linked to the person's personal identifier.

[0017] In this way, the luggage rack is clearly assigned to the owner of that luggage. The first identification device can be designed to detect an individual's personal identifier for the first time, or it can be used to identify an individual if the personal identifier is already stored in the system. For example, a person's personal identifier can be detected when entering an airport building or when checking in large luggage. It is also conceivable that a person could generate their own personal identifier before traveling, for example using a smartphone, and upload it to the airline. In addition to a person's biometric characteristics, other personal identifiers such as boarding pass codes are also conceivable. However, biometric identification features have the advantage that they can be easily captured by a camera, eliminating the need to scan a boarding pass or any other token.

[0018] In a special embodiment of the cargo bed, the cargo bed can be designed to be closed with a cover, and a device for automatically lifting and positioning the cover on the cargo bed can be provided in the storage area, retrieval area, follow-up inspection area, and retrieval area.

[0019] After unloading their luggage, passengers proceed to personal security screening, which can be carried out in a generally known manner. Simultaneously, their luggage undergoes image scanning at the baggage inspection area. After the personal screening, passengers receive information at an information kiosk indicating whether they should proceed to the general baggage claim area or to a follow-up inspection area, depending on the results of the baggage inspection.

[0020] To ensure that the correct luggage racks are placed at the baggage claim area, at least one follow-up inspection station shall be equipped with a third identification device for detecting the personal identifier of a person standing at the follow-up inspection station, and the third identification device shall be linked to a transport system to transport luggage racks linked to the person's personal identifier to this follow-up inspection station. This would prevent a person from accidentally looking into another person's luggage. If a person unloads multiple luggage racks, all of that person's luggage racks may be transported to the follow-up inspection station, although it may be appropriate to make only the luggage racks that were actually refused available at the follow-up inspection station.

[0021] In an optional embodiment, the follow-up inspection site may have at least two follow-up inspection stations, each having at least one associated pick-up station, and the transport system may be designed to transport the luggage-laden cart from the buffer system to at least two follow-up inspection stations. This has the advantage that in a follow-up inspection site with multiple follow-up inspection stations, a person can go to the next available follow-up inspection station and be provided with the correct cart after the person's personal identifier has been identified.

[0022] The follow-up inspection location can also include a waiting area for people whose checked baggage has been rejected at the baggage inspection station. For example, optical signals and / or audio signals can indicate to the next person in the waiting area that they can proceed to an available follow-up inspection station.

[0023] To completely remove the checked baggage, the loading platform, and, if appropriate, any additional non-rejected loading platforms for people, are transferred to an unloading station assigned to the follow-up inspection station, and it is convenient for the follow-up inspection station to be located in close proximity. To ensure that the correct loading platform is also provided there, at least one unloading station can optionally be equipped with a fourth identification device for detecting the personal identifier of the person standing at the unloading station, and the fourth identification device is linked to a transfer system for transferring the loading platform linked to the person's personal identifier from the follow-up inspection station to this unloading station.

[0024] To automatically complete the unloading process, a sensor unit formed, for example, by the fourth identification device can be provided at each unloading station, and this sensor unit is designed to determine the presence of a person at the unloading station, and this unit is linked to a monitoring device and a transfer system such that when the sensor unit does not detect a person in front of the unloading station and the loading platform is empty, the process of emptying it by removing the empty loading platform is completed.

[0025] Of course, after emptying the loading platform at the unloading station, it is also conceivable that the person completes the emptying process by entering something at an input unit, and the loading platform is then carried out. However, in this case, if the person leaves the unloading station without completing the process by entering data, automated unloading must also be provided.

[0026] The retrieval area monitoring device may also be designed to detect loading platforms that are not completely empty and / or soiled, and the transport system may also be designed to discharge loading platforms that are not completely empty and / or soiled. However, preferably, a person is made aware in a timely manner of appropriate auditory or visual signals that there are still items in the loading platform.

