Is it possible that the TSA actually observed the metallic object at your side, but decided that it wasn't threatening based on its shape?

No -- TSA policy requires them to investigate all "anomalies" with a pat-down. If they saw & ignored it, they completely broke policy, which is another problem with the nude body scanners: a metal detector has a loud alarm and can't be ignored, whereas an x-ray screen can.

The TSA generally detects my watch when I forget to take it off, and insist on rolling up my sleeve and checking despite its obvious location.

I'm not sure how shape could imply safety, either, since anything could have been concealed inside of it.

Well, what about the Casio F91-W? http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Casio_F91W#Claimed_use_in_terro...

This has been what I've been wondering. While going through HNL a few weeks ago my girlfriend forgot to take her cellphone out of her bra before going through the backscatter. Nobody said a peep.

What are the chances the TSA wouldn't select you for additional screening upon detecting any metal on your person going through a body scanner? Serious question, no snark intended.

I would imagine that they would demand that every metal container be opened for inspection, no matter its shape.

Surely any TSA agent would see a concealed object on the side of a body worthy of at least an inspection/questioning.

I doubt that - they'd be taking a huge chance. Even if it wasn't explosives, the person could've been keeping drugs inside that metallic object and thus would warrant attention.

I was once subjected to further search because I had left a scrap of paper in one of my pockets.

How are you dealing with the legal bills? Do you have a team of lawyers, or a legal background as well (I see you went to Stevens Institute, so I'm guessing you have an engineering background.)

Many thanks.

Even if you were forced to stand sideways, if you had objects hanging down the sides of the inside of your legs, would it still be visible? I would think that the outer part of the leg would block anything on the inside of the legs.

Have you tried smuggling playdough filled with fertilizer yet?

Can't they just ask people to turn to the side?