Abstract: A method to screen individuals specifically for paramagnetic or ferromagnetic objects they may be carrying or wearing, before they enter the high-field region of an MRI suite. The device used comprises either a screening portal or a compact, hand-held magnetic gradiometer and its electronics. The method places all of the sensor arrays in close proximity to all parts of a subject's body, for screening purposes.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for preventing entry of a ferromagnetic threat object into a no-entry zone of an MRI facility, by attaching a magnet to each threat object, and sensing movement of any such magnet within a pre-selected distance from the no-entry zone. An RFID tag and scanning antenna can be used to sense the presence of a threat object anywhere within the sensing range of the interrogation device, either separately or as an adjunct to the distance detection provided by the magnetic field source and sensor system.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus are disclosed, to screen patients or other areas for ferromagnetic objects, particularly for use intra-operatively in an operating room. The device comprises at least one magnetic field source, at least one magnetic gradiometer, and the associated electronics. The field source and the gradiometer are supported by an arm structure which can be manipulated to position the field source and the gradiometer at one or more positions near areas of interest, such as areas on a patient or other subject, and to orient the field source and the gradiometer so that the axis of the magnetic field is arranged along three different non-parallel, non-coplanar, axes to ensure detection of any ferromagnetic object regardless of its shape and orientation. The device can be manipulated to place the sensor arrays in close proximity to selected parts of a subject's body, for screening purposes.

Abstract: A ferromagnetic detection pillar having one or more applied magnetic field sources and one or more magnetic field sensors, with the magnets and sensors arranged and adapted to detect a ferromagnetic threat object on one side of the pillar. A detection device, such as a motion detector or infrared detector, is also provided, to detect the presence of an object on a selected side of the pillar. A single free-standing pillar can be used, or two or more free-standing pillars can be arranged to constitute a variable aperture detection portal. Single sensors or multiple-sensor configurations can be used.

Abstract: A ferromagnetic detection pillar having one or more applied magnetic field sources and one or more magnetic field sensors, with the magnets and sensors arranged and adapted to detect a ferromagnetic threat object on any side of the pillar. A single free-standing pillar can be used to provide protection in an MRI facility, or two or more free-standing pillars can be arranged to constitute a variable aperture detection portal. Single sensors or multiple-sensor configurations can be used.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for enhancing detection of a ferromagnetic threat object by magnetizing the threat object with a separate magnetic field, prior to scanning of the subject by a ferromagnetic-detecting sensor system.

Abstract: A combination air fairing and auxiliary braking device (10) for use in connection with trucks, vans, trailers, or the like vehicles. The device (10) includes an air fairing structure (14) which serves to produce a preselected outline and reduce the drag resulting from air resistance during motion of the vehicle (12). A plurality of relief doors (16) are carried by the air fairing structure (14), and are operable between closed and opened positions such that the drag is reduced when the relief doors (16) are closed, and the drag is increased when the relief doors (16) are opened. A system (40) is provided for selectively opening and closing the relief doors (16) at preselected time. For example, the relief doors (16) are open to increase the drag as a vehicle is slowing down to provide auxiliary braking forces.