Novel EDS CB 3 scanning concept of Horizon Europe
Novel EDS CB 3 scanning concept of Horizon Europe
Horizon Europe is revolutionizing the security checkpoint: A disruptive concept with integrated cabin baggage trolleys
Services provided
Translation of end-user needs into technical requirements and KPIs
Checkpoint and scanner concept design, including test planning and validation
Regulatory and certification alignment across AVSEC frameworks
Performance monitoring and data analysis using Point FWD’s proprietary tools
Operational knowledge transfer and stakeholder coordination
Key results
Development of detailed end-user requirements, incorporating both operational and technical needs
Definition of relevant legislative and regulatory frameworks to guide scanner development and certification
Execution of market research and assessment of the competitive landscape
Enhanced stakeholder understanding through the design of passenger–baggage flow scenarios
Specification of pre-ECAC test procedures and performance metrics to support certification readiness
Collection of Exruptive A2 scanner data using aviation-relevant threat materials to support algorithm training and validation
Project description
The XSPERINSE project, funded under the European Commission’s Horizon 2020 Fast Track to Innovation programme, addresses the need for innovation in aviation security screening. The project’s focus lies in the development of a next-generation cabin baggage scanner, combining a multispectral X-ray detector, novel detection algorithms, and optimized checkpoint design. Exruptive, the project’s industrial lead, required a holistic approach to design, testing and regulatory alignment to bring their A2 scanner to market readiness.
Point FWD was selected as a key consortium partner to guide operational integration and performance validation. Our role bridged technical design with real-world implementation, ensuring that the innovation would meet both certification demands and airport operational needs.
Challenges
The XSPERINSE project had to address multiple critical challenges simultaneously:
Evolving security legislation and certification requirements
Integration into diverse and complex operational environments
Balancing the trade-off between effective threat detection and passenger experience
Ensuring data-supported design decisions for both scanner and checkpoint line
Aligning stakeholder expectations across industry, research and operations
Our solution
Point FWD contributed across the full development cycle, combining technical insight with operational understanding.
1. Requirement definition
We translated airport end-user needs into specific operational and technical key performance indicators (KPIs), guiding the scanner and checkpoint concept development in alignment with ECAC and other relevant frameworks
2. Design support and test preparation
Leveraging our understanding of airport environments and regulatory demands, we supported the functional design of the checkpoint line and scanner interface. We defined pre-certification testing procedures based on airport-relevant use cases.
3. On-Site testing & validation
Point FWD supervised and executed comprehensive on-site scanner validation using private testing. This ensured consistent data collection across trial settings.
4. Data-Driven refinement
Captured data—including scanner logs and observer insights—was analyzed and compiled into targeted improvement recommendations, helping Exruptive refine their algorithm and user interface in preparation for certification.
5. Knowledge Translation
We supported dissemination efforts across stakeholder groups by developing practical narratives, CONOPS input, and operational insights that bridged the gap between technical innovation and frontline deployment.
About Horizon Europe
The XSPERINSE project was funded through the European Commission’s Horizon 2020 “Fast Track to Innovation” program. Horizon 2020 is the EU’s largest research and innovation framework, supporting high-impact projects across science, industry, and societal challenges. XSPERINSE was coordinated by a consortium of European partners, including Exruptive (scanner manufacturer), MLX (detector development), DTU (technical R&D), and Point FWD (aviation security consultancy).
Get in touch
Curious how this could work for your airport? Let’s talk.
Robin van Gemert
Lead Consultant
Planning and Design →