Construction surveillance

Lorenz Technology has partnered up with DJI Gold Partner Heliguy and CG Labs to showcase the Lorenz onboard supercomputer which allows pilots to pre-program flights and use drones to conduct automated missions. Based in Milton Keynes, UK, CG Labs works across many different sectors including security, defense, industrial, construction, agriculture, and events specialising in visualisation, modeling, and measurement, where technology and data manipulation deliver a new standard in accuracy and efficiency. Global drone services provider, CG Labs, was at the UMEX 2020 show in Abu Dhabi (Feb 23-25th), which is dedicated to drones, robotics, components, and unmanned systems. CG Labs has been exhibiting a DJI M210 aircraft - provided by one of the world’s leading drone suppliers, Heliguy - and integrated with a Lorenz AI-Link via onboard SDK. Secure platform for data sharing Lorenz AI-Link enables new purposes for drones and mobile robots with onboard artificial intelligence Developed by Danish firm Lorenz Technology - which provides intelligent AI drone software designed for security, safety, and surveillance - the Lorenz AI-Link enables new possibilities and purposes for drones and mobile robots with onboard artificial intelligence, edge computing, and automation, as well as offering a secure platform for data sharing. The Lorenz AI-Link is a supercomputer mounted as an intelligent brain on drones and mobile robots, able to detect incidents on pre-planned routes through the Lorenz Hive web interface. Features include onboard data processing, real-time video streaming, autonomous route planning, and automatic archiving of video data.   Significant increase in efficiency DFDS, the world’s number one ferry operator, has already paired the Lorenz AI-Link with the DJI M210, and is reaping the rewards. Using the system to conduct automated inspections, DFDS has seen a significant increase in efficiency while reducing CO2 emissions, manpower, and costs. Other major companies benefiting from Lorenz Technology’s systems include G4S Danmark and Esbjerg Port. Heliguy is a UK reseller of Lorenz Technology’s innovative products. The two companies have partnered to encourage more enterprise clients to adopt this sophisticated system. Lorenz Technology and CG Labs have also signed up to Heliguy’s Full Stack service - a ground-breaking drone supply and support package which allows companies to dynamically scale their fleets by accessing Heliguy’s vast ecosystem of enterprise hardware. Improve security and flight autonomy Kristian Skaarup, CEO of Lorenz Technology said: "With integrators of the Lorenz Technology software like Heliguy and CG Labs, we are able to distribute our software to additional markets and frontrunner clients in the industry. We've just launched the 3rd generation of our Lorenz AI-Link and it's a great recognition for us to partner with the leading integrators of the drone industry." CG Labs will be exhibiting the DJI M210 and Lorenz AI Link as part of the ‘key digital tools and products’ it can offer its clients, including firms such as G4S and ARUP. David Cummins, Executive Director of CG Labs said: “This partnership will allow us to provide our customers a cutting edge technology on an already fantastic system, reducing the need for on site pilots and therefore cutting cost. Combining a reduction in cost with an increase in capability is exactly what we strive for with all of our technology partners and it's why our customers keep coming back to us." Ruairi Hardman, Heliguy’s Business Development Manager, said: “Lorenz Technology is offering something truly innovative and has taken what is possible to another level. We are delighted that this autonomous flight system can be integrated with DJI technology and it is something which will benefit our clients." “One of these clients is CG Labs, and we are pleased to see that CG Labs will be exhibiting the system on an M210 drone at UMEX 2020 and highlighting how it can greatly improve security and flight autonomy.”