[0027] Further embodiments and advantages of the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the following description and drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0028] [Figure 1] This is a block diagram of the security inspection system. [Figure 2] This is a schematic diagram of a baggage storage facility equipped with a baggage storage area. [Figure 3] This is a schematic diagram of a baggage claim area equipped with a retrieval station. [Figure 4] This is a schematic plan view of the follow-up inspection area according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] This is a schematic diagram of the follow-up testing facility. [Figure 6] This is a schematic diagram of the retrieval area. [Figure 7] This is a schematic plan view of the follow-up inspection area according to the second embodiment. [Figure 8] This is a schematic plan view of the follow-up inspection area according to the third embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0029] Figure 1 shows one embodiment of a security inspection system represented as a block diagram. This provides a baggage storage area 1 having one or more baggage storage areas 1a, 1b, 1c for unloading baggage onto a luggage rack 2. The luggage rack 2 loaded with baggage is sent to a baggage inspection area 3 for image inspection of the baggage, where a computed tomography scanner is preferably used.

[0030] During baggage inspection, individuals proceed to personal inspection area 4. For example, metal detectors, body scanning devices, and other devices may be used here.

[0031] The personal inspection area 4 preferably has a queuing system and a route system that can control the synchronization of baggage status and people's inspections as needed. Thus, after personal inspection is completed, the person receives information from the information device 5 on whether they should go to baggage claim area 6, which has one or more retrieval points 6a, 6b, 6c to receive and empty the luggage assigned to them, or to follow-up inspection area 7 for a manual follow-up inspection of their baggage. The routes of people are shown in Figure 1 with solid arrows.

[0032] The dashed arrows indicate a transport system 8 that carries the luggage cart 2 from the baggage drop-off area 1 via baggage inspection station 3 to the baggage claim area 6 or follow-up inspection area 7, and returns the empty cart to baggage drop-off area 1. After baggage inspection station 3, there is a switch 9 that redirects baggage rejected within baggage inspection station 3 to the follow-up inspection area 7. Before reaching the switch, the operator of the baggage inspection station (CT device) must decide whether a follow-up inspection is necessary. If there is not enough time to make a decision, the luggage cart 2 is automatically sent to the follow-up inspection area 7 to prevent rejected and accepted baggage from mixing on the way to baggage claim area 6.

[0033] The area of ​​the return transport path is provided with a device 18 for discharging the loading platform 2' that is not completely empty and / or is dirty.

[0034] Referring to Figure 2, the baggage storage area 1 is described in more detail below using the example of storage area 1a. Thus, storage area 1a has a first identification device 10 for detecting a person's personal identifier (particularly biometric features), preferably designed as a camera. The person's personal identifier is linked by a data processing device 11 to a luggage rack 2 provided in storage area 1a, and identifiers attached to the luggage rack 2 are read by a reader (not shown in detail) and linked to the person's personal identifier. Identifiers on the luggage rack 2 can be formed by, for example, RFID, QR code, or similar markings.

[0035] As soon as a person's personal identifier is detected, the cover 12 opens, and the cargo bed is released, allowing for loading. In the illustrated embodiment, the cargo bed 2 is box-shaped and open at the top. The person can then load their luggage onto the cargo bed 2, and visual and / or auditory instructions can be given to the person, particularly via the first information device 13, which is equipped with a monitor and a speaker. In particular, it can be noted that the specified maximum load limit must not be exceeded in this manner. For this purpose, the cargo bed 2 may have corresponding markings. However, it is also conceivable that the cargo bed 2 be loaded in such a way that the luggage 14 does not protrude beyond the dimensions of the cargo bed 2.

[0036] For example, a first monitoring device 15 formed by a camera detects the loading status of the cargo bed 2, and if the loading status is undesirable, a corresponding instruction is given via the first information device 13. In the illustrated example, since the luggage 14 protrudes beyond the dimensions of the cargo bed 2, the person may be asked to place the luggage properly or request a second cargo bed. If the person has trouble responding, they also have the option of asking an officer for help.

