Iconal Technology Ltd
Iconal Technology Ltd carries out research and provides consultancy in new and emerging technologies for government agencies in the UK, USA and Europe.
Founded in 2006 and based in Cambridge UK, we work for government agencies in the UK, USA and Europe providing independent and objective, science-based research, testing and experimentation and impartial advice.
We work in three main areas:
Contract Research
Iconal Technology carries out feasibility studies, prototype system development and experiments both in the laboratory and in the field to assist our clients in the innovation process. Through our staff, associates and partners, we offer a flexible, responsive, problem-solving approach which is both analytical and creative.
Technology Strategy
Iconal Technology carries out technology assessments of the state-of-the-art, technology forecasts and foresighting studies. These support policy makers and programme managers in setting their research priorities, technology acquisition strategies and regulation. Techniques such as requirements analysis, state-of-the art reviews, gap analysis and technology roadmapping are combined with deep subject matter expertise and access to a global network of contacts.
Test and Evaluation
Test & Evaluation covers the experiments, evaluations and field trials which are an important part of the innovation process, as well as the more traditional testing of components and systems to establish fitness-for-purpose. Iconal Technology’s experience includes both laboratory tests and field trials of new and emerging technologies. We work on the development and harmonisation of test protocols, including the specification of test objects and simulants.
"a huge thank you to the whole Iconal team…. No ask ever seems to be too much for you. You always deliver the highest quality work, on time and to cost. You are an absolute delight to work with"
Products and services
Technology transfer opportunities
In recent years, Iconal have participated in a number of security research programmes exploring new detection system concepts, especially using multiple, low-cost sensors and machine learning algorithms.
Several of these research activities have been successful in developing new technology for both the emerging urban security and for the more established aviation security markets. Iconal is not a product company and is seeking to transfer these technologies to a company with the size, structure and market reach to best exploit the opportunity they present.
Four developments are currently available:
HTPX – High Throughput X-ray bag screening for mass casualty threats
HTPX is a novel fast, automatic and low-cost approach to screening bags for mass casualty threats at sports events, visitor attractions, transport hubs and other publicly accessible locations. It uses simple dual energy X-ray imaging combined with additional microwave radar and optical 3-D imaging sensors to distinguish benign bags from those containing large explosives or weapon threats.
AcES – Multi-sensor threat detection for screening people and carried bags
AcES is a multi-sensor walk-by threat detection system for screening people and their carried bags for mass casualty threats using a combination of microwave, millimetre-wave, ultrasound and optical detection techniques. It provides new screening capabilities and automated detection at low hardware and operating costs due to its use of low-cost COTS components developed for mass-market consumer applications.
TKC – Safe, non-contact technique to rapidly screen for concealed bladed weapons
TKC was developed as part of a UK Home Office initiative into novel detection techniques to help tackle knife crime. It uses an innovative microwave radar technique to detect and discriminate between knives and benign objects such as mobile phones, keys and folding umbrellas.
HART – Multi-sensor hand-held alarm resolution
Developed as part of the UK Department for Transport/Home Office Future Aviation Security Systems (FASS) programme, HART is a multi-sensor, hand-held system for resolution of alarms from AIT/Security Scanners in aviation security and other applications.