Based on results from the development process, a set of X-RAY TAGs were developed that allowed to address certain challenges, as text size, graphics, patterns, QR-codes and text in non-Latin letters.
In Autumn 2024 we had the chance to test these X-RAY TAGs under real-life conditions. They were placed in a suitcase and scanned at two different airports (BER and ZRH, both using Smiths Detection systems).
We’d like to thank the German border police and the Swiss Kantonspolizei for their kind support.
The objective of the experiment was to see if the X-RAY TAGs were visible in a suitcase packed with normal traveling items, and how background signals caused by other objects in the suitcase would influence their readability.
Here is the set of X-RAY TAGs used for the experiment:
And here a scan of the suitcase (EastPak Transit’R S cabin bag):
Organic matter, as clothing, shoes, or chocolate are displayed in orange, while iron-type metals, glass or ceramics items are displayed in shades of blue. Mixed materials, as electronics or cables are displayed in green. X-ray impermeable material as gold, lead or X-RAY TAGs are displayed in black.
You can see the X-RAY TAGs, but also the shoes, especially nails in the heel and a joint spring, that’s a steel bar, in the sole of the shoes. In addition, an USB charger and various cables. But also the steel parts of the mechanism and the attachment of the bars of the extendable handle. As the bars themselves are made of aluminum and they are nearly invisible. The glasses case at the bottom right is made of sheet steel, and therefore shines in blue.
The side view of the suit case can be found here.
The relevant image section has been enlarged on the luggage scanner display. The address X-RAY TAG remained clearly legible despite the background signal due to steel rail and nails.
Here in a bit more detail:
The test run demonstrates that:
- Suitable placement of the X-RAY TAGs in the suitcase is important to minimize interference signals.
- The tested size of the address tags appears to be sufficient, but they should not be smaller.
- To improve the legibility of ,X-RAY TAGs, using capital letters, as far as possible, may be helpful.
So here is the result when using capital letters:
