ABout the Heartbeat Detector solution
About GeoSpace Technologies
Geospace Technologies is a U.S.-based engineering company with decades of experience in high-performance seismic sensing technologies. Originally developed for demanding industrial and geophysical applications, Geospace has successfully adapted its expertise to the security and defence sector through the development of the internationally recognised Heartbeat Detector®.
The technology originated from research conducted by Oak Ridge National Laboratory and has evolved into one of the world's leading solutions for non-intrusive concealed human detection.
The Operational Challenge
Every day, military bases, border agencies, customs authorities and security organisations inspect thousands of vehicles entering protected areas.
Traditional inspection methods are often:
- Labour intensive
- Time consuming
- Inconsistent
- Intrusive
- Potentially hazardous
At the same time, concealed human trafficking, illegal border crossings and unauthorized access continue to pose significant security risks.
The Geospace Heartbeat Detector® provides an efficient and objective solution by detecting the unique micro-vibrations generated by the human cardiovascular system without requiring physical access to the interior of the vehicle.
Rapid Detection of Concealed Persons
The Heartbeat Detector® uses multiple highly sensitive seismic sensors placed externally on the inspected vehicle. During a short measurement period, advanced algorithms analyse vibration patterns and distinguish human heartbeat signatures from environmental noise.
Within seconds, operators receive a simple inspection result indicating whether further investigation is recommended.
The completely passive measurement process requires no radiation, no X-rays and no intrusion into the vehicle itself.
Key features
- Passive heartbeat detection technology
- Non-intrusive vehicle inspection
- Rapid inspection process
- Portable and easily deployable
- Highly sensitive seismic sensors
- Advanced digital signal processing
- Objective automated analysis
- Minimal operator training required
- Suitable for day and night operations
- Designed for demanding operational environments
AVAILABLE AT MSS DEFENCE
MSS DEFENCE is a certified reseller of the Heartbeat Detector from GEOSPACE. Any questions? You need a demonstration? Just reach out, we're ready to assist.
How the system works
Step 1 – Vehicle Preparation
The vehicle is brought to a complete stop and the engine is switched off to eliminate engine-induced vibrations.
Step 2 – Sensor Placement
Four seismic sensors are temporarily attached to strategic positions on the vehicle exterior.
Step 3 – Measurement
The system records extremely small structural vibrations for approximately ten seconds.
Step 4 – Signal Processing
Proprietary software filters environmental noise and analyses the recorded vibration spectrum.
Step 5 – Inspection Result
The operator receives a clear recommendation indicating whether concealed human presence has been detected.
Applications
Border Security
Detect concealed migrants and illegal border crossings.
Datasheet: Datasheet Border Security
Military Force Protection
Vehicle inspection at military bases, operational headquarters and deployed checkpoints.
Customs Operations
Support customs inspections of trucks, trailers and freight vehicles.
Ports and Harbours
Rapid inspection of commercial cargo traffic entering secure port facilities.
Correctional Facilities
Inspect service vehicles entering and leaving correctional institutions.
Datasheet: Datasheet Correctional Facilities
Critical Infrastructure Protection
Protect airports, government facilities, energy installations and strategic assets.
Why heartbeat detection?
Unlike traditional inspection techniques, heartbeat detection offers significant operational advantages.
Faster inspections
Reduce vehicle inspection times while maintaining a high level of security.
Increased safety
Minimise the need for manual vehicle searches.
Objective decision support
Advanced algorithms reduce operator subjectivity.
Non-destructive
No unloading, dismantling or opening of cargo compartments.
Passive technology
No radiation or harmful emissions.
Operational flexibility
Suitable for temporary checkpoints as well as permanent inspection facilities.
Technical highlights
Detection principle: Passive seismic heartbeat detection
Measurement time: Approximately 10 seconds
Vehicle types: Passenger vehicles, vans, trucks, trailers, containers
Technology: Seismic sensors with advanced digital signal processing
Deployment: Portable inspection system
Operating principle: Non-intrusive
Operator interface: Simple PASS / SEARCH recommendation
Why GeoSpace?
Geospace Technologies combines decades of experience in seismic sensing with proven operational expertise in security applications.
Its Heartbeat Detector® has become one of the most widely recognised concealed human detection systems worldwide and continues to support border agencies, military organisations and government authorities in protecting critical assets.
AVAILABLE AT MSS DEFENCE
MSS DEFENCE is a certified reseller of the Heartbeat Detector from GEOSPACE. Any questions? You need a demonstration? Just reach out, we're ready to assist.