Drones are commonly known for flying in the sky, but a new breed is rolling around on the ground and swimming in the ocean. Now, in an alliance straight out of science fiction, two CT-based drone companies are joining forces to take on the task of protecting our planet using both airborne and amphibious drones by automating operations in security, environmental and even military fronts, globally.    Harford based Aquiline Drones (AD), a premiere Cloud and drone solutions company, will be powering GuardBot's spherical and amphibious robotic vehicles via the AD Cloud (or ADC). Like Amazon's AWS, ADC is quickly becoming the industry Gold Standard for all Unmanned Vehicle (UV) operations, taking full advantage of its capacity, modularity and truly salient features for autonomous assignments, operations and quests. Advanced AI for complicated missions “Our new alliance with Aquiline Drones now gives us the ability to program our bots with advanced AI for complicated missions in surveillance, security and detection. And with AD’s focus on US supply chain manufacturing, this is truly pioneering a new direction for drone technology in the US,” noted Peter Muhlrad, President of GuardBot. "GuardBot was initially conceived for a planetary mission on Mars. As such, our robots can traverse all terrains, including paved roads, dirt paths, dunes, snowy fields, sloped mountains, or even water surfaces. GuardBot spherical robots can even navigate upstream,” said Muhlrad. “And with the right sensor, camera and/or acoustic package, the use cases are endless,” Muhlrad notes. “Our new collaboration with Aquiline Drones couldn’t be timelier! The first batch of GuardBots will be manufactured at AD’s downtown Hartford facility starting in May,” added Muhlrad. Interchangeable sensors Each GuardBot is equipped with pods on its right and left sides that contains interchangeable sensors GuardBot’s circular drones range from 6.5 inches to 7 feet in diameter and move using a patented drive-mechanism that allows it to easily provide forward and backward motion as well as make 360-degree turns. They can operate continuously for up to 25 hours on one charge and reach speeds of up to 12 mph on land and 3 mph in water. Each GuardBot is equipped with pods on its right and left sides that contains interchangeable sensors, such as video cameras, thermal, infrared, microphones GPS and audio for continuous content gathering, transmission of data and constant communication with command control. AI and IoT infrastructure management “In the coming months, ADC will undergo rigorous testing, hosting and management trials with GuardBot’s proprietary software application. ADC’s highly modular AI architecture is suitable for crucial customisation of solutions typically not available in the open marketplace. And, as an unmanned vehicle cloud, no other cloud platform provides the same level of robustness and salient features that enable complex mission planning scenarios, autonomous flight and ground operations powered by AI and IoT infrastructure management,” said Barry Alexander, Founder and CEO of Aquiline Drones and AD Cloud Services. “We eagerly anticipate integrating GuardBot’s entire network of all-terrain drones into our cloud to provide enterprise asset management (EAM) services, including data gathering, analytics, modeling and storage capabilities,” Alexander added. "Additionally, the timing of this hi-tech endeavor could not be more opportune - not just for Connecticut, which is quickly becoming the drone capital, but for our entire nation!" Advocates workforce development Admittedly, drone technology is exciting, ushering in a plethora of opportunity industry wide" "Admittedly, drone technology is exciting, ushering in a plethora of opportunity industry wide. AD strongly advocates workforce development and intends on using the burgeoning AD brand to further expand the industry, thus creating opportunity for all interested,” Alexander continued. "Given the abundance of use cases in our defense department and other government agencies, AD is particularly pleased with the opportunity it delivers to our veterans,” Alexander added. “Not only is GuardBot useful technology, but it is truly thrilling,” said Alexander. "Civic unions are born out of compatibility, and business is no different. Can’t think of a better way to describe the exciting collaboration between Aquiline and GuardBot,” Alexander added. “GuardBot dovetails nicely into our business model and complements our mission of pioneering a new direction in the UAV/S industry where safety comes first,” Alexander concluded. Audio/visual sensors As GuardBot’s amphibious and land-based drones can be outfitted to carry payloads, such as audio/visual sensors, fire retardant liquids and ground penetrating radar, Muhlrad and Alexander both emphasise that the collaboration of their companies will produce a variety of new and powerful capabilities for drone systems, including: Aquatic Military Missions Forest Fire Mitigation Security Monitoring (home, construction and commercial endeavors) Beach Patrol and Harbour Security School Safety Identification and Detection of Explosive Materials Ecologic and Geologic Testing (of volcanoes, mountains and other land structures to detect and warn of natural disasters) Parking Garage/Lot Surveillance Homeland Security Amphibious Surveillance Broadcasting and Multi-Venue Live Sportscasting Monitoring Hazardous Materials Spills and Environmental damage Safety Monitoring of Dangerous Weather Conditions Detection of Hazardous Chemicals Strict safety standards Further, through cloud-based transmitters, AD’s aerial hardware will be able to deploy and communicate with GuardBot’s ground-based vehicles for a seamless unmanned system that works together in solving potential life-threatening issues like fires, theft, vandalism and violent attacks.  “Being pilot-owned and boasting more than 200 years of collective experience in the aviation industry, Aquiline Drones understands and adheres to the strict safety standards of the Federal Aviation Administration,” adds Alexander. “In addition, as one of only four drone airline companies in the United States holding an FAA 135 Air Carrier Certificate, we offer future operational flexibility to facilitate approvals and exemptions on non-traditional, augmented and unique UAV operations such as the GuardBot collaboration.” 

