Abstract:
Embodiments disclosed enable the detection of the presence of chemical, biological, and/or explosive (CBE) substance or other items of interest on individuals handling tickets, fobs, passes, smartcards, or other media. Embodiments generally contemplate issuing media at a first location and analyzing the media at a second location. Material sensitive to CBE substance can be applied to the media at the first and/or second location. An adhesive also may be used to attract and/or retain particles to the media for analysis and/or adhere the detection material to the media. Such embodiments can be utilized in airports, transit stations, and other applications where security against threats posed by CBE substance may be a concern.

Description:
[0001]    The present application claims benefit under 35 USC 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/309,404, filed Mar. 1, 2010 for “SECURITY POLYMER THREAT DETECTION DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM” which is incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    This disclosure relates in general to chemical, biological, and explosive detection and, but not by way of limitation, to detection by determining exposure of a media. 
         [0003]    Analysis in most current detection systems employs ion mobility spectroscopy as the mechanism for detecting items of interest. The detection capture and analysis devices may be installed in the infrastructure being protected such as at the portals for entry or exit, positioned to capture from the persons involved through contact (e.g., touch or swipe) or may be handheld and employed by those protecting the infrastructure. Such devices are common in airports today. The devices typically are slow in the capture and analysis process, frequently require operator participation and require regular cleaning, potentially after each use. In addition, the analysis results are frequently ambiguous, resulting in high false alarm rates. Rates of false alarms for ion mobility spectrometry is approximately 2%. 
         [0004]    Detection of trace particles or emanations from compounds which may represent a threat to the public is based on the capture and analysis of the material. Capture may be accomplished through contact (e.g., wipe a surface or contact with a capture surface) or through capture from the atmosphere (e.g., forced air flow such as a “puffer” to dislodge particles from surfaces or through vapor sampling from the atmosphere). 
         [0005]    An emerging class of detection devices relies on the capture of the threat indicating material causing a change in the composition of the material of the device which captures it. The change is then observable or causes a detectable change in the reflective photo luminescence. Optical scanners may be employed to detect the change in luminescence when the capture material is presented. In cases where the change in the capture material is visible, the holder may dispose of the device before the capture event is recorded or associated with the person. 
       BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0006]    Embodiments described herein enable the detection of the presence of chemical, biological, and/or explosive (CBE) substance or other items of interest on individuals handling tickets, fobs, passes, smartcards, mobile devices, or other media. Embodiments generally contemplate issuing and processing media at a first location and analyzing the media at a second location. Material sensitive to CBE substance can be applied to the media at the first and/or second location. An adhesive may also be used in conjunction with the detection material to bond a detection material carrier to the media for analysis. Such embodiments can be utilized in airports, transit stations, and other applications where security against threats posed by CBE substance may be a concern. 
         [0007]    One embodiment provides for a method of determining exposure of a media to an item of interest. The method includes providing the media at a first location, where the media has a unique identifier, and determining the unique identifier of the media at a second location. The method further includes creating a first image of the media, and applying, to the media, detection material sensitive to the item of interest. The item of interest can be one of a chemical, a biologic compound, or an explosive, and the applying can occur at the second location. The method also includes creating, at the second location, a second image of the media, and analyzing the first image and the second image to determine if the detection material has sensed the item of interest. The analyzing can include determining an optical change between the first image and the second image. Finally, the method includes indicating a result based, at least in part, on the analyzing. 
         [0008]    The method of determining exposure of a media can include one or more of the following features. The first image of the media, the second image of the media, or both, can utilize at least one optical technology from the group consisting of a charge coupled device (CCD), a digital light processor (DLP), and an infrared (IR) sensor. Creating the first image of the media can occur at the second location. Determining an identity of a user. Associating the identity of the user with the unique identifier of the media. Verifying, at the second location, the identity of the user. The determining the identity of the user can include capturing a picture of the user. Determining the unique identifier of the media at the second location can include using at least one technology from the group consisting of radio frequency identification (RFID), bar code scanning, optical imaging, and magnetic stripe reading. 
         [0009]    The for a method of determining exposure of a media further contemplates including one or more of the following features. Applying detection material to the media includes using an adhesive frame, sticker, magazine, or roll feed. Creating, at the second location, an adhesive area on the media. Creating the adhesive area on the media including at least one of applying an adhesive material to the media, or exposing an adhesive material of the media. The adhesive area can cause adhesion of particles using at least one of chemical adhesion, or electrical charge. 
         [0010]    Another embodiment provides for a device for determining exposure of a media to an item of interest, the device comprising a media imager configured to create at least one image of the media and a detection material applicator configured to apply, to the media, detection material sensitive to the item of interest. The item of interest can be one of a chemical, a biologic compound, or an explosive. The device further comprises a processing unit configured to analyze the at least one image of the media to determine if the detection material has sensed the item of interest based, at least in part, on an optical characteristic of the detection material in the at least one image. Finally, the device comprises, an analysis indicator configured to indicate a result based, at least in part, on an analysis of the at least one image of the media. 
