Security inspection technology manufacturer Smiths Detection has collaborated with IT giant Microsoft and London Heathrow Airport to develop the first such multi-species artificial intelligence model, which aims to detect illegally trafficked wild animals hidden in luggage and air cargo.
Preliminary tests of the algorithm at Heathrow Airport have shown that the success rate of identifying trafficked objects (including ivory) exceeds 70%. As part of Project SEEKER, a large library of X-ray images taken from the CTX 9800 baggage scanner at Smiths Detection at Heathrow Airport was used to train the Microsoft AI for Good model. These machines can screen up to 250,000 bags per day and generate large amounts of data for inspection.
Globally, illegal wildlife trafficking is one of the five most lucrative crimes in the world, usually operated by highly organized criminal networks. Therefore, combating wildlife trafficking can cut off the source of income for organized crime and help stop animal poaching. Solving this problem will also help reduce the recent zoonotic diseases (from animals to humans) associated with wildlife trafficking.
Richard Thompson, Director of Aviation Marketing at Smiths Detection, said: "We are very satisfied with the preliminary results of this trial, which was achieved by combining Smiths Detection and Microsoft's technology to create a usable solution to this very real problem. The trial Shows that the use of artificial intelligence technology to automatically detect threats and contraband can significantly reduce the burden on operators. We are very much looking forward to further strengthening cooperation with Microsoft, because we are committed to achieving our respective ambitions, which is to make good use of artificial intelligence and make the world change It's safer and better."
Microsoft data and artificial intelligence solutions expert Daniel Haines said: "SEEKER demonstrates the impact that we can have when we work together in the private and public sectors. The tool can be deployed with existing screening and security infrastructure and make those who work illegally Staff working on the front lines of wildlife trafficking can better detect, seize and investigate the trafficked items and the criminal networks behind them. After this successful experiment, we call on major transportation hubs, including airports, to deploy this technology and integrate this technology. The model is used with NGOs and law enforcement agencies to address the priorities of illegal wildlife trafficking in the region to share intelligence and data. Together, we can stop illegal wildlife trafficking."
Heathrow Airport Security Director Jonathan Coen (Jonathan Coen) said: “The SEEKER project and our partnership with Microsoft and Smiths Detection will help us by exploring new technologies that will help us protect the world’s most precious wildlife One step ahead of traffickers."
Dan first joined the passenger terminal world in 2014 and spent the early days of his career in the recruitment industry. As an online editor, he now produces daily content for the website and supports the editing and publishing of every exciting new issue. When he is not reporting the latest aviation news, Dan can be seen on the golf course or worriedly planning his next DIY project.
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