Global inspection method

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for inspecting an individual, comprising the following steps: - determining a category of the individual from a first, a second and a third category distinct from one another; and - depending on the category of the individual thus determined, implementing: - an inspection by generating a magnetic field and by emitting a radiant energy in order to form an electronic image when the individual belongs to the first category; - an inspection by generating a magnetic field only when the individual belongs to the second category, so that the individual transits into the system without stopping; and - non-inspection of the individual when the latter belongs to the third category, so that the individual transits into the detection system and is not inspected by the detection system.

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] TITLE: Universal Inspection Method

[0003] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0004] This presentation concerns detectors designed for detecting unauthorized objects or materials in a restricted access area. More specifically, it focuses on a detection system designed to inspect individuals entering or exiting a sensitive area, such as passengers before boarding at airports, in order to detect prohibited items concealed under clothing. Such systems notably eliminate the need for systematic pat-downs.

[0005] STATE OF THE ART

[0006] It now appears necessary to control with a high degree of reliability attempts to introduce or remove prohibited products, particularly weapons, into or out of a sensitive area.

[0007] The problem thus posed covers a very wide range of situations, which notably and but not limited to the attempt to introduce prohibited products into a protected area, such as an airport.

[0008] Various types of metal detectors exist. Generally, metal detectors are inductive. They consist of at least one transmitter coil and at least one receiver coil. The transmitter coil is powered by an alternating electric current. The receiver coil is designed to detect disturbances in the magnetic field generated by the transmitter coil due to the presence of a metallic object, such as the attenuation of the magnetic field amplitude or even a phase change in the signal, caused, for example, by eddy currents generated on the metallic object.

[0009] It has also been proposed to use body scanners to detect weapons, explosives, and other items concealed under the clothing of individuals entering a protected area. These scanners employ technologies based on detecting modulated radiation energies reflected or emitted by the bodies of the individuals being inspected. The radiation energies used include X-rays, microwaves (particularly millimeter waves), infrared light, terahertz waves, and ultrasound. These body scanners all operate on the principle of creating an electronic image of the individual through which the individual's clothing is transparent. This image is then displayed on a screen and viewed by an operator to determine if the individual is wearing a target item.To do this, the operator, who is trained in target object detection, must be able to determine whether the objects identified by the body scanner correspond to human anatomy, an authorized item such as a lighter, a tissue, or coins, or a target object such as a weapon or explosive. Alternatively, to respect the privacy of the individuals being inspected, the detection system may include software containing code instructions to automatically analyze the image, identify any anomalies, and display them on an avatar representing the person.

[0010] Some secure areas, particularly airports, require passengers to remove some of their clothing and accessories (including shoes, jackets, hats, watches, liquids, etc.) for separate inspection by X-ray scanner or similar device. This procedure increases the sensitivity of the detection system used for passenger screening without triggering alarms due to the presence of metallic or non-metallic objects that are permitted in the secure area. However, this procedure significantly slows down passenger screening due to the time required to undress. Therefore, some airports have decided to simplify the screening process for certain passengers who meet specific criteria and have pre-registered.Specifically, for these pre-registered passengers, airports create special inspection zones where it is not necessary to remove clothing and accessories. The detection methods of the screening systems are modified in these special inspection zones to allow the passage of items such as watches, belts, or shoes that would otherwise trigger an alarm in a standard screening system. The inspection speed for these pre-registered passengers is therefore faster, as they can be inspected directly without undressing, while the standard inspection zones are less crowded.

[0011] Similarly, some passengers simply cannot undergo standard or modified screening (for pre-registered passengers), whether with an inductive or body scanner, particularly if they are wheelchair users or wear life-support electronic devices. These passengers must then bypass the scanners and undergo a manual search.

[0012] Thus, these three types of passengers are inspected using different methods. However, some protected areas do not have enough space to accommodate separate detection zones, or have a limited number of flights per day that does not justify multiple teams of security officers.

[0013] EXPOSED

[0014] One aim of the invention is to provide a solution for detection adapted to the individuals to be inspected, with a reduced size to allow its application in limited spaces, and which can be implemented by a limited number of operators (security agents).

[0015] To this end, a method for inspecting an individual according to claim 1 and an inspection system according to claim 13 are proposed according to a first aspect. Embodiments of the inspection method and the inspection system are defined in the dependent claims.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the inspection process determines a category of the individual from among a first, second, or third category, and the dual-technology detection system is configured to operate according to a first, second, or third operating mode, in which:

[0017] - the first mode of operation includes the implementation of a first detection technology for the detection of a target object;

[0018] - The second operating mode involves using a second detection technology, separate from the first detection technology, to detect a target object; and

[0019] - the third mode of operation includes the absence of detection by means of the first and second technologies.

[0020] The inspection process includes:

[0021] - an inspection step of the individual using the detection system operating according to the first mode of operation and the second mode of operation when the individual belongs to the first category; and

[0022] - an inspection step of the individual using the detection system operating according to the first mode of operation or the second mode of operation when the individual belongs to the second category; and

[0023] - an inspection step of the individual using the detection system operating according to the third mode of operation when the individual belongs to the third category.