The very best in IoT, artificial intelligence, edge computing and 5G technology will be on display at the upcoming edition of Secutech, which returns to the Taipei Nangang Exhibition Centre from 22 – 24 April 2020 for its 23rd edition. Commercial security and fire safety solutions will take centre stage at the fair, and in order to reflect the cross-sector influence of artificial intelligence and the IoT, Secutech 2020 will also feature dedicated zones for the smart building and mobility sectors.    Data analysis solutions Ms Regina Tsai, the Deputy General Manager of Messe Frankfurt New Era Business Media Ltd, explained that new show elements at the 2020 edition seeks to encourage collaboration across different sectors: “We are pleased to introduce the new 5G applications pavilion which will demonstrate how higher data speeds will impact fields such as the IoT." "In the new era of 5G IoT, the amount of data that can be transmitted between devices will be much higher, with applications not just for improved security, but also for better road safety and building management. This higher data volume is only useful if the information can be properly analysed, which is where Secutech 2020 will deliver even more value for trade buyers, thanks to its many exhibitors of data analysis solutions both on the edge and in the cloud.” Smart living and intelligent transportation Secutech has kept buyers abreast of emerging opportunities throughout its 23 year history Held under the supervision of the National Communication Commission, the new 5G Pavilion will welcome four of Taiwan’s main telecom providers: Chunghwa Telecom, Taiwan Mobile, FarEastTone and Asia Pacific Telecom. The four companies will join a lineup of around 350 exhibitors from around the world, showcasing everything from video surveillance cameras and access control systems, to facial recognition systems and security management platforms. Always in touch with technological trends, Secutech has kept buyers abreast of emerging opportunities throughout its 23 year history. Reflecting new developments in the IoT, in recent years the fair has introduced concurrent ‘SMAbuilding’ and ‘Mobility’ events as platforms that mix security solutions with other functionalities such as building management and smart parking. Fire and Safety For the 2020 fair, new elements are set to be introduced to the popular ‘SMAbuilding’ event including a themed ‘Building Internet of Things’ area that will focus specifically on residential property, commercial buildings, the retail sector and hotels. The area will showcase AI and IoT solutions that drive automation and device integration. Other additions will include dedicated zones for smart industrial facilities and construction projects.  Safety solutions for health care facilities and nursing homes will be displayed alongside traditional equipment Held alongside SMAbuilding, the returning ‘Mobility’ event will also be a significant attraction, allowing exhibitors and visitors to discuss intelligent transportation solutions and generate genuine business outcomes. Covering a diverse product spectrum, the event will house four pavilions dedicated to smart railway, smart road, smart parking and smart logistics solutions. As a destination for Asia’s fire and safety practitioners to locate new equipment and learn about best practices, the concurrent ‘Fire and Safety’ event will also be returning to Secutech 2020. Personal protection equipment Demonstrating how the IoT can save lives, the event will host suppliers of smart disaster prevention devices at specialist zones. Safety solutions for health care facilities and nursing homes will also be displayed alongside traditional equipment such as fire extinguishers, firefighting gear and personal protection equipment.   The 23rd edition of Secutech will take place from 22 – 24 April 2020. Secutech is organised by Messe Frankfurt New Era Business Media Ltd and is part of a global network of Safety Security and Fire trade fairs.

In large-scene applications, it is difficult for a panoramic surveillance equipment to acquire real-time round-the-clock data due to a lot of factors such as blind spots, aperture limitation, fixed monitoring scene, etc. Aiming to solve these common problems that most general panoramic equipment are facing, Dahua Technology, a video-centric smart IoT solution and service provider, launches its new Hunter SDT5X Series Camera to bring more benefits to its users. Featuring smart tracking, perimeter protection, video metadata, face recognition and many other intelligent functions, the Dahua Hunter Series Camera integrates both advantages of panoramic camera and PTZ camera to provide a flexible solution for multi-scene surveillance needs. In addition to the ability to provide wider range of panoramic coverage and real-time detail capture in ultra-high-definition scenes, it also allows multi-scene monitoring based on customised time schedule, as well as auto-calibration, clear imaging and intelligent applications under complex lighting conditions. Powerful Dual-PTZ Design The operator can even schedule time slots according to different monitoring needs The Dahua Hunter Series Camera adopts a powerful dual-PTZ system to achieve double performance. With panoramic lens above and detail capture lens below, it can meet various monitoring needs with just one camera. Both lens can be horizontally and vertically controlled, enabling monitoring and smart tracking within a wider range. At the same time, it supports simultaneous monitoring of multiple scenes to guarantee all-round security. The operator can even schedule time slots according to different monitoring needs. For instance: at day time, the camera can be utilised to monitor main roads to obtain structured data of people, vehicles, and non-motor vehicles; while at night, the camera can be set to monitor small path for perimeter protection. This ensures an all-day and all-round security. Innovative PFA+ Autofocus Technology The camera utilises Dahua self-developed PFA+ autofocus technology to achieve simultaneous video focusing and zooming, which greatly shortens the focusing time. Additionally, the camera also supports Dahua Starlight+ Technology which achieves ultra-clear image quality, as well as intelligent identification of vehicles, non-motor vehicles, people, and other structured targets, not only maximising monitoring effectiveness but also providing high-quality data for back-end business applications. Another outstanding feature of Dahua Hunter Series Camera is its quick installation and debugging. With a lightweight structure, the camera only requires one person to complete the installation by directly replacing the original installation point with the new