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Technology
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TSA considering upgrade to screening technology for carry-on bags
TSA considering upgrade to screening technology for carry-on bags
With the renewed approval for passengers to carry on small amounts of liquids and gels, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has accelerated its development of new screening technology to identify liquid and plastic explosives. Additionally, department officials are considering a move to replace X-ray machines at screening checkpoints with the same explosive detection systems (EDS) currently used to screen all checked baggage. EDS machines use computed tomography to scan items and compare their density to that of known explosives.
Space and cost are considerations when considering whether to install this equipment. Though they cost much less than larger machines, smaller machines would slow the move of traffic through screening, as they can only process about 80 bags per hour. Larger machines, like those used to screen checked bags, can process between 125 and 500 bags per hour but can also weigh a whopping 17,000 lbs.
DHS officials describe EDS technology as “very, very promising” in its ability to detect liquid, plastic and other explosives. It also said it plans to begin operational testing within the next several months.
Sources: Aviation Daily, ATA SmartBriefNew technology to help planes land quietly, save fuel being tested
NASA researchers are working with the San Francisco International Airport noise abatement office to test a new aviation technology that will reduce noise levels in heavy landing patterns, cut emissions, and save fuel.
The new technology, currently part of a test program called Oceanic Tailored Arrivals, uses computer-generated descent patterns and autopilot landing features. With computer tailored approaches, the smoothest landing path can be determined for all incoming flights simultaneously and sent to each approaching plane via data uplink. The software reduces the noise associated with manual braking and leveling, allowing aircraft to descend using autopilot and land by gliding.
Conversely, today the majority of flights are landed manually by pilots and controllers through the use of noisy spoilers, flaps, and landing gear. Such speed-braking devices are necessary to increase or level off engine thrusts, keeping planes in holding patterns and at a safe distance from other planes.
Preliminary tests show the technology results in about 1,000 pounds of fuel savings for a flight from Hawaii to San Francisco. The technology would also have a significant impact on carbon emissions and the environment. Though the technology has shown great promise, widespread use probably won’t occur for another ten years.
Source: MercuryNews.com
