Green security
Growth is accelerating in the smart cities market, which will quadruple in the next four years based on 2020 numbers. Top priorities are resilient energy and infrastructure projects, followed by data-driven public safety and intelligent transportation. Innovation in smart cities will come from the continual maturation of relevant technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), fifth-generation telecommunications (5G) and edge-to-cloud networking. AI and computer...
Genetec Inc., a technology provider of unified security, public safety, operations, and business intelligence solutions announces the addition of privacy and performance monitoring features to its premium maintenance program, Genetec Advantage™. In addition to software upgrades, premium support, and system monitoring, Genetec Advantage now includes licences of KiwiVision™ Privacy Protector™ and KiwiVision™ Camera Integrity Monitor for all new and existing Genetec Advanta...
SAFR from RealNetworks, Inc. announced a new version of SAFR, the world’s foremost facial recognition solution for live video, offering accurate, fast, unbiased face recognition and additional computer vision features. SAFR version 3.4 introduces new passive liveness detection and anti-spoofing features, for both masked and unmasked faces, to enhance security for face biometric authentication solutions. The new version also includes SMS watchlist alarms. Passive Liveness Detection SAFR&...
Group337, a group of executives focused on business creation for small to large companies in the security, access control, and IoT industries announces the appointment of Hilary Gallagher as vice president, responsible for internal and external marketing, communication, branding, and content creation. Gallagher brings vast experience and a versatile amount of marketing skills to Group337, having previously held product, field, and analyst marketing positions at Appirio, UniKey Technologies, and...
UK emergency control rooms are to benefit from a ground-breaking partnership between the world’s first emergency response data platform, RapidSOS, and location technology company what3words. Through the RapidSOS Platform, emergency call handlers in the UK will be able to gather critical health data from callers as well as their accurate what3words location. This will provide police, ambulance, and fire services with the information needed to quickly dispatch the appropriate resources to t...
FLIR Systems announced the latest T-Series high-performance thermal camera, the FLIR T865. Built for electrical condition and mechanical equipment inspection, and for use in research and development applications, the T865 provides ±1°C (±1.6°F) or ±1% temperature measurement accuracy, a wider temperature range between –40°C to 120°C (-40°F to 248°F), and more on-camera tools for improved analysis. A free 3-month subscription to FLIR Thermal Stu...
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As part of its 2021 Cyber Protection Week activities, Acronis, a global company in cyber protection unveiled a new, no-cost version of Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud, its award-winning service provider solution. The new licencing makes it more profitable for service providers to design and offer a comprehensive cyber protection services portfolio with little to no upfront costs. With this announcement, the company’s current Acronis Cyber Backup Cloud will be extended with cyber protection capabilities – including the company’s best-of-breed backup, award-winning anti-malware, and protection management – and renamed Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud. “Using separate tools to address different IT requirements and counter cyber threats is a complicated, inefficient, and costly way for service providers to operate,” said Serguei “SB” Beloussov, Founder and CEO of Acronis. “By unifying data protection, cybersecurity, and protection management in one, any service provider can eliminate the complexity and management headaches while improving security. With this new licensing model for Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud, our partners can deliver superior cyber protection services to their clients at little to no upfront cost.” Ensuring cyber protection By adding advanced protection packs, MSPs gain the flexibility to deliver the optimum level of cyber protection Featuring a set of essential cyber protection capabilities included at no cost or on a pay-as-you-go basis, the new version of Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud enables MSPs to build services at little to no upfront expense, ensuring 100% coverage of clients' workloads with cyber protection.MSPs can also expand their service portfolio to meet client requirements and market demand with advanced protection packs that extend their capabilities. By adding advanced protection packs such as Advanced Backup, Advanced Security, Advanced Disaster Recovery, and Advanced Management onto of Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud, MSPs gain the flexibility to expand and customise their services to deliver the optimum level of cyber protection for each client and every workload. One-stop cyber solution Installed with one agent and managed through one console, the centralised management of Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud ensures MSPs can fully protect their clients without having to juggle multiple solutions. A single pane of glass provides the visibility and control needed to deliver comprehensive cyber protection – from creating local and cloud-based backups to stopping zero-day malware attacks with advanced AI-based anti-malware and antivirus defenses that are VB100 certified.“Acronis’ new licensing model is simplified and their pricing is only getting better for the feature set that Acronis provides on a single agent,” said Matt Couch, UIT Project Engineer at Fisher’s Technology. “Additionally, the onboarding webinar was easy to follow and I feel confident that Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud provides our clients with the most cost-effective and secure solution on the market.” Power of integration The announcement comes as Acronis announced the findings of its annual 2021 Cyber Protection Week survey, which surveyed 4,400 IT users and IT professionals from around the world. One of the key findings was that more solutions do not mean more protection – 80% of organisations now run as many as 10 solutions simultaneously for their data protection and cybersecurity needs, yet more than half of those organisations suffered unexpected downtime last year because of data loss.Acronis has long recognised the cost, efficiency, and security challenges that arise from deploying multiple solutions, which is why the company pioneered the field of cyber protection, integrating cutting-edge cybersecurity, best-of-breed backup, and protection management in a single solution. To ensure service providers can build their cyber protection service easily, efficiently, securely, and profitably, Acronis’ new licensing model is effective March 31.