one, eliminating inconvenience of construction and debugging, greatly improving efficiency and reducing additional costs. Compared to the fixed lens of general panoramic surveillance equipment, the panoramic lens of Dahua Hunter Series Camera is adjustable and can be remotely controlled, ensuring better face image capture. Multi-target face detection Dahua Technology will adhere to its core value of “customer-centered” to provide excellent quality and service Thanks to the Dahua self-developed Prediction Exposure Algorithm (PEA) and AE2.0 Algorithm, the exposure can be completed once the scene is rotated to the correct position, providing more calculation time for autofocus and intelligent algorithm. At the same time, it makes the debugging process smooth and stable, and realises regular exposure during video capturing. Boasting full-scene coverage, all-weather structured capturing, multi-target face detection and other capabilities, the Dahua Hunter Series Camera supports the customisation needs of multiple scenes. Combined with Dahua Technology's various industry application solutions, the camera is suitable for school gates, hospital entrances, crosswalks, subway crossings, city intersections, as well as open and large scenes such as squares and scenic spots, achieving 24/7 perimeter protection. Excellent quality and service Committed to the mission of “Enabling a safer society and smarter living,” Dahua Technology will adhere to its core value of “customer-centered” in order to provide the market with excellent quality and service, to create more value for customers, and make unremitting efforts to build a safe, intelligent, convenient and efficient society.

Security companies provide a type of service that tends to go unnoticed except when it’s missed. Businesses, banks, stores, event organisers and VIPs are their main clients. Their demand is increasing, mostly due to the expansion that Southern California has experienced in the latest years. Small cities and towns are increasingly growing every day, mostly due to internal migration and the high prices of rent in Los Angeles County. Veteran Los Angeles security company HillQuest Security knows about this growth and the demand for services like the ones they provide. That’s why they’ve decided to expand their already wide range of services (which included more than 60 cities by 2018) to the entirety of Orange and Riverside counties. Security options for businesses HillQuest Security has started to provide security guard services in Orange County and Riverside since early 2019. What was initially a test venture that turned out to be really successful for the company became a full-service activity. Now, HillQuest has started to offer its full range of security options for businesses and individuals in those areas. Our trained, licensed expert security officers can handle any and all of your security needs" Businesses and other entities in the OC and Riverside can now hire HillQuest Security mobile patrols, bodyguards, security systems, loss prevention, and other security services for banks, construction areas, health care facilities, hotels, apartment complexes, movie sets, parking lots, schools and event venues. Security services “We provide security services that are perfectly tailored for you,” says John Bouzy, HillQuest Security owner. "Our trained, licensed expert security officers can handle any and all of your security needs. Moreover, we can do that any time of day as well." According to its website, the company is insured with a $5 million dollar policy and all officers “meet the standards set by the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services".

On the afternoon of November 6th, delegates from Serbia visited Dahua Technology headquarters: Chief of Shumadija region of Serbia, Mrs. Biljana llic Stosic; Adviser to the mayor of Kragujevac, Mr. Dusan Davidovic; General Manager of Serbian Post, Mrs. Mira Petrovic; and Mr. Dejan Pesut. They were warmly received by Dahua VP, General Manager of Dahua Overseas Business Center, Mr. Jason Zhao, along with Managing Director of Dahua CEE & Nordic, Mr. Colin Wang, Technical Director of Dahua Serbia, Mr. Frank Hu and Sales Director of Traffic & Government Solution, Mr. Leo Xu. The visit started with a tour inside Dahua showroom, where the delegates had first-hand experience with all the cutting-edge technologies and solution offerings of the company. After the tour, a meeting was held where Mr. Frank Hu introduced the company to the guests and shared some of the company’s successful projects in Serbia, as well as its solutions in Safe City, Smart Traffic, Smart Logistics and other industries. Security maintenance and urban construction The representatives from Serbia also actively participated in the meeting and gave informative speeches. According to Mrs. Biljana, Shumadija will be the next data center and technology distribution center in Serbia because of its favourable location, convenient logistics and transportation, and high level of education. In addition, Mrs. Mira Petrovic talked about the history of the Serbian Post and stated that currently they have 17,000 employees and thousands of branches throughout the country. Dahua Technology has been seeking cooperation opportunities in different industries and fields At the same time, she expressed great interest in future cooperation with Dahua Technology in transportation and logistics. Mr. Dusan also delivered a speech with the introduction of Kragujevac, the capital city of Shumadija. Lastly, Mr. Zhao expressed his warm welcome to the three distinguished guests on behalf of the company, with emphasis on Dahua Technology’s capabilities in providing various solutions. He also introduced Dahua Serbian subsidiary, which has 15 employees and 2 offices to serve the local customers in terms of security maintenance and urban construction. Innovation, quality, and service In response to Mrs. Biljana’s invitation to visit Shumadija for further details of technology import, Mr. Colin Wang promised that the local team of Dahua Serbia will continue to follow up on cooperation opportunities in various potential fields such as transportation, logistics, retail and safe city. Adhering to the core concept of openness, Dahua Technology has been seeking cooperation opportunities in different industries and fields. This visit has deepened the relationship between Dahua Technology and the Serbian government, and has strengthened the foundation for Dahua Technology’s future projects and businesses in this region. With the mission of “Enabling a Safer Society and Smarter Living”, Dahua Technology will continue to focus on innovation, quality, and service to serve its partners and customers around the world.

