X-ray screening of hold baggage: Are the same visual-cognitive abilities needed for 2D and 3D imaging?

Abstract

With the transition from 2D to 3D imaging technology for security screening of passenger bags, the question arises whether airport security screeners need the same visual-cognitive abilities to successfully inspecting these images. This study investigated the relationship between visual-cognitive abilities and the visual inspection performance of screeners. 42 screeners conducted a visual-cognitive test battery (VCTB) and a simulated hold baggage screening task using 2D or 3D imaging technology. The VCTB included test scales measuring abilities underlying visual processing, processing speed and fluid intelligence. Results showed that only few aspects of processing speed and visual processing correlated significantly with performance using 2D imaging. Performance of screeners that inspected 3D images showed even less significant correlations. These results indicate that with the expected change from 2D to 3D imaging, visual-cognitive requirements of airport security screeners might change. Further studies need to elucidate what visual-cognitive skills future 3D screeners need.