Integration of Inertial Measurement data for improved localization and tracking of radiation sources

In response to the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Domestic Nuclear Detection Office's (DNDO) Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR), Phase 12.1 solicitation, Passport Systems, Inc. of Billerica, MA has demonstrated the feasibility of integrating a COTS Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) with a portable radiation detector for improved radiation source search capabilities. The SBIR Phase I feasibility study integrated both the necessary hardware and algorithms and verified the utility of providing this new capability to an operator in search scenarios. Advanced algorithms combining IMU data with radiation measurements constrained source location and increased the efficacy of the search mission. An overview of the SBIR Phase I program will provide: 1) a description of the hardware and algorithm integration; 2) a summary of the expected system benefits; and 3) a review of the proof-of-concept demonstration developed during the program.