Flexible Cargo Enclosure Vacuum Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cargo security systems face challenges in providing reliable, cost-effective, and easy-to-use tamper detection and security features, particularly for air cargo ULDs, due to high costs of radiation scanning equipment and limitations of existing vacuum-based detection methods that require extreme pressures, making them impractical for widespread use.
Innovation Solution
A flexible security enclosure system with a sealable vacuum port and additional sealable ports that create turbulent flow to dislodge trace substances, allowing for detection using ion mobility spectrometers, and maintaining a differential pressure within the enclosure to enhance detection capabilities while being cost-effective and easy to use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If radiation scanning technology is used to screen cargo containers, then detection capability is improved, but equipment cost and operator safety concerns worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces radiation-based detection systems with a vacuum-based mechanical system. Instead of using expensive and hazardous radiation scanning equipment, the invention uses a vacuum pump to create negative pressure inside a flexible enclosure, causing air to flow through the cargo. This mechanical approach eliminates the need for costly radiation equipment while maintaining detection capability through the movement of air and potential contaminants.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces air as an intermediary medium to carry potential contaminants from the cargo. By pumping vacuum through the flexible enclosure, air flows through the cargo and picks up any present substances, which are then captured in a collection chamber. This intermediary approach enables detection without direct exposure to hazardous materials or expensive radiation equipment.
2Measurement precision
If extreme vacuum pressure is applied to detect substances, then detection sensitivity is improved, but operational feasibility worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the vacuum pressure parameter to a practical range (negative pressure between 0.1-10 inches of mercury) that balances detection sensitivity with operational feasibility. Instead of requiring extreme vacuum pressures that are difficult to achieve and maintain, the system uses moderate negative pressure that can be generated by portable vacuum pumps, making the system easier to operate while still effective at detecting substances.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial vacuum pressure rather than extreme vacuum. By using moderate negative pressure (0.1-10 inches of mercury) rather than maximum possible vacuum, the system achieves sufficient detection sensitivity while maintaining operational feasibility. The air flow generated at these partial pressures is adequate to carry contaminants through the flexible enclosure and into the collection chamber.
3Reliability
If rigid container sealing is used, then security is improved, but adaptability to different cargo sizes worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a flexible enclosure made of flexible material that can conform to different cargo sizes and shapes. This flexible shell approach provides security through the same vacuum-based detection mechanism while adapting to various cargo configurations. The flexible material allows the enclosure to be customized to fit different container types and cargo volumes, eliminating the need for rigid standardized containers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a dynamic, adaptable enclosure design that can change its shape and configuration based on the cargo inside. The flexible material allows the enclosure to dynamically adjust to different cargo sizes and arrangements, maintaining security and detection capability across various scenarios. This dynamic adaptability contrasts with rigid containers that require standardized dimensions and configurations.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system effectively detects illicit substances and tampering attempts with reduced operational costs and ease of use, suitable for various cargo sizes, including large ULDs, by utilizing a flexible and impermeable enclosure with controlled pressure and turbulent flow to enhance detection sensitivity.
Implementation Method 1
A sealable vacuum port can be disposed on and through the body and can be configured to couple with a vacuum source for creating a vacuum within the internal environment
Implementation Method 2
One or more sealable ports can be disposed on and through the body, and can be positioned to cause a turbulent flow through a predetermined volume of the internal environment of the body when the vacuum source is applied
Implementation Method 3
One or more substance detectors, one or more substance collectors, or both can be positioned to intercept fluid flowing from the internal environment to an external environment outside the body
Implementation Method 4
The system effectively detects illicit substances and tampering attempts with reduced operational costs and ease of use, suitable for various cargo sizes, including large ULDs, by utilizing a flexible and impermeable enclosure with controlled pressure
Data Source
AI summary
A cargo shipment security system includes a flexible body configured to completely enclose and contain cargo within an internal environment having a predetermined pressure. The system includes a sealable vacuum port disposed on and through the body and configured to couple with a vacuum source for creating a vacuum within the internal environment. The system includes one or more sealable ports disposed on and through the body, positioned to cause a turbulent flow through a predetermined volume of the internal environment of the body when the vacuum source is applied at the vacuum port and fluid is caused to enter the internal environment. The system includes one or more detectors positioned to intercept fluid flowing from the internal environment to an external environment outside the body, in such a way as to enable detection of the presence of a substance exiting from the internal environment.