[0024] Some preferred but not limiting characteristics of the inspection process according to the first aspect are the following, taken individually or in combination

[0025] - the first mode of operation includes the generation of a magnetic field, the acquisition of electrical signals representative of the magnetic field and the analysis of the electrical signals to detect the presence of a metallic object;

[0026] - The second mode of operation involves the emission of radiant energy in order to produce an electronic image

[0027] - the third mode of operation includes the absence of generation of a magnetic field and emission of radiant energy;

[0028] - when the individual belongs to the second category, the detection system operates according to the first mode of operation;

[0029] - the inspection process also includes a preliminary step of classifying the individual into one of three categories;

[0030] - the classification step is carried out by an operator;

[0031] - the classification step is carried out automatically by reading a machine-readable data code;

[0032] - Individuals belonging to the second category are pre-registered, the inspection process including a preliminary step of recording the characteristics of these individuals;

[0033] - the inspection procedure further includes a manual inspection step by an operator when the detection system is operating in the third mode; and / or

[0034] - The first operating mode is executed by default.

[0035] According to a second aspect, a dual-technology detection system is proposed, configured to operate in a first, second, or third operating mode, the detection system comprising:

[0036] - a gantry comprising two side panels configured to define a transit channel;

[0037] - the first means of detection housed in the side panels and configured to execute a first mode of operation of the detection system;

[0038] - Second detection means, distinct from the first detection means, housed in the side panels and configured to perform a second operating mode of the detection system; and

[0039] - a processing unit configured for:

[0040] - send instructions to the first and second detection means so as to execute the first and second operating modes;

[0041] - send instructions to the first or second detection means so as to execute the first or second mode of operation;

[0042] - execute the third operating mode by disabling the first and second detection methods, and

[0043] - When the first and / or second detection methods detect a target object, send instructions to generate an alert. Some preferred but not exhaustive characteristics of the detection system according to the second aspect are as follows, taken individually or in combination:

[0044] - the first means of detection include an inductive metal detector comprising a transmitter assembly configured to emit a magnetic field, a receiver assembly configured to generate electrical signals representative of disturbances of the magnetic field by a metallic object, and a central unit configured to deduce the presence of a metallic object;

[0045] - the second means of detection include a body scanner comprising at least one transmitting antenna configured to emit radiant energy, at least one receiving antenna configured to receive reflected energy and a central unit configured to deduce an electronic image of the individual;

[0046] - the detection system further includes a selector configured to select at least one of the first, second, and third operating modes; and / or

[0047] - in which the processing unit is further configured to generate an avatar and represent on this avatar the result of the execution of the first and / or second mode of operation.

[0048] DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0049] Other features, purposes and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description, which is purely illustrative and not limiting, and which should be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings on which:

[0050] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an example of a detection system conforming to one embodiment;

[0051] Figure 2 is a schematic and cross-sectional view of the example detection system in Figure 1;

[0052] Figure 3 is a schematic view of an example screen embodiment that can be implemented in a detection system conforming to one embodiment; and

[0053] Figure 4 is a flowchart comprising steps of an inspection process conforming to an embodiment.

[0054] Across all figures, similar elements bear identical references.

[0055] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0056] To enable the appropriate detection of individuals in a confined space manageable by a single security officer, this document proposes an inspection method using a dual-technology detector. In this method, detection means 3 and 4 are selectively activated depending on the type of individual being inspected. The following section describes the detection system 1 and the inspection method for a dual-technology detection system 1 comprising inductive detection means 3 and a body scanner with microwave antennas. However, this is not exhaustive; any detection means can be implemented within the scope of this document, including, but not limited to, X-rays, infrared light, terahertz waves, or ultrasound.

[0057] The dual-technology detection system 1 comprises an integrated gantry 2 housing a continuous or pulsed wave inductive metal detector 3 and a body scanner 4. The inductive metal detector 3 and the body scanner 4 are thus both integrated into the same structure, which reduces the overall size of the system 1. Furthermore, by integrating the inductive metal detector 3 and the body scanner 4 into the same gantry 2, the inductive metal detector 3 and the body scanner 4 are monolithic with each other, thus eliminating any risk of relative movement between these two devices, which greatly improves the stability of the detection system 1 and their electromagnetic compatibility.

[0058] The gantry 2 comprises side panels 5 that are substantially symmetrical about a plane P and configured to define a transit channel 6 between an entrance and an exit of the gantry for a person being inspected. The side panels 5 can be mechanically connected by a ceiling and / or a platform 20 so as to be monolithic or separate and distinct.

[0059] Each panel 5 has an inner face 7 oriented towards the transit channel 6, which together define an entrance to the channel 6 at one end of the panels 5 and an exit at the opposite end. The channel 6 is a transit channel, meaning that the entrance and exit of the gantry 2 are separate. Therefore, the individual passes through the gantry 2 without turning around during the inspection.

[0060] The panels 5 successively comprise a first portion 8 which houses the inductive metal detector 3 and a second portion 9 which houses the body scanner 4. In one embodiment, the first portion 8 is located on the side of the entrance of the channel 6 while the second portion extends between the first portion and the exit of the channel 6. An individual passing through the gate 2 therefore passes successively in front of the inductive metal detector 3 and then the body scanner 4. Alternatively, the body scanner 4 can be located near the entrance of the gate 2 and the inductive metal detector 3 between the body scanner 4 and the exit of the gate.

[0061] In one embodiment, the internal faces 7 of the panels 5 are substantially flat and parallel to each other. Alternatively, the internal faces 7 of the panels 5 may be flat and parallel in the first portion 9 and curved in the second portion 10, as detailed in document WO 2021 / 099217. This is, however, only one non-limiting embodiment.

[0062] The inductive metal detector 3

[0063] As is known per se, the inductive metal detector 3 comprises a transmitter assembly 10 and a receiver assembly 11. The transmitter assembly 10 includes at least one transmitter coil housed in the first panel 5 and configured to emit a magnetic field. The receiver assembly 11 includes at least one receiver coil housed in the second panel 5, which is configured to detect disturbances in the magnetic field due to metallic objects. Finally, the system 1 includes analysis means 12 configured to analyze the signals from the receiver coils 11 to detect the presence of metallic objects carried by an individual passing through the channel 6 formed between the two side panels 5.

[0064] In one embodiment, the transmitting coils 10 and receiving coils 11 cover the entire height of the side panels 5. They can be configured in many known ways, such as those used today in conventional metal detectors. Their operation is also conventional. Therefore, the structure and operation of the transmitting coils 10 and receiving coils 11 will not be described in detail hereafter. It should be noted, however, that each transmitting coil 10 or receiving coil 11 can be formed by several separate windings whose relative distribution along the height of the side panels 5 is adapted to optimize detection and is controlled by the analysis means 12, optionally via a transmitting and receiving interface, to emit alternating inductive fields over a frequency range and receive all of these alternating inductive fields over said frequency range, respectively.The transmitter coils 10 and receiver coils 11 comprise at least three coils (namely at least two transmitter coils 10 and at least one receiver coil 11, or at least one transmitter coil 10 and at least two receiver coils 11) and are distributed over the height of the side panels 5, thus enabling inspection over the entire height of the individual and the possibility of determining the height at which the target object was detected by the inductive metal detector 3.

[0065] In one embodiment, the metal-detecting inductive fields generated by the emitter coils 10 and receiver coils 11 are in the frequency range between 70 Hz and 50 kHz, preferably between 100 Hz and 50 kHz.

[0066] To avoid electromagnetic interference that may be generated by the body scanner 4, the system 1 may further include a shield 16 positioned between the inductive metal detector 3 and the body scanner 4. Reference may be made to the dual-technology detection system described in document WO 2021 / 099217 for further details concerning the inductive metal detector 3, and in particular the shield 16 and the configuration of the coils 10, 11.

[0067] The Body Scanner 4

[0068] The body scanner 4 includes at least one antenna 13 configured to emit radiant energy, preferably microwaves such as millimeter waves, X-rays, terahertz waves, etc. In one embodiment, the body scanner 4 includes an array of antennas 13 positioned in at least one of the panels 5, preferably each panel 5, near its inner face 7. The antenna array 13 thus substantially conforms to the shape of the associated inner face 7.

[0069] In one embodiment, the antennas 13 emit millimeter waves. Millimeter waves are suitable for detecting metallic and non-metallic objects, such as ceramic objects. Furthermore, air and other materials, such as those used for clothing, are transparent to these radiations. It follows that millimeter waves can be used to detect objects concealed under clothing. In operation, an inspected person is exposed to millimeter wave pulses generated by at least one of the antennas 13, preferably several antennas 13. These waves interact with the person's body, their clothing, and any concealed objects that the person may have hidden under their clothing. This interaction modulates the energy of the waves, which, once reflected, return to the antenna(s) 13, which act as receivers.The reflected energy from each part of the person is then analyzed to generate an electronic image of the person inspected, on which their clothes are essentially transparent.

[0070] The system 1 also includes analysis means 14 configured to receive a signal representative of the energy reflected and measured by the antennas 13, where appropriate via a network interface, and to deduce the electronic image.

[0071] In one embodiment, each side panel 5 comprises a plurality of antennas 13 arranged over all or part of its height, and in any case over a height of at least 170 cm, preferably at least 180 cm, for example over its entire height, in order to produce an electronic image encompassing the whole body of the individual.

[0072] In one embodiment, the detection system 1 further comprises at least one processing unit 15 configured to process the detection signals generated by the inductive metal detector 3 and the body scanner 4. Optionally, the processing unit 15 comprises the analysis means 12 of the inductive metal detector 3 and the analysis means 14 of the body scanner 4 and is configured to generate a single output image from the signals generated by the inductive metal detector 3 and the electronic image created by the body scanner 4. Optionally, the system 1 further comprises at least one display 21, 22, configured to display the single image thus obtained. The display 21, 22 may be mounted on the gantry 2, for example at the output end of one of the side panels 5, or alternatively located remotely and communicate via a wireless or wired interface with the processing unit 15.

[0073] In a first embodiment, the system 1 includes, for example, a first processing unit 15 associated with a first screen configured to generate a single output image from signals generated by the inductive metal detector 3 and the electronic image created by the body scanner 4 of one of the panels 5, and a second processing unit 15 associated with a second screen configured to generate a single output image from signals generated by the inductive metal detector 3 and the electronic image created by the body scanner 4 of the other of the panels 5. Alternatively, the same processing unit 15 can be configured to generate the two electronic images.

[0074] In one embodiment, the coils of the transmitter assembly 10 and the receiver assembly 11 of the inductive metal detector 3 and the antennas 13 of the body scanner 4 can be rigidly fixed to the same base 17 in each panel 5. Reference may be made to the dual-technology detection system described in document WO 2021 / 099217 for further details concerning the configuration of these bases 17.

[0075] As is known in itself, system 1 further includes a power supply and UAI interface unit connected to the electrical network and, where applicable, to a communication network.

[0076] In one embodiment, system 1 further includes means for determining the height (size) of the individual.

[0077] In a first embodiment, the means for determining size include a photoelectric barrier comprising several photoelectric transducers distributed over the height of the gantry 2 and means for processing the signals generated by the photoelectric transducers to deduce the height of the individual, which can be integrated into the processing unit 15. The photoelectric barrier can, for example, be arranged at the entrance of the system 1, on either side of the transit channel 6, and extend over all or part of the height of the gantry 2. For example, the photoelectric transducers can be arranged between a lower limit extending at least 50 cm from the ground, for example from 80 cm from the ground, and an upper limit extending about 200 cm from the ground.