         [0011]    The device for determining exposure of the media to the item of interest can include one or more of the following features. The media imager can be configured to create a first image and a second image, the first image being created before the detection material is applied to the media, and the second image being created after the detection material is applied to the media. The processing unit can be configured to determine if the detection material has sensed the item of interest based, at least in part, on an optical change of the detection material between the first image and the second image. A camera can be configured to capture a picture of a user of the media. A media reader can be configured to determine a unique identifier of the media. An identification verifier can be configured to verify an identity of a user of the media. The processing unit can be further configured to verify the identity of the user of the media based, at least in part, on a picture of the user and the unique identifier of the media. 
         [0012]    The device for determining exposure of the media to the item of interest further can include one or more of the following features. The media reader can include at least one device from the group consisting of a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader, a bar code scanner, an optical imager, and a magnetic stripe reader. The detection material applicator can be configured to use an adhesive frame, sticker, magazine, or roll feed application. The analysis indicator can include at least one item from the group consisting of a display, a light-emitting diode (LED), a speaker, and a network interface. 
         [0013]    Another embodiment provides for a non-transitory machine-readable storage medium comprising instructions embodied thereon that, when executed by at least one machine, cause the at least one machine to determine a unique identifier of the media and create a first image of the media. The instructions also cause the at least one machine to apply, to the media, detection material sensitive to the item of interest. The item of interest can be one of a chemical, a biologic compound, or an explosive. The instructions further cause the at least one machine to create a second image of the media and analyze the first image and the second image to determine if the detection material has sensed the item of interest. The analyzing can include determining an optical change between the first image and the second image. Finally, the instructions also cause the at least one machine to indicate a result based, at least in part, on the analyzing. 
         [0014]    The non-transitory machine-readable storage medium can further cause the at least one machine to perform one or more of the following functions. Provide the media at a first location; and create the first image of the media at a second location. Determine an identity of a user. Associate the identity of the user with the unique identifier of the media. Associating the identity of the user with the unique identifier of the media can be configured to occur at a first location; and the instructions, when executed by at least one machine, further can cause the at least one machine to verify, at a second location, the identity of the user. Determining the identity of the user can include capturing a picture of the user. Determining the unique identifier of the media includes using at least one technology from the group consisting of radio frequency identification (RFID), bar code scanning, optical imaging, and magnetic stripe reading. Apply the detection material to the media includes using an adhesive frame, sticker, magazine, or roll feed application. Create an adhesive area on the media. Creating the adhesive area on the media can include at least one of applying an adhesive material to the media, or exposing an adhesive material of the media. The adhesive area can be created to adhere particles using at least one of chemical adhesion, or electrical charge. 
         [0015]    Further areas of applicability of the present disclosure will become apparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating various embodiments, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to necessarily limit the scope of the disclosure. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0016]    The present disclosure is described in conjunction with the appended figures: 
           [0017]      FIG. 1A  is a simplified illustration diagram of an embodiment of a detection system in public transit system. 
           [0018]      FIG. 1B  is a simplified illustration diagram of an embodiment of a detection system in an airport security line. 
           [0019]      FIG. 2A  is a block diagram of a first embodiment of a detection system. 
           [0020]      FIG. 2B  is a block diagram of a second embodiment of a detection system. 
           [0021]      FIG. 3A  is a block diagram of an embodiment of a media issuer. 
           [0022]      FIG. 3B  is a block diagram of another embodiment of a media issuer. 
           [0023]      FIG. 4A  is a block diagram of an analyzer, according to one embodiment. 
           [0024]      FIG. 4B  is a block diagram of an analyzer, according to another embodiment. 
           [0025]      FIGS. 5A and 5B  are simplified drawings of layers of a contactless smartcard that can be used as media in a detection system, according to one embodiment. 
           [0026]      FIG. 5C  is a simplified drawing of a magnetic stripe card that can be used as media in a detection system, according to one embodiment. 
           [0027]      FIG. 6A  is a flowchart of an embodiment of a process for determining exposure of media to an item of interest. 
           [0028]      FIG. 6B  is a flowchart of another embodiment of a process for determining exposure of media to an item of interest. 
           [0029]      FIG. 6C  is a flowchart of yet another embodiment of a process for determining exposure of media to an item of interest. 
           [0030]      FIG. 7A  is a simplified drawing of media having a non-symmetric surface hole structure, according to one embodiment. 
           [0031]      FIG. 7B  is a simplified drawing of media having a symmetric surface hole structure, according to another embodiment. 
           [0032]    In the appended figures, similar components and/or features may have the same reference label. Further, various components of the same type may be distinguished by following the reference label by a dash and a second label that distinguishes among the similar components. If only the first reference label is used in the specification, the description is applicable to any one of the similar components having the same first reference label irrespective of the second reference label. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0033]    The ensuing description provides preferred exemplary embodiment(s) only, and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability or configuration of the disclosure. Rather, the ensuing description of the preferred exemplary embodiment(s) will provide those skilled in the art with an enabling description for implementing a preferred exemplary embodiment. It being understood that various changes may be made in the function and arrangement of elements without departing from the spirit and scope as set forth in the appended claims. 
