New software to improve explosive detection

New software developed by Peaklet Analysis with the aid of a Western Kentucky University (WKU) math professor could help existing explosives detectors improve their detection abilities.

Using a mathematical algorithm developed by Bruce Kessler, a math professor at WKU, Peaklet Analysis hopes to improve its ability to detect explosives. Programmers and software developers at Hitcents.com are currently working on translating Kessler’s algorithm into multiple programming languages to make software that can function in any computer environment.

Gordon Baylis, the vice president for research at Peaklet, said the algorithm “has the potential to be a very important breakthrough in security screening and explosives detection.”

Kessler added, “My hope is that our product would come into play to help explosives detection in airports, in detection of drugs and contraband and even help protect our military from explosive devices.”

Peaklet’s software detects explosives by analyzing low-level radiation when an item is scanned. Different elements give off different energy levels, so a graph of the spectrum rays of an individual item will indicate the presence of explosives if it contains peaks in certain locations.

Baylis applauded Kessler’s involvement as well as WKU, which is helping to support the research through its Office of Research and its Research Foundation.

“We all dream of creating the next big thing,” Dr. Baylis said, “but I’m more concerned with getting ideas out there and solving problems. It would be nice to hit a home run with a product or an idea but I want our people out in the ballpark playing the game. Putting smart ideas to work is what WKU can do for the community and is what universities need to be doing for this country.”

Peaklet plans on selling its software to detection companies to help them locate explosives, drugs, and other contraband items in luggage or cargo containers. In addition Peaklet’s technology can be used by petroleum and coal companies to detect impurities in their product.

Baylis hopes that the technology will eventually be used to help DHS screen cargo ships in a more efficient manner.

The technology could even be used to help U.S. troops detect improvised explosive devices.

“If we can get this developed into one of those machines they test in Afghanistan to help the troops, it would be huge,” said Ed Mills, the chief financial officer of Hitcents.com. “To save one life would make a difference.”