Competition brief: automatic threat detection of firearms
Updated 24 August 2016
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1. Dates and deadlines
| Competition opens | Monday 27 June 2016 |
| Briefing event | Thursday 7 July 2016 |
| Networking session | Thursday 21 July 2016 |
| Registration deadline | Noon on Wednesday 24 August 2016 |
| Application deadline | Noon on Wednesday 31 August 2016 |
2. The competition scope
Following recent attacks in Europe, the need to further strengthen our ability to prevent the illegal movement of firearms (by terrorists or organised crime groups) remains a high priority.
The aim of this competition is to develop methods for providing higher detection capacity and capability. At the same time, these methods should not impact on routine commercial operations.
Proposals should be for the development of innovative algorithms for the ATD of firearms, their components and ammunition. Our intention is that the algorithm(s) will be suitable for use with x-ray screening systems at the border. These algorithms may also be suitable for other counter-terrorism and security applications. They may be extended to detect other forms of contraband.
We expect the output from this 2-phase competition to be a working prototype of an ATD algorithm for use with existing x-ray scanning equipment. It will be able to detect firearms across different modes of transport:
- aviation
- rail
- maritime
All firearms are within the scope of this project.
At least 50% of the contract value must be for research and development (R&D) services.
R&D can include solution exploration and design. It can also include prototyping and field-testing the product or service. R&D does not include:
- commercial development activities such as quantity production
- supply to establish commercial viability or to recover R&D costs
- integration, customisation or incremental adaptations and improvements to existing products or processes
3. Find out if you are eligible to apply
- This competition is open to any organisation and it is especially suitable for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)
- You can work with others but we will award contracts only to individual organisations
- Universities and non-commercial organisations are also eligible to apply
- Pre-start-ups are eligible but you will need to register as a business if you’re awarded a contract
- All applicants will need to show that their proposed idea has a credible and practical route to market
4. Funding and project details
The competition has 2 phases.
Phase 1
In phase 1 you show the technical feasibility of your proposed concept. Development contracts will be for up to 4 months. A total of £1 million is available to fund projects with up to approximately £50,000 (excluding VAT) each.
Phase 2
We may invite the most promising projects in phase 1 to take part in phase 2. Phase 2 is open only to organisations that have completed phase 1. This phase is for developing and evaluating prototypes or demonstrators. A total of £1 million is available to fund projects with up to approximately £200,000 (excluding VAT) each.
5. How to apply
To apply:
- register online by noon 24 August 2016
- read the guidance for applicants
- complete and submit your online application form
We will not accept late submissions. Your application is confidential.
A panel of independent experts will assess your proposal. We will then choose the best proposals from those that meet the aims of this competition.
6. Background and further information
About SBRI competitions
SBRI provides innovative solutions to challenges faced by the public sector. This can lead to better public services and improved efficiency and effectiveness. SBRI supports economic growth and enables the development of innovative products and services. It does this through the public procurement of R&D. SBRI generates new business opportunities for companies and provides a route to market for their ideas. It also bridges the seed funding gap experienced by many early-stage companies.
Further help and information
If you need more information, contact the competition helpline on 0300 321 4357 or email us at support@innovateuk.gov.uk