         [0034]    A detection material using a polymer sensor technology provides detection of a chemical, biological and/or explosive (CBE) substance, also referred to hereinafter as an “item of interest.” This detection material can include different technologies, such as but not limited to, molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) technology that can register detection of an item of interest that has come in contact with the media using organic and/or inorganic polymers created to detect certain molecules and/or molecule groups. Upon detection, the physical characteristics of the detection material, such as color (including non-visible spectra, such as infrared), transparency, magnetic and/or electrical conductivity, can change. Thus, one or more images and/or electrical readings of the material can be taken and used to determine a change in a physical characteristic of the detection material, thereby indicating detection of an item of interest. Because detection material can be configured to detect a specific item of interest substance, multiple detection materials can be applied to the media to detect multiple items of interest. In addition to being able to detect the item(s) of interest, some embodiments also provide an indication of the volume or strength of trace materials detected. 
         [0035]    Detection materials include polymers that are currently available to detect a particular item of interest. They could include vapor or particulate sensing polymers, florescent quenching polymers, and/or Molecularly Imprinted Polymers (MIP). Current classifications of sensing would include CBE substances. The molecular formula and the electrical properties for each classification of substances vary, as well as the formulations for each subclass. For example, the molecular formula for a MIP polymer that detects TNT will vary from the molecular formula for the MIP polymer that detects RDX. These differing formulas cause physical properties of a MIP polymer to react differently upon exposure. The value of the exposure information can be a value indicative of the amount of exposure experienced. The characteristics of the MIP can be such that a physical characteristic or electrical characteristic changes as a function of exposure. 
         [0036]    The use of detection materials, applied to and/or embedded in a media as described herein, can be utilized in any of a variety of security applications. For example, and not by way of limitation,  FIG. 1A  is a simplified block diagram of a detection system  100 - 1  that can be used in a public transit system. In this embodiment, a transit passenger  105  who has been issued a ticket/media  130  can insert the ticket/media  130  into the validator unit  145 . Along with validating the ticket/media  130 , the validator unit  145  can utilize techniques described herein to apply a detection material to the ticket/media  130  and determine whether the ticket/media  130  has been exposed to any items of interest while in the custody of the transit passenger  145 . 
         [0037]    The validator unit  145  can then reissue the ticket/media  130  to the transit passenger  105 , or capture the media. The determination of whether to reissue or capture the ticket/media  130  can be based on whether the ticket/media  130  was exposed to an item of interest, a level of exposure, a type of exposure, which may be considered with additional information (e.g., a current security threat level, information regarding the transit passenger  145 , a time of day, a condition of the media (e.g., if damaged or purposefully altered to reduce readability), etc.). Furthermore, information may be written to the media/ticket  130  before reissuance or capture, which can include a flag or other information regarding detection/non-detection of an item of interest along with other information (e.g., validation information) that can provide additional functionality in the transit system. 
         [0038]    In this embodiment, the validator unit  145  can be connected with various other components of the detection system  100 - 1  either directly or via a network  210 . For example, the validator unit  145  can communicate with a camera  155  to capture a picture and/or video of the transit passenger  105 . The captured picture and/or video can be associated with the ticket/media  130  provided by the transit passenger  105  to allow the detection system  100 - 1  to have a form of passenger identification associated with the picture and/or video. 
         [0039]    Other components of the detection system  100 - 1  can provide added functionality in a transit system context. For example, information regarding detection/non-detection of an item of interest, along with images from the camera  155  and other information associated with the media/ticket  130 , may be sent to a security computer  185  for further analysis, processing, security measures, and/or archival. The validator unit  145  and/or security computer  185  can further communicate information to one or more transit gate/fareboxes  175 . This can, for example, enable the transit gate/fareboxes  175  to deny access to a media/ticket  130  that has been flagged by the detection system  100 - 1 . Additionally or alternatively, a transit gate/farebox  175  can deny access if the transit gate/farebox  175  reads information from the ticket/media  130  that the ticket/media  130  has been flagged. 
         [0040]    The detection system  100 - 1  can also include an image/data distribution system  165 . The image/data distribution system  165  can be used to distribute information to help ensure the security of the transit system. For example, if a media/ticket  130  is flagged, the image/data distribution system  165  can send captured images or video of the transit passenger  105 , and/or other data associated with the flagged ticket/media  130 , to police, security, transit personnel, etc. Such alerts can be sent from a computer or other processing device using short message service (SMS), email, telephone, or the Internet to computers, terminals, cellphones, mobile devices, etc. 
         [0041]      FIG. 1B  is a simplified illustration of another embodiment of a detection system  100 - 2 . In particular, but not by way of limitation,  FIG. 1B  provides an overview of how detection materials can be used to help enhance security in an airport security line. In this embodiment, a passenger  110  is issued a ticket/media  130  by a ticket/media dispenser  140  when moving from an unsecured area  102  to a semi-secure area  104 . The ticket/media dispensing can be overseen and/or operated by a first security worker  120 - 1 . The ticket/media dispenser  140  can be, for example, integrated into a first security checkpoint, in which the first security worker  120 - 1  checks identification of the passenger  110 . The identification of the passenger  110  can be automatically or manually associated with the ticket/media  130  issued to the passenger  110 , and the ticket/media  130  can include a unique identifier for later identification of the ticket/media  130 . Moreover, the ticket/media  130  can include a detection material to detect exposure to an item of interest. 
