ANPR

Eagle Eye Networks, the globally renowned company in cloud video surveillance solutions, has announced a new Vehicle Surveillance Package for the Eagle Eye Cloud VMS. Vehicle Surveillance Package (VSP) The Vehicle Surveillance Package (VSP) captures licence plate and vehicle information, received from distributed cameras and sends it to the Cloud, where it’s analysed, compared, alerted upon, and searched, to deliver business intelligence that improves efficiency, effectiveness, and safety. The solution includes Eagle Eye Time Watch, the industry’s first time-bound watchlist management tool, for loss prevention and operational efficiency. VSP detects and captures licence plate, and other vehicle information, triggering real-time alerts, making decisions to grant or deny access, and making other operational judgments. True cloud platform Users can search for vehicles across multiple sites and quickly review, using the video playback function. Eagle Eye Networks’ true cloud platform provides unlimited recording, unlimited camera support, global access and reliability. Vehicle detection, identification and tracking is important for businesses that manage fleets, track vehicles" “Vehicle detection, identification and tracking is important for businesses that manage fleets, track vehicles, or generate revenue from parking, to prevent loss and improve the customer experience,” said Dean Drako, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Eagle Eye Networks. Dean Darko adds, “With Eagle Eye VSP, large- and small-scale businesses can take advantage of the Eagle Eye Cloud, to generate more revenue, improve traffic flow and efficiency, reduce loss, and make businesses and communities safer.” Eagle Eye Time Watch Eagle Eye Time Watch enables a business to timestamp a vehicle’s departure and return time, and alerts management or supervisors if a vehicle is outside a pre-determined time frame. This feature increases employee efficiency and protects against theft, resulting in a rapid return on investment. Customers across multiple industries use the Vehicle Surveillance Package (VSP) to: Reduce loss and increase profits, Improve fleet tracking/management, Improve garage/parking lot management Improve efficiency and safety for businesses with drive-in/drive-through and other access control and notification needs  Improve traffic flow The new solution initially enables multi-site management and search of licence plate data for U.S. and Canadian plate libraries, with other regions to come.

The 5 new Wisenet P series AI NVRs (Network Video Recorders) launched by Hanwha Techwin are able to apply AI metadata to images captured by most non-AI Wisenet cameras, allowing users to quickly and accurately search for people, and vehicles. Deep Learning AI video analytics The licence-free Deep Learning AI video analytics onboard the NDAA-compliant NVRs offer a wide range of search criteria, including, for example, looking for people of a certain age group or gender, as well as whether they are wearing glasses or carrying a bag. Similarly, a search for vehicles can be narrowed down to those of a particular colour and whether they are a bicycle, bus, car, motorbike or truck. The Network Video Recorders can also be set up to trigger real-time alarm notifications, if an object is detected. Support for wide range of cameras The new devices are able to support all the features built into the Wisenet P series AI cameras Selected bullet, fixed, PTZ, 360° fisheye, multi-directional and thermal cameras from the Wisenet X, P, Q and T series, are among the long list of cameras that are supported by the new Wisenet P series AI NVRs. In addition, as is the case with 32 and 64 channel Wisenet X NVRs, the new devices are able to support all the features built into the Wisenet P series AI cameras, including the classification and detection of faces and licence plates.   Operators can take full advantage of the Network Video Recorders’ functionality, with the help of UX 2.0, a brand-new user interface that offers zoom in/out and drag & drop support, and a timeline preview feature, as well as enabling all event settings to be edited in a single window. Wisenet P series AI NVRs Other key features shared by the Network Video Recorders (NVRs), include the following: Up to 400Mbps network camera recording, at up to 32MP recording resolution Up to 16 SATA HDD bays, each offer 10TB storage data capacity. RAID-5 and RAID-6 support Dual 4K and 1080p HDMI outputs Simultaneous playback across all channels Dynamic event support, including e-mail alerts, PTZ preset control of PTZ cameras, control room buzzer and monitor Support for Wisenet AI and 8K cameras, and improved compatibility with all Wisenet PTZ, multi-directional and thermal cameras ONVIF Profile S conformant WiseStream II complementary compression technology The NVRs feature WiseStream II complementary compression technology, which improves bandwidth efficiency by up to 75%, in comparison to current H.264 technology, when combined with H.265 compression. The ability of the NVRs to support cameras, which are dual streaming video at different resolutions, can further reduce bandwidth requirements. The Network Video Recorders’ SATA HDDs are supported by Self-Monitoring, Analysis and Reporting Technology (S.M.A.R.T) The Network Video Recorders’ SATA HDDs are supported by Self-Monitoring, Analysis and Reporting Technology (S.M.A.R.T), which detects and alerts operators, to any possible imminent hardware failures. Offering N+1 failover support, the NVRs also feature Automatic Recovery Back-up (ARB), to provide continuity of recording and remove the risk of video evidence being lost. Automatic Recovery Back-up (ARB) facilitates the transfer and seamless storage of the images stored on a camera’s SD card, if communication between one of the Network Video Recorders and a Wisenet camera is disrupted. In addition, the new PRN-6405DB4 NVR is equipped with a dual switched-mode power supply (SMPS), to provide continuity of recording for mission-critical applications. GDPR compliance support and easy configuration Security personnel can apply bookmarks, in order to prevent the important video from being overwritten, with the NVRs programmed to automatically delete the bookmarked video, after a defined time period, so as to ensure compliance with GDPR. The installation time of the new Network Video Recorders is minimised, by the ability of engineers to remotely connect to the NVRs. This is achieved via a smartphone or tablet, without having to set up a complex network, by using P2P and unique QR product codes. Furthermore, the NVRs can be easily configured to match an end user’s requirements, with the help of an intuitive interface and installation Wizard. The new Wisenet P AI network NVRs are as follows: PRN-1605B2: 16 channel AI NVR. Up to 8 channels providing AI support. 2 HHD bays PRN-3205B2: 32 channel AI NVR. Up to 16 channels providing AI support. 2 HHD bays PRN-3205B4: 32 channel AI NVR. Up to 16 channels providing AI support. 4 HHD bays PRN-6405B4: 64 channel AI NVR. Up to 32 channels providing AI support. 4 HHD bays PRN-6405DB4: 64 channel AI NVR. Up to 32 channels providing AI support. Dual switch mode power supply (SMPS). 4 HHD bays Powerful detection tool “The accuracy of the Deep Learning AI video analytics incorporated into these new NVRs provides security personnel with a powerful tool to detect and track people, or vehicles that may be involved in criminal activity,” said Uri Guterman, the Head of Product & Marketing for Hanwha Techwin Europe. Uri Guterman adds, “By eliminating false alarms, which can occur when standard motion detection technology or sensors are being used to detect activity, the NVRs significantly reduce time wasting and allow security personnel to focus on responding to real incidents and emergencies.”

Integrated security manufacturer, TDSi is pleased to announce that its powerful GARDiS access management software now supports full integration with Hikvision’s face recognition terminals and ANPR cameras. TDSi - Hikvision partnership John Davies, the Managing Director of TDSi commented, “Integration with Hikvision’s latest generation of intelligent cameras is part of TDSi’s ongoing mission, to ensure our powerful integrated access control solutions work directly with the best third-party products on the market. Our GARDiS software is perfectly placed to help end users cope and deal with rapidly changing, and evolving needs.” He adds, “Our ethos is that customers must be able to choose the right components for their security network, to meet their specific needs and budget, with the whole solution overseen by our powerful, centralised, but flexible GARDiS software.” GARDiS access management software TDSi’s GARDiS software delivers quick and simple, but powerful integration with Hikvision’s face recognition terminal Providing options for Wiegand and Clock & Data protocol inputs, TDSi’s GARDiS software delivers quick and simple, but powerful integration with Hikvision’s face recognition terminal, and the wider security network. This includes integration with ASSA ABLOY Aperio and SimonsVoss SmartIntego wireless locks, along with a wide choice of intruder alarms and CCTV systems. GARDiS includes Lift Control, Area Occupancy, and ANPR, which are all designed to assist with not only security, but also ongoing safeguarding of health requirements. Integration with Hikvision’s face recognition terminals Integration with Hikvision’s face recognition terminals adds considerable functionality to any security network, with features including: Temperature measuring range - 30 °C to 45 °C (86 °F to 113 °F), with an accuracy of 0.1 ° C, deviation of ± 0.5 °C Facemask wearing alert Multiple authentication modes (card and temperature, face and temperature, card and face and temperature,) Triggered voice prompt, when detecting abnormal temperature Configurable door status (open/close), when detecting abnormal temperature 6000 face capacity, 6000 card capacity and 100,000 event capacity Six attendance statuses - Check-in, check out, break-in, break out, overtime in and overtime out Watchdog design and tamper function Rapid deployment of security systems John Davies adds, “The last 18 months has demonstrated the need for security and safety systems that can be rapidly deployed and installed, with the flexibility to evolve and grow to meet future user requirements.” He concludes, “Be it individual end-user projects or the delivery of rapidly expanding Security-as-a-Service (SaaS) solutions, the GARDiS integration with Hikvision’s systems is a perfect example of the potential for modern systems to work closely together and deliver potentially life-saving benefits.”

Dahua Technology, a video-centric smart IoT solution and service provider, and Yeastar, the provider of SME PBX systems, jointly announce their new ECO partnership on PBX-Intercom integration. The two top-notched companies aim to provide a comprehensive and unified communication solution for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), allowing mutual customers to benefit from visual intercom, remote access control, integrated video conferencing, instant messaging, file sharing, multi-client management, easy configuration, as well as many other advanced features and communication experience. Remote intercom communications Since its first launch in June 2020, the Dahua Eco Partner Program (DEPP) has integrated with more than 80 companies in the industry. “It’s great to have Yeastar in our Eco Partner Program. Dahua has been committed to building a smart ecosystem together with global technology partners and looking forward to creating joint value for customers through integrated solutions,” says Peter Pan, Dahua Global Technology Partner Alliance Director. Dahua has been committed to building a smart ecosystem together with global technology partners" The seamless interoperability of Dahua’s intercom devices (DHI-VTO2201F-P, DHI-VTH2421FB/FW) and Yeastar P-Series PBX System (P550, P560, P570) has been proven after a series of tests and certifications, making it ideal for remote intercom communications and public access control in various industries, such as office buildings, airports, hospitals, schools, etc. Better smart technology In simple terms, with the PBX-Intercom integration, SME customers can: Control the intercom system remotely anytime from any Yeastar PBX extension; See who is at the front door and converse easily via the IP Video Phone or Yeastar Linkus Web Client; Screen visitors at entrances, car parks and security barriers; Automatically forward door phone calls to mobile number or Linkus Mobile Client when not answered. “We are now glad to join hands with Dahua Technology to help our mutual customers streamline operations and improve working efficiency with easy deployment and all-inclusive features. ECO partnership is also in line with our common value pursuit - create more and better smart technology products & solutions - and keeping with our national innovation-led technology aspiration,” said Prince Cai, Vice President of Yeastar.

3xLOGIC, the provider of integrated and intelligent security solutions, announces the introduction of an automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) utility as part of its pioneering VIGIL suite of products. Designed as a cost-effective solution for use in a wide range of applications where post-event investigations require precise imaging to identify number plates, the ANPR utility is highly effective in environments such as parking lots and garages, as well as fuel stations, multi-tenant residential communities, car dealerships and rental yards. Number plate imaging “ANPR has proven to be an incredibly important tool for the detection of people wanted for arrest, stolen and uninsured vehicles, and identifying vehicles used in major crimes,” said Alex Buckle, 3xLOGIC’s UK and European Sales Support Manager. “Specific number plates can be added to ‘hot’ lists configured within the utility and, when they are captured and identified by a camera, an alarm can be triggered in VIGIL Server.” Combined with the VIGIL ANPR utility, the solution provides a highly effective layer of protection Number plate capture accuracy in low-light environments has traditionally been problematic and has often meant that vehicles used for criminal purposes have gone unidentified. With a 6-50mm varifocal lens and firmware dedicated to number plate imaging, the VX-5M20-B-RIAL camera from 3xLOGIC features visible light filtering that offers enhanced number plate capture accuracy, as well as motion detection and remote focus. Easy to install, its IK10-rated enclosure is vandal-resistant and delivers protection from the elements. Combined with the VIGIL ANPR utility, the solution provides a highly effective layer of protection. Network video recorders Both the VIGIL ANPR utility and VX-5M20-B-RIAL camera can be seamlessly integrated into the VIGIL video management system (VMS). Designed for those who want all the power of integrated video and access control, without the stress of a complex set-up, VIGIL’s enterprise-grade VMS is the driving force behind the VIGIL range of network video recorders, digital video recorders and power over Ethernet cameras. It allows users to quickly search and locate number plates of interest, export number plate data to a custom external destination for review, and collate information from several cameras across multiple VIGIL Servers. Alex Buckle concluded, “Always innovating, 3xLOGIC has configured the ideal solution for those confronted with the often expensive choice of selecting a security camera that can be paired with an ANPR utility,” Buckle said. “This no longer has to be an issue and it is now possible to cost-effectively protect assets, increase safety, monitor and manage site traffic, control access, deter criminals and provide high-quality images for use in post-event investigations.”

Dahua Technology, a video-centric, provider of smart IoT solutions, is introducing version 8.0 of their DSS Video Management Software (VMS) to its North American market. The software upgrade incorporates a smaller file size for the installation package, faster startup time, and an easy-to-deploy secure design. It also boasts high scalability and performance to maximise the investment of DSS users. DSS 8.0 is designed for ease of use, efficiency, and flexibility. Multiple deployment methods allow for more customisation: cloud deployment is supported by AWS and virtualisation software is supported by VMware. Third party devices Device access methods are diverse: IP, P2P, DDNS, and auto-register, giving the user several options for compatibility with third party devices. “Version 8.0 gives users greater control over how they utilise the DSS VMS and lets them easily integrate it with third party devices, while not having to worry about security or user-friendliness,” remarked Damon Chou, Solutions Product Manager for Dahua USA. The DSS 8.0 interface is available in more than twenty languages and features a revitalised UI/UE design “It takes a low investment, both in cost and server requirements, to get started with DSS and users can easily scale as they go.” The DSS 8.0 interface is available in more than twenty languages and features a revitalised UI/UE design that is simpler, more responsive, and more colourful. The new application design is based more firmly on actual business cases, which Dahua calls ‘3 + 2 + 1 + n.’ Parking space information The applications are grouped into modules, with the ‘n’ signifying the capability to include future modules. The first module has three applications: a monitoring centre, which unifies live view and playback, an event centre, which provides an analytics dashboard for real-time and historical events, and DeepXplore. DeepXplore makes target search faster and easier by implementing intelligent retrieval of human and vehicular targets. The second module consists of access management, which includes access control, video intercom, visitor management, and attendance management, and vehicle entrance and exit, which manages vehicle ingress and egress through functions such as licence plate recognition and parking space information. The final module is the maintenance centre, in a revamped format that is easier to maintain and ensures greater stability. Automatically sending reports The investment required to implement DSS 8.0 is low and the software is easily upgradable The maintenance centre gives a visual of the health of the platform, showing the status of equipment, channels, and services, as well as automatically sending reports. For peace of mind, DSS 8.0 was created for application security, privacy, network security, and data security. The storage duration of each video channel can be configured and there is secure encryption on network transmission, storage, download, and export. Three-tier user authority employs hierarchical management to let administrators define different levels of access. Finally, the investment required to implement DSS 8.0 is low and the software is easily upgradable, with purchase-on-demand functionality. Managing security system DSS express can support up to 256 channels with licences; DSS pro can support up to 2,000 channels per server with a maximum of 20,000 channels with a distributed setup. The improved architecture of DSS 8.0 reduces the load on the server, and cascade expansion allows for a phased investment. This means that the system can be built in stages – and with different DSS models – without dismantling the existing system. Overall, DSS version 8.0 gives users improved functionality and greater returns on their investment, letting them manage their security system with greater confidence and efficiency.

The UK government recently announced a doubling of the Safer Streets Fund to £45 million, as it seeks to reassure the public that safety is a top priority, as the night-time economy makes a return. More than just surveillance While this funding increase is much needed, it’s vital that the government and local councils use the money strategically, or risk missing out on a great opportunity to deliver real change and enhance safety across the United Kingdom. One of the main strategies cited by the government is to increase the current vast number of CCTV cameras installed across the country, despite the fact that the UK is already one of the most surveilled nations in the world. Investing in video analytics London alone has around 700,000 cameras, but to effectively monitor them all would be an incredibly inefficient use of manpower and require a huge number of staff. Therefore, I believe the clearest and most cost-effective way for this project to succeed in its overall mission, is by investing in smarter technology, such as video analytics. Incorporating video analytics into existing infrastructure is the clear solution This technology offers a more efficient use of resources, faster response times and enables more informed, time-critical decision making, when reacting to unfolding events in real time. Incorporating video analytics into existing infrastructure is the clear solution, as the technology enables legacy assets, such as analogue CCTV cameras, to become more than just after the fact evidence gathering tools and instead be used to help enhance real-time responses to unfolding incidents. Artificial intelligence-enabled solutions Artificial intelligence-enabled solutions are trained using vast datasets of images and video footage, in order to better understand people, objects and vehicles that are captured on film, and they continue ‘learning’ and improving, while in use. The system’s algorithms analyse and prioritise input from video data to decide which inputs are of value, automatically classifying the footage and notifying security personnel accordingly. This reduces response times by notifying CCTV operators of an incident, as it happens, meaning law enforcement and security personnel can react faster and intervene in an ongoing situation. Edge technology and real-time video streaming A key consideration should be choosing a technology that can operate at the edge and deliver real-time video streaming, even at the lowest bandwidths, so it isn’t limited to use in areas with good connectivity, which would exclude most remote areas. Quality really does matter and technology that can operate over low bandwidths is crucial for allowing operators to zoom in on areas of interest, such as a car number plate or face, and retrieve full-resolution images that can make a real difference in ongoing investigations. Analytics-based security approach Introducing an analytics-based security approach would also help curtail the rising cost of tackling crime Introducing an analytics-based security approach would also help curtail the rising cost of tackling crime. Research conducted by the UK’s Labour Party recently found that the annual cost of crime reached a staggering £100 billion. While statistics show that crime rates in general have been fairly stable over recent years, experts point to the increase in specific types of violent crime, such as knife crime which rose by over 20% during 2020. Implementing smart analytics-based technology Implementing smart analytics-based technology would help maintain staffing costs, as the system can identify incidents without an operator’s input, as well as reducing the cost of managing crime, as more incidents will be intervened in before they escalate too far. This dramatically reduces the burden on staff and allows a single surveillance operator to monitor many more cameras. On the other hand, this level of automation also reduces false alarm fatigue and operator overload, which can quickly sap efficiencies and reduce operator alertness, if left unchecked. Data driven problem-solving approach to crime prevention Procurement officials should avoid the common mistake of simply doubling down and throwing more staff and security assets at the problem to bring results. Instead, they should take a more data driven problem-solving approach to crime prevention by leveraging technologies that can enhance response and preserve their existing investments in cameras. The smart use of real-time video analytics could make the difference by preventing dangerous situations from escalating into serious incidents.

It amazes me how in a few short years security systems have gone from simple, dumb cameras witnessing events to intelligent eyes, ears, speech and touch solutions that boost situational awareness far beyond human capabilities. It seems the only senses missing from the equation now are smell and taste. And who knows, someone might be working on those in a lab somewhere right now. But what’s really fascinating to me is how the Internet of Things (IoT) has opened a world of possibilities for transforming security technology into something new yet again. With IoT we’re able to push and pull nuggets of intelligence from sources we never considered before: environmental sensors, pressure plates, door lock timers and much more. It’s helped us break through the constraining mindset that security systems are strictly single-purpose. With interconnectivity at the core, we’re starting to imagine myriad ways to apply these tools to challenges outside the realm of security. Here are just a few examples. Flood management assistance Network camera adds another dimension and timeliness to flood management by helping responders investigate remotely As recent hurricanes and floods have shown, water damage can be devastating to a community. That’s why some municipalities are using their city surveillance cameras in conjunction with water sensor to proactively address the problem. Water sensors collect data from multiple sources such as rain gutters, sewer systems and pump stations, in order to monitor fluctuations in water levels and water quality. If an alert triggers, having a network camera in proximity to visually verify the situation helps responders determine the best course of action. For instance, if multiple water detection sensors trigger alerts simultaneously or sequentially over a large area it’s probably due to natural runoff from recent rainfall. But without eyes on the scene, how can you be sure? Network camera adds another dimension and timeliness to flood management by helping responders investigate and identify the cause of a trigger remotely. It might be a fire hydrant spewing water, a water main break or even a chemical spill. With video streaming live to the command center, staff can remotely inspect the area, determine the cause of the trigger and decide whether remediation is required, thus avoiding the expense of dispatching an investigative crew to a non-event. Some municipalities are using their city surveillance cameras in conjunction with water sensor to proactively address the problem Environmental control assistance Data centers house the lifeblood of a business so it’s no wonder why companies work hard to protect them. We’re all familiar with the integration of network cameras with access control systems to visually verify who is actually using the credentials. Network camera adds another dimension and timeliness to flood management by helping responders investigate and identify the cause of a trigger remotely But there’s another aspect to protecting data centers and that’s environment control. Data centers need to maintain optimum humidity and temperature for the racks of electronics. When environmental sensors in the facility detect out-of-norm ranges technicians can remotely command a network camera to zoom in on the gauges and help them determine whether remediation might be necessary.  Coupling network cameras with other sensors in the data center can provide visual confirmation of other conditions as well. For instance, every time a data rack door-open-close sensor detects an event it can trigger the camera to pan to the location and stream video to security. Some data centers employ weight sensors at the doorway to weigh personnel and equipment as they enter the room and when they exit to ensure no additional hardware is being taken out of the facility or left inside without permission. Any discrepancy would trigger the camera to zoom in for a close-up of the individual’s face and send a visual alert and ID information to security. Roadway management and parking assistance Network cameras have long played a part in city-wide traffic management. Adding video analytics and integration with network sensors, makes those cameras that much smarter and versatile. They can detect cars driving in bike lanes or driving in the wrong direction and capture license plates of offenders. Their ability to detect anomalous traffic flow patterns can be integrated with car counting sensors, networked electronic road signs and traffic light systems to automatically redirect vehicles to alternate routes. They make great, intelligent parking lot attendants, too. Working in conjunction with weight sensors network cameras can count vehicles coming into and leaving a lot or garage and verify when the facility has reached capacity. License plate recognition and video analytics can be used to ascertain that a vehicle entering a reserved parking space doesn’t match the credentials and vehicle attributes in the database. With the addition of noise sensors and audio analytics, network cameras can improve roadway and parking facility safety by detecting and identifying specific sounds – breaking glass, car alarms, gun shots, and aggressive speech – and triggering a visual alert to first responders. Network cameras can improve roadway and parking facility safety by detecting and identifying specific sounds and triggering a visual alert to first responders Shopper experience assistance In the early days of online shopping, e-tailers designed their sites to replicate the in-store customer experience. In an ironic turn of events, today brick-and-mortar stores are trying to mirror the online shopping experience. To do so, they’re turning their security systems into adjunct sales assistance. With network video and audio system automation they can recognise and acknowledge loyal customers with personal greetings. Retailers are applying people counting video analytics to checkout activity to create rules-based consistency in customer service With heatmapping analytics they can measure how much time a customer spends in a specific department or observe how they walk through the aisles of the store. They can track shopping behaviors such as items looked at that made it into the cart or didn’t, or whether a customer actually checked out or left the merchandise behind. By capturing these shopping patterns and trends retailers can shape a more positive, more profitable customer shopping experience. For instance, integrating video analytics with point of sale systems and RFID sensors on merchandise tags can result in timely alerts to sales associates to recommend additional merchandise. This is a case of emulating how e-tailers let the customer know that other customers who bought X often also purchased items Y and Z. Or to avoid disappointing customers due to stock outages, retailers are linking weight sensors and video analytics to make sure their shelves are well-stocked and if not, quickly alert associates to what items need to be restocked. Capturing business intelligence Retailers are also using video cameras to monitor checkout queues and trigger automated announcements over the public-address system, closed system such as smartphones or other wireless communications devices that checkers are needed rather wait for a person to call for backup. IoT laid the groundwork for network security solutions to seamlessly integrate with other IP-based technologies, sensors and programs They’re applying people counting video analytics to checkout activity to create rules-based consistency in customer service. While retailers will always use their surveillance camera for loss prevention, they’re finding that integrating traditional technology in new ways can yield even bigger returns. Linking network video surveillance, video analytics, network communications system and sensors with point-of-sale systems and customer loyalty databases, retailers are capturing the business intelligence they need to get back in the game and make brick-and-mortar a greater overall experience than online shopping. A natural cross-over technology This trend towards integration has forever changed how organisations view their investment in security technology. The intelligence and versatility of a tool that can see, verify and analyse what’s happening in real-time is spurring users to tap its cross-over potential for a host of other tasks that could benefit from more astute situational awareness – everything from manufacturing and equipment maintenance to logistics, inventory control and beyond. IoT laid the groundwork for network security solutions to seamlessly integrate with other IP-based technologies, sensors and programs. How we capitalise on that connection is only limited by our imagination.

A deep native integration of Bosch cameras with software from ISS proactively catalyses the best in security and surveillance, while providing advanced intelligent video tools. ISS SecurOS provides intelligent enterprise video management solutions with emphasis on providing scalability and flexibility to meet the customer’s needs. Deeply integrating built-in video analytics from Bosch cameras improves operator efficiency and situational awareness to manage complex environments. ISS SecurOS maximises camera performance for license plate recognition, face recognition, and container/train carriages recognition. The cameras meet the performance needs for advanced analytics, ensuring the success of projects and saving time, resources, and cost. The partnership has delivered multi-thousand-camera safe city deployments, industrial analytics solutions, and systems for large-scale transport providers. The usage of roads and parking lots can be managed more effectively by knowing the whereabouts of each vehicle License plate capture The usage of roads and parking lots can be managed more effectively by knowing the whereabouts of each and every vehicle. Operations managers are accountable for efficient logistical flows and effective use of roads and parking lots. Knowing the ins and outs of the transport infrastructure and what’s going on at all times provides the knowledge required to ensure operations are running safely, efficiently and in compliance with the rules and laws. An important part of this comes from monitoring which vehicles are entering an area and ensuring they are allowed to be there. Capturing license plates of every vehicle moving in an area provides knowledge of traffic flows and usage patterns. Such a solution should also allow a customer to easily configure and manage monitoring preferences and permit easy data exchanges with other operational management systems and services to manage an infrastructure and logistics as a whole. Reliable license plate data Robust mechanical design of cameras ensures reliable 24/7 operation for many years even in harsh environments As transportation infrastructures are often operating around the clock, reliable vehicle identification data is required 24/7. This means that the cameras capturing this data should work in all lighting and weather conditions, for both slow- and fast-moving vehicles. Cameras must be built to produce usable images 24/7 in all weather conditions. For quality license plate recognition in both day and night, the cameras make use of supplementary infrared light. A special License Plate Recognition (LPR) mode, developed in collaboration with LPR software, delivers readable license plates even with glaring headlights and with fast moving vehicles. Robust mechanical design of cameras ensures reliable 24/7 operation for many years even in harsh environments. License Plate Capture solution The SecurOSTM AUTO system of ISS, when used with Bosch cameras, provides easy to deploy solutions for all of these requirements. It recognises license plates from many countries, manages and matches white, hot and blacklists and notifies the operator either in the GUI or through a messaging interface to other management systems. Additionally, the system can be used and managed as a standalone or embedded in other management systems on the premises.

The trend of video customers moving to the cloud has reached a tipping point. At the same time, artificial intelligence (AI) is being adopted on a massive scale. Combining the two trends adds a higher level of value than either component individually. Merging the power of AI and the cloud is a driving force behind cloud surveillance company Eagle Eye Networks’ acquisition of Uncanny Vision, an AI and video analytics company headquartered in Bangalore, India. Expensive AI resources Cloud systems empower customers to leverage AI without having to install and program complicated and expensive hardware, in effect stripping away the barriers to entry that customers face when seeking to embrace AI. The cloud also enables customers to share expensive AI resources. One of the key components is ease of deployment – click, click and turn on the AI for any camera" Simplicity of implementation is crucial to the combined value proposition of Eagle Eye Networks and Uncanny Vision. “One of the key components is ease of deployment – click, click and turn on the AI for any camera (in a cloud system),” says Dean Drako, Eagle Eye Networks CEO. There is also a benefit of having AI systems networked, enabling 25 banks to perform facial recognition of customers from a single cloud-based system, he adds. A transition is also under way in the perception of AI. Video surveillance applications While previously it was seen as an add-on to surveillance systems, now it is seen as a very desirable feature on any system. “Centralised management of the cloud benefits the AI database,” says Drako. “In a project built around licence plate recognition (LPR), for example, all the data goes up to the cloud into a single database, and the customer can get a mobile view of everything going on across the world. You can’t do that without the cloud. And AI for LPR is more accurate.” Uncanny Vision’s targeted focus on AI for video surveillance applications was one factor that attracted Eagle Eye Networks to make the acquisition, says Drako. In contrast, some other companies have embraced broader applications of video AI. Uncanny Vision also has more customers using their system in real-world applications than competitors. Finally, the acquisition will help to expand Eagle Eye Networks’ presence in the LPR market, where Uncanny Vision is especially strong. Improving business operations The 60 employees at Uncanny Vision are mostly engineers and programmers Uncanny Vision’s deep learning algorithms enable recognition, identification, and prediction, improving business operations, customer service, and site safety. Applications include smart parking, retail, smart cities, ATM monitoring, worker safety and perimeter security. The 60 employees at Uncanny Vision are mostly engineers and programmers. “These guys understand how to translate AI algorithms to run very efficiently on various types of hardware,” says Drako. “They optimise how they get the code to run so we can implement in the cloud cost-effectively. They do it at a modest cost to make it more accessible. They understand how to deploy software for high performance on low-cost hardware.” For Uncanny Vision, the new ownership provides more reach. “We have a huge channel and a huge brand,” says Drako. “They are strong technical guys who need a sales and solution channel.” Video analytics solutions Even in light of the acquisition, Eagle Eye Networks will continue to provide a selection of third-party AI and video analytics solutions to customers. Use of AI and video analytics is specific to the application and business needs of each customer. Use of AI and video analytics is specific to the application and business needs of each customer In addition to AI functionality, systems need a ‘business logic’ component that drives how that capability is integrated into a system. System needs vary widely by vertical market, and many third-party vendors are focused on a specific vertical and how AI can benefit that market. Recurring monthly revenue “Third parties can provide analytics and the business logic, which is different for a factory, an office building or for a drive-thru restaurant,” says Drako. “The market is looking for many solutions, and one company couldn’t own a majority of them.” To ensure flexibility, Eagle Eye Networks will accommodate third party solutions, deploy their own analytics, or leverage analytics embedded in cameras. For Eagle Eye Networks’ dealer and integrator customers, the expansion into AI presents a new opportunity for recurring monthly revenue (RMR) and provides greater value to customers. Drako says the impact of the acquisition will be global as AI applications grow in popularity worldwide.

The COVID-19 pandemic has provided a double challenge to physical security systems integrators. For one thing, they have had to adapt their own businesses to survive and thrive during the pandemic. On the other hand, they have also been faced with new challenges to serve their customer’s changing needs. Global pandemic effects One integrator company, North American Video (NAV) took the now-familiar steps most companies confronted to adapt their business model to operations in a global pandemic – they suspended all non-essential travel and face-to-face meetings. At one point, NAV had a single employee in the New Jersey headquarters and another one in the Las Vegas office. The rest worked from home, with other offices opening as needed over the following weeks. Another integrator, Convergint Technologies, was able to adapt its approach to the pandemic, location by location, across the United States. The integrator benefitted from its leadership structure, with local managers in various regions who are autonomous and could react to what was happening in each region. Virtual workforce “We saw a dip in April and May, but since then, we have seen business pick back up,” said Mike Mathes, Executive Vice President, Convergint Technologies. The Business of Integration virtual conference sponsored by the Security Industry Association (SIA) “We already had tools and infrastructure deployed to support a virtual workforce. We had the software and the right equipment, and that has allowed us some flexibility to approach the repopulation of our offices in a gradual way.” The impact of COVID-19 on integrators and their customers was the main topic of discussion at a session on The Business of Integration at the Securing New Ground virtual conference sponsored by the Security Industry Association (SIA). Remote monitoring North American Video also benefitted from having technical personnel spread across the United States. By assigning work duties on the basis of geography, they could travel by car with less risk than air travel. They also increased their use of remote monitoring and support to avoid extra visits to customer sites. With 80% of the business in the gaming industry, North American Video saw a profound impact on their customers with the almost complete shutdown of casinos during the early days of the pandemic. Even though gaming was impacted particularly badly by the virus, NAV stayed engaged working on four or five large casino construction projects that continued throughout the shutdown. Revenue shortfalls State legislatures will approve more casinos to help plug the holes in their budgets Other casinos took advantage of empty facilities to make needed upgrades without worrying about disrupting casino operations. “A lot of our strong, long-term clients have sought to perform upgrades during the downtime, including needed service and maintenance,” said Jason Oakley, President and CEO, North American Video (NAV). “When gaming was closed, you were allowed in the facilities to work.” Oakley also sees long-term optimism for the casino business, which will offer a means for state and local governments to make up revenue shortfalls. “State legislatures will approve more casinos to help plug the holes in their budgets,” Oakley predicted. Demands for technology Oakley and NAV have seen an evolution in customer demands for technology in light of the pandemic. The trick is to differentiate between demand that is an immediate reaction versus technology trends that have more staying power.  Although customers were keen on purchasing thermal cameras, for example, NAV did the research and recommended against the use of the technology to some of their customers. Artificial Intelligence for social distancing The use of artificial intelligence (AI) for a variety of applications seems to have more staying power. “One area of interest at a high level is modification and repurposing of AI for face mask detection, social distancing and people tracing, including integration into existing cameras,” said Oakley. “If the hospitality industry comes to terms with the new normal with smaller restaurant capacities, there may be an opportunity to use AI for social distancing.” Contact tracing and visitor management technology Mathes of Convergint sees a massive change as customers move toward managed services, accelerating the change with new use cases. We have an entire group that focuses on new solutions and what customers are looking for" As offices seek to repopulate when the pandemic subsides, customers are looking for new uses of existing technologies, added Mathes. “We have an entire group that focuses on new solutions and what customers are looking for,” he said. “They need to understand who is in the building and where they go in the building. If we know someone was only in the cafeteria from 10 to 11 a.m., we can know who was in the cafeteria at that time.” Opportunity for vertical markets to move forward He predicts technologies for contact tracing and visitor management tracking who’s in the building and where will be around for a long time to come. "Various customers and vertical markets are looking at the slowdown differently," said Mathes. "For example, while airlines have slowed down, the view from the airport market is more long-term." “They have 15-year plans, and [the slowdown] is an opportunity to move forward. In the technology space, data centres are expanding. “We try to focus our resources on areas where the money is being spent,” said Mathes. “Our K-12 group has seen an 80% growth over 2019. The money is tied to bonds, so there hasn’t been a slowdown relative to revenue.” He said Convergint is cautiously optimist about 2021.”

As police use of live facial recognition (LFR) is called into question in the United Kingdom, the concerns can overshadow another use of facial recognition by police officers. Facial recognition is incorporated into day-to-day police operations to identify an individual standing in front of them. This more common usage should not be called into question, says Simon Hall, CEO of Coeus Software, which developed PoliceBox, a software that enables police officers to complete the majority of their daily tasks from an app operating on a smart phone.   Time-consuming process “Verifying the identity of an individual standing in front of you via facial recognition should be no more controversial than taking a fingerprint for the same purpose,” says Hall. “We are not talking about mass surveillance here, but the opportunity to use technology to make an officer’s day more efficient. Verifying a person’s ID is a time-consuming process if you have to take them to the station, so being able to do this more quickly should be welcomed as a positive step to modernise policing.” Because the use of facial recognition by police has proven to be a divisive topic, Simon is eager to highlight the distinction between the use of facial recognition for ID verification and the more controversial mass surveillance that some police forces have trialed. “There are two different use cases for facial recognition in the context of law enforcement,” says Hall. Number-plate recognition “Firstly, there is facial recognition to verify a person’s identity (typically done face-to-face with the individual concerned and using the Police National Computer [PNC] database). This is no more controversial than taking an individual’s fingerprint to verify their ID but can be conducted more quickly if the officer has the capability on their smart phone. The second common use of facial recognition is to identify suspects quickly via mass surveillance. This is more controversial.” The focus for PoliceBox is ID verification only, he adds. The focus of facial recognition for PoliceBox is ID verification only First, there is the matter of consent. In the context of facial recognition in public situations, it is very difficult to inform everyone that they are being observed, so they cannot give their informed consent, says Hall. Then there is the inability for people to ‘opt out’ of the process. Unlike with driving a car, where one can technically opt-out of the rules of the road (and avoid technologies like number-plate recognition) by choosing not to drive, there is no such option for facial recognition. National surveillance system Secondly, many-to-many matching (matching lots of images to lots of database records) is more likely to produce false matches, resulting in possible perceived harassment of individuals who happen to match a person of interest, notes Hall. The government is openly exploring plans to develop a national surveillance system using facial recognition Lastly, Hall says there are legitimate concerns that the technology could be misused for discrimination or exerting control over populations. In China, for example, where facial recognition technology is already widely used in the commercial sector, the government is openly exploring plans to develop a national surveillance system using facial recognition. “Mass surveillance can be used in two ways; real-time, whereby ‘people of interest’ are flagged up as soon as a match is detected, and historical, where the movements of individuals around the time of a reported crime are established after the event,” says Hall. Repeated false matches “These two modes probably require different types of safeguards. For example, it may be appropriate to obtain a warrant to search historical data, to prevent Cambridge-Analytica style mining of personal data. For real time data, safeguards against repeated false matches are needed to prevent harassment of falsely matched individuals.” Properly implemented, facial recognition can be consistent with the GDPR. The principles are no different from obtaining a fingerprint to confirm identity, where consent would normally be given. For PoliceBox, using fingerprint or facial identification is typically a time-saving solution, benefitting both parties, instead of going to the police station and establishing identity there. Signed consent can be obtained on the spot using a secure on-screen signature. The PoliceBox solution is based on the UK legal framework and would also be appropriate for countries whose laws are similar to the UK Facial recognition algorithms Fingerprints and facial images can be automatically deleted once used to establish identity. There are special provisions for the collection of personal data for law enforcement purposes without consent, and some test cases for mass surveillance could go through the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO). This is particularly significant where private operators are concerned. The PoliceBox solution is based on the UK legal framework and would also be appropriate for countries whose laws are similar to the UK. It is also internationalised and can be used in different languages. Facial recognition algorithms and databases are typically implemented by the relevant law enforcement body (such as the Home Office) and not directly within the product, which acts as a front-end to those systems.   Hall sees several remaining challenges related to police use of facial recognition: The adoption of cloud-based software-as-a-service (SaaS) solutions within the public sector. The existing infrastructure in the public sector has evolved over a number of years and there are significant legacy systems in place that need to be refreshed/replaced; Need for proven technology. Public sector organisations are risk-averse and often insist on being able to reference existing installations, which creates a Catch 22 problem when introducing new technology as someone has to be first; Interrupting business-as-usual. Most organisations already have some form of an existing solution. Even if this system provides poor ROI and is extremely dated, one must still overcome ‘the better the devil you know’ policy; A reluctance by some suppliers to share information with other solutions via APIs. This has stifled innovation for some time. Improving officers’ wellbeing These challenges are slowly being overcome. “I am confident we will soon see an accelerated adoption of platforms such as ours to deliver the financial and efficiency savings that are needed to bring the public sector into the 21st century,” says Hall. One of the biggest themes to come out of the recent Home Office Review into frontline policing was the need to improve officers’ wellbeing. Law enforcement has to deal with some of the most difficult and harrowing situations on an almost daily basis. The administrative burden can also be problematic, says Hall. “If we can help to reduce the administrative burden placed on officers – even by a little bit – the overall improvements in effectiveness and well-being when magnified across a whole force will be significant.”

Dahua Technology is a globally renowned video-centric smart IoT solutions and services provider. Based on technological innovations, Dahua Technology offers end-to-end security solutions, systems, and services, in order to create value for city operations, corporate management, and consumers. Dahua Technology has designed a video surveillance and control solution for a popular Panamanian Food Company - Empresa Panamena de Alimentos (EPA). Dahua’s security solution Empresa Panamena de Alimentos is a renowned company in the processed food industry in Panama, Central America. It was founded in 2012 and owns production plants and warehouses in the capital city, as well as agencies around the country. EPA’s products, including all kinds of cookies, coffee, and pasta, are already important parts of consumers’ day-to-day life. With the prevailing COVID-19 pandemic risks, EPA needed a system to sustain efficient management and operation, over their staff and facilities. Implementing multiple access controls in the facilities As a food company, the operations of the company need to be under caution, especially during the pandemic As a food company, the operations of the company need to be under caution, especially during the pandemic. It was necessary to implement multiple access controls in the facilities. With multiple plants located around the nation and accelerated growth, a centralised monitoring system for all equipment, alert management and user reports was needed. The solution, applied at EPA’s facilities, integrates various electronic security systems under a single platform and was evaluated based on the company’s needs. ANPR, AI-based cameras and access control systems “Currently, 480 Dahua devices have been arranged. Among them are different models of cameras, access control systems, and automatic number plate recognition products. AI-based cameras enhance the level of personnel protection. Everything is monitored by a DSS Express server in the main plant,” said Luis Araujo, the Manager of Infrastructure and Telecommunications of the Secutec Panama. Every day, more than 800 employees enter EPA facilities nationwide, the access control system allows a faster and safer automated entry of the staff and their cars. Access controllers and Pro Network Video Recorders Besides, three Pro Network Video Recorders (NVR5864-4KS2) were also adopted Apart from automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) devices, more than 20 access controllers (ASI7213X-T1) were installed in main offices for temperature monitoring and attendance management. Besides, three Pro Network Video Recorders (NVR5864-4KS2) were also adopted. With a powerful processor, they have the capability of 4K resolution processing and high definition recording quality. Perimeter protection and access control In Dahua Technology’s security solution, perimeter protection and access control are both realised. “We have had Dahua equipment for 7 years. It is a brand that has been of great help to our safety. It has contributed to continuous and steady operations throughout the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Guillermo Figueroa, EPA’s Safety and Control Manager. Javier Rodríguez, Secutec Panama’s Operations Manager, valued the quality and technology of Dahua’s solution, which has been ‘key’ for the development of their projects, the support and accompaniment to the brands that are planned to be developed. Trust in Dahua Technology’s solution “We are very proud that our teams are here for EPA and that companies, like EPA and Secutec, trust Dahua Technology. We continue to innovate to offer solutions that help companies to work in a safer and smarter way,” said Fermín Osorio, an Engineer at Dahua Technology Ltd.

A large warehouse and distribution centre is benefitting from a 64-camera video surveillance system from Dahua Technology. The site is the main UK warehouse for Pets Corner, a nationwide chain of more than 150 stores dealing with pets, pet food and pet accessories. The purpose built 43,000 sq ft warehouse in West Sussex was opened last year and supplies all the UK stores and the company’s online business. The site features solar panels for lighting, heating and electric charging points and operates a zero-landfill policy. Low light performance The objectives for the surveillance system are to monitor the health and safety of workers, reduce stock damage and shrinkage, and protect lorries parked in the yard overnight. The cameras – installed by Urban Security Systems & Fire – comprise a mix of Dahua Starlight domes and AI bullet cameras. All have a minimum of 5MP resolution and feature AI analytics, enabling features such as face recognition, ANPR, content analytics, incident detection, people counting and heat maps. Cameras have high image quality, bandwidth efficiency using H.265 compression and edge analytics, and excellent low light performance. Cameras were colour-matched to blend in with the interior of the building by the distributor of the equipment, Oprema. Simplifying cabling requirements Other Dahua equipment installed was a 64TB NVR, three managed ePoE Ethernet switches The cameras are installed internally and externally, at the top and bottom of each aisle and at all delivery entry and exit points. The system is monitored out of hours by Southern Monitoring. Power is delivered over Ethernet cable, so reducing and simplifying cabling requirements. Using ePoE cameras enabled the integrator to run cable over 95m in distance, and in one case as far as 160m. Other Dahua equipment installed was a 64TB NVR, three managed ePoE Ethernet switches, and a 24-port Gigabit L2+ managed ethernet switch. “Dahua’s level of support to us has been outstanding throughout the project, and we are also impressed with the build quality of the equipment,” said Andy Lloyd, Director of Urban Security Systems. Outstanding video imagery “The PoE type cameras greatly assisted with the design and installation of the cable infrastructure and kept costs down, negating the need for additional PoE switches due to the length of cable runs.” Graham Denny, Director of Logistics at Pets Corner, said: “When building our new National Distribution Centre, we wanted a system that would not only give us maximum security but assist in maintaining operational and health and safety standards.” “The results from Urban Security Systems are excellent, providing us with outstanding video imagery, which is simple to use on my laptop, desktop and phone. Therefore I would highly recommend both the Dahua CCTV system for anyone with a similar requirement and of course Urban for their great installation, large parts of which were carried out safely and professionally while we were operational.”

A West Columbia, South Carolina neighbourhood had been dealing with complaints from their residents. Residents were noticing vandalism happening around their community and they wanted to put an end to it. The vandalism wasn’t just bringing down their property values. Residents were concerned about the safety of themselves and their neighbours, and felt that their homes and neighbourhood were being violated. Licence plate reading camera Hoping to put a stop to the vandalism, residents reached out to their HOA board who contacted the police. Thankfully, the South Carolina neighbourhood had recently installed a Flock Safety licence plate reading camera at the entrance of their neighbourhood. This camera captures vehicles and objects that pass by the camera This camera captures vehicles and objects that pass by the camera. After police were aware of what was happening in the neighbourhood, they reached back out to the HOA board for more details on the vandalism. Police narrowed down a possible vehicle to one they were already familiar with and asked if the HOA knew the vehicle. Simple search tool Thanks to Flock Safety’s simple search tool, the HOA board was able to search through footage themselves. With licence plate details provided by police, the HOA board entered the details into Flock’s system. Within seconds of hitting ‘submit search request,’ their system pulled up a match of a vehicle that had entered their neighbourhood. Since police already had a vehicle in mind, the Flock Safety footage provided the evidence that this vehicle had been seen in the neighbourhood. The footage this neighbourhood’s HOA was able to provide was enough for police to move forward with the case.

Spoils precious green spaces. Dangerous to humans and wildlife. Could contain toxic material or asbestos. Damages the watercourses and soil quality. Ugly eyesore. Local nuisance. Breeding ground for pests such as rats and cockroaches. Despite all of these negative impacts, local authorities across England had to deal with 976,000 fly-tipping incidents in the year running up to March 2020. In other words, roughly 20,000 people per week on average thought it was a good idea to dump their household or commercial waste on a road, pavement, piece of farmland or another place where they aren’t supposed to. Environmental support services At around the time that the collection of these statistics ended, three businesses working in collaboration took their new solution to the marketplace. John Roberts, Solutions Director at Kingdom L A Support which provides environmental support services to local bodies across the UK, said: “Through working with local councils for the best part of ten years, I’ve seen first-hand how steep the rise in environmental crime has been. Knowing that the effects of the pandemic and lockdowns could only worsen the growing problem, I was worried.” Three businesses working in collaboration took their new solution to the marketplace “Up until that point, fly-tipping was being tackled in one of two ways. Either local councils would need to watch hours and hours of standard CCTV footage, which was often too poor quality for any faces or number plates to be identified anyway, or local authority officers were tasked with manually trawling through the rubbish to find some proof of address that could link the waste to the person who dumped it leading to lengthy investigations.” Grade video analytics “As you can imagine, neither were effective – and both used up huge amounts of local authority time and budgets. So, I reached out to Kingdom Systems and Bi3 to see if anything could be done.” WasteWatch Cam is a next-generation camera solution that has been designed specifically to capture littering and fly-tipping offences by harnessing enterprise grade video analytics which learns scenes and objects through patented algorithms, combined with Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR). Richard Eaves, Head of Business Intelligence and Operations at Business Insight 3 (Bi3) said: “I led a specialist team to run through all stages of the product’s technology development – from initial testing and feedback to real world deployment. This took approximately six months due to the need to create a bespoke software application that could link two technologies – one that was well-established and the other that was cutting-edge.” Clear video footage The system also detects number plates captured within the local vicinity using dedicated ANPR cameras" The software that Bi3 created was also designed to trigger a user-friendly email alert whenever an incident is captured, which is immediately transmitted to the L A Support team, along with all supporting evidence, including clear video footage and screenshots of the fly-tipping taking place. “The custom-built detection systems aren’t like any other,” said Craig Walton, Head of Systems at Kingdom Systems which delivers cost-effective security systems. “The 5MP HD cameras with starlight technology enable the enterprise grade video analytics to detect and alert on littering of objects as small as a box of McDonalds McNuggets. The system also detects number plates captured within the local vicinity using dedicated ANPR cameras which come fitted and powerful auto adapting infra-red lights that enable it to capture footage no matter the light quality or weather conditions.” Standard CCTV cameras L A Support then provides vital human verification of this evidence, before taking action in the form of Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs), warnings and – where that is not followed through – prosecution. This makes the solution completely end-to-end, with everything from detecting the offence to holding the offender accountable, taken care of by WasteWatch Cam. The standard CCTV cameras that were in place were capturing about 50 incidents a week Dartford Borough Council was needing to move up to three tonnes of fly-tipped waste from a lay-by that had become notorious for fly-tipping, every week. The standard CCTV cameras that were in place were capturing about 50 incidents a week, but only a fraction of this footage was clear enough to be used to hold an offender accountable. Evidence being indisputable Earlier this year, the Council installed WasteWatch Cam in the fly-tipping hotspot. In the first week that it was there, seven incidents were captured and – due to the evidence being indisputable – all seven offenders paid their FPNs. More than that, the Council only needed to clear less than one tonne of waste from the spot in the whole first three months that WasteWatch was installed – a huge decrease from nearly three tonnes per week. Richard Cherry, Enforcement Manager at Dartford Borough Council said: “Fly-tipping has a huge impact on our local environment and our reputation.” Fly-tipping hotspot The number of incidents in that spot is 1% what it once was, and the number hasn’t increased elsewhere" “Unfortunately, because we’re so close to the M25, we feel that knock-on effect of passing motorists thinking they can dump their waste here and get away with it. But the installation of WasteWatch Cam has been hugely successful. Unlike measures that were in place before, it’s not just a deterrent – fly-tippers don’t just see it and dump their waste elsewhere – it’s preventive.” “The number of incidents in that spot is 1% what it once was, and the number hasn’t increased elsewhere.” The Council has now installed WasteWatch Cam in another spot, just outside the town of New Barn. Financially-beneficial solution Roberts said: “I think the potential for WasteWatch is endless. Even months after it was first installed in Dartford, the incident rate hasn’t risen. It’s a long-term, financially-beneficial solution that holds offenders responsible and means that taxpayers’ money can be put towards a better purpose, rather than clearing up after people who destroy our countryside and communities.” The advanced technology and hardware mean it could be the key to truly cracking down on this issue" Expanding on the different settings that WasteWatch could be installed at, Walton said: “There’s no reason why it couldn’t be installed on every motorway, piece of private agricultural land, fly-tipping hotspot and beauty spot across the UK. The advanced technology and hardware mean it could be the key to truly cracking down on this issue and creating much cleaner, greener spaces for us all.” Online learning platforms “As consumers, we are slowly starting to accept the many different benefits of technology into our lives,” added Eaves. “We use a FitBit to monitor our health, online learning platforms to develop our knowledge, and even drones to speed up search and rescue missions. Now is the time we use AI and video analytics to rid of fly-tipping.” WasteWatch Cam is an end-to-end solution designed to support tackle the UK’s growing problem of fly-tipping. Created in 2020, it uses a combination of ANPR and video analytics to effectively identify offenders and their vehicles in the course of littering and fly-tipping as well as see to it that the individual is held responsible through a highly experienced enforcement team issuing FPNs, warnings and – where that is not followed through – prosecution.