[0037] If the baggage is properly stored in the luggage compartment 2, the baggage check-in process can be completed by inspection, in particular after a specified time, in an automated manner, indicating that no one is left in the storage area 1a, and as a result, automated unloading away from luggage compartment 2 can be initiated. However, a person may also be required to close the luggage compartment with a cover or lid. Alternatively, closing can be completed by pressing a button or in a similar manner. If a person leaves the unloading area without confirmation, the person may be prompted to act via the first information device 13. Nevertheless, if a person leaves, this can be prevented by a closable exit, but automated unloading can be initiated after a specified time has elapsed.

[0038] For loading, the cover 12 is first closed and / or the gate 17 is opened to allow loading of the loading platform 2. The loading platform 2 is transported via the transport system 8 and / or the supply system 16 connected to the transport system 8, and the first monitoring device 15 is connected to the supply system 16 and / or the transport system 8 so that if an undesirable loading condition of the loading platform 2 is detected, the loading of the loading platform 2 from the storage area 1a is prevented (the gate 17 remains closed). The loading platform 2 loaded with baggage is then supplied to the baggage inspection area 3 via the transport system 8 while the person proceeds to the person inspection area 4.

[0039] Storage area 1a is allocated a buffer area 19 for returned empty loading platforms 2, and storage area 1c is provided with the next empty loading platform via the transport system 8 or the supply system 16.

[0040] The baggage claim area 6 will be explained in more detail below, using Figure 3 as an example, with reference to the baggage claim area 6a.

[0041] Retrieval point 6a can be configured in essentially the same way as or identically to storage point 1a. Thus, retrieval point 6a has a second identification device 20 for detecting the personal identifier of a person standing in front of retrieval point 6a, and the second identification unit 20 is linked to a second serving system 21 for transporting a luggage 2 linked to the person's personal identifier to this retrieval point 6a. For this purpose, baggage collection point 6 has at least one buffer 22 for multiple luggage 2 loaded with baggage, and multiple retrieval points, for example retrieval points 6a, 6b, and 6c, are assigned to buffer 22. The second serving system 21 is designed to transport luggage 2 loaded with baggage from buffer 22 to one of retrieval points 6a, 6b, and 6c, and buffer 22 can transport luggage 2 to each of the relevant retrieval points in any order, regardless of the order in which the luggage 2 were introduced into buffer 22. Therefore, anyone wishing to receive their luggage can go to any of the currently available retrieval points 6a, 6b, or 6c, which are identified there by the second identification device 20, and as a result, their luggage rack 2, linked to their personal identifier, is transferred from buffer 22 to this retrieval point.

[0042] As soon as the associated cargo bed 2 is positioned at the unloading area, the cover 23 opens, making the cargo bed 2 accessible for unloading. Information can be provided to a person via the input and / or output unit 24. A second monitoring device 25, consisting of, for example, a camera, detects the loading status of the cargo bed 2. Through the input and / or output unit 24, a person can, in particular, recognize that there is still luggage / items in the cargo bed 2. After everything has been unloaded, the passenger can, for example, see a wish for a good flight and / or the departure gate, and advertisements may also be displayed.

[0043] In an advantageous embodiment, a sensor unit is provided at an existing retrieval point, which is formed by a second identification unit 20 designed, for example, to determine the presence of a person positioned in front of the retrieval point, and is linked to a second monitoring unit 25 and a second supply system 21 so that, if the sensor unit does not detect a person in front of the retrieval point 6a and the loading platform 2 is empty, the process of emptying the loading platform 2 by retrieving the empty loading platform 2 is completed. In this way, the retrieval point can be made available to the next person as quickly as possible.

[0044] Once the retrieval process is complete, the cover 23 closes and / or the gate 26 opens, allowing the loading platform 2 to be removed. The loading platform 2 is transported via the second supplying system 21 and / or transporting system 8, and the second monitoring device 25 is connected to the second supplying system 21 and / or transporting system 8 so as to prevent the loading platform 2 from being removed from the retrieval area 6a (the gate 26 remains closed) if there are still items inside the loading platform 2. If the loading platform 2 is empty, return transport to the baggage storage area 1 is initiated. The next retrieval process can then be initiated by the detection of the next person standing in front of the retrieval area by the second identification device 20.

