SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR THE DETECTION, REGISTRATION AND REPORT OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS AND ILLEGAL ACTIVITY
DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The invention is a system and method for the detection, recording and reporting of matter and energy related to dangerous and illegal substances in closed and semi-enclosed spaces. The system and method refer to the early detection of hazardous materials and illegal actions commonly associated with criminal and terrorist activities. This "24 hour" security shield integrates audio, video and sensor detection (passive deterrence) with real-time monitoring, communications and data logging (active deterrence). Many of the antiterrorism experts agree that the current security measures in the United States are woefully inadequate. The constant problem of loading containers is just one example. Thousands of these containers enter the ports of the United States daily, and then are moved by trucks and rails to our main cities, towns and communities. The requirements of work force and budgetary misfortunes make exhaustive inspections an impossible dream in the minds of those responsible. Lack of adequate resources on the one hand and the lack of time-constrained and logistical problems on the other hand, the authorities now must content themselves with inspecting only a small fraction of the total volume of cargo shipments. The overloaded inspection process is also compromised by the general lack of security in merchandise operations. Insurance providers for the container industry report that as much as 5% of international container movements develop some type of problem during transit. Very often, cargo containers are misdirected, lost, stolen, damaged and / or excessively delayed. Generally speaking, these problems represent a hodgepodge of causes, from human error through carelessness to malicious criminal intent. Cargo containers, as an inadequate security measure, represent only the tip of the iceberg. There are other obvious examples, such as rental trucks, truck-trailers, distribution centers, rail cars, and personnel entry points in airports, schools, buildings, subways, train stations, sports arenas, concert halls, parks thematic, etc. One could continue citing examples of security risks, but suffice it to say, that the invention was developed to improve public safety, to thwart and prevent criminal and terrorist activity before the attempt can be made. When the invention was in the initial design phase, the main focus was the "wish list" of the information and detection needs established by government authorities and the shipping industry. Through this study the design goal was obtained: the creation of a device that could frustrate criminal and terrorist activity in its elaboration and, at the same time, provide the shipping and transport industry with the means to eliminate many of the errors due to negligence that leads to costs, bothers carriers, hinders the inspection process, and imposes even another element of risk on public safety. Probably there will never be absolute public protection, but, for now, surveillance and early detection are surely the next best thing, and the invention provides both. Briefly stated, the system of the invention can function as a stationary or mobile reporting-logging device for the detection of biological agents, toxic chemicals, radioactive bombs, electromagnetic radiation, human presence, drugs associated with volatile organic chemicals and occasions of carelessness by negligence . The primary component of the system is a solid state detection unit housed in a compact box which can be mounted for mobile or stationary applications. The detection unit includes a variety of detectors and sensors, a processor or controller, a power supply, and communication interfaces. The units are installed in several locations, and each unit is in continuous communication with a monitoring center through a monitoring system. In its mobile configuration (for use in, for example, cargo containers, rail cars, trucks, etc.), the box is mounted inside the cargo conveyor. An integrated disposition of solar panel to detach and press thin and antennas is mounted on the outside of the cargo conveyor. The unit is powered by two independent storage batteries and is equipped with a connection interface, for an external battery charger. The solar panel automatically recharges the batteries. Each unit is equipped with an "idle and standby" energy saving mode. Multiple detectors in the unit scan the cargo as it is loaded onto the conveyor, and continue to scan at pre-set time intervals after the conveyor is sealed and transported, monitoring the interior for any accumulations or leaks of hazardous materials. A GPS unit provides information on the location of the unit. The antenna array is used to transmit and receive data to and from a reporting and monitoring facility. In its stationary configuration (for use in, for example, warehouses, distribution centers, personnel and vehicle entry points, etc.), the detection unit can be protected as appropriate for the particular application and may have physical wiring for energy. In the case of a power failure, the two independent storage batteries act as a redundant power supply. There is nothing problematic about the individual technologies that the system employs. All components (sensors, data logging, GPS system, etc.), are high quality solid state drives that are in individual use today. This union of approved technologies, and the creation of a tamper-proof housing unit with multiple information features, will raise the level of public safety and increase the efficiency of cargo movements on land and sea, a combination that has been needed for a long time. The detection unit includes multiple anti-tampering devices inside its case. If a detector is damaged, the unit will report and record the event; if the antenna arrangement is disabled, the master system will inform the event and alert the authorities. In any case, the authorities can access the data record at the next revision point to determine the degree of manipulation. If the unit stops reporting completely, something is wrong and the cargo transporter will be physically investigated at the first opportunity. The detection units can be installed or retrofitted to monitor and safeguard a wide variety of cargo transporters and facilities including, for example, the following: shipping containers, rental trucks, truck-trailers, rail cars, bays and cargo containers, loading platforms, elevators, warehouses, distribution centers, stations, weight assessment, border check points, storage facilities and units, baggage handling facilities, truck fleets (for example, distribution service commercial and private distribution freight charges), personnel entry points (for example, airports, schools, buildings, subways, train stations, sports arenas, concert halls, and vehicle entrances to critical facilities (eg. energy, refineries, nuclear facilities and storage sites, ports, fabric plants ation, railway stations, bus terminals, airports, water tanks and purification plants, dykes, and military installations).
