Steve Reinharz

The reviews are in, and ISC West was another hit. Brisk attendance and a comprehensive lineup of the industry’s top companies and products contributed to another successful show for Reed Exhibitions. Our Expert Panel Roundtable, who have attended many such events, added their own reflections to the industry’s post-ISC glow. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: How successful was ISC West 2018 for security industry exhibitors and visitors?

A big trade show, such as the upcoming ISC West, has a lot to offer for attendees. How, can attendees maximise the value they get out of ISC West? For advice, we go to our Expert Panel Roundtable, all seasoned veterans of many big trade shows. Specifically, we asked the panel: How can attendees get the most out of a big trade show like ISC West?

How much does a security system cost? We all know that total costs associated with systems are substantially higher than the “price tag.” There are many elements, tangible and intangible, that contribute to the costs of owning and operating a system. Taking a broad view and finding ways to measure these additional costs enables integrators and users to get the most value from a system at the lowest total cost of ownership (TCO). However, measuring TCO can be easier said than done. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable to share the benefit of their collective expertise on the subject. Specifically, we asked: How should integrators and/or end users measure total cost of ownership (TCO) when quantifying the value of security systems?

In tidying up after a year of Expert Panel Roundtable questions and answers, we came across some previously unpublished responses from our panel. These interesting responses address some of the hottest topics in the industry, from robots and deep learning to the “race to the bottom.” Taken together, the varied comments offer their own range of insights into the evolving physical security market. This week, we highlight some of these assorted Expert Panellist comments submitted over the last several months.

The new year presents new opportunities for the physical security marketplace. In many ways, 2018 will undoubtedly see further development of trends we saw in 2017. In fact, some of the trends determining the future of the physical security industry have been in place for many years. However, not every event in 2018 can be foreseen or easily predicted. To be sure, it is sometimes the surprises that keep life interesting! We asked this week Expert Panel Roundtable: What will be the security market’s biggest surprise in 2018?

The end of the year is a great time to take stock of one’s accomplishments during the year, and to reflect on successes and failures, where we are and where we’re going. 2017 brought a lot of change to the physical security market, but were the changes positive or negative? Our Expert Panelists tend to be a thoughtful and reflective group, so we wanted to get their thoughts and insights at year-end about 2017 in the security market. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: Was 2017 a good year or bad year for the physical security industry -and why?

They call it “critical” for a reason. The so-called “critical infrastructure” is composed of the basic services that citizens have come to depend on, and which are necessary to support society and ensure national stability. The term includes high-visibility segments such as airports, refineries, transportation, wastewater, nuclear reactors, electric utilities, pipelines, and more. Because these functions are so critical, the stakes of providing security are higher than for any other market. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the security challenges of critical infrastructure facilities?

As the new school term begins, awareness of security at all levels of educational institutions is higher than ever. Technology plays an important role in protecting educational facilities and their students, faculty, staff and visitors. Specific security challenges drive which technologies and other measures are used, and those challenges are evolving, along with the dynamic institutions security is tasked with protecting. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the security challenges for schools and colleges?

Even the most effective technologies usually require some level of human involvement. What new technologies do, generally speaking, is change the nature of a human’s role. Most jobs in today’s world are vastly different than 50 years ago, in many cases because of the changing role of technology. In the physical security world, what specific impact does technology have on the human element of systems? We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: Have recent developments in security systems made manpower more, or less, important to the equation? Explain.

Technology is changing at a break-neck pace, and the security marketplace is currently being bombarded by a wealth of new capabilities and innovations. But what will be the impact? Which of the currently-hyped new innovations will have a major impact, and which will fade over time? And even acknowledging the long-term significance of various technologies, what can we expect to be the more immediate effect? We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What new security technology is poised to have the greatest impact in the second half of 2017?

The minutes are counting down to one of the biggest security industry trade shows of the 2017 calendar. Expectations are high going into ISC West 2017 in Las Vegas: Last year’s show was very well attended and highlighted lots of new technologies. Looking ahead to this year’s show, we wanted to get the Expert Panel Roundtable’s take on what news will dominate the show. So we asked our panel: What do you expect to be the big news at ISC West 2017?

Changes in our industry’s technologies are reflected in the language we use. Over the years, more than one industry trend has been tied to associated buzzwords – for better or worse. As the technologies change, so does the language. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the industry’s newest “buzzwords” and what do they reflect about the changing market?