[0045] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the second monitoring device 25 in the retrieval areas 6a, 6b, and 6c can also detect contamination of the loading platform 2, for example, by leaked liquid. The contaminated loading platform can then be discharged by the device 18 (Figure 1). Discharge may also occur if the loading platform is not emptied or not completely emptied, or if a person leaves the retrieval areas 6a, 6b, and 6c before the emptying process is complete.

[0046] If a person's baggage is rejected at baggage inspection station 3, the person is first identified by their personal identifier on information device 5, and then notified that they must proceed to follow-up inspection area 7.

[0047] Figure 4 shows a first embodiment of the follow-up inspection location 7 according to the present invention, which has first and second follow-up inspection stations 70, 71 and first and second associated retrieval stations 72, 73 for the owner of the luggage to empty the luggage cart 2. The follow-up inspection location 7 further provides first and second transport systems 74, 75 for the automatic transport of the luggage cart 2 loaded with luggage to the follow-up inspection stations 70, 71 and from the follow-up inspection stations 70, 71 to the associated retrieval stations 72, 73, the transport systems 74, 75 are designed to transport the luggage cart 2 to the follow-up inspection station 70 or 71 regardless of whether the associated retrieval station 72 or 73 is occupied by the luggage cart 2. In other words, the luggage cart can be transported to the follow-up inspection station 70 or 71 even if the corresponding retrieval station 72 or 73 is still occupied.

[0048] Behind each follow-up inspection station 70 or 71, there is a first waiting area M1 or M2 for security inspection personnel, and in front of each baggage retrieval area 72 or 73, there is a second waiting area P1 or P3 for people whose baggage must undergo follow-up inspection, and the size of the first and second waiting areas M1, M2 and P1, P3 is such that at least one person can be there at the same time in each case. For this reason, follow-up inspection stations 70 and 71 are located between the first waiting areas M1, M2 and the second waiting areas P1, P3.

[0049] Furthermore, the follow-up inspection area 7 has first and second buffer systems 76 and 77 for temporarily storing the luggage-laden 2, and the transport systems 74 and 75 are designed to transport the luggage-laden 2 temporarily stored in buffer system 76 or 77 to follow-up inspection area 70 or 71, respectively. Each of the buffer systems 76 and 77 can provide at least two buffer spaces for the temporary storage of the luggage-laden 2, and the buffer systems 76 and 77 are designed to re-sort the luggage-laden 2. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second buffer systems 76 and 77 are each designed for three luggage-laden 2, but larger buffer occupancies are also possible. Ideally, the buffer systems 76 and 77 are designed to re-sort the luggage-laden 2 by moving them in at least two different, particularly orthogonal, axial directions, so that the order of follow-up inspections is not tied to the order in which the luggage-laden 2 entered either buffer system 76 or 77. This allows people who need to go to the follow-up inspection location to overtake each other, and ensures that the order in which the truck beds arrive at the follow-up inspection location is not restricted.

[0050] As shown in Figure 5, follow-up inspection stations 70 and 71 are equipped with a third identification device 78 for detecting the personal identifier of a person standing in the follow-up inspection stations 70 and 71, and the third identification device 78 is linked to transport systems 74 and 75 for transporting luggage 2 linked to the person's personal identifier to this follow-up inspection station. Luggage 2 with rejected luggage is made available between a first lodging position M1 and a second lodging position P1, and is located between the security inspection system staff and the owner of the rejected luggage. In addition, a preferably movable transparent safety partition 79 can be provided between the second lodging position P1 and the provided luggage 2 to prevent unauthorized intervention by a person during follow-up inspection by staff.

[0051] In a further embodiment of the follow-up inspection area (Figure 4), the follow-up inspection area 7 may have at least one waiting area 80 (P5-P7) for people until the next follow-up inspection area becomes available. Each inspection area 70, 71 may optionally provide storage space to assist with cleanup. Furthermore, a small X-ray machine or other equipment to support follow-up inspections may be available there for the personnel of the security inspection system. It may also be possible to run the entire load or part of the luggage again via computed tomography in an automated manner at the start of the personnel's shift.