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 depicts a detection unit including solid state components and the integrated circuit card. Figure 2 illustrates the detach and stick solar panel cover with integrated antennas for use with a detection unit. Figure 3 represents the sensors and the types of data that are processed, recorded and reported by the detection unit. Figure 4 illustrates the detection unit that communicates with controllers and authorities. Figure 5 shows the ways in which the detection unit issues event notifications and then activates an audio and / or video response with the monitoring system command. Figure 6 shows the monitoring system of the invention implemented in a wide area network (WAN) with monitoring centers. Figure 7 shows the local area network (LAN) for a system monitoring center. Figure 8 shows an on-screen display of the sample controller in a monitoring center. Figure 9 shows a summary of sample event information as displayed on the laptop's screen display for use by a government agency or shipping company. The central component of the system of the invention is the detection unit 2 as shown in Figure 1. An integrated circuit card 4 contains the processor 6, many of the solid state sensors and sensors, and several communication ports that are describe in detail in the following. The circuit card 4 and other components of the unit 2 of the invention are mounted in a housing 8, which is preferably an aluminum box with dimensions of approximately 0.305 meters (1 foot) in width by 1.219 meters (4 feet) long by 2.54 centimeters (1 inch) in thickness. If a particular application is required, the dimensions of the housing 8 can be made smaller. The processor 6 controls all the functions of the detection unit 2 and is connected to receive inputs of the various sensors and detectors. The processor 6 processes and controls the storage and transmission of data from the detection unit 2. Any suitable microprocessor or microcontroller, with appropriate associated interface and memory circuits can be used. The processor 6 is programmed to detect "events" based on inputs of the various sensors and detectors, and to generate and transmit a signal at a monitoring center in response to the detection of such an event. Processor 6 can also be programmed to activate cameras, microphones and other devices with the command of the monitoring system. In addition, the processor 6 handles the energy saving modes and all other operating parameters of the detection unit 2. The detection unit 2 is energized by two independent storage batteries 10 a, b and is equipped with a connection interface for an external battery charger (not shown). The batteries 10 a, b preferably have a use life of six months without unloading. As shown in Figure 2, an integrated solar panel and antenna arrangement 12 is provided. Preferably, panel 12 is a thin flexible self-adhesive "detach and press" solar cell cover with integrated antennas 14 a, b. The solar panel and antenna arrangement 12 can conveniently be mounted on the outside of a mobile loading container, truck, etc. The solar panel and antenna arrangement 12 is connected to the circuit card 4 by a cable (not shown) that is plugged into water tight connectors 16 a, b tamper-proof and automatically and continuously recharges the batteries 10 a, b . Detectors and Sensors in the Detection Unit A wide variety of sensors and detectors may be included in the detection unit 2, and the configuration may be varied for the particular application. In a mobile application, sensors can be activated and shut off periodically at intervals to save energy. In a stationary application of physical cabling, the sensors can operate continuously. To achieve the full benefits of the invention, the preferential detection unit 2 includes the following types of detectors and sensors, which are preferably solid state devices mounted on the circuit card 4 or, if they are not suitable for mounting in the circuit board 4. card, anywhere within the housing 8 or at the location to be monitored: Micropump Detector 18: a "radioactive bomb" consists of low level radioactive material propagated by a conventional explosive. Many radiation detection devices exist today but some are capable of detecting the presence of a radioactive bomb. Most devices based on Geiger tubes inappropriately report radiation levels (or do not report) ba or their ba range or level. And the detectors based on CDS
