Talk about building a better mousetrap. Seems like GE has done that in spades — and just in time for all the economic stimulus money to start flowing their way.

The electronics giant has launched a high-speed baggage-screening system for airports that it says is a nice combo of healthcare-caliber imaging technology and state-of-the-art explosive-detection capabilities.

GE claims this new technology can screen bags checked by passengers at double the rate of most existing systems. It’s on track to be deployed at some U.S. and international airports beginning in the fourth quarter. The U.S. Transportation Security Administration recently certified it for use in the U.S., although it still must undergo field tests.

The system uses three-dimensional imaging technology initially developed for the healthcare industry. Computer software then analyzes the high-definition images for density, mass and other factors that could denote concealed explosives.

It can screen up to about 1,000 bags an hour, compared to no more than 500 for most existing systems.

To see a way cool video of the technology in action, visit here.

Tags: baggage scanning, certified, GE, General Electric, security, technology, Transportation Security Administration, TSA