LenelS2 announced the release of its Elements™ system, cloud-based, purpose-built access control and video management system delivered as a software-as-a-service (SaaS) solution. The Elements system is designed to be easily installed and simple to use with a mobile-first, intuitive user interface. Information is available at any time and accessible from anywhere on any device. By leveraging the power of the cloud, businesses benefit from automated updates, reduced on-site maintenance, predictable monthly billing, and minimised training requirements. LenelS2, a global company in advanced security systems and services, is a part of Carrier Global Corporation, the global provider of healthy, safe, and sustainable building, and cold chain solutions. Easy, unified access control Several LenelS2 Value-Added Resellers (VARs) participated in a pilot program to gain feedback for product development. “Our customer wanted a cloud-based unified access control and video surveillance system,” said David Ellis, Senior Manager, Integrated Solutions, Superior Alarm Systems (SAS), a LenelS2 VAR. "The Elements system was easy to deploy and use the customer’s existing system controller and credential readers. There was no need for a lengthy technician or customer training session. It was a great experience.” Real-time updates Elements VARs and end-users benefit from LenelS2’s continuous delivery model, allowing for real-time feature updates In addition to common access control functionality, Elements VARs and end-users benefit from LenelS2’s continuous delivery model, allowing for real-time feature updates that reduce the need for costly on-site maintenance visits. Additionally, mobile credentialing issuance and management can be done completely through the Elements web portal, eliminating the need to access a separate system. This simplifies the entire process and allows for touchless access via LenelS2’s BlueDiamond™ mobile credential, services, and reader solution. Catering varied businesses As part of Carrier’s Healthy Buildings Program, the Elements system joins LenelS2’s feature-rich OnGuard® system and web-based NetBox™ appliance-oriented access control system to cover the full range of requirements from small- to medium-sized businesses to the most demanding enterprise and government customers. “Developed from the ground up as a SaaS solution, the Elements system provides businesses and other organisations with a flexible cloud, subscription-based option for how they want to deploy and manage their security systems,” said Jeff Stanek, President, LenelS2. “Customers will appreciate the ability to rapidly provision and operate remote offices using a centrally-managed cardholder database that can also be connected to our feature-rich and highly trusted OnGuard system located at their main facilities.” Central access solution The Elements system can operate as an independent access control system that is well suited for a wide variety of deployments, but it also supports enterprises’ remote offices by utilising the Elements OnGuard Connector. This connector supports the use of the OnGuard system at headquarters to centrally manage all cardholders and event activity. Branch office locations, including those without corporate networks, are secured by the Elements system. All event activity flows into the OnGuard system and is available for use with other integrated business systems. As a result, branch and headquarters’ employee activity is processed and managed consistently. The connector also enables end-to-end LenelS2 deployments, regardless of facility size. Cybersecure As a unified solution, the Elements system includes video management functionality, providing system configuration, real-time video verification of alarms and events as well as the ability to view live or recorded video through a single user interface. The Elements system works with any reader that supports Wiegand or OSDP™ protocols and Mercury hardware. Moreover, the Elements system incorporates “Privacy by Design” cybersecurity principles and can enable secure end-to-end encryption from cloud to edge devices at customer premises.
