Remote spectral fingerprinting for law enforcement

Robert L. Huguenin; Donald J. Tahmoush

doi:10.1117/12.44548

1 August 1991 Remote spectral fingerprinting for law enforcement

Robert L. Huguenin, Donald J. Tahmoush

Proceedings Volume 1479, Surveillance Technologies; (1991) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.44548
Event: Orlando '91, 1991, Orlando, FL, United States

Abstract

A proof of concept test has been completed that demonstrates the potential utility of the Applied Analysis Spectral Analytical Process (AASAP) for remote spectral fingerprinting of objects of law enforcement interest. The test was directed toward demonstrating feasibility of a proposed VSIS (Vehicle Signature Identification System) for drug interdiction applications. VSIS will measure reflected light spectra of vehicles at strategic locations, such as border crossings. AASAP will be used by VSIS to automatically extract the vehicle signature, which is based on diagnostic spectral fine structure in the spectrum of the vehicle coating. The extracted signature will be automatically compared to a library of one or more stored signatures for specific vehicles of interest to determine whether or not the subject vehicle is one of those vehicles of interest. The proof of concept test was conducted using a boom- mounted 63 channel sensor (0.5 - 2.5 micrometers ) operated by MTL Systems, Inc. Spectra of 18 automobiles (3 cars each from 6 color groups) were measured in April, 1990. Spectra from two locations on the roof of each car were measured. The signatures for each of the 18 vehicles were distinct, while the two spectra for each vehicle were nearly identical. Phase II of the test involved remeasuring the spectra four months later and comparing the results to the Phase I signatures. The Phase II test measured six vehicles, one from each color group, and the signatures for those vehicles were stable. The test demonstrated that AASAP is highly discriminating and robust as vehicle fingerprinting tool. While the test was directed toward drug interdiction applications, the results suggest that VSIS-like systems employing AASAP may have broad law enforcement application potentials.

Citation Download Citation

Robert L. Huguenin and Donald J. Tahmoush "Remote spectral fingerprinting for law enforcement", Proc. SPIE 1479, Surveillance Technologies, (1 August 1991); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.44548

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