Axis Communications, the provider in network video, has helped develop an innovative and clean energy solution which illustrates the potential of sustainable surveillance technologies in remote locations. In response to a request to produce a system to document part of a major programme of improvements to Scotland’s A9 carriageway, Axis and its partner Camera Control UK, developed a solution which is capable of capturing high-quality 4K time-lapse imagery using entirely renewable sources. One of the main challenges was that the solution needed to be able to capture high-quality surveillance video in an area with no communication networks or local power, while coping with weather extremes and construction logistics. With diesel generators disregarded due to the pollutants they would produce, and the challenges associated with trying to lay power cables over a considerable distance along a route that twists and turns, a clean and sustainable solution was required. Video surveillance helps in better traffic flow The highways project will see a 10-mile stretch of the A9 from Perth to Inverness widened to increase the efficiency of the route and allow for smoother traffic flow. After winning a tender to document the project, local company, MB Productions Ltd, commissioned Camera Control UK to produce a solution. Camera Control UK in turn contacted Axis Communications, the provider in network video technology, to work in collaboration. The resulting video would be used for audit purposes, to provide evidence of best practice, and to serve as example material for future projects. All captured video is relayed back to a central control location using a dedicated wireless network Martin Naylor, Director of Camera Control UK, elaborates: “We realised it had to be an off-grid solution to avoid using local power; a solution that could incorporate wireless communications and utilise renewable energy sources to be environmentally friendly and sustainable over the longer term.” Bullet cameras To bring the solution to life, AXIS P1448-LE 4K short bullet cameras were chosen for their robustness and durability. The final system uses eight solar power packs, charged by a mixture of wind turbine and solar PV panels. Eight towers with mounted cameras are employed at various key touchpoints along the A9. Communications masts, installed to enable cloud connectivity, ensured that the Axis cameras, connected via the IoT, were able to deliver imagery of incredible quality. The whole solution illustrates the possibilities for innovation when utilising the natural elements, having a virtually zero carbon footprint. All captured video is relayed back to a central control location using a dedicated wireless network. The whole system can be remotely monitored to continually check its status of operation. Remote management also enables the cameras to be fine-tuned for precision imagery of the work in progress, without the need to manually touch the cameras, or even to be on-site in person. 4K Imagery Martin Naylor commented on the relationship with Axis that has made this solution possible: “Axis really values innovation and is therefore an ideal partner, not only because the team takes the time to understand the challenges when trying to push the boundaries of what’s possible in surveillance, but also because their drive towards sustainable and ethical practices is an inspiration to other technology companies.” Matt Brown, Director, MBP, said of the solution: “We are now able to capture fantastic 4K imagery of the ongoing work on the A9. Camera Control UK has produced an entirely green solution, an incredible feat of engineering. The Axis cameras are in a completely different league, in terms of quality, to others we’ve seen. This project has been a great success.”