         [0042]    The passenger  110  then moves though the semi-secure area  104 , exposing the ticket/media  130  to trace amounts of substances (in a process called “sample harvesting”) on the passenger&#39;s hands, clothes, luggage, etc. When attempting to enter a secure area  106  from the semi-secure area  104 , the passenger  110  can enter the ticket/media  130  into a ticket/media analyzer  150  and optionally pass through other security measures, such as a metal detector  170  or similar device. The media/ticket analyzer  150  can analyze the detection material of the ticket/media  130  to determine whether the ticket/media  130  was exposed to any items of interest. The ticket analyzer  150  can also validate and/or mutually authenticate the ticket/media  130  and compare to the initial issuance record of the ticket/media dispenser  140 . The ticket/media  130  analyzer  150  can then indicate to a second security worker  120 - 2  a result of the analysis (e.g., whether an item of interest was detected, a level of exposure of the ticket/media  130  to an item of interest, etc.). 
         [0043]    Additionally or alternatively embodiments can integrate CBE detection with a luggage screener  160  to determine whether luggage, trays, or other items travelling through the luggage screener  160  have been exposed to an item of interest. Depending on the type of detection material used , such analysis may have to occur before the ticket/media  130  is exposed to x-rays or other security measures that could alter the detection material, thereby adversely impacting the accuracy of the analysis. The result of the analysis could be provided to a security worker  120 - 3  operating the luggage screener  160 . 
         [0044]    Detection materials and analysis can be part of detection systems used in various types of applications.  FIG. 2A  illustrates a block diagram of the basic components of a detection system  200 - 1 , according to a first embodiment. Media issuer(s)  240  can issue media to users at a first location, such as a checkpoint of a security line, a ticket booth or vending machine in a transit station, an outer entrance to a stadium, etc. An element of this embodiment is to provide some period of time from the issuance of media in which the media can be exposed to an item of interest. This exposure can occur when a user touches the media, or the media comes in contact with other items that may have come in contact with an item of interest. Such items can include clothes, luggage, purses, wallets, etc. Multiple media issuers  240  and/or analyzers  250  can be used in the detection system  200  to reduce congestion of users in the system. 
         [0045]    The media issuer(s)  240  can include ticket feeders and/or other media-issuing devices that help ensure the media is not exposed to an item of interest beforehand. The media itself can provide a sampling particle harvesting enhanced surface, which can enhance the likelihood that items of interest remain on the surface of the media until analysis. The media issuer(s)  240  additionally can collect identification information from a user to whom the media is issued. This can include reading identification information from a government-issued identification card (e.g., drivers license) and/or gathering biometric information of the user. Collecting biometric information of the user can include taking a picture, scanning certain identifying features (e.g., fingerprint, retina, etc.), recording a voice, gathering a signature, etc. The information collected can be sent via a network  210  to a central processing system  220 , which can store the information in a data store  230 . 
         [0046]    The detection system  200  also includes analyzer(s)  250  that determine whether the issued media has been exposed to an item of interest. The analyzer(s)  250  can be located at a second location to help allow time for a media to become exposed to any items of interest in the media&#39;s proximity. For example, in a transit station where media issuer(s)  240  are located in or at vending machines and/or ticket booths, the analyzer(s) can be located in or at a validator, on a platform, or in a transit vehicle. In another example, media issuer(s)  240  may be located at a checkpoint at the beginning of a security line (e.g., in an airport or a courthouse) and analyzer(s)  250  could be located at a later point in the security line (e.g., at a metal detector, after luggage x-ray, etc.). Alternatively, if a user and/or an item to which the media is attached is expected to return to a location at which media issuer(s)  240  are located, the analyzer(s)  250  can be located at the location of the media issuer(s)  240  and/or integrated with the media issuer(s)  240 . Rental equipment, for example, such as luggage carts, may be returned by a user to a location at which the equipment was originally rented. 
         [0047]    As discussed in greater detail hereafter, the analyzer(s)  250  can determine whether the media has been exposed to an item of interest by apply detection material to media and determining whether the undergoes any changes in physical and/or electrical characteristics. The analyzer(s)  150  can automatically apply the detection material to the media using application methods involving adhesive frame, sticker, magazine, or roll feed application. To help facilitate application, the detection material can be disposed on a sticker, roll of tape, clear laminate, or other material enabling the detection material to adhere to the media and react with any items of interest that may be on the media. In addition, or as an alternative, to chemical adhesion, adhesion can be created with an electrical charge, such as through negative or positive electron current flow or static electrical charge (e.g., ion charge via chemical-based reaction), and analyzer(s)  250  can be configured to create, activate, and/or expose an adhesion area on the media prior to applying the detection material. 
         [0048]    After the detection material is applied to the media, the analyzer(s)  250  can determine whether the detection material has reacted. For example, the analyzer(s)  250  can take an image of the media to determine whether physical characteristics of a detection material (e.g., color, transparency, etc.) have changed to indicate detection of an item of interest. This analysis may also reference an image of the media that was taken before detection material was applied to the media or even before the media was issued to the user. Optionally, the media contains a background color that is encoded to be used as a quality and reference check during analysis. 