The year 2017 saw some of the worst natural disasters in North America, with Hurricanes Harvey and Irma wreaking havoc on Houston, Texas, and the Caribbean with force of which we haven’t seen before. While many people chose to evacuate these areas, many were left to deal with the devastation and first responders had the difficult job of assessing the damage, rescuing trapped victims and delivering food and supplies. AI-enabled drones and robotics to assess damage In addition, more than 1,800 FEMA employees were deployed to support the hurricane relief efforts along with over 340 workers from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.Robots could be vital in ensuring that security is maintained within a disaster zone - and they only cost a quarter of a police officer's salary That’s on top of the resources that were already actively working to save lives in the affected areas, including the Texas National Guard, the entirety of which was activated by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott shortly after Harvey came ashore. While these rescue workers work tirelessly to make a difference, many times there simply aren’t enough hands to truly help everyone in need. As a result, some companies look at this as a way to introduce technology to the equation that can be easily deployed in the event of disaster, including artificial intelligence-enabled drones and robotics to assess damage, provide initial triage for patients, and provide basic supplies to people in need. While still in the beginning stages, these initiatives are already being implemented in some emerging markets. Robots as mobile sentries Disaster situations tend to bring out the best in people as evidenced by those who turn out en masse, either on their own or by volunteering with service organisations, to try and help their fellow citizens following storms, earthquakes and other types of calamities.Utilising a robot instead of a human as a sentry means less law enforcement and/or security personnel Unfortunately, these types of incidents also bring out the worst in humankind in the form of looters and others who seek to take advantage of people who have lost everything. Although it should be noted that fears and reports of looting are often overstated during events like Harvey and other disasters, there’s no denying that keeping the peace and making sure that things do not descend into chaos and anarchy during what is a stressful time for all involved is paramount. Given that law enforcement and the National Guard must devote the majority of their attention to other recovery efforts, robots could be vital in ensuring that security is maintained within a disaster zone. In addition to not having to allocate manpower to security, which again involves bringing in people and placing further burdens on available resources, deploying robots to act as mobile sentries offers a number of benefits. Sustainable resources Obviously, there are cost advantages to using robots rather than people. For example, in a typical commercial environment, robots can be deployed for about half the cost of a traditional unarmed guard and they only cost about a quarter of what it takes to employ a police officer in a law enforcement-type application. Most robots are also outfitted with surveillance cameras, which provide authorities the ability to constantly monitor an area and record video for evidentiary purposes. Artificial intelligence-enabled drones and robotics aid to assess damage, provide initial triage for patients, and provide basic supplies to people in need during a natural disaster  Perhaps the most appealing benefit that robots offer to emergency management officials in a security role during disaster recovery efforts is sustainability. Robots never get tired, nor do they have to use the bathroom, eat or take a break. With the abilities afforded by AI, robots can also navigate any designated area autonomously to keep an eye out for suspicious behavior or alert first responders to those who may need aid.Pattern recognition programs are essentially the building blocks that make the larger umbrella of general AI possible The SMP Robotics S5 Security Robot from Robotic Assistance Devices, for example, can run for as long as 20 hours without needing to be recharged and a single operator working from a central command post could manage up to 25 of them. Robotic sentries to address short-staffing Having robots patrol certain locations also reduces the likelihood of violent encounters between people and security forces. It’s not uncommon for tensions to boil over in situations where people feel hopeless and they can sometimes lash out at the very people sent to help them. Such a situation occurred following Hurricane Katrina, which devastated New Orleans and other areas of the Gulf Coast in 2005. Just days after the Superdome was converted into a makeshift shelter for evacuees, conditions inside the massive building began to deteriorate and a National Guardsman was assaulted one night inside a locker room. The attack resulted in troops putting up barbed wire fencing in various places around the building for protection from the increasingly agitated crowd. Last but certainly not least, utilising a robot instead of a human as a sentry in the aftermath of a disaster means that less law enforcement and/or security personnel will have be pulled from surrounding areas, many of which are already short-staffed as it is.Robots are outfitted with surveillance cameras, which provide authorities the ability to constantly monitor an area Law enforcement, firefighters and EMTs from adjacent communities and neighboring states almost immediately pour into the hardest hit areas following a disaster; however, this also leaves their respective agencies somewhat vulnerable themselves should they encounter a devastating event of their own. The use of just 50 robots, because they can work more hours, could mean that roughly 120 first responders could stay put in their own cities, towns and counties. New possibilities with artificial intelligence While drones still largely require a human operator to chart their flight paths and control their movements, the evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionising the capabilities of machines to work autonomously. Though it may sound like something straight out of a science fiction novel or movie, there are already numerous robotic technologies that leverage some form of AI technology today. Of course, there is still a bit of confusion about what exactly AI is as well as some of the underlying terminology surrounding it. Generally speaking, AI is the ability of a computer to imitate the cognitive thinking and decision-making capabilities of humans. AI is the ability of a computer to imitate the cognitive thinking and decision-making capabilities of humans Some of the terms used in conjunction with AI, such as machine learning, deep learning and neural networks, refer to the ability of software programs to recognize patterns in large amounts of ingested data. Pattern recognition programs such as these, labeled by some as ‘narrow AI’, are essentially the building blocks that make the larger umbrella of general AI possible.Robots used in disaster scenarios could help maintain law and order, assist in search and rescue operations, and provide vital communications capabilities Remote physical security capabilities The physical security industry has recently been inundated with technologies that leverage different components of this narrow AI category. The manned guarding segment, in particular, has seen the introduction of a variety of robot guards over the past several years, which have been deployed in a range of different applications. Aside from serving as a force multiplier, robots with machine learning capabilities give security end users the ability to have an expanded presence in locations or situations characterised as too 'dull, dirty or dangerous' to place a human guard. For example, while it may not be feasible to have a human patrol the outskirts of a vital electric substation located hundreds of miles from the nearest town, having a robot that can easily traverse the harsh terrain and notify the proper authorities when something is amiss would be a viable alternative.Sometimes health and safety concerns make it dangerous to have a human watch the site, such as at toxic waste dumps - robots do not have this issue Technology as force multiplier in disaster management There are also situations where health and safety concerns simply preclude the ability of having a human watch the site, such as at toxic waste dumps, but this is not the case for a robot. Similar to these situations where having human guards is not desirable or even possible, robots could be used in disaster scenarios where they could help maintain law and order, assist in search and rescue operations, as well as provide vital communications capabilities. Robots and drones that are equipped with artificial intelligence capabilities can offer first responders a look into the aftermath of a natural disaster and serve as a force multiplier in these cases. We’re seeing the rise of the use of this kind of technology, and as the world faces more and more weather-related and man-made disasters in the future, they will become a part of the fabric of emergency response.