(cadmium sulfide) when they are not in close proximity to a radioactive bomb, they are also too slow to report low levels of radioactivity. The invention preferably employs a state-of-the-art micropump detector 18 such as the MBD Series 2240 Micropump Detector or the DMC 2000XB Electronic Dosimeter. Such devices can identify the presence of ba or level radiation and radioisotopes associated with radioactive bombs. This type of detector has a high-gain solid-state sensor with long distance range, and an intelligent microprocessor that processes the amplified signal 67 times per second, thereby controlling the results and the signal to inform the ambient radiation levels. The micropump detector 18 serves as a highly tuned early warning system for radioactive pumps by integrating a solid-state radiation detector, an ultra-high gain amplifier, and an intelligent microprocessor to filter the background radiation. The chances of locating a radioactive bomb or suspected radioisotopes will increase exponentially as the microbomb detectors begin to navigate our communities and road systems. Multigas Analyzer '20: Unit 2 includes a multigas analyzer 20 that detects and identifies chemical agents and toxic industrial chemicals. The gas analyzer 20 uses surface acoustic wave (SAW) sensor arrangements and electrochemical cells to detect gases such as: © VX agents V or GA Tabún or GB Sarma or GD Somán or GF Sapna of Cyclohexyl or HD Gas Mustard or HN3 Mustard of Nitrogen ° AC Hydrogen Cyanide or GC Phosgene or Arsma of Hydride Gases, Diborane, Silane or Halogen Gases, Chlorine, Fluorine, Bromide or Acid Gases, Sulfur Dioxide 22 Electromagnetic Radiation Detector ("EMR"): The unit 2 of detection includes a detector 22 of electromagnetic radiation that can locate the source of electromagnetic interference quickly and reliably. Consisting of an integrated antenna, amplifier and Schottky barrier detection diodes, the EMR detector 22 can cover a frequency range of 50 Hz to 1500 MHz with a typical sensitivity of 25μV / cm (500 MHz, far field adjustment) . The detector 22 has three positions: Off, High Sensitivity (far field) and Ba a Sensitivity (near field). Ideally, it is suitable for the following applications: o Tracing of local sources of electromagnetic interference [EMI] © Pre-test of EMC (electromagnetic compatibility) or Rapid radiation check for transmitters or Radiofrequency margin of broadband type
(approximately 50 Hz to 1500 MHz) o Typical sensitivity 25μV / cm (at 500 MHz, far field adjustment) Detector 24 for Volatile Organic Compounds ("VOC"): Detection unit 2 includes a photoionization detector 24 which provides readings linear, parts per million for many toxic gases and vapors that are virtually undetectable by any other means. The VOC detector 24 can incorporate toxic substance-specific sensors, and is unsuitable for the measurement of volatile organic compounds such as gasoline, benzene, paint, degreasers, fuel by reaction, and most organic solvents. The VOC detector 24 may also include gas chromatography which can, for example, analyze benzene in 30 seconds and other organic ones, such as toluene, ethylbenzene, and m-xylene (BTEX), in two minutes. The precision is in the parts per million margin, which means that the photoionization detector can precisely measure low VOC levels (0-2000 ppm) without the discomfort of false alarms that are predominant with other "broadband" sensors . This is an important feature, because many VOCs are toxic at levels well below the sensitivity of most multigas monitors. Video detection: The detection unit 2 is equipped with two inputs 26 a, b optics, two digital inputs 28 a, b for telemetry and two outputs 30 a, b for control. The optical inputs 26 and digital inputs 28 can be used to monitor the desired states and conditions, and / or to activate alarms. The video inputs are recorded automatically or by remote activation ba or the control of the monitoring center. One of the digital telemetry inputs 28 can be used to accept an input of the motion detector 46; with motion detection, an event is recorded and the video cameras 32 and / or infrared camera 34 can be activated. With the command (either in an automatic pre-set interval controlled by the processor 6 or by a remote real-time check initiated by a controller in a monitoring center), the front / back video / fixed cameras 32 a, b take simple photographs, or live video feed, and transmits them back to the controller via optical inputs 26 a, b In addition, an infrared camera 34 can be activated when the truck-trailer, container, warehouse and other enclosed space is sealed to detect human presence . Audio Detection: The detection unit 2 includes a microphone 36. In the event that in some way the video system is disabled, the controller can activate the microphone 36 and hear the movement or voice sounds within the