Tim Sheldon BSc CPhys
Background
Tim is an internationally known expert in the field of explosives, weapons and drugs detection with particular experience of vapour and trace detection, millimetre wave and terahertz imaging and on the development of test methods for a wide range of detection systems.
He graduated in 1982 with a BSc in Physics from Birmingham University and worked from 1983 to 1986 on perimeter and physical security systems, for the Home Office Scientific Research and Development Branch – now the Home Office Scientific Development Branch. From 1986 to 2008 he worked primarily on explosives, weapons and drugs detection and also spent 3 years as programme manager for police protective equipment evaluation, supporting the police, Department of Transport and other Government Departments with technical advice, equipment evaluation and R&D. From 2002 to 2008 he was the group leader for explosives and weapons detection, which included drugs detection until 2005.
Highlights of Tim's Civil Service career included evaluation of detection systems for the Channel Tunnel, initiating HOSDB's drugs detection programme and chairing the interdepartmental Drugs Detection Working Group, introducing new vapour and trace detection techniques into UK police operational use, and acting as technical adviser to UK delegate at the ICAO Ad-Hoc Group of Experts on the Detection of Explosives and the International Explosives Technical Committee.
His last major HOSDB project was to lead the first cross-departmental call for proposals for innovative projects in explosives and weapons detection. The call produced over 230 project proposals from UK industry and academia out of which ten were selected for funding.
Tim produced or contributed to numerous Home Office reports, conference papers and other publications and has been granted two detection-related patents.
Tim left HOSDB in 2008 to set up his own consulting company, XDtec Technical Services Ltd. He has a keen interest in detection technology, particularly in the practical aspects of applying it to real-world problems.
Skills and Knowledge
Extensive knowledge and experience of detection techniques including vapour and trace detection and sampling techniques, X-Ray, other bulk detection systems, metal detection, millimetre wave and terahertz imaging and detection dogs.
Translating operational needs into technical requirements in counter-terrorist, counter-drugs and other law enforcement applications.
Designing and carrying out evaluations of detection systems encompassing laboratory testing, semi-realistic testing and large scale field trials.
Technical writing and presentation for technical and non-technical audiences
Project and programme management
Management of technical staff
Recruitment and promotion assessment
Services Offered by XDtec Technical Services Ltd.
Independent evaluation of detection equipment
Appraisal of new technologies for investors, inventors and system developers
Understanding and developing requirements
Development of training materials
Assistance with deployment of equipment and development of operational procedures
Project technical review
Project and Programme management
Market appraisal