SciTransfer
MELCHIOR · Project

Privacy-Preserving Non-Contact Security Screening for Concealed Weapons and Contraband

otherPilotedTRL 8

Imagine a security scanner that can find hidden items without ever touching you or taking a picture of your body. It uses low-frequency sound waves and special sensors to 'feel' the difference between a human and a hidden object. It's like using a high-tech sonar to spot things hidden under clothes or inside the body without invading anyone's privacy.

By the numbers
15
consortium partners
9
countries involved
20%
industry ratio
The business problem

What needed solving

Security agencies struggle to detect contraband in body cavities and under clothes without violating privacy or risking staff safety through physical contact. Current imaging technologies often clash with intimacy protections and human rights regulations.

The solution

What was built

A series of blast-proof prototypes combining infrasound, mm-wave, and THz sensors, integrated into a cabin with automated disinfection and bio-aerosol sampling capabilities.

Audience

Who needs this

Customs and Border Protection AgenciesPrison and Correctional Facility OperatorsHigh-Security Event OrganizersAirport Security Providers
Business applications

Who can put this to work

Border Control & Customs
enterprise
Target: National Border Agency

If you are a border agency dealing with smuggling of drugs and weapons — this project developed blast-proof prototypes that detect concealed items without physical contact. This increases staff safety and improves the traveler experience by removing the need to undress.

Public Safety & Event Management
mid-size
Target: Stadium Security Firm

If you are a security firm dealing with mass event crowds — this project developed non-imaging interrogation technology that identifies illicit goods. This allows for fast screening in arenas while maintaining absolute respect for privacy.

Correctional Services
enterprise
Target: Prison Administration

If you are a prison administrator dealing with contraband entering facilities — this project developed a system using infrasound and mm-wave sensors. This provides a non-invasive way to detect hidden items in body cavities.

Frequently asked

Quick answers

What is the cost or price of the system?

Based on available project data, specific pricing or cost details for the prototypes are not provided.

Can this be deployed at an industrial scale?

The project aimed for TRL 7-8, demonstrating prototypes in operational environments such as EU external borders in Spain, Greece, Romania, and Finland, suggesting it is ready for scaling.

What is the IP or licensing status?

Based on available project data, specific patent or licensing terms are not mentioned, though the project involves 15 partners across 9 countries.

Does the system comply with safety regulations?

Yes, the project specifically mentions that the CE mark according to EU safety directives will be applied and blast tests were conducted according to ASIAD regulations.

How is the system integrated into existing workflows?

The technology is integrated into a bio-safe blast-proof cabin equipped with a Counterfog disinfection system and a Bioaerosol Fast Sampler (BIAFTS).

Consortium

Who built it

The consortium is well-balanced for technology transfer, consisting of 15 partners across 9 countries. With a 20% industry ratio (3 industrial partners, including 3 SMEs), the project bridges the gap between academic research (4 universities, 4 research centers) and commercial application, ensuring that the developed prototypes are grounded in operational needs.

How to reach the team

Contact Universidad de Alcala in Spain

Next steps

Talk to the team behind this work.

Contact us to explore licensing opportunities for the non-contact screening prototypes.