The FLIR Vue® TZ20, the first high resolution, dual thermal sensor gimbal purpose-built for the DJI®Matrice 200 Series and Matrice 300 airframes made available in the United Kingdom. Featuring both a narrow-field-of view and a wide-field-of-view 640x512 resolution FLIR Boson® thermal camera module, the Vue TZ20 offers greater situational awareness with a 20-times digital thermal zoom capability to complete public safety and industrial inspection missions both near and far. Creating situational awareness “With the FLIR Vue TZ20, customers now have a FLIR dual thermal gimbaled payload option for the DJI Matrice 200 Series and Matrice 300 airframes,” said Paul Clayton, General Manager, Components Business at FLIR Systems. “Now public safety drone pilots from police, fire, and search and rescue teams, to industrial and critical infrastructure inspectors, will have greater awareness to complete their missions.” IP44 rated to provide operability in poor weather conditions and weighing just 640 grams (1.4 lbs.) in total, the Vue TZ20 includes a wide-angle Boson with a 95-degree field of view and a narrow-angle Boson with a 19-degree field of view, enabling pilots to put more pixels on target with ease. FLIR developed the Vue TZ20 with the DJI Payload Software Development Kit (PSDK) and DJI Skyport 2.0 platform, offering simplified, plug-and-play operation through the DJI Pilot Software. Payload functions include thermal video streaming, video recording, and still-image capture with 20-times zoom, enabling operators to conduct missions at safe distances while capturing the thermal data and detail required.
Dortronics Systems Inc., a company involved in off-the-shelf and customised door control solutions, can help facilities implement fast and highly cost-effective solutions to help combat the spread of infection with two of its latest products – the 5278 Touchless Proximity Switch and the 6612 Request to Exit Motion Sensing Door Release. “Door surfaces’, including handles, bars, and knobs are vulnerable areas for disease transmission,” said Bryan Sanderford, National Sales Manager, Dortronics Systems, Inc. “Our touchless door control solutions deliver a convenient and extremely cost-effective way to help keep people safe from infections and viruses such as COVID-19.” Touchless Door Solutions Dortronics’ 5278 Touchless Proximity Switch utilises optical infrared technology, and the embedded sensors pick up motion within a 4” range. A simple wave of the hand activates the switch. No hand contact is required. The illuminated LED ring allows for visibility under low light conditions. A red LED signifies standby mode and turns green when activated. The company’s 6612 Request to Exit Motion Sensing Door Release offers fast accurate detection with easy field adjustments, plus range and sensitivity control to assure maximum reliability. The slim design allows mounting of the unit inconspicuously above any door. Both the 5278 Touchless Proximity Switch and 6612 Request to Exit Motion Sensing Door Release are in stock and ready to ship.
In the past year, hospitals, elder-care and other healthcare facilities have found themselves overwhelmed with new patients, COVID-19 regulations and other side effects of the pandemic. As efforts focused on the mitigation of pandemic health risks for both patients and staff, routine and elective procedures were halted, only to seesaw back and forth as conditions shifted around the globe. Now, decision-makers for healthcare facilities find themselves in search of solutions to help navigate the new healthcare landscape and protect bottom lines. Transforming healthcare operations Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been a critical tool in revolutionising critical disease treatments, as well as research and development methods, but it now is also transforming healthcare operations. Security & Safety Things (S&ST) offers a platform for smart cameras that enables the cameras to run a variety of different applications to perform different functions, much like a smartphone. When equipped with AI-enabled video analytics, these cameras are helping healthcare facility operators more efficiently manage day to day operations, automate staff intensive processes, and provide the ability to achieve more efficient, cost-effective operations for a more robust bottom line. Compliance with patient privacy regulations such as HIPAA and GDPR is top-of-mind for many medical facilities. Smart video analytics Smart video analytics can deploy privacy mask applications to hide a customisable set of objects Smart video analytics can deploy privacy mask applications to hide a customisable set of objects within the camera’s field of view, such as faces or equipment such as medical monitors, laptops or keyboards devices where sensitive health data is often displayed. Privacy masking is particularly vital in elder-care facilities and memory care units, where enhanced monitoring of elderly and dementia patients is crucial to their safety, without violating privacy. The ability to detect spills and foreign objects in hallways and other highly trafficked areas contributes greatly to decreasing risk of patient harm from slips/falls. Smart cameras reduce these occurrences by detecting spills or other hazards at the time of occurrence, enabling immediate action from staff. Simultaneously, applications can be utilised for fall detection and allow IoT cameras to monitor and analyse patient, visitor and staff behaviour to determine whether a person stands upright, lies on the floor or remains seated. Emergency access points These analytics allow staff to be alerted in case of unusual behaviour making every walk from bed to toilet much safer, particularly for elderly and disabled patients. A major pain point in many medical facilities is quick access to emergency departments and overall chokepoints in patient admittance. When connected to patient admission and registration systems, smart cameras equipped with vehicle licence plate recognition apps can automatically log arrival times, licence plate numbers and patients increasing operational speed and quality of patient admittance. For large hospitals and busy emergency access points, smart cameras can detect obstructions in driveways, which left unattended could cost approaching ambulances critical seconds. These same cameras offer hospital staff insights into how they can improve patient intake by detecting issues with vehicle and human traffic flow.
