Written by: Ola Skalska
The current landscape of Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) detection is riddled with limitations. These systems often miss low-concentration threats, trigger false alarms, and are vulnerable to environmental factors, leading to critical shortcomings. Here, at FundingBox, we empower innovators like ITTI and AIRSENSE Analytics, who have developed C-SHIELD under the EU-funded project SecurIT, equipping them with financial and supportive resources.
The C-SHIELD Story:
Let us tell you about C-SHIELD, a revolutionary system poised to disrupt the status quo of CBRN detection, developed under SecurIT, an EU-funded project.
Imagine a bustling international airport, a gateway for travelers and cargo from across the globe. Security is paramount, especially in the ever-present threat of hazardous materials entering the country. Traditionally, airport security relied on single-sensor CBRN detectors, like IMS or PID systems. A routine cargo inspection triggers an alarm from a standard single-sensor CBRN detector. The specific threat, however, remains unclear. Is it a harmless chemical or a potentially deadly nerve agent?
Here’s where C-SHIELD steps in. Traditional detectors like Ion Mobility Spectroscopy (IMS) or Photo Ionization Detection (PID) often struggle with limitations. They might miss low-concentration threats due to limited sensitivity, or trigger false alarms from common cargo compounds, leading to costly disruptions. Environmental factors like weather or vehicle fumes can further hinder accuracy. See video:
The Problem: Single Sensor Woes
Commercially available CBRN detectors, such as Ion Mobility Spectroscopy (IMS), Photo Ionization Detection (PID), and Electrochemical Cells (EC), have inherent weaknesses:
- Limited Sensitivity: Low concentrations of certain compounds evade detection.
- False Alarms: Frequent false positives generate unnecessary costs and disrupt operations.
- Environmental Vulnerability: Interference from weather conditions or vehicle fumes reduces accuracy.
These issues jeopardize safety and impose financial burdens, necessitating a more robust solution.
The Power of Multi-Sensor Fusion
CBRN experts are acutely aware of these limitations. This knowledge has fueled research into innovative detection methods. One proven approach is heterogeneous sensor signal processing. This method utilizes at least two distinct detection technologies. The signals from these sensors are then processed to compensate for the shortcomings of each individual sensor. Additionally, this approach allows for the fusion of sensor data, enabling the development of powerful algorithms for accurate substance identification. The result? Unprecedented situational awareness for the end-user.
C-SHIELD: Your Multi-Sensor Solution
C-SHIELD tackles the false alarm epidemic plaguing commercial sensors. (1)The system leverages readily available chemical detectors, (2) equipped with dedicated adapters. Each detector type has its own microcontroller-based adapter. This adapter collects data from the detector, unifies the format, and (3) transmits it to the sensor node.
This microcomputer powerhouse acts as the central hub, gathering and merging data from the connected detection instruments. The sensor node packs enough processing muscle to run data fusion algorithms, enabling real-time classification and identification of the detected chemical substance. Finally, (4) the data streams seamlessly into a dedicated Command & Control application for immediate analysis
Detection Capabilities:
C-SHIELD boasts an extensive library of detectable substances thanks to its combined sensor power. The system can identify a wide range of threats, including:
- Nerve Agents
- Blister Agents
- Blood Agents
- Nitrilotriacetic Acid (NTA)
- Choking Agents
- Toxic Industrial Chemicals
Beyond Detection: Unlocking Chemical Identification
C-SHIELD goes beyond simply detecting threats. The system empowers users with crucial information, including:
- Estimated Substance ID: Gain valuable insights into the detected chemical and a probability score for enhanced confidence.
- Estimated Concentration Level: Quantify the threat level for informed decision-making.
Real-World Application: The Airport Scenario
Imagine the same airport scenario, C-SHIELD’s combined detection methods can quickly differentiate between harmless compounds and actual threats. This not only minimizes disruptions and unnecessary evacuations but also ensures the safety of airport personnel and the surrounding community.
Why C-Shield?
C-SHIELD is a game-changer for innovators across various industries, offering:
- Unparalleled Accuracy: Multi-sensor fusion ensures precise detection and identification.
- Reduced False Alarms: Enhanced algorithms minimize costly disruptions.
- Improved Situational Awareness: Real-time data analysis empowers informed decision-making.
FundingBox: Empowering Innovators
At FundingBox, we are committed to supporting innovators in revolutionizing CBRN detection. With C-SHIELD, startups, scaleups, researchers, small and medium-sized businesses, mid-caps, and early adopters manufacturers can confidently navigate the CBRN landscape, ensuring the safety and security of their personnel and operations.
Ready to revolutionize your CBRN detection capabilities? Contact FundingBox to learn more about available funding for innovation!