  The past year has proved to be a year full of many changes both within our industry and for Robotic Assistance Devices (RAD). While we have experienced increased adoption of artificial intelligence-based solutions, the industry has been challenged with an ever-evolving technology landscape. Protecting enterprise organisations from both cyber and physical security threats will be an ongoing challenge the industry must grapple with. Greater adoption of robotic solutions To address the physical security challenges, we saw a greater adoption of robotic solutions across the board. Our massive industry started to make the change: Shifting from an uneducated view of this advanced technology to increased interest about artificial intelligence across multiple markets including guarding companies, integrators and, most importantly, end-users. In 2017 there was a greater adoption of robotic solutions across the board With security-guard robots, security directors now have access to additional tools to meet their performance and budget goals. Currently, we see a great adoption with progressive guarding companies, which are signing up to have RAD as their robotic guarding partner. RAD deployed its first robot this year, and we look forward to deploying many more as we work with our customers to customise our robotic solution to their needs. Human collaboration with robotics I believe our industry is at the beginning stages of what could be a serious paradigm shift in how we rely on a combination of humans and technology to do a job. We've seen that in video analytics and the wide variety of solutions available on the market today. The trend has progressed beyond video analytics and into robotics, and that will continue to evolve into 2018 and beyond. As we continue to build on the success of our security guard robot solution, we look forward to expanding our product offerings to meet the security needs of our customers.

Robots have been in the spotlight lately, as tycoons like Elon Musk discuss the perils of automation and artificial intelligence (AI), and roving robots meet their watery demise. These recent events have unmasked a particularly interesting topic: The value of robots in the broader sense, especially as a security tool. The emergence of robotics, automation and AI is not new, but the ongoing discussion about how best to use these continues to fuel critics and supporters alike. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport announced in early July that it is piloting a programme that utilises robots at the busy transportation hub to provide tips for getting through security faster; such as telling passengers to remove their scarves, jackets and belts before going through the screening process. Other robots being used in airports perform tasks such as providing passengers with directions to gates, escorting passengers to their destination or cleaning the floors. Rise of the robots PricewaterhouseCoopers recently released a study that reported that the majority of consumers are willing to receive healthcare from advanced technologies, such as AI and robotics, that can answer health questions, perform tests, make a diagnosis and recommend treatment. Even BP is getting in on the action by piloting a $20 billion programme that uses the AI technology that helped NASA land a rover on Mars to improve how it drills for oil.  A recent study reported that the majority of consumers are willing to receive healthcare from advanced technologies These examples are just the tip of the iceberg for the uses associated with robotics in a number of sectors – and we're just getting started. Within security, the same kinds of technology are already being used to take the protection of assets even further and deliver more streamlined business operations. However, robots in shopping malls are not going to take us to the next level in providing real value for security through robotics. We must look further than that. Increasing value of security through robotics The security coverage that a robot offers in the case of a shopping mall can be easily overshadowed by the fact that the machines seem to serve to entertain the population. Instead, security robots can best be utilised for more high-level roles, such as in critical infrastructure sites, corporate campuses and educational facilities, where wide, expansive spaces require continuous protection. In these particular locales, security can be difficult to achieve, as cost, location and lack of resources make the logistics of deployment difficult.  Security robots can best be utilised for more high-level roles, such as in critical infrastructure sites But therein lies the chief argument for increasing the value of security through robotics: the extension of the security operations centre and the manned guarding contingent on which these facilities heavily rely. Armed with advanced video analytics capabilities and panoramic coverage of a scene, robots that are concentrated in these areas offer security leaders the ability to place “feet on the ground” in a cost-effective, value-based way, saving significant cost on per-hour contracting of human guards. This allows the more mundane jobs typically associated with remote locations to be reassigned to robots, thereby saving human abilities to be used in more important tasks, such as within a security operations centre, where sensors can be evaluated and possible threats can be more effectively thwarted.  As mentioned above, Sea-Tac's robot pilot programme is demonstrating this very idea: the ability of a robot to take a mundane, repetitive task, such as repeating instructions over and over, in an effort to reassign human agents to more important tasks, such as actual security protection and screening. This is the true value of robotics in security. The cost savings of deploying a robotic guard can also be reallocated to other security priorities or even reduce the overall budget of an organisation's security department.  The reduction of risk and the transferable nature of mundane tasks are pushing us toward the utilisation of robots for security Reducing risk for human guards  Reaching beyond the basic functionality of robotics for mundane tasks is the argument that using robots provides significant value for businesses where risk is inherent. There are a number of dangerous jobs out there that require humans to be present, but many security-related roles can see significant risk to workers reduced by implementing robotic guards in their place. In the legal sense, many of these jobs fall under inherently dangerous work, in which employers and employees knowingly proceed to work in dangerous situations. For example, security patrol offers at a toxic waste storage facility of a nuclear power plant – performing these kinds of jobs within the scope of the orders from the employer could still cause harm to the employee.  The reduction of risk and the transferable nature of mundane tasks are pushing us toward the utilisation of robots for security. While a human guard likely won't need to be replaced based on his or her taking a dip in an aquatic landmark, it is critically important for today's organisations to weigh the cost and outcome of implementing this new and innovative technology to meet basic business needs. Robot revolution While security robots may not be ideal in some surroundings, they are growing in popularity for locations that must take human safety into account, as well as the cost for investing in humans to take on more mundane tasks. As the technology becomes more mainstream, we'll look back on this discussion and balk at how we almost lost an innovative solution to a water hazard instead of taking this time to rethink the proper uses of the technology and realign our strategy. I look forward to being in the driver's seat of this robot revolution.