[0078] Transducers may include optical emitters (including light-emitting diodes (LEDs) or laser diodes, configured to generate a light beam, usually infrared) and optical receivers (including photodiodes, phototransistors, etc.), positioned opposite the optical emitters and configured to convert the light beam into an electrical signal.

[0079] The signal processing means for the photoelectric barrier can be integrated into the processing unit 15, or separate and transmit the signals to the processing unit 15.

[0080] When the individual passes through system 1, only the light beam from the photoelectric transducers arranged at a height less than or equal to the height of the individual is interrupted by the individual passing through system 1: the processing unit 15 can therefore deduce the height of the individual with a margin of tolerance equal to the distance between two adjacent transducers.

[0081] This method of height determination has the advantage of utilizing a device typically found in a detection system 1. Specifically, the generation of the magnetic field by the metal detector can, in certain configurations, be triggered by the individual's entry into the portal 2, which can be detected by a photoelectric barrier. Furthermore, this detection method does not require the individual to be stationary in the detection system 1 and therefore does not slow down the inspection process. Finally, it is economical in terms of energy consumption and data processing, as determining the individual's height is simply linked to identifying the transducers that detected the individual's presence in the portal 2.

[0082] The accuracy obtained for the individual's height depends on the spacing between two successive transducers. For example, the transducers can be spaced less than or equal to 5 cm apart.

[0083] In one embodiment, the means for determining height include an image acquisition device configured to capture an image of the individual, such as a camera, and processing means configured to determine the individual's height from the image. The image processing means may be integrated into the processing unit 15, or separate and transmit signals to the processing unit 15.

[0084] In this embodiment, the means for determining size are configured to acquire an image of the individual and process this image to deduce the individual's size. The image acquisition device may include a visible-spectrum camera configured to produce a visible image of the individual. To this end, it includes a visible-spectrum detection chip comprising a pixel array and an optical system configured to focus visible electromagnetic radiation onto the visible pixel array. Each pixel in the array is configured to generate an electrical signal based on visible radiation entering through the optical system during image acquisition. This electrical signal is transmitted to a processor (or microprocessor) in the visible-spectrum detection chip, which converts it into a corresponding color.The processor generates a visible image comprising a plurality of visible image pixels, each visible image pixel being representative of the visible radiation received by a corresponding visible pixel of the matrix.

[0085] The pixels of the visible spectrum detection chip are configured to detect visible radiation with a wavelength greater than or equal to 0.4 micrometers and less than or equal to 0.7 micrometers. Each visible pixel can have a maximum width greater than or equal to one micrometer and less than or equal to thirty micrometers, depending on the desired overall resolution of the visible spectrum camera.

[0086] The use of a visible spectrum camera for determining the size of the individual also has the advantage of taking advantage of a device usually present in a detection system in which the operator is at a distance from the inductive detector 3. Indeed, in order to allow the operator to identify the individual who triggered an alarm, conventional systems acquire an image in the visible spectrum and display it on a screen made available to the operator.

[0087] Alternatively, the image acquisition device may include an infrared camera configured to create an electronic image of the individual. This includes an infrared detection chip comprising a processor (or microprocessor) and a pixel array, and an optical system configured to focus infrared energy onto the pixel array. Each pixel in the array is configured to generate an electrical signal based on the infrared energy entering through the optical system during the acquisition of the electronic image. This electrical signal is transmitted to the processor of the infrared detection chip, which converts it into a corresponding temperature value. The processor generates an electronic image comprising a plurality of image pixels, each image pixel representing the temperature value received by a corresponding pixel in the array.

[0088] The pixels of the infrared detection chip are configured to detect infrared energy with a wavelength greater than or equal to eight micrometers and less than or equal to fourteen micrometers. Each infrared pixel can have a maximum width greater than or equal to five micrometers and less than or equal to one hundred micrometers, depending on the overall resolution of the desired infrared camera.

[0089] The resolution intervals described above for the image acquisition device (whether in the visible or infrared spectrum) make it possible to obtain an image of the individual with a tolerance of a few millimeters, which is sufficient to determine the size of the individual and scale the avatar to represent the Z zone in which the target object detected by the inductive detector 3 is located.

[0090] The image processing means, typically processing unit 15, can then process the resulting image and deduce the individual's height. To do this, processing unit 15 determines, within the image, the boundary corresponding to the top of the individual's head.

[0091] Alternatively, the processing unit 15 can detect the individual's face or the top of their head using the Viola and Jones method (or integral image), which is a supervised learning process using a Haar feature cascade classifier. For more details on this method, see the paper by Paul Viola and Michael Jones, "Rapid Object Detection using a Boosted Cascade of Simple Features," 2001 IEEE Computer Society Conference on Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition. It should be understood that other methods can be used, such as Deep Learning methods employing a semantic segmentation classifier. See, in particular, the paper by Alex Krizhevsky, Ilya Stuskever, and Geoffroy E.Hinton, "ImageNet Classification with Deep Convolutional Neural Networks," or the article by Vijay Badrinarayanan, Alex Kendall, and Roberto Cipolla, "SegNet: A Deep Convolutional Encoder-Decoder Architecture for Image Segmentation," provide further details on the use of semantic segmentation classifiers. These methods can be used and combined as appropriate to increase the detection speed and accuracy of the desired features.

[0092] Knowing the position of the head or the top of the head in the image, the extrinsic parameters (three-dimensional position, orientation / angle of view) and intrinsic parameters (focal length, sensor size, pixel resolution) of the image acquisition device and the distance between the individual and the image acquisition device (for example by determining the position of the individual using presence sensors positioned in the gantry 2, typically photoelectric diodes distributed between the entrance and exit of the gantry, or using a known reference point included in the image) the processing unit 15 can then deduce the size of the individual.