Genetec Inc., a technology provider of unified security, public safety, operations, and business intelligence solutions, announces a new version (v 5.10) of its flagship unified security platform, Security centre. Among many new enhancements, this major new release allows more system components to run in the cloud, reducing the gap between cloud and on-premises security systems. It also makes it easier to connect external systems and tap external data for use in dashboards, maps and investigations without relying on complex, specialised integrations. Enterprise video surveillance The new version of Security Centre brings enterprise video surveillance customers new options to facilitate their migration to the cloud as well as support flexible hybrid-cloud architectures. Taking a step further towards unified, enterprise Video-Surveillance-as-a-Service (VSaaS), the new version of Security centre Omnicast™—the video management system of Security Centre—enables the seamless use of tiered cloud and on-premises storage to manage short- and long-term video archives according to customer needs. The new version of Security centre Omnicast™ enables the seamless use of tiered cloud It gives configuration flexibility and reporting capability, and supports various scenarios for real-time or on-demand access to video footage stored in the cloud. Depending on its recency and criticality, video can either be stored in high performance storage for fast access or long-term storage to support flexible cost options, as well as data compliancy. Ingested video blocks To ensure maximum security, ingested video blocks are encrypted on-premises and then moved to the cloud using encrypted communications channels. “Last year accelerated the digital transformation of organisations big and small, inside and outside of the security industry,” said Francis Lachance, Director of Video & Appliances product group at Genetec, Inc. “Omnicast Cloud Storage is not just terabytes in the cloud. It’s a complete collection of media services that deliver the flexibility and sophistication enterprise customers need to successfully move to a hybrid-cloud video surveillance architecture.” Cloud-based deployment Sipelia™ Communications Management, the module of Security centre that enables SIP-based communications between operators and intercom devices, has also been enhanced to offer support for cloud-based deployment. Security Center 5.10 introduces a new, no-code solution to connect external data sources Security Center 5.10 introduces a new, no-code solution to connect external data sources to enhance an operator’s situational awareness. The new Record Fusion Service feature offers a simple, fast path to integrate third-party data streams from private or partner record publishers, such as traffic, utilities, or weather feeds to name only a few. Users can define tailored record types and consume data from a variety of sources including KML, JSON, and CSV documents, or set up a REST application listening point to which these external services can push records. Providing contextual information The Genetec Record Fusion Service can be used across the entire unified platform to enhance awareness and response, provide contextual information on dynamic maps, be visualised in operational dashboards, investigative reports, or in the unified monitoring interface. The service supports a broad range of applications, from displaying user-defined and filtered information on a map with custom graphical elements, to combining various records from a wide variety of sources to create custom aggregate records that are useful to specific operators or roles. The Record Fusion Service increases agility, enables highly specific and relevant data to be quickly and easily added to the platform, and makes security operators more efficient in accessing timely, contextual information. Security Center 5.10 further taps mobile devices to reinvent the way organisations accomplish routine tasks on-the-go. Standard operating procedures A new specialised portal is also available to help customers manage mustering during evacuations Genetec Mobile, a unified app that enables users to access cameras, doors, and automatic licence plate recognition (ALPR) units from their smartphones, now supports Genetec Mission Control™ incidents, and standard operating procedures. This allows users to trigger or view active incidents on maps or in list format, and record incidents in the field to notify colleagues in the operation centre. A new specialised portal is also available to help customers manage mustering during evacuations. The Evacuation Assistant app connects to Security centre Synergis™—the access control system in Security centre—so that when an evacuation is triggered, the system automatically starts to monitor the safety status of all personnel and visitors. When people arrive at the safety area or muster point, they can badge their credentials at a fixed or mobile reader, notify the muster captain that they’re safe, or inform them that someone might be at risk. If someone is shown not to have been evacuated, the system will automatically trigger a response so that security personnel can take immediate action.