When most people think of the term artificial intelligence, science fiction films both old and new tend to come to mind. Whether it’s the military network Skynet becoming self-aware in The Terminator and wiping out the majority of mankind with nuclear weapons, or the hosts in Westworld developing consciousness and turning against their human masters, Hollywood tends to paint a grim picture of this area of technology. The reality is that artificial intelligence – or AI for short – is not simply some fatalistic abstract concept destined to wreak havoc on a futuristic society, but rather a currently available technology that stands poised to revolutionise a number of industries, including security. Robots replacing humans Whilst it may be hard to believe now, robots that leverage AI will, at some point in the near future, perform many jobs that are done by humans today. In a recent interview with Quartz, Microsoft founder Bill Gates suggested that the government should tax robots as a way to keep automation from replacing human workers too quickly. “Right now, the human worker who does, say, $50,000 worth of work in a factory, that income is taxed and you get income tax, social security tax, all those things. If a robot comes in to do the same thing, you’d think that we’d tax the robot at a similar level,” Gates told the publication.Naturally, there is a bit of healthy skepticism on the part of security end users about yet another new technology that promises to transform the industry. They have been burned in the past by things such as video analytics in its early days, which overpromised and under-delivered. However, while still in its infancy stages, robots for security enhancement are being actively evaluated by a number of high-profile Fortune 100 companies. Artificial intelligence in security By now, most people have at least read about, or have a vague idea what AI is, but there is also a lot of confusion about some of the various terms that are used in conjunction with it; for example, machine learning, deep learning, neural networks, etc. All of these terms essentially refer to the capability of software programs to recognise patterns by analysing large amounts of collected data. These pattern recognition algorithms all produce an output that falls under the umbrella category of artificial intelligence. Narrow AI focuses on executing certain defined tasks, such as object recognition in the case of video analytics or navigation for a security robot While the aforementioned science-fiction movies all deal with ideas surrounding general AI, which involves machines being able to perform any intellectual task that a human could, the technology being developed for the security industry would fall under the category of narrow AI, which focuses on executing certain defined tasks, such as object recognition in the case of video analytics or navigation for a security robot. Speaking of video analytics, this will be one of the first major domains within the security industry that will be radically transformed by AI. The rules-based analytics of old, such as virtual tripwire, wrong-way motion detection and object left behind, will soon be rendered obsolete by AI, which completely eliminates the need for pre-programmed algorithms. In fact, sensor technology available today can capture an amount of metadata on people in real time that some privacy advocates would consider downright scary, including their identity, gender and age. With such capabilities already within reach, the video analytics of tomorrow will be able to do much more than just alert users when a person, animal or vehicle has crossed an invisible barrier. Robotics and AI Although video analytics may be the first security technology to leverage AI to the greatest extent, it is clear that the potential for robotics in the industry is vast and we have only begun to scratch the surface of what it is capable of. However, the use of robotics in security would not be practical without artificial intelligence technology. AI is, in fact, the driver of the two main technologies that security robotics – be it unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), more commonly known as drones – leverage, including intelligent navigation and advanced object recognition. Both UGVs and UAVs are going to have a significant impact on facility protection moving forward One of the limitations of most currently available UGVs is that they are limited in the types of terrain they can cover; however, other robots are being built to traverse more rugged landscapes and intelligent navigation, which incorporates GPS data and deep learning via machine vision technology, will be paramount in helping them secure the facilities they are assigned to protect. It will provide said robot with the logic to travel around various obstructions that cross their path in an efficient manner. The second component of the equation, advanced object recognition, is actually what enables a robot to become an effective part of the enterprise security team. Leveraging AI, robots, similar to their human counterparts, will be able to identify, at range, when a human or vehicle is approaching a perimeter and then execute a set of standard operating procedures in line with the organisation’s goals. Future of robots in security Undoubtedly, both UGVs and UAVs are going to have a significant impact on facility protection moving forward – and while the combination of humans and robots is ideal for most locations, there are a variety of so-called “dangerous, dirty and dull” jobs where it would indeed be preferable to use a robot over a human guard. For example, it would be unfair and perhaps unreasonable to post a human at a critical utility site that is hundreds of miles away from the nearest population centre. However, because of the importance of the site to the nation’s power grid or water supply, it may be necessary to have an enhanced security presence there and a robot would be a perfect fit. There are also numerous toxic-waste dumps scattered about the country, many of which are managed by states, which need to be protected. This is a mundane and potentially hazardous job that would be another ideal application for robots. Security has traditionally been seen in the corporate world as a cost centre rather than as a business unit that adds value to the bottom line. While the use cases for artificial intelligence and robotics are still being fleshed out, it is clear that the technology presents a way for security departments to justify their existence beyond “guns, guards and gates.” Only time will tell how successful organisations will be in leveraging the capabilities offered by AI, but the future looks very bright indeed. {##Poll30 - AI in the security market##}

Robotic Assistance Devices, Inc. (RAD), an innovator in the delivery of artificial intelligence-based solutions that empower organisations to gain new insight, announced it has released its latest version of the Security Control and Observation Tower (SCOT): Wally, a wall-mounted security solution that harnesses the power of AI to enhance an organisation's situational awareness, communication abilities and control. SCOT Wally provides organisations with 110 degrees of visibility and takes full advantage of the RAD Software Suite, which is a collection of integrated software applications hosted in Microsoft’s Azure Cloud services that allows immediate and mobile access to alerts and controls generated by SCOT. Scaled security applications Priced at two-thirds less than the original SCOT tower, SCOT Wally can be used in lobbies, parking structures, corporate campuses or exterior areas.  “SCOT Wally builds on the success of our original SCOT solution, providing a wall-mounted version for organisations looking to scale their security teams in a way that is good for the bottom line,” said Steve Reinharz, President and CEO, RAD. “This unique security solution can be paired with other original SCOT deployments or be used on its own.” Long-range human detection analytics SCOT solutions, including SCOT Wally, are equipped with AI-centric technology that powers human detection analytics, featuring long-range detection at low false-alarm rates. SCOT Wally will be demonstrated for the first time at the upcoming BOMA 2018 International Conference and Expo for the commercial real estate market, June 23-26, in San Antonio, Texas, alongside its partners at Allied Universal (Booth #704).