         [0049]    In one embodiment for example, after receiving the media and before applying detection material to the media, the analyzer(s)  250  can take a first image of the media for initial reference of color and graphics. Afterwards, the analyzer(s)  250  can apply the detection material and take a second image of the media to determine a change in color with respect to the first image. 
         [0050]    In an alternative embodiment (not shown) the media issuer(s)  240  can communicate with the analyzer(s)  250  to validate serialization, original background color for matching and card anti-cloning verification as well as transaction counting and transaction timing. Optionally, the media issuer(s)  240  and analyzer(s)  250  have check-and-balance networked communication protocol and work as a paired device(s). 
         [0051]    The media discussed herein can include any of a variety of media types, including media provided in current transit, transportation, security, and other systems. For example, the media may comprise a fob, ticket, boarding pass, security card, or other item used for admission, access, etc. Additionally or alternatively, the media can be applied to or otherwise integrated with other items, such as a luggage cart in a hotel or airport, a tray or bin for personal items in an airport security line, a keycard for a hotel room, personal items (e.g., mobile devices, identification cards, etc), and more. The media itself can be made of one or more of a variety of materials, including but not limited to paper, plastic, glass, paper/plastic composite, and metal foil. 
         [0052]    To help ensure the correct media is identified by the analyzer(s)  250 , media can include a unique identifier. The unique identifier can include any of a variety of unique features, including numbers and/or letters. The unique identifier may be issued and/or read by the media issuer(s)  240  when issuing the media. Depending on the desired functionality of the media and/or the detection system  200 , the unique identifier can be embedded on the media such that it can be read by the analyzer(s)  250  utilizing radio frequency identification (RFID), bar code scanning, optical imaging (e.g. optical pattern recognition), and/or magnetic stripe reading. Optionally, the unique identifier may contain identification information of a user, such as birth date, social security number or other government-issued identifier, name, address, phone number, email address, and/or information provided by a government-issued identification card. Moreover, the unique identifier may be encrypted, and the unique identifier also can be embedded within other information provided by the media issuer(s)  240  to the central processing system  220 . 
         [0053]      FIG. 2B  is a block diagram of the basic components of a detection system  200 - 2 , according to a second embodiment. Here, media issuer(s)  240  and analyzer(s)  250  are connected directly with a communication link  245 . Moreover, the media issuer(s)  240  and analyzer(s)  250  are only optionally connected via a network  210  to a central processing system  220  and data store  230 . Configurations with out a network  210  and/or centralized systems  220 ,  230 , analyzer(s)  250  and or media issuer(s), for example, can be configured to interact directly and/or provide the functionality of the central systems  220 ,  230 . 
         [0054]      FIG. 3A  shows a block diagram of an embodiment of a media issuer  240 - 1 . A processing unit  310 , which can include one or more processor and/or microcontroller, runs software  325  embedded in memory  320 . The memory  320  can include persistent storage such as flash, ROM, or some other non-volatile machine readable medium. The memory  320  also can be used to store unique identifiers, user information, and/or other information relating to issued media. 
         [0055]    This embodiment of the media issuer  240 - 1  includes identification (ID) reader(s)  330 , which can collect ID information from a user. ID reader(s)  330  can include magnetic stripe, RFID, bar code, and/or optical image readers configured to gather information from a user identifying media, such as a drivers license and/or credit card. Additionally or alternatively, the media issuer  240 - 1  can be connected and/or integrated with other equipment (not shown) via a biometric data interface  370  to collect biometric information from the user to which the media is issued. The equipment can include devices such as scanners and/or cameras can be to gather biometric data such as a fingerprint, signature, facial image, retinal scan, etc. This information can be utilized by the media issuer  240 - 1  and/or detection system  200  to determine an identity of a user, and associate the identity with a unique identifier of the media issued to the user. This association can be used later to help determine if the user has the correct media at the time of analysis of the media. 
         [0056]    This embodiment of the media issuer  240 - 1  additionally includes a media dispenser  350  and a media reader/writer  340 . These two components can be integrated and/or synchronized to ensure that media writer writes to the media dispensed by the media dispenser  350 . The media writer  240  can write a unique identifier, which can include information specific to the media and/or to the person to whom the media is issued. Depending on the functionality of the media, the media writer  240  can write this information to the media in various ways, such as utilizing contactless/proximity technology (such as radio frequency identification RFID, ISO/IEC 14443, near-field communication (NFC), and/or other wireless techniques), electrical communication (e.g., contact smartcard technology), magnetic stripe writing, stamping, and/or printing of optical bar codes and/or other optical images or patterns. 
         [0057]    Finally, this embodiment of the media issuer  240 - 1  includes a network interface  360 . The network interface  360  can enable the media issuer  240 - 1  to communicate with other components in the detection system  200 , via the network  210 . The network interface  360  can utilize any of a variety of hardware and software layers to interface with the network  210 . The hardware involved, for example, can utilize wireless radio frequency (RF), optical, wired, satellite, and/or other communications technologies. As shown herein, alternative embodiments can provide an interface that communicates directly with analyzer(s)  250 . 