[0052] In the illustrated embodiment, the retrieval point 72 is assigned to the follow-up inspection point 70, the retrieval point 73 is assigned to the follow-up inspection point 71, and the loading platform 2 can be transported from buffer 76, preferably from buffer 77, to both follow-up inspection points 70 and 71. Within the scope of the present invention, it is further conceivable that the personnel of the security inspection point may, at least occasionally, be responsible for two follow-up inspection points.

[0053] After follow-up inspection, the luggage racks carrying people's baggage are moved from follow-up inspection stations 70 and 71 to assigned retrieval stations 72 and 73, where people can empty their luggage. This allows people to move from waiting area P1 to waiting area P2 in front of retrieval station 72, or from waiting area P3 to waiting area P4 in front of retrieval station 73. The retrieval stations will be described in more detail below, using retrieval station 72 as an example, with reference to Figure 6. In principle, retrieval stations 72 and 73 of the follow-up inspection station 7 can be the same as, or at least very similar to, retrieval stations 6a, 6b, and 6c of the baggage claim station 6.

[0054] Accordingly, the retrieval station 72 is equipped with an optional fourth identification device 82 for detecting the personal identifier of a person standing in the retrieval station 72, and the fourth identification device 82 is linked to a first transport system 74 for transporting a loading platform 2 linked to the person's personal identifier from the follow-up inspection station 70 to the retrieval station 72. The retrieval station 72 is also equipped with an additional monitoring device 83 for detecting loading platforms that are not completely empty and / or dirty. According to the receiving station, a sensor unit formed by, for example, the fourth identification device 82 is also provided in each retrieval station 72, and the sensor unit is designed to determine the presence of a person in the retrieval station 72, and is linked to the additional monitoring device 83 and the first transport system 74 so that if the sensor unit does not detect a person in front of the retrieval station and the loading platform is empty, the process of emptying is completed by removing the empty loading platform 2.

[0055] Furthermore, an additional information device 84 can be provided corresponding to the retrieval area to inform a person about the stacking status of the cargo bed. This device can also be used, for example, to display the gate a person needs to go to after emptying cargo bed 2, if this information is available in the system. Additionally, optionally, foldable sheets can be provided in the retrieval areas 72 and 73 to facilitate changing clothes, for example.

[0056] A cover 85 and a gate 86 for opening the cargo bed 2 may also be present. A data processing device 11 is used to control the process.

[0057] Ideally, the follow-up inspection area 7 is located adjacent to the baggage claim area 6, so that at least one retrieval area 72 or 73 can function as a retrieval area or retrieval point, depending on the number of people in the follow-up inspection area 7 and the baggage claim area 6.

[0058] Figure 7 shows a second embodiment of the follow-up inspection location 7', in which a third buffer system 87 and a third pick-up point 88 are additionally provided. At the first follow-up inspection location 70, the loading platform 2 can be supplied from the first buffer system 76 and the third buffer system 87. Preferably, the loading platform 2 from the second buffer system 77 and the third buffer system 87 is transported to the second follow-up inspection location 71. Optionally, and naturally, loading platforms from each of the three buffer systems can also be transported to each of the two follow-up inspection locations, which provides the greatest possible flexibility. In contrast to the first embodiment shown in Figure 4, the two follow-up inspection locations 70 and 71 are assigned not two but three pick-up points 72, 73, and 88, which makes it more likely that a person will have an available pick-up point immediately after the follow-up inspection has been performed.

[0059] If the cargo bed can actually be moved from each of the three buffer systems to each of the two follow-up inspection stations, then one first waiting area 80 would be perfectly sufficient. However, depending on the system design, the second follow-up inspection station 71 can prevent the cargo bed 2 from being moved from the second buffer system 77 to the first follow-up inspection station 70 during an ongoing follow-up inspection, so it is convenient to have a second waiting area 89 for people whose cargo beds have been brought into the second buffer system 77. After the individual inspection, the information device 5 (Figure 1) should not only inform the person that he or she needs to go to the follow-up inspection station 7', but also which of the two waiting areas 80, 89 is the appropriate location.