Multiple Construction sites in the Albuquerque area are managed by Shumate Constructors, Inc., an Albuquerque, New Mexico-based construction contractor, that is also renowned for building educational facilities. In addition to building schools from the ground up, Shumate Constructors completes school additions and remodels. Construction site thefts Three years ago, the company began having problems keeping thieves out of its construction sites during non-working hours. Unwatched construction sites are hot beds for a variety of thefts - from copper pipes and wire to hand tools to heavy-duty machinery. The loss of machinery, such as front-end loaders, would cost hundreds-of-thousands of dollars. Sometimes workers will arrive to a site in the morning only to find materials, such as copper pipe, gone along with their tools. Enhancing construction site security The sites also presented a challenge due to changing construction conditions The result is the loss of a whole day and sometimes multiple days of work. On top of the lost time, the contractor has to cover the cost of replacing materials, file an insurance claim for each theft and complete additional administrative paperwork that they weren’t planning to invest time in. The sites also presented a challenge due to changing construction conditions. Equipment or storage containers are delivered and removed, the sites are graded/re-graded and as sections of build were completed, tools, materials and supplies were moved to different areas. Flexible, reliable wireless solution At a contractor trade show a few years ago, Mark Shumate, President of Shumate Constructors met Dave Meurer, President of Albuquerque’s Armed Response Team. Meurer introduced Shumate to the idea of a flexible, reliable wireless solution that could continually monitor the entire site without the need to trench around the perimeter. “Mark [Shumate] was fed up with theft at his construction sites so we started to discuss some prevention ideas,” said Meurer, adding “I knew this was a great fit for the combined Inovonics transmitter and Optex sensor solution.” Optex sensors installed He further said, “At the Armed Response Team, we refer to this solution as the never sleeping, non-blinking eye. Shumate was not aware of any reliable solutions that could provide this type of theft prevention, but we explained that we were very confident in this application and he was definitely interested.” To install each combined sensor, the Armed Response Team attached the Optex sensors to a freestanding steel post with a base plate on it and deployed them throughout the site. This allowed the flexibility to be easily moved to accommodate site changes. Once installed, a signal was easily achieved. iSeries Optex/Inovonics sensors The amount of iSeries Optex/Inovonics sensors needed at Shumate’s sites vary The sensors in the combined solution often need to communicate as far as an entire city block and the perimeters can be several thousands of feet. The iSeries Inovonics/Optex solution was able to easily accomplish this feat. The amount of iSeries Optex/Inovonics sensors needed at Shumate’s sites vary. For some sites, it can be as few as a dozen, and others it can be as many as 30 or more. “Together, the products offer a great solution,” noted Meurer, adding “The Optex sensors can handle varying weather conditions and Inovonics’ wireless connectivity offers less signal drop and more consistent reporting signal than any of the other transmitters we’ve tried.” Efficient perimeter security solution “Between the perimeter technology by Inovonics and Optex, and the Armed Response Team’s follow-up, we have seen zero thefts for all projects since installation. With the integrated wireless solution, the construction sites are monitored on a real-time basis and immediately notify the Armed Response Team upon unauthorised access,” said Mark Shumate, President of Shumate Constructors. He adds, “We look at the perimeter security solution as a great investment. Annually, the cost of manpower, replacement of lost or stolen items and damage repairs could easily cost three times more than we spend on Armed Response Teams’ services with the Optex and Inovonics solution.”

Welch Sand & Gravel, a family-owned operation serving the Cincinnati, Ohio region of the US. Welch harvests gravel and sand from the water and transports all the material via hundreds of feet of conveyor to be processed and delivered to all its construction customers. The 500 plus feet of conveyor is riddled with an array of copper and metal wiring that yields big dollars on the market, making it quite vulnerable. The surrounding rural area is extremely challenging to protect, as it includes multiple acres and many access points, including the water. Optex photoelectric beams installed Sonitrol of Butler County was brought in to provide a solution to Welsh's security needs. With the assistance of Optex, Sonitrol designed an outdoor security system that was comprised of hardwired and wireless Optex photoelectric beams to secure the property. All of the Optex Beams were connected to various pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) cameras on the property Optex’s 200 ft. battery-powered, wireless photoelectric beams were strategically placed to provide perimeter detection along the property line and not allow access to the desired wiring on the conveyer belt. In addition, interior traps were placed to provide back-up protection to Welch Sand & Gravel. All of the Optex Beams were connected to various pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) cameras on the property, and Sonitrol of Butler County now provides 24-hour monitoring of all the cameras. Optex - Sonitrol monitored solution The moment an Optex beam detects movement, the PTZ cameras are activated and the Sonitrol Central Station immediately views the activity on site. The operator can quickly assess the situation and dispatch the proper authority if necessary.  The Optex security/Sonitrol monitored solution has saved the customer thousands of dollars in loss and hundreds of dollars a month in guard service costs. Since the system was installed, no additional loss has been experienced on the site.