[0093] The image acquisition device can be configured to acquire an image of the individual before entering the gantry 2 or during its transit through the gantry 2. For example, the image acquisition device can be fixed to the gantry 2, at a height, and oriented so that its field of vision encompasses all or part of the interior of the transit channel 6, and in any event at least an upper half of the transit channel 6, in order to ensure that the acquired image includes the upper part of the individual, regardless of its size.

[0094] The use of an image acquisition device (visible or infrared spectrum) has the advantage of not requiring the individual to be immobilized in the detection system 1 and therefore does not slow down the inspection flow.

[0095] According to yet another variant, system 1 can use the body scanner 4 to determine the individual's size. Specifically, when the individual passes through the system

[0096] 1. The body scanner 4 can produce an electronic image of the individual. The processing unit 15 can then deduce the individual's height from this image.

[0097] Each side panel 5 then comprises a plurality of antennas 13 arranged along all or part of its height, and in any case over a height of at least 170 cm, preferably at least 180 cm, typically about 200 cm, in order to produce an electronic image encompassing the entire body of the individual. The antennas 13 can emit pulses or trains of microwave waves, so that all or part of the surface of the panels 5 emits microwave waves simultaneously. Alternatively, the antennas 13 can perform a scan of the individual, over all or part of the height of the panels 5.

[0098] The processing unit 15 is then configured to receive a signal representative of the energy reflected and measured by the antennas 13, possibly via a network interface, and to deduce the electronic image. More precisely, each receiving antenna 13 transmits information about the reflected microwave signals (amplitude, phase, frequency) to the processing unit 15. Knowing the position of the antennas 13, the processing unit 15 processes these signals conventionally (Fourier transform, SAR algorithms) to deduce the size of the individual.

[0099] For example, processing unit 15 can search for a geometric pattern in the electronic image to identify the Z-zone corresponding to the upper boundary of the individual (i.e., the top of the head). Searching for geometric patterns in the electronic image can be performed, in particular, through image processing.

[0100] Alternatively, the processing unit 15 can determine the position of the top of the individual's head by performing a signal scan over all or part of the height of the gantry.

[0101] 2. The scanning can notably be carried out by transmission, by each individual antenna 13 acting as a transmitter, of a microwave signal, these individual microwave signals being received by individual antennas acting as receivers. In this embodiment, the microwave signals are preferably transmitted by the transmitting antennas 13 towards receiving antennas 13 located at the same height on the opposite panel 5, i.e., in the same horizontal plane. The scanning of the microwave signals is carried out over the height of the system 1, preferably starting with the antennas 13 located in the upper part of the system 1, for example near the upper edge of the panels 5 (where applicable, near the ceiling), and then continuing progressively downwards towards the lower edge of the panels 5 (where applicable, down to the platform 20 of the gantry 2 or to the ground).The antennas 13 can emit signals one after the other, or alternatively in groups of antennas 13 or in lines of antennas 13 (the lines being substantially parallel to the ground or the platform 20). The waves emitted by the transmitting antennas 13 of the first panel 5 that interact with the individual's body do not reach the receiving antennas 13 mounted on the second panel 5 and are received by antennas 13 mounted in the first panel 5. The processing unit 15 can therefore deduce the individual's height by identifying the antennas 13 that have not received the microwaves, which are located highest in the second panel 5, and / or the antennas 13 located in the first panel 5 that have received the microwaves reflected by the individual.

[0102] The determination of the position of the top of the head is then carried out by the processing unit 15 from the signals received by the receiving antennas, whose position relative to the panels 5 is known.

[0103] Such a top-to-bottom scan allows for a faster determination of the upper limit of the individual. The scan can therefore be performed on only a portion of the height of panel 5.

[0104] As we will see later, in the first operating mode of system 1, an electronic image is taken for the inspection of the individual: it is therefore sufficient to use this electronic image to deduce the individual's height. In the second operating mode, however, the inspection is carried out only using the inductive metal detector 3. In this case, a "secondary" electronic image can be taken, not for inspection, but to determine the individual's height. Advantageously, since no inspection is performed, this secondary electronic image can be taken very quickly, without requiring the individual to be immobilized in system 1. The secondary electronic image is then less precise than in the first operating mode but sufficient to determine the individual's height.For example, a scan or pulse frequency of between one and ten scans / pulses per second is sufficient to obtain information about the size of the individual that is accurate enough to deduce the position of the target object relative to their body.

[0105] The individual's height is then used to determine the position of a target object detected by the inductive metal detector 3 on the individual's body. As detailed above, an inductive metal detector 3 is indeed capable of determining the height at which the target object is located. However, depending on the size of the individual being inspected (child / average-sized adult / tall adult), the same height may correspond to the individual's shoulders, torso, or hips. In order to represent the position of the target object on the avatar, the processing unit 15 therefore uses the individual's height to scale the avatar relative to the individual's actual height and deduces the position of the target object on the individual's body. The processing unit 15 can then transfer this position to the avatar displayed for the operator.

[0106] Alternatively, system 1 may include a visual alarm, mounted on the panels 5 at the gate exit, and configured to indicate the height of the target object detected by the inductive metal detector 3. For example, the visual alarm may comprise a plurality of LEDs distributed along the height of the gate 2, with the processing unit 15 configured to activate the LEDs positioned at the height corresponding to the receiver assembly 11 that has detected a disturbance in the magnetic field during the passage of the individual. In this alternative, it is therefore not necessary for system 1 to position the target object detected by the inductive metal detector on the avatar, since the position of the target object is indicated by the visual alarm.

