Simtix and Perceptics work on border security systems for Abu Dhabi Customs

Feb. 24, 2009
Integrating under-vehicle inspections with license plate recognition into border security systems

Simtix, a multinational security technology company providing design, implementation and integration solutions, is collaborating on the integration of Perceptics Under Vehicle Inspection System (UVIS) and License Plate Reader (LPR) imaging system into AS&E's border security systems for the Abu Dhabi Customs Administration.

As Perceptics exclusive master distributor for the Mena region, Simtix will help oversee the inclusion of Perceptics solutions in AS&E's OmniView Gantry and multi-view Z Portal cargo and vehicle inspection systems.

Abu Dhabi Customs uses AS&E's full line of cargo inspection systems to protect the emirates borders and citizens while supervising trade and collecting revenues. Perceptics is a leading provider of port, border, container, and transportation lane security solutions and is a subcontractor of AS&E, while A&E develops x-ray inspections systems and other detection technologies used by governments and corporations around the world to combat terrorism, smuggling, illegal immigration and trade fraud.

"We are very excited to partner with Simtix and AS&E on the implementation of this high-profile solution for Abu Dhabi Customs. By combining our expertise, we will be creating one of the most comprehensive border security systems in the region, capable of addressing todays complex threat environments," said Larry Smith, Vice President - Field Operations, Perceptics.

The Perceptics UVIS compares high-resolution 4K true-color line digital camera images of the undercarriage of a vehicle with either its previously taken image or that of a similar vehicle. The all-weather system utilizes a high-velocity air blade to keep the unit free of sand and moisture. The seamless digital image allows the operator to view the undercarriage as a whole with 12X zoom capabilities. An integrated scene camera provides a snapshot of the vehicle, which creates a consolidated image of the scanned vehicle.

The Perceptics LPR imaging system features an Arabic optical character recognition engine that recognizes all types of license plates (retro-reflective, non-retro-reflective, embossed and flat). Customs officials can perform real-time vehicle risk assessment based on the accurate full plate, state of origin, and country of origin identification provided by the system. The Perceptics Vehicle Inspection Software (VIS) System provides an intuitive, dependable and rapid method of consolidating the high-resolution images produced by the LPR and UVIS systems. Designed with scalable, Ethernet-based architecture, VIS maintains a 'Hit List' of suspect vehicles with operator alarms and supports the ability to send e-mail alarm notifications to off-site officials.

The VIS database is fully searchable based on criteria such as vehicle type, driver's name, license plate or time/date range. The seamless digital image allows the operator to view the vehicle's undercarriage as a whole with 12X zoom capabilities.

"This project is an excellent opportunity for us to help raise security standards, particularly in border patrolling, throughout Abu Dhabi, the Emirates and the entire Gulf region. We also look forward to the added knowledge that we will acquire through our partnership with two of the worlds top security solutions providers. Todays security threats are just too broad to be addressed by one single company; collaborations such as these help our industry to explore better strategies to protect our clients and the worlds societies," concluded Wafic Faraj, CEO, Simtix.