Evolv Express
Developed a first of its kind weapons detection system.
Duration: 10 months, team of 5+
Evolv Express is the first touchless weapons detection system that can scan groups of people as they naturally walk through without slowing, stopping, emptying pockets, or removing bags. Unlike convential metal detectors, pepole can pass through as a continuous stream, and guards only need to intervene if a threat is detected.
When Evolv came to PA Consulting, they had an innovative electromagnetic scanning technology and a proof of principle prototype. Yet they were far from having a rugged system ready for deployment in the field. Over the span of 10 months, we developed a portable and weatherproof prototype that Evolv was able to bring to trade shows and lease to customers.
The straightness and plumbness of the system is key to the performance of the technology. I performed extensive tolerance stack analysis to ensure positions and orientations of key sensors will remain within acceptable ranges once the bases were leveled. The system contained reaction injection moulded parts and extruded parts that had particularly large tolerance bands, which necessitated more compex analysis methods. I developed GD&T schemes to control the key features within required ranges.
I owned the design of the bases at bottom of the units. The bases were the entry points for IP67 rated connectors, and also had securely locked access doors to prevent tampering. The surface of the bases were key parts of the industrial design, and needed to fit the designer’s intended surface profiles. Another key feature was integrated casters that could be extended or retracted, allowing easier positioning of the systems.
As Evolv grows, I’ve been seeing the Express system more and more in the wild. It’s a great joy to see my designs come to life.
