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ThruVision secures £0.75m investment to develop compact security imaging technology

June 16, 2004

ThruVision Ltd, a new spinout company from the CCLRC Rutherford Appleton Laboratory (RAL) in Oxfordshire, UK, secures £0.75 million investment from Circus Capital and Rainbow Seed Fund to accelerate development of its terahertz imager products.

With this boost in funding a technology that will allow security operators the 'X-ray vision' they've always needed to detect concealed weapons, bombs, narcotics and even alcohols, will be a reality.

The technology being developed by ThruVision isn't X-ray but instead reads the natural terahertz radiation that every object emits, allowing a non-invasive 'search' of individuals.

The ThruVision team, working closely with RAL's Space Science and Technology Department - acknowledged leaders in terahertz technology, have built a prototype terahertz 'camera' that has successfully imaged various metallic and non-metallic objects concealed under clothing.

"The benefit of ThruVision's technology is that it is compact and safe. These are two factors that are very important for airport and entrance security operators. The camera simply 'looks' at people without illuminating them with any form of radiation," said ThruVision's Chief Executive Dr Jonathan James.

"I am delighted; the £750k investment will enable ThruVision to concentrate on its product development and further tests with our customers," added James.

Harvey Boulter, Director Circus Capital added that security screening has become "an unfortunate part of everyday life".
"ThruVision technology has the potential to radically improve how such screening is undertaken. With this market exhibiting rapid growth and an immediate demand for better screening solutions, we believe ThruVision represents a very exciting investment opportunity," he said.

Terry Swainbank, Investment Manager of the Rainbow Seed Fund added "This technology came from RAL's Space Science and Technology Department, and the commercial potential beyond astronomy was quickly recognised. We are delighted to be investing in ThruVision. Co-investment by Circus is especially welcome in that we have a clear route to raising more substantial investment to rapidly grow ThruVision and realise its true potential."

In February, ThruVision won the UK Research Council's business plan competition, receiving a £25k prize from UK Science Minister Lord Sainsbury. ThruVision is currently based on site at RAL, Oxfordshire, UK.

Council for the Central Laboratory of the Research Councils (CCLRC)

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