Hitachi Airport boarding gate with built-in explosives detector can detect presence of explosives within seconds

Hitachi in collaboration with Nippon Signal and the University of Yamanashi, have successfully prototyped a boarding gate with built-in explosives detection equipment as part of efforts to increase safety in public facilities such as airports. The prototype boarding gate efficiently collects minute particles which have affixed themselves to IC cards or portable devices used as boarding passes, and can detect within 1-2 seconds the presence of explosive compounds using internalized equipment. With this method, it is possible to inspect 1,200 passengers per hour.


The technology is expected to contribute to the prevention and containment of carry-on explosives as it inspects immediately prior to boarding without disrupting the flow of passengers, and provides increased security without affecting convenience. As this equipment can be adapted to entrance security equipment for train stations, stadiums, event halls, etc. in the future, it is expected to contribute as platform technology to achieving the safety and security of public spaces.

The prototype equipment developed will be on display at the Special Equipment Exhibition & Conference for Anti-Terrorism (SEECAT’ 12) which will be held from 17th – 19th October 2012 at the Tokyo Big Sight in Tokyo, Japan while conducting a continuous operation pilot test. Further pilot tests at public transport facilities are also planned in the next financial year.