[0060] In a third exemplary embodiment of the follow-up testing area 7'' shown in Figure 8, a total of five buffer systems 90-94 are provided, having five follow-up testing stations 95-99 and five retrieval stations 100-104, the special feature being that two follow-up testing stations 95 and 96 or 97 and 98 are located directly adjacent to each other. This has the advantage that one staff member can easily operate two follow-up testing stations as needed.

[0061] However, the present invention is not limited to the illustrative embodiments shown. Rather, further configurations with more or fewer follow-up inspection or extraction stations are conceivable. For example, it is also possible to have only one large buffer system connected to at least three, preferably all, follow-up inspection stations.

[0062] In both exemplary embodiments, the return transport of the empty loading platform 2 can be carried out in a manner similar to that of the unloading station, in which the first or second transport systems 74, 75 are appropriately connected to the return transport path of the loading platform 2.

Claims

1. It is a security inspection system, - A baggage storage facility (1) having at least one storage area (1a, 1b, 1c) for unloading people's luggage onto at least one luggage rack (2), - Baggage inspection station (3) for image inspection of the aforementioned baggage, - Baggage claim area (6) for baggage that has not been refused at the aforementioned baggage inspection station, - A follow-up inspection area (7) having at least one follow-up inspection station (70, 71) accessible from both sides for manual follow-up inspection of baggage that has been rejected by a security guard at the baggage inspection station in the presence of the baggage owner, - A transport system (8) that transports the luggage rack (2) loaded with the luggage from the luggage storage area (1) to the luggage pick-up area (6) or the follow-up inspection area (7) via the luggage inspection area (3), and returns the empty luggage rack (2) to the luggage storage area (1), - The follow-up inspection location (7) has at least one retrieval point (72, 73) associated with the follow-up inspection station (70, 71) for the owner of the baggage to empty the luggage compartment (2), - A security inspection system characterized in that the follow-up inspection location (7) has at least one transport system (74, 75) for transporting the luggage carrier (2) loaded with luggage to the follow-up inspection station (70, 71) and from the follow-up inspection station (70, 71) to the retrieval station (72, 73), wherein the transport system (74, 75) is designed to transport the luggage carrier (2) to the follow-up inspection station (70, 71) regardless of whether the retrieval station (72, 73) is occupied by the luggage carrier (2).

2. The security inspection system according to claim 1, characterized in that it includes a first waiting area (P1, P3) for people in front of the follow-up inspection area (70, 71) and a second waiting area (P2, P4) for people in front of the retrieval area (72, 73), wherein the size of the first and second waiting areas (P1 to P4) is such that at least one person can stay in each at the same time.

3. The security inspection system according to claim 1, characterized in that the follow-up inspection location (7) has at least one buffer system (76, 77; 87) for temporarily storing a luggage rack (2) loaded with baggage, and the transport system (74, 75) is designed to transport the luggage rack (2) loaded with baggage temporarily stored in the buffer system (76, 77; 87) to the follow-up inspection location (70, 71).

4. The security inspection system according to claim 3, wherein the buffer system (76, 77; 87) has at least two buffer stations for temporarily storing luggage racks (2) loaded with baggage, and the buffer system (76, 77; 87) is designed for re-sorting the luggage racks (2) loaded with baggage.

5. The security inspection system according to claim 3, wherein the buffer system (76, 77; 87) is designed to re-sort the loading platform (2) by displacement in at least two different axial directions, particularly orthogonal axial directions.

6. The security inspection system according to claim 1, characterized in that a first identification device (10) for detecting the personal identifier of the person is provided at the baggage storage area (1) of each storage facility (1a, 1b, 1c), and the first identification device (10) interacts with a data processing device (11) for linking the personal identifier of the person to the luggage rack (2) where the person's baggage is located.

7. The security inspection system according to claim 6, characterized in that the at least one follow-up inspection station (70, 71) comprises a third identification device (78) for detecting the personal identifier of the person standing in the follow-up inspection station (70, 71), and the third identification device (78) is linked to the transport system (74, 75) for transporting the cargo platform (2) linked to the personal identifier of the person to the follow-up inspection station (70, 71).

