MOBILE X-RAY SCREENING SYSTEM
Z BACKSCATTER VAN (ZBV)
DRIVE-BY Z BACKSCATTER CARGO AND VEHICLE SCREENING SYSTEM
Z BACKSCATTER AND RTD
Patented Z Backscatter technology provides photo-like images
that reveal organic threats and contraband, including explosives,
cigarettes, and drugs.
Optional Radioactive Threat Detection (RTD) can inspect for neutrons
and gamma rays typically associated with fissile (nuclear
bomb) or dirty bomb (e.g. Cesium-137) materials.
American Science and Engineering’s Z Backscatter Van™ (ZBV™) is a low-cost, mobile X-ray screening
system built into a commercially available delivery van. With one-sided, backscatter-only imaging and
the option for Radioactive Threat Detection (RTD), security officials can use ZBV for screening vehicles,
sea containers, and other cargo for terrorist threats, trade fraud, and contraband — simply by driving
past the subjects. The ZBV employs AS&E’s patented Z Backscatter™ technology, which produces photolike
images of the contents of a container or vehicle, providing manifest verification information and highlighting
organic materials. The ZBV can image 10 lbs (4.5 kg) of organic material, such as C4 or cocaine,
placed immediately behind 0.24 inches (6 mm) of steel when scanned from a distance of 5 ft (1.5 m)
at a scan speed of 0.3 mph (0.5 kph). The ZBV’s optional Radioactive Threat Detection feature is capable
of identifying low levels of radioactivity from both gamma rays and neutrons. The ZBV is ideal for
screening vehicles for large quantities of drugs, car/truck bombs, and stowaways.
The ZBV is a Z Backscatter-only system that does not require a detector on the far side of the scanned
object, making it highly maneuverable and flexible. It can be operated covertly, since it maintains the
outward appearance of an ordinary van. With the operator controls mounted on a console in the center
of the ZBV’s cab, the system can be operated by one or two people simply by swiveling the console towards
the driver’s or passenger’s side.
Stationary and Remote Operation The ZBV can also be operated in stationary mode by parking the system
and producing X-ray images of vehicles as they drive past. Screening can also be accomplished remotely
while the system is parked. Remote operation allows scanning to be done safely, even in dangerous environments.
In these modes, ZBV operators may elect to scan the occupants of the subject vehicle. For
this application, AS&E offers a Personnel Scanning option that may better enable the customer to
meet any applicable country-specific regulatory requirements