truck, container, warehouse or other sealed space when it is sealed. If desired, conversations during loading operations can also be monitored and / or recorded by the controller at a monitoring center. Access Detection: Unit 2 is equipped with one or more proximity sensors 38. Each time the doors open on the conveyor, in the warehouse or other enclosed space, the proximity sensor 38 will activate a digital camera 40 and send an event transmission to the monitoring center if the electronic lock mode is "on". The digital camera 40 acts as a security camera, records the events in pre-established time intervals as long as the doors of the space remain open. Location Detection: For mobile applications, the detection unit 2 is equipped with a global positioning system (GPS) device 42 that provides real-time geographic location information continuously or upon request. The GPS device 42 data is recorded at pre-set intervals.
Humidity Sensor: The detection unit 2 is equipped with a humidity sensor 44 which registers at pre-set intervals. The humidity sensor 44 sends an event transmission to the monitoring center if the humidity exceeds the preset limit. Internal Motion Detection: The detection unit 2 is equipped with an interior motion detector 46 which will respond to any undue movement
(humans that move, change cargo, etc.) inside the conveyor or other enclosed space when it is sealed. The sensor 46 responds by activating the camcorders 32 and sending an event transmission to the monitoring center. Temperature Sensor: The detection unit 2 is equipped with a temperature sensor 48 which registers at pre-set intervals and sends an "event" transmission to the monitoring center whenever the temperature exceeds a preset limit. Manifest and Weight Input: The detection unit 2 is equipped with a slot plug 50 which acts as a scanning interface and a cover data input connector for weight. Shippers and carriers can load the weight and manifest information into the internal data storage unit, if they choose. Vibration and Shock Detection: The detection unit 2 is equipped with a vibration / shock detector 52 which sends an event transmission to the monitoring center whenever the impact of shock or vibration exceeds the pre-set limit. RFID: The detection unit 2 includes a radio frequency identification device (RFDD) 54 that can automatically identify the unit for inspection by a laptop computer or portable device. This feature is especially advantageous for inspection in facilities such as ports, border stations, roadside checkpoints and the like. External Detector Input Port: An external input detector port 56 allows the connection of an external device such as a weighting system, or a video camera for, for example, inspection of the interior of a vehicle at a vehicle access point . The port accepts analog or digital inputs from the external device. Air Pump: An air pump 58 may be included to provide air samples to the multigas analyzer 20 and the VOC detector 24, if necessary. An air pump is not needed for ambient air detectors. Manipulation Detection: Several devices and systems can be incorporated into the detection unit 2 to detect any manipulation. For example, if the ac is opened to 8 or if the detection unit 2 is removed from its installed location, an event signal is generated and sent to the monitoring center. Report and Data Record Historical Data Storage: The detection unit 2 is equipped with an internal data storage unit 60. The data storage unit 60 preferably uses flash memory, which is reliable, non-volatile and consumes little power, although a similar hard drive can also be used. As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the data recorded by the sensors, detectors, cameras, microphones and GPS are routed by the processor 6 to the data storage unit 60. The data may be retained in the data storage unit 60 for at least 90 days. The stored data will provide a history of GPS locations, detections of hazardous material, and the time and place where the conveyor doors opened and closed, and any case of unit handling. The log / report system software includes an intelligent data connection capability, which means that shippers and / or carriers can select particular data for registration based on time, distance and event interval. The selected data can be maintained in the internal data storage unit 60 by weeks or months. As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the detection unit 2 includes the wireless transceiver 62 by which the detection unit 2 can maintain continuous contact with the monitoring system. The transceiver 62 is also used to download data to the monitoring system, send notifications