8. The security inspection system according to claim 3, characterized in that the follow-up inspection location (7) has at least two follow-up inspection stations (70, 71), each having at least one of the retrieval stations (72, 73), and the transport system (74, 75) is designed to transport the luggage rack (2) from the buffer system (76, 77; 87) to at least two follow-up inspection stations (70, 71).

9. The security inspection system according to claim 1, characterized in that the follow-up inspection area (7) has at least one waiting area (80) for people whose baggage has been refused at the baggage inspection area (3).

10. The security inspection system according to claim 1, characterized in that at each retrieval point (72, 73), at least one monitoring device (83) is provided for detecting a loading platform (2) that is not completely emptied and / or soiled.

11. The security inspection system according to claim 1, characterized in that input and / or output units designed to provide information to the person and / or terminate the process by which the person emptys the loading platform are provided at each retrieval point.

12. The security inspection system according to claim 10, characterized in that a sensor unit formed by a fourth identification device (82) is provided at each retrieval point (72, 73), the sensor unit is designed to determine the presence of a person in the retrieval point (72, 73), and is linked to the monitoring device (83) and the transport system (74, 75) such that, if the sensor unit does not detect a person in front of the retrieval point (72, 73) and the loading platform is empty, the process of emptying is completed by removing the empty loading platform (2).

13. The security inspection system according to claim 1, characterized in that the follow-up inspection area (7) is located adjacent to the baggage claim area (6) and at least one retrieval point (72, 73), and functions as a retrieval point (72, 73) or retrieval point (6a, 6b, 6c) depending on the number of people at the follow-up inspection area (7) and the baggage claim area (6).

14. A security inspection method, - A person at a baggage storage facility (1) having one or more storage areas (1a, 1b, 1c) will unload their baggage onto a luggage rack (2) provided at one of the storage areas (1a, 1b, 1c), - The aforementioned baggage undergoes image inspection at the baggage inspection area (3), - If the baggage is not rejected at the baggage inspection area, the person shall pick up their baggage at the baggage claim area (6), - If the baggage is rejected at the baggage inspection station (3), the person may go to a follow-up inspection location (7) which has at least one follow-up inspection station (70, 71) accessible from both sides for manual follow-up inspection, wherein the follow-up inspection station (70, 71) is accessible on one side to security inspection system personnel and on the other side to the owner of the rejected baggage. - The luggage rack (2) loaded with luggage is transported from the luggage storage area (1) via the luggage inspection area (3) to the luggage pick-up area (6) or the follow-up inspection area (7), and the empty luggage rack (2) is transported back to the luggage storage area (1). - After the manual inspection of the baggage, the person goes from the follow-up inspection area (70, 71) to the assigned retrieval area (72, 73) and empties the luggage rack (2). A security inspection method characterized in that the person's luggage rack (2) loaded with luggage is transferred from the follow-up inspection station (70, 71) to the assigned retrieval station (72, 73), and the transfer of the new luggage rack (2) loaded with luggage to the follow-up inspection station (70, 71) is performed regardless of whether the assigned retrieval station (72, 73) is occupied by the luggage rack (2).

15. The security inspection method according to claim 14, characterized in that at each storage facility (1a, 1b, 1c), the person's personal identifier is detected by a first identification device (10), and the person's personal identifier is linked by a data processing device (11) to the luggage rack (2) where the person's luggage is located.

16. The security inspection method according to claim 15, characterized in that at each follow-up inspection station (70, 71), the personal identifier of the person is detected by a third identification device (78), and then the cargo bed (2) linked to the person is made available at the follow-up inspection stations (70, 71).

17. The security inspection method according to claim 16, characterized in that at each retrieval point (72, 73), the personal identifier of the person is detected by a fourth identification device (82), and the cargo bed (2) linked to the person is transferred from the follow-up inspection point (70, 71) to the retrieval point (72, 73).

18. The security inspection method according to claim 17, characterized in that the process of emptying the loading platform (2) at the loading area (72, 73) is automatically terminated and the loading platform (2) is removed and transported away, and a monitoring unit (83) detects the empty loading platform (2), a sensor unit is formed, and it is determined that there are no people at the loading area (72, 73).

Citation Information

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