Embedded Search and ID Algorithms for Human Portable Radiation Detectors

Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI) proposes to develop, implement, and test algorithms and hardware to enhance pedestrian search for radioactive threats employing man-portable radiation detectors through the use of advanced search techniques enabled by smartphone technology. The proposed solution will add significant value to the search missions carried out by first responders, customs and border protection officers, or military personnel engaged in pedestrian searches for radiological threats. The algorithms will analyze data from smartphone sensors (e.g. gyroscope, magnetometer, and camera) in conjunction with gamma spectra collected by a medium-resolution detector to determine and communicate to the user estimates of source location. The threat localization approach will be enhanced through the use of spectroscopic detection and identification information generated by advanced algorithms. These algorithms have been demonstrated to significantly improve detection sensitivity while reducing operational false alarms using low integration time spectra. The functionality will provide a complete search capability to the end users resulting in source localization inside a 100 m x 100 m search area within 10 minutes of entry. A nominal 1 mCi 137Cs threat will be localized to within 2 meters after 1-2 minutes from detection. The Phase II program will build upon algorithms supporting a systematic localization methodology developed and tested during the Phase I program. The Phase I system concept will be formulated into detailed software/hardware designs. The search algorithms will be embedded as part of a prototype Smart Hand Held Detector (SHHD) to facilitate the optimization of search methods and to enable testing and evaluation. The Phase II base program will result in a TRL 4 brassboard prototype that will be extensively tested in relevant environments. In Year 2 of the effort, independent testing by third parties will be used as a means to evaluate system performance and to collect user feedback. The feedback will be incorporated in a review of the prototype design and CONOPS, which will be modified as necessary. At the end of the successful program, PSI will demonstrate a TRL 5 capability that achieves the SHHD Threshold Key Performance Parameters. The SHHD will be at a sufficient MRL for low-rate initial production. Sales of the pedestrian search capability will be through value added resellers of detector technology and will be complemented by the licensing of algorithm capability for full integration into hand-held detector and portal screening systems.