of events to the monitoring centers, and receive commands from a monitoring center, and allows the grouping of the screening unit 2 by the monitoring system. . As shown in Figure 6, the monitoring system operates in a wide area network (WAN) that includes 64 ag monitoring centers, of which each can be assigned to cover, for example, a particular geographic region or type of installation. Although satellite 66 is shown, WAN communications can be presented by wired or wireless telephone, satellite, or other means. Each monitoring center 64 can operate as a local area network (LAN) as shown in Figure 7. The LAN includes a server or router 68, a plurality of central computers 70 and user stations 72, each including a display 74 for administrators and controllers. The LAN can communicate with the WAN through wired and wireless links. At each center 64, the central computer 70 downloads historical data from the detection units 2. The twenty-four hour logistic and communication support will be maintained by the monitoring centers 64 and the downloaded data will be displayed to keep the controllers updated. The controllers can observe the status of the individual detection units 2 in the displays 74. A display 78 of the typical controller display is shown in Figure 8. The IDs 80 of the units are displayed for each detection unit 2 monitored by the controller. individual controller. For each detection unit 2, varied information is displayed, which includes the type of event 82 and the geographic location 84. The historical location data 86 can also be displayed, and the location and movement can be tracked on the map 88. The controller can Access data, cameras and microphones through buttons 90 to access the unit. Video and still photographs can be observed on the screen 92. When an event is activated in a detection unit 2 and the data is transferred via the WAN to the monitoring center 64, the main computer 70 will transfer the individual detection unit 2 to a display 74 of human controller. An alert with the relevant data can also be automatically transmitted to the Department of Homeland Security, or another government agency, shipping company or other appropriate authority. The boarding agency or company can contact the controller to determine the cause of the event and take appropriate action. As previously stated, if the main computer 70 loses all contact with a detection unit 2, the main computer 70 will automatically "set limits" on the unit and notify the controller. For example, the ID for such a unit may flash on the screen as shown in Figure 8. In such an event, monitoring centers and their controllers will have access to Homeland Security, shipping companies and other agencies when require The monitoring system is designed to connect to a wide range of cell phone modems, VHF / UHF for digital radios, wireless LAN systems and satellite modems (ORBCOMM). Two-way communication is based on SMS, GPS or IX data packets. A cell phone / LAN repeater can be linked to a laptop-type computer or portable unit, which allows industrial and / or government officials to obtain accurate real-time readings and recorded data upon request. This feature is useful for law enforcement personnel who make an accurate review of a container or facility, and respond to an event signal. It is also useful for border patrol officers who inspect a truck at a border crossing, security personnel at a vehicle entry point in a facility, and the like. A typical screen display 94 showing event data as observed by the government agency or the shipping company in a laptop or portable type unit is shown in Figure 9. This display informs unit ID 96, the nature of any event 98, the geographical location of the unit 100, the historical location 102, the mapping of the locations 104, the live video feedings 106 and other pertinent information. The monitoring system is designed to report on all topics of interest that have been expressed by government agencies and the shipping industry, which includes the following: ° Signed ID of the transporter and / or container or Transactions or Radioactive Bombs or Biological Agents o Open / closed doors o Location-Latitude / Longitude / Altitude or Handling incidents or possession chain o Electromagnetic radiation ° Human presence o Presence of drugs associated with VOC ° Silent and distress call or toxic chemical or intrusion detection reports Temperature or Moisture or Improper Internal Movement The foregoing is intended to represent an embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Further modifications and improvements of the present invention may be apparent to those of skill in the art.