Allied Universal, a facility services company and the largest security force in North America, and partner Robotic Assistance Devices (RAD) will introduce the latest guarding solutions, the Security Control and Observation Tower (SCOT) and SCOT Wally to commercial real estate customers at the BOMA International Conference & Expo. The show is slated for June 23-26 at Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio, Texas. Show attendees are invited to visit the Allied Universal booth #704 for demonstrations of the robotic technology’s concierge-like capabilities. “Our partnership with Allied Universal and presence here at the BOMA show demonstrates how modern artificial intelligence can be effectively used to expand and enhance a traditional security program,” said Steve Reinharz, President and CEO, RAD. “We're thrilled to demonstrate how SCOT and Wally can easily become the next member of a building's security team not only in the commercial space, but in other vertical markets as well.” The tower station is customisable and can be used anywhere a ‘stand-at-post’ guarding position is in use at any visitor/employee check-in spot or kiosk location Perimeter surveillance  SCOT, a standalone, portable remote self-sufficient intelligence observation tower can instantly expand an organisation’s security reach with perimeter surveillance for critical infrastructure, distribution and storage centres, and other restricted properties. Within the CRE market, it can extend security for corporate campuses, lobby areas, parking lots, HOAs and recreational facilities. The tower station is customisable and can be used anywhere a ‘stand-at-post’ guarding position is in use at any visitor/employee check-in spot or kiosk location. It’s cost effective and flexible. SCOT Wally with RAD software suite A smaller variation on the SCOT tower being launched at the BOMA show is the SCOT Wally, a wall-mounted security solution with visibility of up to 110 degrees. Like the original SCOT, the device can perform the following: * Adds support as a security measure and as a tool for concierge services. Allied Universal will also present the education session: A Deeper Dive into How Robots, Drones, and Artificial Intelligence Converge to Make Facilities Smarter and Safer * Takes RAD's artificial intelligence-powered technologies and uses them to enhance an organisation's situational awareness, communication and control. * Features the RAD software suite, which harnesses the power of artificial intelligence to give security officials the actionable information they need to address incidents quickly and efficiently. Allied Universal, a BOMA Cornerstone partner, will also present the education session: A Deeper Dive into How Robots, Drones, and Artificial Intelligence Converge to Make Facilities Smarter and Safer at the show on Tues., June 26, at 10:45 a.m. Technologies such as the SCOT and SCOT Wally will be discussed.

If you’ve been paying attention over the last twelve months, you will have noticed that deep learning techniques and artificial intelligence (AI) are making waves in the physical security market, with manufacturers eagerly adopting these buzzwords at the industry's biggest trade shows. With all the hype, security professionals are curious to know what these terms really mean, and how these technologies can boost real-world security system performance. The growing number of applications of deep learning technology and AI in physical security is a clear indication that these are more than a passing fad. This review of some of our most comprehensive articles on these topics shows that AI is an all-pervasive trend that the physical security industry will do well to embrace quickly. Here, we examine the opportunities that artificial intelligence presents for smart security applications, and look back at how some of the leading security companies are adapting to respond to rapidly-changing expectations: What is deep learning technology? Machine Learning involves collecting large amounts of data related to a problem, training a model using this data and employing this model to process new data. Recently, there have been huge advances in a branch of Machine Learning called Deep Learning. This describes a family of algorithms based on neural networks. These algorithms are able to learn efficiently from example, and subsequently apply this learning to new data. Here, Zvika Ashani explains how deep learning technology can boost video surveillance systems. Relationship between deep learning and artificial intelligence With deep learning, you can show a computer many different images and it will "learn" to distinguish the differences. This is the "training" phase. After the neural network learns about the data, it can then use "inference" to interpret new data based on what it has learned. For example, if it has seen enough cats before, the system will know when a new image is a cat. In effect, the system “learns” by looking at lots of data to achieve artificial intelligence (AI). Larry Anderson explores how new computer hardware - the Graphic Processing Unit (GPU) – is making artificial intelligence accessible to the security industry. Improving surveillance efficiency and accuracy with AI Larry Anderson explains how the latest technologies from Neurala and Motorola will enable the addition of AI to existing products, changing an existing solution from a passive sensor to a device that is “active in its thinking.” The technology is already being added to existing Motorola body-worn-cameras to enable police officers to more efficiently search for objects or persons of interest. In surveillance applications, AI could eliminate the need for humans to do repetitive or boring work, such as look at hours of video footage. Intelligent security systems overcome smart city surveillance challenges AI technology is expected to answer the pressing industry questions of how to use Big Data effectively and make a return on the investment in expensive storage, while maintaining (or even lowering) human capital costs. However, until recently, these expectations have been limited by factors such as a limited ability to learn, and high ongoing costs. Zvika Ashani examines how these challenges are being met and overcome, making artificial intelligence the standard in Smart City surveillance deployments. Combining AI and robotics to enhance security operations With the abilities afforded by AI, robots can navigate any designated area autonomously to keep an eye out for suspicious behaviour or alert first responders to those who may need aid. This also means that fewer law enforcement and/or security personnel will have be pulled from surrounding areas. While drones still require a human operator to chart their flight paths, the evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) is increasing the capabilities of these machines to work autonomously, says Steve Reinharz. Future of artificial intelligence in the security industry Contributors to SourceSecurity.com have been eager to embrace artificial intelligence and its ability to make video analytics more accurate and effective. Manufacturers predicted that deep learning technology could provide unprecedented insight into human behaviour, allowing video systems to more accurately monitor and predict crime. They also noted how cloud-based systems hold an advantage for deep learning video analytics. All in all, manufacturers are hoping that AI will provide scalable solutions across a range of vertical markets. 