The Very Group is the UK’s largest integrated digital retailer and financial services provider. It offers 1,900 brands to its four million customers globally. Due to the company’s growth, they built a new state-of-the-art fulfilment centre, close to one million square feet in size, in order to centralise operations and drive efficiency. Purpose-built and automated facility The Very Group has historically operated from three fulfilment centres, located in the north of England. Due to their business’ growth, they needed a new, purpose-built and automated facility, in a central, well-connected location, which could accommodate all one-man fulfilment and returns operations on one site, and that provided room for continued expansion. The space offered by the new site in the East Midlands region meant that The Very Group can process more orders The space offered by the new site in the East Midlands region meant that The Very Group can process more orders and use new technology to make the business more responsive, reducing the time it takes to get products to customers. Security for business growth The site’s position in the East Midlands, adjacent to the M1 and East Midlands Airport, with its own rail freight terminal, will enable the business to increase its cut-off time for next day delivery to midnight from 7 pm, and explore the introduction of same day delivery in the future. A crucial aspect of the new hub was security – with the need to not only secure the site and the stock inside, but implement solutions which would benefit the wider business too. Genetec Security Center The Very Group required a platform that could unite operations and provide the business-wide value that the company was seeking. They approached Grantfen, initially on a consultancy basis, to guide the organisation on the route that it should be taking and the technologies that could support its ambition. Grantfen quickly recognised the scope of The Very Group’s ambitions for a platform that was easy-to-use and that could bring together information from hundreds of different sensors and technologies. It put forward a comprehensive solution, built on the Genetec Security Center unified platform. Video surveillance, access control, ANPR and security integration Incorporating video surveillance and analytics, access control, automatic number plate recognition and integration with other key business systems, this allowed The Very Group to deploy state-of-the-art technologies from a range of vendors, including HID Global, Axis Communications and Senstar. Perhaps the most important solution needed was tracking who was coming in and out of the building, with such a large workforce, combined with inbound and outbound deliveries, the facility has hundreds of people inside at any one time. Previously, security manually searched people selected at random. Enhanced data security The Very Group has been able to adapt the solution and write its own code However, thanks to the robust Genetec software development kit and Grantfen’s specialist development expertise, The Very Group has been able to adapt the solution and write its own code, in order to use the access control system to implement truly random searches. This has involved getting permission to hold employee data, but again, thanks to the new system brought together by Genetec Security Center, the data is housed safely. Automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) Moving from three fulfilment centres into one, consolidated facility meant a change in operations for The Very Group, and security needed to mirror this evolution. Therefore, with the volume of traffic coming in and out of the site increasing, The Very Group implemented automatic number plate recognition (ANPR). Heavy goods vehicles could be monitored coming in and out of the site, enabling those in the diary to enter and exit the grounds in an efficient manner. Plus, with timestamps now able to show when vehicles entered or exited the grounds, it helped with yard management and traffic flow, with Security Center able to generate reports on how traffic is moving around the yard. Car park management and CCTV control room monitoring Employees are able to take advantage of this system as well, with the ANPR technology recognising them and seamlessly letting them into the car park. This enhanced integration has benefitted other areas of the business too. The CCTV control room is now able to monitor people and freight flow, looking at movements, such as trailers, in order to help maximise efficiencies and ensure high health and safety standards. The opening of Skygate, our new fulfilment centre, means a new era for the group" Dean Cooper, Head of Security at The Very Group, commented “The opening of Skygate, our new fulfilment centre, means a new era for the group. We are a digitally-led business, and the fact that we are now able to enhance operations and yield more value from security functions, is going to help us operationally. Genetec and Grantfen have played a huge part in accelerating our sophistication in this area and I look forward to how we can gain increasing insights from all that the technology has to offer.” Efficient inter-departmental collaboration While the roll-out has been relatively recent, the positive effects are already being felt across the business. This has led to future plans about what else could be introduced, all underpinned by Genetec Security Center. “Genetec Security Center is helping to improve inter-departmental collaboration, thanks to its reporting functions, alongside benefiting operations and ensuring the security of the facility. We are an ambitious business, and as we grow, we need a system that will continue to evolve with our requirements. Genetec enables this, and alongside its deep integration and leading analytics, we look forward to continuing the partnership over years to come”, concluded Dean Cooper.

Exeter Science Park is a business park developed by the Exeter Science Park Company, a partnership between Devon County Council, the University of Exeter, the Exeter City Council, and the East Devon District Council. It is a 26-hectare site located on the outskirts of the city of Exeter next to junction 29 of the M5 motorway. Sustainable solution The site has 2 entry lanes and 3 exit lanes. A vehicle access control solution was required to resolve problems at these entry and exit points. It was necessary to reduce staff involvement in barrier control, relieve congestion at the barriers, and improve reporting data using a sustainable solution that has low maintenance costs. Long-range tag reader Upon approach to the entry barrier, the uPass reader senses the RFID tag Each entry and exit lane has been fitted with a barrier, an HD ANPR camera, and an uPass long-range tag reader. The tag reader is used as the primary method of access control. Staff members will attach their RFID tags to their windscreens. Upon approach to the entry barrier, the uPass reader senses the RFID tag. The uPass Reader passes the information the barrier control, which opens the barrier. The whole process takes approximately 3 seconds. The same procedure is used on the exit barriers. HD ANPR cameras For staff that don’t have RFID tags and visitors, a secondary system using HD ANPR cameras provides access control. This removes the need for any ticket issue/chip coin at entry, avoiding human involvement and resulting in a faster throughput on entry and exit. Further staff and tenants can be added to a limitless categorised white list using the vehicle number plate as the ID. The white list can be used to allow automatic entry of visitors without the driver having to press the intercom button. Benefits Cost-effective and reliable hands-free access control Windscreen tags are read at up to 5 metres Prevents unauthorised vehicle access Allows vehicles to be tracked “The uPass long-range tag reader has allowed a quicker throughput through the barrier, whilst improving security on vehicle access. We are extremely happy with the positive impact the product has had on our client,” said Mustafe Omar, Business Development Manager, Newpark Solutions.

Many of us take critical infrastructure for granted in our everyday lives. We turn on a tap, flip a switch, push a button, and water, light, and heat are all readily available. But it is important to remember that computerised systems manage critical infrastructure facilities, making them vulnerable to cyber-attacks. The recent ransomware attack on the Colonial Pipeline is an example of the new types of threats. In addition, any number of physical attacks is also possibilities. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the security challenges of protecting critical infrastructure?

Security systems are vital to any company. Nowadays, however, they can also provide additional benefits to any enterprise beyond protecting people, assets and facilities. Specifically, systems that were previously focused on security can now be leveraged in new ways to benefit the broader enterprise. When this happens, the security department transitions from a ‘cost centre’ to a repository of data that can benefit the whole company, and even contribute to the bottom line. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: How can ‘security’ systems benefit the larger mission of an enterprise?

The new school year is a good time to reflect on the role of security in protecting our schools. From video to access control to some newer technologies, our Expert Panel Roundtable found plenty to talk about when we asked this week’s question: How does security technology make our schools safer?