Foreign Object Detection

The foreign object detection (FOD) system uses high speed cameras, custom optics and laser line projectors to acquire both 2D images and high resolution 3D profiles of airport runways, taxiways and aprons in order to automatically detect even the smallest objects at highway speeds.

The foreign object detection system can be operated both during daytime and nighttime, as well as under all types of lighting conditions. Sun and shadows, as well as various pavement types ranging from dark asphalt to concrete, can be scanned at inspection speeds from 0 to 100km/h. Depending on the configuration selected, an entire runway can be scanned in only a few minutes; automatically detecting FOD as small as 2 mm in size.

Debris and GPS data is collected simultaneously and is analyzed in real-time. Alarms can be pre-set to trigger upon detection of debris of specific sizes or volume. Included software reports size, number and location data for each of the detected debris, thus allowing operations and maintenance personnel to quickly decide whether to remove individual threats or to proceed with a general runway maintenance program.