         [0058]      FIG. 3B  shows a block diagram of another embodiment of a media issuer  240 - 2 . This embodiment illustrates how an embodiment of a media issuer  240 - 2  can include a media imager  380 , which can comprise a camera, scanner, and/or other sensor utilizing a charge coupled device (CCD), digital light processor (DLP), infrared (IR) sensor, and/or other optical technologies. As discussed herein, some embodiments of a detection system  200  include capturing an image of media before and after application of the detection material. This can include capturing an image of the media before issuance, which can be used as a reference in later analysis of the media. 
         [0059]    As shown in  FIGS. 3A and 3B , media issuer(s)  240  can include a number of components and can be configured various ways. The embodiments of the media issuers  240 - 1 ,  240 - 2  illustrated are provided as examples and are not limiting. Other embodiments can include more or less components, integrate multiple components into one combined component, and/or divide functionality differently among components, depending on desired functionality. For example, where biometric data is sufficient to identify users, a media issuer  240  may not include ID reader(s)  330 . 
         [0060]      FIG. 4A  shows a block diagram of an analyzer  250 - 1 , according to one embodiment. Similar to the media issuers  240  described herein, the analyzer  250 - 1  in this embodiment includes a processing unit  310 , analyzer memory  323  with analyzer software  327 . Also, the analyzer  250 - 1  includes a media imager  380  and a detection material applicator  345 . According to some embodiments, the media imager  380  can be used to take two images, a first image before and a second one after the detection material is applied to the media. Because the media may have been exposed to an item of interest prior to analysis by the analyzer  250 - 1 , the detection material can indicate exposure shortly after contact with the media. Thus, the first image can be taken prior to application of the detection material to serve as a reference. This reference image can facilitate the processing of the second image to determine whether detection material has reacted to an item of interest. For example, the images can be analyzed to determine a change or change rate in reflective light in the event a color change occurs after exposure to an item of interest. Analysis can be conducted by the processing unit  310 , a remote system, and or the media imager  380 . Therefore, in some embodiments, the media imager  380  can provide the additional functionality of a processing image comparator, differentiator and/or image integrator. 
         [0061]    The determination of whether an item of interest is detected can be made by the processing unit, which can run the analyzer software  327  to process image(s) taken by the media imager  380  to determine changes in coloration, opacity, etc. Alternatively, the analyzer  250 - 1  can use the network interface  360  to provide information to the central processing system  220  or other processing system, via the network  210 , to make the analysis. Once a result is determined, it is provided using an analysis indicator  430  and/or provided via the network interface  360  to the central processing system  220  or other remote system. 
         [0062]    The functionality of the analysis indicator can vary, depending on cost considerations and desired functionality of the detection system  200 . The indicator can be simple binary indicator such as a light-emitting diode (LED), for example, indicating detection or not. Additionally or alternatively, the indicator can indicate a more detailed result, such level(s) of detection and/or material(s) detected. This can be provided a variety of ways, including a text and/or graphical display, series of light indicators, etc. The analysis indicator  430  can be read by a human operator, who can execute appropriate security procedures based on the indicated result. 
         [0063]    The analyzer  250 - 1  in the embodiment of  FIG. 4A  additionally can validate a media. Depending on the application of the detection system  200 , a validator  420  can be integrated into the analyzer  250 - 1 . This can provide validating functions in transit and other applications. For example, where a transit passenger is issued a ticket by a media issuer  240  at a ticket booth or vending machine, the transit passenger later can insert the ticket into the analyzer  250 - 1  for ticket validation. The analyzer  250 - 1  can then validate the ticket an addition to analyzing the ticket to determine whether it has been exposed to an item of interest. 
         [0064]    Additionally, the analyzer can include one or more media reader(s)/writer(s)  410  and/or a biometric data interface  370  to verify an identifier of the media and identify of the user. The media reader(s)/writer(s)  410  can determine a unique identifier of the media using technologies such as bar code or other optical scanner, RFID and/or magnetic stripe reader, etc. Once the unique identifier is determined, the analyzer can communicate with the central processing system  220  via the network interface  360  to determine an identity of a user associated with the unique identifier (the association being previously created upon issuance of the media). The analyzer  350 - 1  can also receive biometric data of the user from the biometric data interface  370  to verify that the user providing the media at the analyzer  350 - 1  is the same user to which the media was issued. Alternatively, the analyzer can provide the biometric data to the central processing system  220  and/or other remote system to verify the user. If the user is different or cannot be verified, the analyzer  250 - 1  can indicate accordingly to another system via the network interface  360  and/or using the analysis indicator  430 . Finally, the media reader(s)/writer(s)  410  can write additional information to the media, such as an indication of the result of the detection analysis, a timestamp, and/or other information that can provide additional functionality to the media. 
         [0065]      FIG. 4B  shows a block diagram of an analyzer  350 - 2 , according to another embodiment. This embodiment includes less components and therefore provides different functionality. For example, rather than include a biometric data interface  370 , this embodiment simply includes a camera  440 , which can be utilized to determine and/or verify an identity of a user. In some embodiments, the camera may simply record a picture of a user associated with the media having a certain unique identifier. These latter embodiments, for example, may be included in embodiments of detection systems  300  in which an identity of a user is not determined at issuance, or verification of a user identity is not needed during analysis. 