As a consequence of COVID-19, many hospitals have needed to quickly erect new portable buildings to expand the capacity of certain sensitive areas. This in turn has created a requirement to immediately expand the scope of existing CCTV systems to ensure control room operators are able to monitor and react appropriately to any suspicious activity in the vicinity of the new buildings. New Cross Hospital, which is run by the Royal Wolverhampton Hospitals NHS Trust, is just one of many hospitals throughout the UK who are faced with the challenge of ensuring all areas of its campus can be monitored 24/7. Providing 700 beds and employing almost 9,500 staff, it is the largest teaching hospital in the Black Country, having been originally built circa 1900 as a workhouse. Cost-effective solution We clearly needed to find a much simpler and cost-effective solution which would enable our clients to take full advantage" The need to install a new 4K camera in a location over 300 metres from the hospital’s control room initially seemed daunting in terms of the cost of laying the network cabling normally needed to transmit ultra-high definition captured by IP cameras. “Apart from the cost of the engineering work and the disruption caused by installing the new cabling, it would also have taken several days to achieve,” said Dan Mather, Director of Derby based JKE Security, who have had a long term working relationship with the Trust. “We clearly needed to find a much simpler and cost-effective solution which would enable our clients to take full advantage of the superb quality images captured by 4K cameras and, if necessary, pass evidence of any wrongdoing to police.” Electronic security products Dan Mather sought advice from Smart R Distribution, the Haverhill based specialist electronic security products distributor. They were able to offer him an assurance that their own brand 602POE-2P single port PoE Ethernet Extender would be able to reliably support a new 4K Wisenet PNP-9200RH dome camera, by facilitating the transmission of the IP images over the hospital’s existing coaxial cabling. The Smart R 602POE-2P single port PoE Ethernet Extender has been proven to be able to robustly transmit data over any 2 wire cable, and with the ability to handle bandwidth of up to 200Mbps, is more than capable of coping with the transmission demands of the Wisenet 4K camera. Safe working environment It was truly a case of plug & play, with both devices installed, configured and working within half a day" “Although we did not source the camera from Smart R, it could not have been easier to connect it to the Ethernet Extender,” said Dan. “It was truly a case of plug & play, with both devices installed, configured and working within half a day!” Commenting on the successful installation of the new camera, Paul Smith, Head of Security and Car Parking for the Royal Wolverhampton Hospitals NHS Trust said: “It is essential during this challenging time that we are able to continue to provide a secure and safe working environment for all our heroic colleagues who are so compassionately caring for people who have contracted COVID-19." Electronic security supply chain "I have been impressed with how quickly various companies within the electronic security supply chain have been able to come together and use their combined expertise to provide us with an effective and cost-effective solution.”

La Cité, Ontario’s largest French-language college, recently upgraded parking lot security on its main Ottawa campus with the installation of 15 IX Series 2 video intercom assistance (or emergency) towers from Aiphone, the international manufacturer of intercom and security communication products. With the press of a button, the towers enable students, staff, and visitors to directly communicate with the campus security staff. The towers’ embedded megapixel cameras provide security officers with live video to more accurately assess and respond to a situation. The Aiphone towers are topped with bright blue lights making them easy to spot at night. They are always on and officers immediately know the location of any calls for assistance. The IX Series 2 intercoms and towers replaced units that could no longer be repaired, and that downtime could potentially endanger students or staff, said Rock Levesque, Project Manager for Ottawa-based project integrator, ComNet Networks and Security Inc. Outdoor mass notification system ComNet created an outdoor mass notification system by adding amplified horns to each Aiphone tower" “Pressing the old units’ call buttons initiated a siren that made it virtually impossible for students to hear instructions from the security staff,” he said. “Campus administrators place a very high priority on the safety of their students and staff, so the decision was made to upgrade the entire system.” To replace the sirens, ComNet created an outdoor mass notification system by adding amplified horns to each Aiphone tower. The IX Series 2 towers include embedded megapixel cameras providing sharp closeup video. Levesque said the towers’ optional CCTV arms will enable the campus to add cameras for wider parking lot views. Emergency assistance system The three-module towers feature built-in mounting hardware for power supplies or accessories and rear access panels to easily pull wire from top to bottom. The towers also feature built-in UL-Listed electrical boxes to satisfy local electrical codes. Upgrades to the emergency assistance system on the La Cite Ottawa campus will set minds at ease and help protect the thousands of students and staff who call this campus home. La Cité, opened in 1995, offers its 5,200 students 140 postsecondary programmes with degrees ranging from architecture to security management. The college has its main Ottawa campus, a satellite campus in Hawkesbury, a site dedicated to constructions trades in Orleans, and a business office with classrooms in Toronto.

