Framework for selecting screening technologies for checked baggage inspection systems at airports

Abstract

This paper presents a modeling framework that serves as a decision support tool for selecting devices, sensitivity parameters and detection thresholds in a two-device systems for automated screening of checked baggage at airports. The model assumes that the output signals of a screening device, when presented with a baggage with or without security threat, may be modeled by probability distributions. Compared with the pre-specified thresholds, the probability of false clear and false alarm may then be estimated. An objective function is then formulated to minimize the total expected cost of screening errors. Based on this modeling framework, two decision criteria, one based on the minimum total expected cost and another one incorporates the probabilities of correct detection and false alarm of the system, are recommended. The application of the modeling framework is illustrated by a hypothetical example problem based on published data.