Embedded Algorithms for Radioactive Source Localization and Tracking During Advanced Pedestrian Search

Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI) proposes to develop a set of novel algorithms enabling enhanced pedestrian search capability against radioactive sources when using handheld, belt, or backpack mounted detector systems. The proposed approaches will result in a capability to localize the source. In addition, the source will be associated with visible objects to aid tracking and interdiction. The solution represents a low cost augmentation of personal radiation detectors (PRDs) through the use of advanced algorithms running on COTS mobile computing devices (MCDs) such as smartphones and tablets. PSI’s approach will achieve initial source localization accuracy of 15º (azimuth) and 5 meters (range) in 30 seconds. They will achieve an accuracy of 3 meters in two dimensions after a two-minute sampling of radiation fields during wide area search missions. This capability will be demonstrated against a 1 mCi source at 20 meters using PRDs with a nominal sensitivity of > 250 cps/μSv.h. The Phase I effort will develop first-generation search algorithms which will be validated with synthetic data as well as data collected during field tests. PSI will perform a systematic trade study and testing of COTS components, including MCD products, man-portable radiation detectors and open source software libraries. The result of the trade study will be used to generate a component-level conceptual design for a prototype system with embedded search algorithms. The Phase II program will develop a TRL-5 capability to be integrated with commercially available PRDs. We envision adoption of PSI’s technology developed under the proposed program as a key component of Federal, State and Local efforts to enhance the capabilities of new and fielded radiation detection products.