Idesco devised a transparent reader to simplify Infobric’s construction site system management, making it powerfully adaptable to widely different market needs and technology standards. For a while, construction sites have provided a textbook example of how much electronic access control systems can benefit managers. Controlling access to a site, including restricted zones, machinery access (such as lifts and elevators), increases both security and safety, while also helping track authorised personnel and even equipment utilisation. Ensuring regulatory compliance Infobric Ease possesses a wide range of functionality, from site access to energy control and much more An automatic, electric system, with that much functionality combined in a single service meets a high-value need in the construction industry. Today, Infobric provides a cloud-based digital platform, Infobric Ease, to help construction site managers monitor and secure key elements, such as site safety, while increasing worker productivity and ensuring regulatory compliance. Infobric Ease possesses a wide range of functionality, from site access to energy control and much more. In addition to simplifying site management and boosting worker productivity, it simplifies sites’ compliance with staff ledger regulation across a number of European countries. Worker productivity has been enhanced by the elimination of queues to register new staff on site and attendance. Lastly, controlled access increases worker safety while reducing theft and vandalism. Simplifying worker attendance monitoring Cloud management contributes even more to time and labour cost savings while also letting site owners conveniently fulfil their law-mandated employer obligations. To prevent tax avoidance and illegal workers, some European countries require construction site managers to upload the employee data registered in their staff ledgers – which Infobric Ease also provides, thereby also simplifying worker attendance monitoring. In short, the digital tracking of all this data saves significant time and money. The RFID industry commonly labels this type of reader ‘transparent’, because it seamlessly transmits transponder data Infobric integrated Idesco’s 9 CD 2.0 Slim Pin T reader into Infobric Ease as its vital front-end interface with construction workers. The RFID industry commonly labels this type of reader ‘transparent’, because it seamlessly transmits transponder data – fully-encrypted to ANSSI Level 1 Architecture specification – directly to a system, without any mediating keys. This lets systems themselves directly control all aspects of transactions – including data collection and reader response – resulting in both a highly secure and a cost-effective solution. Several identification card standards For integrators like Infobric, 9 CD 2.0 Slim Pin T’s direct, ‘transparent’, interaction between transponder and system not only simplifies transactions. It also lets them use more of the available features in the chips in workers’ transponders. This further benefits site owners and security managers because system updates can be implemented with greater agility and cost savings. “There are several identification card standards we adapt our products and systems to work with. So, we really wanted a card reader we could use in all our markets, without needing different hardware updates after a system upgrade or launching a new functionality across our different markets. The ‘transparent’ reader from Idesco turned out to be the perfect solution”, says Björn Hilliges, IT & Electronics Director at Infobric. Product design and expertise Every month, the Infobric Ease system handles approx. 11,000,000 card readings" “Infobric and Idesco have been co-operating for more than 10 years and through several product development projects. Over the years, Idesco repeatedly demonstrated their excellent quality in both product design and expertise, always providing us with products and solutions that reliably withstood very rough, inclement conditions amid frequent use at our customers’ construction sites,” says Björn Hilliges, IT & Electronics Director at Infobric. “Every month, the Infobric Ease system handles approx. 11,000,000 card readings. So, Idesco is a key partner for Infobric, and each day their readers fill a vital role at approx. 15,000 construction sites,” says Björn Hilliges, IT & Electronics Director at Infobric. Convenient regulatory compliance Infobric ease benefits for construction sites Convenient regulatory compliance on staff ledger registration in numerous European countries Increased productivity by reducing administrative tasks Time savings from agile system updating (despite differing card standards in different markets) because reader updates are no longer needed Enhanced reader functionality for workers with included keypads Reliability of Scandinavian-designed readers that are robust, weather-proof, maintenance-free Sites can now substantively help prevent undocumented labour and unprofessional contractors Infobric Ease features: Cloud-mediated service Seamless data collection Energy control Regulatory-compliant staff ledger Automated electronic access Mobile attendance & access Staff access control Vehicle access control Machine control Smart locks Making construction sites safer Infobric designs systems that make construction sites safer, more productive and reduce costs. Infobric’s solutions ensure the right people are in the right place at the right time at the site. Infobric provides with the best-working solution for the worksite, for both work hours and after, in packages that have been serving successfully on European construction sites large and small. Their goal is to become the digitisation partner for the construction industry in the Nordics. With 30 years of experience, RFID technology pioneer Idesco Oy makes RFID readers, transponders, controllers and touch screen devices. Every day, for customers around the world, their devices collect data and enhance security for a variety of access control, vehicle identification, logistics and inventory systems.

The high cost of thermal imaging cameras historically made their use more likely in specialised law enforcement and military applications. However, lower pricing of thermal imaging technologies has opened up a new and expanding market for thermal cameras in the mainstream. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the new opportunities for thermal cameras in mainstream physical security?