[0107] The inspection process

[0108] As mentioned above, the inspection process uses detection methods selectively depending on the category of individual being inspected. To this end, detection system 1 has three operating modes, namely:

[0109] - a first mode of operation corresponding to an inspection by first means of detection, here the inductive metal detector 3, followed by an inspection by second means of detection, here the body scanner 4;

[0110] - a second operating mode corresponds to an inspection using only the first detection methods, here the inductive metal detector 3; and

[0111] - a third mode of operation corresponds to the absence of inspection by these means of detection, here by the inductive metal detector 3 and the body scanner 4.

[0112] To do this, the individual to be inspected is classified into one of at least three categories (step S1). Note that the individual can only belong to one of these three categories.

[0113] In an example implementation, the first category corresponds to individuals who must undergo a standard inspection. This therefore represents the majority of individuals who need to be inspected.

[0114] The second category may include pre-registered individuals. Pre-registered individuals are those who have previously provided a list of predetermined information (such as details of their identity) and / or meet a list of predetermined conditions (such as nationality, occupation, etc.) and have completed a pre-registration process with a competent authority. An example of pre-registration is the "PreCheck®" system offered by the TSA (Transportation Security Administration) in the United States.

[0115] The second category may also include individuals who cannot be inspected by the body scanner 4, for example young children - for whom an electronic image does not allow optimal inspection given their size - or adults carrying young children in their arms, thus masking a large part of the surface to be inspected and therefore necessarily reducing the effectiveness of the inspection by a body scanner 4.

[0116] The third category may include individuals with reduced mobility, for example in wheelchairs, or individuals with electronic devices, including active implantable medical devices such as a pacemaker or any other device that presents a risk of damage in a magnetic field or microwave field.

[0117] The classification of the individual (step S1) can be carried out manually, for example by an operator. An operator can easily determine whether an individual belongs to the second or third category, for example, by the individual presenting appropriate documentation (pre-registration certificate or special transport ticket for the second category, medical documentation for the third category), or visually because the individual is a young child or an adult carrying a small child. In the absence of appropriate documentation, the operator may automatically classify the individual in the first category.

[0118] Alternatively, information relating to the individual's category can be embedded in a machine-readable code (such as a QR code or barcode) and / or integrated into their travel ticket, so that a simple electronic check of the code or ticket determines the individual's category. The S1 classification step is then automatic.

[0119] The way in which an individual will be inspected depends on the category to which they belong. The inspection process may, in particular:

[0120] - inspect the individual using the detection system 1 operating according to the first mode of operation (successive inspection by the inductive metal detector 3 then by the body scanner 4) when the individual belongs to the first category (step S2);

[0121] - inspect the individual using detection system 1 operating in the second mode (inspection by inductive metal detector 3) when the individual belongs to the second category (step S3); and / or

[0122] - inspect the individual using detection system 1 operating according to the third mode of operation when the individual belongs to the third category (step S4).

[0123] More specifically, when the individual belongs to the first category, the inspection procedure implemented is standard. For this, the operator initiates a standard inspection sequence to trigger the first operating mode of the detection system 1, for example, by pressing a dedicated mechanical button on the detection system 1 or on a dedicated area 21a of the screen 21 corresponding to this inspection sequence. Alternatively, the standard inspection sequence can be initiated automatically by the processing unit 15, particularly when the classification step is performed automatically. According to yet another alternative, the first operating mode of the detection system 1 is executed by default by the processing unit 15.

[0124] During this standard inspection sequence, the individual passes through the passage channel 6 of the portal and undergoes inspection by the inductive metal detector 3 (first operating mode) and the body scanner 4 (second operating mode), in order to ensure the detection of any target object, regardless of the object's type (metallic, dielectric), its volume, or its position (on the individual's surface or in body cavities). Preferably, the detection system 1 first includes the inductive metal detector 3, at the entrance of the passage, followed by the body scanner 4, so that the individual enters the channel 6, passing between the coils 10 and 11, and then positions themselves facing one of the inner walls 7 of the side panels 5, opposite the microwave antennas 13. It is indeed preferable for the individual to be in a static position during the emission of microwaves in order to generate a clearer electronic image.On the contrary, since the detection carried out by the inductive metal detector 3 is based on the variation of the magnetic field, it is not necessary for the individual to stop in front of the coils 10, 11. The inspection by the inductive metal detector 3 is therefore carried out during the movement of the individual, when he passes in front of the inductive metal detector 3 located at the entrance of the portal 2, before stopping in front of the internal walls 7 of the side panels 5.

[0125] During the standard inspection sequence, the processing unit 15 therefore activates the coils 10, 11 in order to generate a magnetic field and detect the presence of a metallic object at the entrance of the individual into the passage channel 6, as well as the microwave antennas 13 in order to produce an electronic image.

[0126] In one embodiment, the processing unit 15 sends instructions to the inductive metal detector 3 to generate a magnetic field as soon as the standard inspection sequence is initiated (by the operator or automatically), or as soon as the presence of the individual in the passage channel 6 is detected (typically, using the photoelectric barrier forming a presence detector). When the first operating mode (inductive metal detection) is executed by default, the magnetic field is generated as soon as the individual is detected in the passage channel 6.

[0127] Optionally, during inspection by the inductive metal detector 3, the antennas 13 can be deactivated, so as not to emit microwave waves during the acquisition of electrical signals by the coils 10, 11.