Robotic Assistance Devices, Inc. (RAD), a wholly-owned subsidiary of On the Move Systems, Inc., has announced it will introduce its latest artificial intelligence guarding solution, the Security Control and Observation Tower (SCOT), at ISC West 2018 in Las Vegas. SCOT is ideal for any application where long-range human detection, automated and custom interaction, and a visible security presence are needed to expand an organisation's situational awareness while protecting people and assets from outside threats.  AI-powered perimeter surveillance SCOT is a standalone, remote, portable, self-sufficient intelligence observation tower designed to expand an organisation's security reach instantly. The SCOT solution is ideal for perimeter surveillance for critical infrastructure, distribution and storage centres, data centres, high-value outdoor areas, homeowner's associations and other restricted properties.SCOT debuts the RAD Software Suite that allows immediate and mobile access to alerts and controls generated by SCOT SCOT is customisable and can be used anywhere a ‘stand-at-post’ guarding position is in use, at any visitor/employee check-in location and at any kiosk location. SCOT is equipped with artificial intelligence that powers human detection analytics, featuring the longest-range detection at low false alarm rates. In addition, SCOT debuts the RAD Software Suite, which is a collection of integrated software applications hosted in Microsoft’s Azure Cloud services and allows immediate and mobile access to alerts and controls generated by SCOT. Addressing security challenges SCOT’s use of artificial intelligence allows it to deliver guarding services at a fraction of the cost and is considerably more affordable than any human or automated solution on the market. “Not only does SCOT allow flexibility for deployment, but it also results in an organisation's ability to scale as needed to fully address security challenges. Customers that need more control and protection of their facilities can deploy the SCOT solution at a fraction of the cost of other solutions,” said Steve Reinharz, President and CEO, RAD.  “SCOT's ability to be instantly deployed to a location makes it unique in the market, as many of today's end users require solutions that offer immediate and long-term results without the debilitating cost or installation time of infrastructure investment.”

On the Move Systems (OMVS) is pleased to announce that its wholly-owned subsidiary Robotic Assistance Devices (RAD) has executed a strategic agreement to supply its intelligent robotic solutions through Allied Universal. High-tech autonomous patrolling The robots will be leveraged to help Allied Universal customers supplement existing security professionals and improve safety, increase situational awareness and drive efficiency across the enterprise. RAD’s S5 Security Robots add significant benefits to the Allied Universal product and services portfolio by delivering a cost-effective solution to augment traditional guarding services. The S5 Security Robot serves as a force multiplier and removes security personnel from potentially dangerous situations, reducing injuries and liability. The combination of human personnel with robotic technologies creates a strong value proposition that results in new levels of security and streamlined operations. “The RAD portfolio augments the core competencies of our guard personnel because it offers fully autonomous patrolling that stakeholders can leverage to make rapid, informed decisions,” said Ty Richmond, President, Integrated Security Solutions and Technology, Allied Universal. “The data captured by the security robot will prove valuable in post-event investigations, enabling our customers to quickly address ongoing issues, close cases and identify trends. We are excited to explore the possibilities alongside RAD.” Significant increase in collaborated sales “The market is primed to embrace the combination of human personnel and robotic guarding, and we expect this trend to increase significantly in the coming year,” said Steve Reinharz, Founder and President, RAD. “We are thrilled with our already valuable partnership with Allied Universal and the size and quality of the sales funnel we’ve been able to create together.” RAD currently has a sales pipeline of over 50 Fortune 500 companies and over 25 qualified dealers and distributors that have a combined customer base of more than 35,000 end-user corporations.

On the Move Systems has announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary Robotic Assistance Devices (RAD) will make its S5 Security Guard Robot available to members of PSA Security Network, the world's largest systems integrator cooperative made up of the most progressive security and audio-visual integration firms in North America. Robotics: The wave of the future PSA Security Network encompasses more than 400 branch locations, employing more than 7,500 industry professionals, with more than $4.5 billion annually in security, fire, life safety and pro audio-visual installations. By leveraging the power of the PSA Security Network, RAD will expand the geographic reach of the innovative S5 Security Guard Robot solution while allowing PSA members to gain access to the rapidly growing artificial intelligence market. “Robotics is the wave of the future, and PSA strives to be a leader in the delivery of cutting-edge technologies,” said Bill Bozeman, President and CEO, PSA. “RAD enables PSA integrators to deliver advanced solutions that streamline efficiency, are cost effective and strengthen overall security. We are excited to have the opportunity to add RAD to our rich portfolio of technology partners.” High-tech robotic guards RAD robotics redefines the security services market, allowing organisations to augment the value of traditional manned guarding services with high-tech robotics. Through the incorporation of advanced analytics and strategic technology integrations, the artificial intelligence solutions created by RAD accelerate deep learning, automate the security patrol process and build situational awareness for leaders and first responders in the event of an incident. "We're excited to offer our robotic solution through another channel as part of PSA's expansive integrator network, allowing us to expand our market reach and educate more end users on how these solutions can solve today's most complex security problems," said Steve Reinharz, President and CEO of RAD. "PSA members will now have the ability to not only offer a cutting-edge technology to their customers, but also add additional revenue to their business through our robots-as-a-service model." RAD currently has a sales pipeline of over 50 Fortune 500 companies and over 25 qualified dealers and distributors that have a combined customer base of more than 35,000 end-user corporations.

On the Move Systems is pleased to announce that Robotic Assistance Devices (RAD), its wholly owned subsidiary, has deployed its first security guard robot at the headquarters of Romeo Power Technology in Vernon, California. The 113,000-square-foot facility will benefit from the addition of RAD robotic personnel, and will augment the existing security, safety and operational processes in place at the site.  Artificial intelligence data “RAD is the perfect partner to help us increase safety, enhance productivity and control access to our facility,” said Michael Patterson, Romeo, CEO and Co-Founder. “In addition, our partnership allows us to gather data from the artificial intelligence market, which we know will play an ever growing role in our business.” Romeo is the exclusive battery pack technology partner to RAD. Romeo lithium-ion battery packs power RAD’s fleet of security guard robots, providing 12 hours of continuous operation regardless of terrain or climate. Additionally, these advanced battery packs enable RAD robotics to experience four continuous years of use without replacement. Romeo, founded by engineers and designers from SpaceX, Tesla, Samsung, Apple and Amazon, is an energy storage technology company leading the charge in battery pack innovation, safety and reliability for vehicles and stationary storage. Combining human personnel with robotics “We are pleased to deploy the first robot at Romeo Power Technology — part of our robot-as-a-service delivery model that differentiates us from other robotic and artificial intelligence providers,” said Steve Reinharz, President, RAD. “As we move toward exceeding our 2017 delivery targets, we continue to experience significant and growing market interest on our solutions, which are designed to augment existing security teams.” The Security Guard robots, which are optimised with RAD’s customised services and solutions, deliver a cost-effective solution to augment traditional manned guard services. The robots serve as force multipliers and remove security personnel from potentially dangerous situations, reducing liability. The combination of human personnel with robotic technologies creates a strong value proposition that results in new levels of security and streamlined operations.