         [0066]    Although, as indicated herein, media of various forms can be utilized in the systems and methods described herein,  FIGS. 5A and 5B  illustrate a wireless smartcard that can be used as media, according to one embodiment.  FIG. 5B  illustrates a inlay core  508  of the smartcard, which includes an induction antenna  530  and an integrated circuit  550 , which provide the wireless smartcard functionality. The overall configuration of the smart card can be changed dependent upon the requirements of the media and the ergonomics of the device, which can enhance detection from the expected handling of the smartcard. 
         [0067]      FIG. 5A , illustrates an external layer(s)  504  of the smartcard, which can include a front and/or back layer(s). In addition to graphics and/or other features that can provide additional functionality to the smartcard, the external layer(s)  504  can include detection areas  524  to which detection material is applied to determine exposure of the media to items of interest. Detection areas  524  can include special materials and/or specially-treated surfaces that can facilitate sample harvesting of particles, including items of interest. For example, media can be manufactured in a unique manner that makes the surface of the media and/or detection areas  524  highly receptive to capturing particles as follows. The media surface structure can be manipulated to gather, capture and enhance the particle detection. In addition the media surface and/or detection areas  524  may also be smooth or glossy, dependent on the type of threat detection material. Furthermore, changes in color of detection area(s) can be compared to a color matrix to be used for a quality and reference check. The external layer(s)  504  can be made of a plastic, plasticized, polyvinyl or paper material and the locations of the detection areas  524  can vary with ergonomic requirements. 
         [0068]    Other card types can be utilized in certain embodiments of the systems and methods described herein. For example,  FIG. 5C  illustrates a non-wireless card  512  having a magnetic stripe  534  and detection areas. Detection areas are preferably located in areas of the card where the card will be handled by a card user, which may vary by card type. Moreover, although cards conforming to the ID-1 size of the ISO/IEC 7810 standard can be used, cards of virtually any type can be integrated into detection systems and methods described herein. Embodiments of media shown in  FIGS. 5A-5C  are shown for illustration purposes and are not limiting, and various forms of media other than cards can be used. 
         [0069]      FIG. 6A  is a flowchart of an embodiment of a process  600 - 1  for determining exposure of media to an item of interest. The depicted portion of the process  600 - 1  can begin at block  605 , where the media having a unique identifier is issued at a first location. As indicated herein, the unique identifier could be written to the media at issuance and may contain information indicative of a user. The media is then subject to exposure to items of interest during a period in which the media is in the custody of a user, while traveling from the first location to a second location. 
         [0070]    At block  610 , the unique identifier of the media is read at the second location, and at block  615 , a first image of the media is created. Reading the identifier of the media can identify the previously-issued media, and creating a first image of the media can provide a reference image that can be used in later analysis. 
         [0071]    At block  620 , the detection material is applied to the media. As discussed earlier, a detection material can be sensitive to certain substances, such as certain molecules or families of molecules. Thus different detection materials can be applied to different areas of the media to determine exposure to different items of interest. A predetermined amount of time may be provided after the detection material is applied and before an image of the media is taken, to provide any necessary time for detection material to react. 
         [0072]    At block  625 , a second image of the media is created, and at block  630 , the first and second images are analyzed to determine whether the detection material has reacted (i.e. 
         [0073]    whether the detection material has been exposed to an item of interest). This analysis can occur at the second location, or may occur remotely, depending on desired functionality. The result of the analysis is indicated at block  635 . This result can include a range of values. 
         [0074]      FIG. 6B  is a flowchart of another embodiment of a process  600 - 2  for determining exposure of media to an item of interest, illustrating yet further contemplated features. For example, at block  603 , information regarding the identity of a user can be collected. This can include biometric and/or biographic information retrieved in a database, provided by a user, read from an identification card or other identifying media, and/or captured during the issuance process. With identification information, the unique identifier can be associated with an identity of the user. This association can be made, for example, by a media issuer  240  or another component of a detection system  200 . 
         [0075]    Once the media is presented at a second location, a picture of a user is captured at block  613 , and at block  617  the identify of the user is verified. Additionally or alternatively, other biometric and/or biographic information can be collected and used to verify the identity of a user. In any event, verification of a user&#39;s identity can involve retrieving information regarding the association between the user and the unique identifier of the media. 
         [0076]    At block  617 , an image of the media is created, and at block  633  the image is analyzed to determine whether the detection material has reacted. Unlike the process  600 - 1  of  FIGS. 6A , this process  600 - 2  analyzes a single image. Such single-image analyses are contemplated where the detection material and media imaging are sufficiently accurate to provide a reliable analysis. 
         [0077]    At block  640 , the media is validated. As described herein, embodiments can incorporate other features, such as ticket validation, to provide additional functionality to the user. In so doing, not only is overall security increased, but individual users are provided an additional convenience. 
         [0078]    Finally, at block  645 , the media is returned to the user or captured. As discussed hereinabove, whether the media is returned to the user or captured can depend on whether an item of interest was detected, a type of item of interest detected, and/or a value or level of detection. Moreover, other factors (e.g. information regarding the user, a security threat level, a time of day, etc.) can be considered in the determination of whether to return the media. Captured media can be preserved for further analysis and/or processing. 