[0128] After inspection by the inductive metal detector 3, the processing unit 15 sends instructions to the body scanner 4 to create an electronic image of the individual. Optionally, during the emission of microwaves by the antennas 13, the coils 10, 11 can be deactivated. Inspection by the body scanner 4 can be performed automatically after detection by the inductive metal detector 3 (or after a predetermined delay following the initiation of the standard inspection sequence), or upon activation of the second operating mode by the operator. For example, the operator can wait until the person has positioned themselves correctly with respect to the panels 5 (typically, facing the side panels 5) before triggering the scanning of the individual by the microwave antennas 13, notably using the dedicated button on the detection system or by pressing a dedicated area 21b on the screen 21.Alternatively, the scanning triggering can be automatic, for example using a camera configured to detect the correct positioning of the individual in relation to the internal walls 7 of the side panels 5, or even to guide the individual in order to improve their position in relation to the internal walls 7.

[0129] If necessary, the processing unit 15 can generate an avatar 23 as illustrated in Figure 3) and represent on this avatar 23 both the result of the analysis of the signals generated by the coils of the metal detector and the electronic image obtained using the antennas of the body scanner.

[0130] When the processing unit 15 detects a target object (whether through signals generated by the coils or the antennas), it sends instructions to generate an alarm. For example, the area where a target object has been detected by the inductive metal detector 3 can be highlighted in relation to the rest of the body (for example, by coloring only the corresponding part of the avatar 23 in red). To do this, the processing unit 15 determines the individual's height using the height determination means, deduces the position of the target object detected by the metal detector relative to the individual's body, and displays this position on the avatar.

[0131] If the inductive metal detector 3 (and, where applicable, the body scanner 4) does not detect any object, the avatar 23 can also be colored uniformly green (as illustrated, for example, in Figure 3). Furthermore, the shape of the target object detected by the body scanner 4 can be represented on the avatar.

[0132] If detected by detection system 1, the individual can then be manually inspected by an operator (step S5).

[0133] When the individual belongs to the second category, the processing unit 15 performs a simplified inspection sequence during which the individual to be inspected passes through the transit channel without stopping. For this, the second operating mode of the detection system 1 is triggered by the operator (by pressing a second dedicated mechanical button on the detection system 1 or on a second dedicated area 21b of the screen 21 corresponding to this inspection sequence) or automatically by the processing unit 15, particularly when the classification step is performed automatically.

[0134] In one embodiment, the simplified inspection sequence implements inspection by the inductive metal detector 3. Indeed, this detection method is faster, since it does not require the individual to remain static between the side panels 5, and is very effective in detecting metallic objects.

[0135] During the simplified inspection sequence, the processing unit 15 activates the coils 10 and 11 to generate a magnetic field and detect the presence of a metallic object at the individual's entry into the passage channel. However, the processing unit 15 does not activate the microwave antennas 13 and does not acquire an electronic image for the inspection of the individual. As previously mentioned, in some embodiments, a secondary electronic image can instead be acquired to determine the height (size) of the individual and deduce the position of the detected target object on the individual's body, thus allowing the determination of the area of ​​the avatar in which to locate this target object.

[0136] In one embodiment, the processing unit 15 sends instructions to the inductive metal detector 3 to generate a magnetic field as soon as the simplified inspection sequence is initiated (by the operator or automatically), or as soon as the presence of the individual in the transit channel is detected (typically, using optical barriers forming presence detectors).

[0137] If necessary, the operator can force the processing unit 15 to implement this second detection mode by default, for example, for a specified duration, for a specified number of inspections, or until system 1 is restarted. In this case, the simplified inspection sequence can be initiated as soon as the individual is detected in the passage channel 6, without requiring any action from the operator. This configuration can be particularly useful when the operator knows that the next individuals to be inspected all belong to the second category, or when it is necessary to increase the inspection rate of individuals for a predetermined period.

[0138] In one embodiment, the sensitivity of the inductive metal detector 3 can be reduced during the simplified inspection sequence to limit false alarms that might be triggered by wearing a belt, shoes, etc. It should be noted that individuals in the second category can be pre-registered and authorized not to undress, unlike individuals in the first category.

[0139] If necessary, the processing unit 15 can generate an avatar 23 and represent on this avatar 23 the result of the analysis of the signals generated by the coils of the inductive metal detector 3 (or, if applicable, the antennas 13 of the body scanner 4, when the simplified inspection sequence implements only the second detection mode). To do this, as described previously, the processing unit determines the height (size) of the individual and deduces from this the area of ​​the avatar at which to position the target object detected by the coils 10, 11 of the inductive metal detector 3.

[0140] When the processing unit 15 detects a target object, it sends instructions to generate an alarm. For example, the area where a target object has been detected by the inductive metal detector 3 can be highlighted in relation to the rest of the body (for example, by coloring only the corresponding part of the avatar 23 red). Conversely, if the inductive metal detector 3 (and, if applicable, the body scanner) does not detect any object, the avatar 23 can also be colored uniformly green.

[0141] If detected by detection system 1, the individual can then be manually inspected by an operator (step S5).

[0142] When the individual belongs to the third category, the processing unit 15 executes a bypass sequence. For this, the third operating mode is triggered by the operator (by pressing a third dedicated mechanical button of the detection system 1 or on a third dedicated area 21c of the screen 21 corresponding to this bypass sequence) or automatically by the processing unit 15, in particular when the classification step is carried out automatically.

[0143] During the bypass sequence, the processing unit 15 deactivates the coils 10 and 11 and the microwave antennas 13. By deactivating, we mean that the coils 10 and 11 do not generate a magnetic field and that the antennas 13 do not emit radiant energy. The individual to be inspected then passes through the transit channel without stopping. In this way, the individual can cross the passage safely (particularly when wearing an electronic device) and without triggering an alarm (particularly when supported by a metal wheelchair). The individual can then be manually inspected by an operator (step S5).