Robotic Assistance Devices (RAD) has entered into an agreement with Romeo Power to outfit the SMP Robotics S5 Security Guard Robot with Romeo's lithium-ion battery packs. RAD will exclusively use Romeo’s power solution and similarly Romeo will only supply RAD as their exclusive security robot partner. Advanced robotic solutions The addition of Romeo Power battery packs to the RAD robotics solution delivers 12 hours of continuous operation regardless of terrain or climate. Romeo Power's advanced battery packs also allows four continuous years of use without replacement. “This advanced battery from Romeo allows our autonomous security robot to patrol for longer periods of time, increasing its efficiency and operational success. As we gear up to deploy more advanced robotic solutions to the market, the battery life and power will be a critical feature we can offer to end users,” said Steve Reinharz, President and Founder, RAD. “Additionally, Romeo Power is an ideal technology partner as it leads the charge in developing power solutions that drives today's modern technology deployments." Autonomous security guard robots As part of the company's alliance, Romeo Power will deploy two S5 autonomous security guard robots at its Vernon, Calif., headquarters, to patrol the company’s 113,000-square-foot manufacturing facility and surrounding property. “We are excited to have the opportunity to partner with RAD to help increase safety, enhance productivity and control access to our facility,” said Michael Patterson, CEO and Founder, Romeo Power. “Furthermore, our partnership with RAD will allow us to further refine our lithium-ion battery packs for future use and allow us to garner data from the artificial intelligence market, which is expanding at a rapid rate.” "We are excited to havethe opportunity to partnerwith RAD to increase safety, enhance productivity and control access to our facility" Romeo Power, founded by engineers and designers from SpaceX, Tesla, Samsung, Apple and Amazon, is an energy storage technology company leading the charge in battery pack innovation, safety and reliability for vehicles and stationary storage. Combining human personnel with robotic technology SMP S5 Security Guard robots, which are optimised with RAD’s customised services and solutions, deliver a cost-effective solution to augment traditional manned guard services. The S5 Security Guard serves as a force multiplier and removes security personnel from potentially dangerous situations, reducing liability. The combination of human personnel with robotic technologies creates a strong value proposition that results in new levels of security and streamlined operations. RAD has commenced to deploy robots to end users. To date, RAD has commitments for 62 robots for total contract values of approximately $6 million. OMVS has successfully completed its due diligence process on RAD as part of the binding LOI that was entered into on May 10, 2017, for the purchase of 100 percent of RAD by OMVS. It is anticipated that the acquisition will close before August 31, 2017. RAD currently has signed agreements for two POC’s with major companies. RAD currently has a sales pipeline of more than 50 Fortune 500 companies and more than 25 qualified dealers and distributors that have a combined customer base of more than 35,000 end-user corporations.

Robotic Assistance Devices, an innovator in artificial intelligence and robotics, announced it has named Matt Klock as Vice President of Sales for its US-based operations. Klock is responsible for the development and execution of RAD’s business development strategies and will provide skilled sales leadership for RAD's solutions and growing sales team. Client relationship development experience Klock will be instrumental in achieving RAD’s strategic sales initiatives with a primary focus on creating and maintaining a superior customer experience. Klock brings a wealth of experience to his role with RAD, spanning client relationship development with a concentrated focus on customer satisfaction. Klock joins RAD from Securitas Security Services USA, where he worked out of San Diego, overseeing operations and customer service initiatives for multiple locations. Klock has also worked for Kratos/HBE and served as District Manager for AlliedBarton Security, as well as Project Manager, working directly with The Walt Disney Studios in Burbank, California. He is currently the Chapter Chairman for ASIS San Diego and is an Infraguard Infrastructure Liaison Officer. Industrial security “Joining Robotic Assistance Devices will undoubtedly be a career highlight for me,” Klock said. “I'm excited to have a position where I can share the benefits of robotic security with industrial security enterprise organisations. I’m convinced RAD’s technology and commitment to customer satisfaction will allow RAD to continue to grow in this new industry.” “Matt is an amazing professional and we are thrilled to add him as a leader to our team,” said Steve Reinharz, CEO, RAD. “His knowledge of the industry makes him uniquely qualified to spearhead RAD's sales and business development initiatives moving forward.”

RAD robotics serves as a force multiplier and removes security personnel from dangerous situations Robotic Assistance Devices, an innovator in artificial intelligence and robotics, announced that weSECURE Robotics has joined the growing list of RAD authorised partners. weSECURE, which delivers robotic solutions that increase operational efficiencies, boasts a strong penetration in the oil and gas industry, and will extend RAD’s presence in strategic vertical markets. Cost-effective solution The addition of RAD artificial intelligence (AI) solutions to the weSECURE Robotics portfolio provides customers with a cost-effective solution to augment traditional manned guard services. RAD robotics serves as a force multiplier and removes security personnel from potentially dangerous situations, reducing liability. Additionally, the robotic guard costs approximately 50 percent less per hour than traditional guards, resulting in significant long-term savings. “The addition of RAD’s highly customised robotic solutions further extends options for our customers in perimeter security, critical infrastructure, and other emerging markets,” said Jim Larson, COO, weSECURE. “By leveraging the enhanced capabilities of RAD technologies, our customers will gain even greater awareness into their security posture to enable faster and more effective incident response and more accurate decisions.” Leveraging the power of artificial intelligence “We continue to look for new ways to ensure the highest level of safety through strategic partnerships with technology leaders,” said Steve Reinharz, Co-Founder and President, RAD. “Our partnership with weSECURE allows customers to leverage the power of AI as part of a robust, comprehensive solution that is agile enough to meet the unique and changing dynamics of today’s organisations.” Founded in 2016, RAD is a privately funded, high-tech start-up that is an exclusive partner of SMP Robotics, based in San Francisco.

