Enclosed Space Detection System
 

 

    An innovative Enclosed Space Detection System (ESDS) developed in Oak Ridge provides an important asset for security and law enforcement officials in preventing unauthorized persons from entering or exiting restricted areas. 

    The threat of persons hidden in enclosed spaces such as the trunk of a car, a truck compartment, or a shipping container can present a difficult—and sometimes dangerous—security challenge.  ESDS identifies the presence of hidden persons by detecting a small, measurable shock wave created by the beating of the human heart. 
 
This heartbeat shock wave, or ballistocardiogram, is coupled to any surface or object in contact with the individual's body. If a person is hidden in an enclosed space inside the vehicle, the shock wave will result in a small but detectable movement on the surface of the vehicle. 

Sensitive geophones, which are similar to those used in seismic detection, are attached to the surface of the vehicle to detect the heartbeat shock wave and transmit information to a signal-processing computer. While original versions of ESDS required geophones to be placed on the vehicle, newer versions have been designed to use microwave detectors mounted on fixed structures to identify heartbeat vibrations in vehicles. Vehicles can thus be driven under the detectors. 

ESDS hardware consists of a personal computer programmed with signal-processing software, with a touch-screen monitor that displays "pass" or "search" indicators and indicator lights. 

ESDS has been successfully tested for monitoring the U.S.-Mexico border near the port-of-entry border town of San Ysidro, California, and for monitoring portals at three prisons, including facilities in Atlanta, Georgia; Nashville, Tennessee; and Carlisle, Indiana. The state of Tennessee has purchased three systems for use in correctional facilities in Nashville, Memphis, and Only. Another ESDS system has already been installed at a prison in the United Kingdom. 
 
 
 
In recognition of the Y-12 National Security Complex's diverse, integrated capabilities and its commitment  
to succeeding with high-risk projects, the U.S. Congress in 1997 designated Y-12   
as the National Prototype Center.  

For information, phone 1-800-356-4USA or visit our web site: http://orcmt.oakridge.org/npc.html