         [0079]      FIG. 6C  is a flowchart of yet another embodiment of a process  600 - 3  for determining exposure of media to an item of interest, illustrating how processes contemplated herein can be further altered and adapted. The process  600 - 3 , for example, can be carried out by validator units  145  such as those discussed in the detection system  100 - 1  utilized in a public transit system, as shown in  FIG. 1A . The process begins at block  607 , where the media is issued. However, this step may not be needed (as indicated by the dotted line) in certain cases, such as where media is provided by a third party, or is reusable (e.g. identification or security cards). 
         [0080]    At block  609  the media is read and validated before undergoing a process (blocks  613 - 633 ) similar to those shown in  FIGS. 6A and 6B . Here, however, no unique identifier is read from the card. Nonetheless, the picture of the user, taken at block  613 , can be used to associate the user with a particular media. 
         [0081]    Another feature shown in this process  600 - 3  is, at block  637 , data can be written to the media. The information can include detection/non-detection information, such as a timestamp, location, what item(s) of interest was detected, and/or levels of detection. Other information (e.g., transit data) can also be written to provide additional functionality to the media. Depending on the type of media, data can be written using contactless/ proximity or other radio frequency (RF) technology, electrical signals, magnetic stripe writing, stamping, and/or printing of optical bar codes and/or other optical images or patterns. 
         [0082]    A number of variations and modifications of the disclosed embodiments can also be used. For example, the processes depicted in  FIGS. 6A-6C  are not limiting and can include more or less blocks, may combine or separate features of a particular blocks, or rearrange order of blocks while keeping within the spirit of this disclosure. Embodiments could be embedded into any human-transported item. Furthermore, embodiments described herein regarding contactless smartcards can apply similarly to smartcards with contacts. Also, as indicated earlier, media can be issued and analyzed at the same location. Depending on the result of a detection analysis, an analyzer  250  can route the media to a capture bin or issue to an external feeder for human exchange. 
         [0083]      FIGS. 7A and 7B  illustrate additional embodiments of media that can be utilized in the systems and methods described herein. For example,  FIG. 7A  shows a media  710  having non-symmetric, geometrically-spaced holes in one or more layers of the media  710  that are used to capture particles, including items of interest. The holes can also enhance particle detection, and they may be rough or non-symmetrical, and/or smooth or symmetrical, as shown by media  720  in  FIG. 7B . The holes can be under or over the polymer detection area(s)  524 . 
         [0084]    The disclosure has focused on detecting items of interest by using images of media to determine changes in physical characteristics of a detection material. Other methods can be used, however, additionally or alternatively, to determine whether the detection material has been exposed to an item of interest. For example, where a detection system  100  utilizes detection materials that have electrical properties that change upon exposure to an item of interest, one or more electrical readings (e.g., conductivity, capacitance, inductance, etc.) can be taken by an analyzer  250  before and/or after application of the detection material to the media. Electrical measurement reader(s) can thereby be used in addition or as an alternative to a media imager(s)  380 . 
         [0085]    Additionally, components shown in various diagrams detailed herein can include additional functionality. For example, components described as “readers” or “writers” can include proximity coupling devices (PCDs) that include both reading and writing capabilities. Other components can be similarly combined to form multi-functional units. Conversely, components having multiple functions may be separated into functionally distinct units. 
         [0086]    Also, it is noted that individual embodiments may be described as a process which is depicted as a flowchart, a flow diagram, a data flow diagram, a structure diagram, or a block diagram. Although a flowchart may describe the operations as a sequential process, many of the operations can be performed in parallel or concurrently. In addition, the order of the operations may be re-arranged. A process is terminated when its operations are completed, but could have additional steps not included in a figure. A process may correspond to a method, a function, a procedure, a subroutine, a subprogram, etc. When a process corresponds to a function, its termination can correspond to a return of the function to the calling function or the main function. 
         [0087]    Furthermore, embodiments may be implemented by hardware, software, firmware, middleware, microcode, hardware description languages, or any combination thereof. When implemented in software, firmware, middleware or microcode, the program code or code segments to perform the necessary tasks may be stored in a machine readable medium. A processor(s) may perform the necessary tasks. 
         [0088]    The term “machine-readable medium” includes, but is not limited to portable or fixed storage devices, optical storage devices, wireless channels and various other mediums capable of storing, containing or carrying instruction(s) and/or data. A code segment or machine-executable instructions may represent a procedure, a function, a subprogram, a program, a routine, a subroutine, a module, a software package, a class, or any combination of instructions, data structures, or program statements. A code segment may be coupled to another code segment or a hardware circuit by passing and/or receiving information, data, arguments, parameters, or memory contents. Information, arguments, parameters, data, etc. may be passed, forwarded, or transmitted via any suitable means including memory sharing, message passing, token passing, network transmission, etc. 
         [0089]    While the principles of the disclosure have been described above in connection with specific apparatuses and methods, it is to be clearly understood that this description is made only by way of example and not as limitation on the scope of the disclosure.