Aviation Security Performance Improvement Using Threat Image Projection (TIP)

TIP is a software system that is installed on security X-ray systems to measure real-time performance of security staff within the operational environment. TIP presents realistic fictional images of threat items amongst the baggage that is being screened. The benefits of TIP include increased exposure to threat items and familiarity with their appearance as well as enhanced motivation and vigilance.

Under the National Aviation Security Programme (NASP), the United Kingdom (UK) has a regulated provision of TIP for cabin baggage screening. QinetiQ has been supporting this provision for over 20 years.

We create and manage the set of items from which fictional threat images are produced. When a company uses those items to create a TIP library, we review the resulting images for quality and consistency on behalf of Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and Department for Transport (DfT).

TIP systems produce data detailing which TIPs were presented and how the screener responded to them. QinetiQ’s TIP – Data Management and Interpretation Software Tool (TIP-DMIST™) provides storage, management, and efficient and effective analysis of TIP performance data. The system can sort and store millions of lines of data, producing threat detection performance information in minutes to provide immense savings in time, resources and cost when compared with manual analysis and the use of spreadsheets. TIP-DMIST™ provides enhanced performance feedback and helps identify training needs for screeners so training can be focused towards improvements in weak areas.

Quick and easy access to a range of TIP data

Performance is categorised by threat type for ease of interpretation

TIP-DMIST™ integrates with compliant TIP systems, whether standalone or networked. It can be used for security audits, competency assessment and training, by regulators, operators and security staff.

We use TIP-DMIST™ to process TIP data from UK airports and produce a monthly summary analysis on behalf of CAA and DfT. It can help identify elements that are not in line with User Requirements Documents and support the airports in maintaining compliance.

QinetiQ is committed to continual improvement in aviation security and has supported numerous research and development projects.

For further information, please contact avsec@qinetiq.com