[0144] If necessary, the operator can force the processing unit 15 to implement this third detection mode by default, for example, for a specified duration, for a specified number of inspections, or until system 1 is restarted. In this case, the simplified inspection sequence can be initiated as soon as the individual is detected in the passage channel 6, without requiring any action from the operator.

Claims

DEMANDS 1. Method of inspecting an individual using a dual-technology detection system (1) comprising a gantry formed of two side panels defining between them a transit channel between an entrance and an exit of the gantry (2), the inspection method comprising the following steps: determining a category of the individual from among a first, a second and a third category distinct from each other; and depending on the category of the individual thus determined, implementing an operating mode of the detection system (1), the operating mode being selected from: a first operating mode when the individual belongs to the first category, the first operating mode comprising successively an inspection by generating a magnetic field and by emitting radiant energy to produce an electronic image so as to detect a target object carried by the individual;a second mode of operation when the individual belongs to the second category, in which the individual passes through the detection system (1) without stopping in the transit channel (7), and includes an inspection by generating a magnetic field so as to detect a target object carried by the individual; and a third mode of operation, in which the individual passes through the detection system (1) without stopping in the transit channel (7) and is not inspected by the detection system, when the individual belongs to the third category.

2. A method according to claim 1, wherein the first mode of operation comprises the following successive substeps: inspection by generation of a magnetic field when the individual enters the detection system (1); positioning of the individual in the detection system, between the two side panels; triggering of the inspection by emission of radiant energy to produce the electronic image; generation of a representative avatar of the individual from the inspection by generation of a magnetic field and the electronic image, and when an alarm is triggered by the inspection by generation of a magnetic field and / or radiant energy, representation of a position of the target object on the avatar.

3. Method according to claim 2, further comprising steps of determining a size of the individual in order to position the target object detected by generating a magnetic field on the avatar.

4. A method according to claim 3, wherein the size of the individual is determined from a secondary electronic image made during the first or second mode of operation.

5. A method according to claim 4, wherein, when the second mode of operation is implemented, the size of the individual is determined in accordance with the following steps: scanning the radiant energy while the individual passes through the detection system (1) so as to obtain the electronic image; deduction from the secondary electronic image of the size of the individual; and deduction of the position of the target object from the size of the individual thus deduced.

6. A method according to claim 4, wherein, when the first mode of operation is implemented, the secondary electronic image used to determine the size of the individual corresponds to the electronic image produced during the inspection by radiant energy emission.

7. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the first mode of operation is executed by default.

8. A method according to claim 7, comprising a step of temporarily modifying the default operating mode in order to execute the second or third default operating mode.

9. Method according to claim 8, wherein, when the third mode of operation is executed, the method further comprises a step of determining the exit of the individual from the detection system so as to automatically return to the default detection mode when the individual exits the detection system (1).

10. Inspection method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the step (S1) of determining the category of the individual is carried out by an operator and / or automatically by reading a machine-readable data code.

11. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the individuals belonging to the second category are pre-registered, the inspection method comprising a prior step (S0) of recording characteristics of these individuals.

12. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, comprising a step (S5) of manual inspection by an operator when the detection system is operating according to the third mode of operation.

13. Integrated detection system (1) configured to inspect an individual according to any one of claims 1 to 12, the detection system comprising: a gantry (2) formed of two side panels defining between them a transit channel between an input and an output of the gantry; an inductive metal detector (3) integrated into the gantry comprising a transmitter assembly (10) configured to generate a magnetic field, a receiver assembly (11) configured to generate electrical signals representative of disturbances in the magnetic field by a metallic object, and a central unit (12) configured to deduce the presence of a metallic object; a body scanner (4) integrated into the gantry (2) and comprising at least one transmitting antenna (13) configured to emit radiated energy, at least one receiving antenna configured to receive reflected energy, and a central unit (14) configured to deduce an electronic image of the individual;and a processing unit (15) configured to: send instructions to the inductive metal detector (3) and the body scanner (4) to implement the first operating mode when the individual belongs to the first category; send instructions to the inductive metal detector (3) to implement the second operating mode when the individual belongs to the second category; and send no instructions to the inductive metal detector (3) or the body scanner (4) to implement the third operating mode when the individual belongs to the third category so as not to generate an alarm while the individual is passing through the detection system (1).

14. Detection system (1) according to claim 13, wherein the inductive metal detector (3) is positioned near the entrance of the detection system (1) and the body scanner (4) is disposed between the inductive metal detector (3) and the exit of the gantry (2).

15. Detection system (1) according to any one of claims 13 and 14, further comprising a selector (21a, 21b, 21c) configured to select at least one of the first, second and third operating modes.

16. Detection system (1) according to claim 14, wherein the selector comprises a mechanical button or a dedicated area on a screen (21).

17. Detection system (1) according to claims 13 to 16, wherein the processing unit (15) is further configured to generate an avatar (23) and represent on this avatar (23) the result of the execution of the first and second operating modes.

18. System (1) according to claim 17, further comprising means for determining the size of the individual in order to position the target object detected by generating a magnetic field on the avatar.

19. System (1) according to claim 18, wherein the means for determining the size of the individual include the body scanner (4).

20. System (1) according to any one of claims 18 and 19, wherein the means for determining the size of the individual comprise a photoelectric barrier and / or an image acquisition device.

21. System (1) according to any one of claims 13 to 20, further comprising means for detecting the presence of the individual in the transit channel, for example a photoelectric barrier disposed at the entrance of the gantry (2).

Images