Using AI supercomputer NVIDIA Jetson, RAD robotics can achieve higher levels of autonomy Robotic Assistance Devices (RAD), an innovator in artificial intelligence and robotics and master distributor for SMP Robotics Systems Corp. has announced it is advancing its complete line of next-generation autonomous robotic guards with the NVIDIA Jetson embedded computing platform. NVIDIA Jetson AI supercomputer Using NVIDIA Jetson, an embedded AI supercomputer ideal for intelligent machines, RAD robotics can achieve higher levels of autonomy, while adding advanced people and vehicle detection on the moving robot. The new RAD product line-up offers global security teams situational awareness tools to deliver unprecedented deployment flexibility and operational productivity. Using the Jetson platform’s high-performance, power-efficient supercomputing for deep learning and computer vision, RAD autonomous robotic systems can be more predictive, accurate, productive and easily reconfigured for a variety of tasks. Smarter autonomous machines RAD will demonstrate new Jetson-powered vision capabilities on its autonomous robotic systems at the ISC West Conference and Expo, which will take place between 5th-7th April at the Sands Expo Centre in Las Vegas. Visitors can find RAD at booth #3122 and NVIDIA at booth #20075. “By using the NVIDIA Jetson embedded platform, we can develop smarter autonomous robots that can learn from the environment around them to navigate safely, as well as identify and classify objects of interest, including cars and people,” said Steve Reinharz, Founder and CEO, RAD. “This innovation marks the next generation of robotics.” “Today’s advanced robots can learn, adapt and evolve through the power of AI,” said Murali Gopalakrisha, head of product management for Intelligent Machines at NVIDIA. “Working with innovators like RAD, we’re driving new capabilities and benefits for autonomous machines.”

RAD serves as the master distributor for SMP Robotics across North America Robotic Assistance Devices (RAD), an innovator in artificial intelligence and robotics, and SMP Robotics Systems Corp. will unveil the upgraded capabilities of SMP Robotics S5 Security Robot during 2017 ISC West Conference and Expo, being held April 5-7, in Las Vegas. SMP Robotics and RAD have entered into a distribution agreement in which RAD serves as the master distributor for SMP Robotics across North America. Facilitating robot rental programme The strategic relationship lets RAD provide sales support, assembly and final testing of the robotic solutions prior to distribution. SMP solutions integrate RAD's intelligent software platform, which allows for the customisation of the robot's capabilities based on the unique needs of the customer. Through its distributor relationship with SMP, RAD facilitates the robot rental program in North America, and supports ongoing technology management and maintenance. “Since 2009, SMP Robotics has spearheaded the development of more than a dozen models of robots for various purposes, and we are pleased to align with RAD to extend the reach of our solutions in key markets throughout North America,” said Leo Ryzhenko, CEO, SMP Robotics. “RAD's established network provides us with greater coverage to further support our market growth throughout the Americas.” SMP Robotics S5 Security Robot The SMP Robotics S5 Security Robot is an outdoor, autonomous unmanned ground vehicle that leverages advanced navigation, obstacle avoidance sensors and intelligent mechanics to support traditional manned guard services. Each robot is equipped with a panoramic video surveillance system, obstacle avoidance system, two-way audio and a panic button. The security robot incorporates an open platform for integration with existing sensors, surveillance systems and other software platforms to streamline operations. It supports a wide range of video management solutions, including Milestone and Genetec platforms. “There is significant interest in using security robots to streamline operations, protect critical assets and augment human personnel in a wide variety of market applications,” said Steve Reinharz, Founder and CEO, RAD. “The collaboration between SMP Robotics and RAD is a culmination of technological innovation and close collaboration that extends the capabilities of both organisations and enables our customers to achieve operational and security goals in a more efficient, effective manner.” With more than 28,000 industry professionals and over 1,000 exhibits, ISC West is the largest physical security event in the Americas.

The companies are able to share innovative ideas, support creativity and mentor future innovators Robotic Assistance Devices (RAD), an innovator in artificial intelligence and robotics, announces it has partnered with Milestone Systems, the developer of video management software, to support the all-girls robotics team Coding Queens. The initiative was launched to promote education in the science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM) and robotics fields. The team of six fifth-graders from John S. Malcolm Elementary will compete with their claw-bot, “Zippy,” in the 2017 VEX IQ State Championship on Sunday, March 12, in Pomona, California. Evolving future of industry RAD and Milestone Systems believe that organisations have an obligation to coach and encourage today's youth to pursue technology interests in an effort to evolve the future of the industry. Through this partnership, the companies are able to share innovative ideas, support creativity and mentor future innovators. The Coding Queens team is unique in that they were the youngest team to compete in the 2016 VEX IQ Regional event in December out of 23 teams. Becoming state champions “We are honoured to support the Coding Queens in their quest to become state champions,” said Reinier Tuinzing, Strategic Alliances Manager - Americas, Milestone Systems. “It is very exciting to help introduce our next generation of innovators to new and emerging technologies through hands-on learning opportunities.” “It's critical to support young minds in STEM and robotics technology fields and RAD is in a unique position to showcase the opportunities available in this field,” said Steve Reinharz, Founder and CEO, RAD. “RAD is excited to be a small part of the support network that this team has in place, and we hope more companies will emerge as strong proponents of students striving to be successful in the engineering, coding, and robotics fields.” RAD and Milestone Systems will send the team off during an event at 4 p.m. Sunday, March 5, at Ocean Breeze Park in Laguna Nigel, California. The Coding Queens will be presented with the opportunity to name RAD's newest robot, be presented with a sponsorship check and take part in a demonstration of artificial intelligence capabilities.