Expert commentary
Q: Mr. Seiter, Mr. Ekerot, you both joined Bosch Building Technologies’ business unit Video Systems & Solutions as Senior Vice Presidents in March 2020, when the Coronavirus pandemic was just beginning. How did your business unit get through 2020? Magnus Ekerot: The crisis was also felt at Bosch. At the same time, demand has risen for solutions that keep businesses open and protect people's health. We offer corresponding video solutions that can make a significant contribution to containing the pandemic. Michael Seiter: Overall, we managed the past year well despite the challenges and have been growing again since the third quarter compared to 2019. We see good opportunities for further growth in 2021. Q: Has the Corona crisis again accelerated the development of smart technologies in the security technology market, and does the security market in contrast to most industries benefit from the crisis more than it suffers? Michael Seiter: The Corona crisis has definitely demonstrated that the future lies in data-driven solutions. Thanks to our product development strategy already being based on this, we at Bosch were very quickly able to develop new products for the ‘New Normal’ and to expand existing products accordingly. To give one or two examples: in cooperation with Philips, we very quickly developed a people counting solution for retail operations – smart Philips displays in conjunction with smart cameras from Bosch that provide protection for staff and customers. The In-Store Analytics software solution was also implemented with additional features. Shop owners can now make decisions based on customer movement data such as “Where do we position products to avoid queues or crowds?” HTD involves a touch-free monitoring system to accurately and speedily identify people with heightened skin temperature The latest highlight is the Bosch Human Skin Temperature Detection solution, in short HTD. This involves a touch-free monitoring system to accurately and speedily identify people with heightened skin temperature at control points in offices, factory floors, or airports. The benefits of previously existing solutions on the market are sometimes called into question. Competitors are often unable to deliver what they promise because, for example, the measured temperature of the skin does not correspond to the core temperature of the person, or fluctuates, due to environmental influences. Therefore, we developed a software-based solution that, in compliance with GDPR, first allows people with potentially elevated body temperatures to be filtered out, and in a second step, allows medical personnel to perform a more targeted fever measurement. Q: You see a lot of potential for the video security industry in new technologies such as Artificial Intelligence and the Internet of Things. What specific opportunities do you mean, and how are you leveraging these technologies at Bosch Building Technologies? Michael Seiter: Bosch has committed itself fully to an “AIoT” – AI meets IoT – strategy. The development of AI algorithms and software, in general, is at Bosch significantly driven in the security space. By AIoT, we specifically mean the networking of physical products and the deployment of artificial intelligence. With AI we aim to enable clients to understand events at an ever-deeper level and predict them in the future – the keyword being predictive – so that they can act proactively. This is particularly important for health and safety. An example is the Intelligent Insights solution where the user can anticipate potentially dangerous situations, for instance in maintaining social distance and a maximum number of people numbers in any one area. Q: From your point of view do you have an advantage over other suppliers when it comes to AI-based products in the video arena? Michael Seiter: The analysis and utilisation of video data have long been front and centre with us. Since 2016 we’ve been following the strategy of offering AI applications in the form of integrated intelligent video analytics as a standard in our network cameras. Data such as colour, object size, object speed, and direction are all measured. Simply put, you can say this is seeing and understanding – which is the principle behind smart security cameras. Today it’s much more a question of intelligent, data-based solutions than collecting high-quality pictures and storing them for the record. Bosch has been investing heavily in AI for years, from which we can benefit greatly in our area. In the first quarter, for example, we will launch a vehicle detector based on deep learning that is already running on our cameras. This will create significant added value for our customers in the area of intelligent traffic control. Q: Mr. Ekerot, what advantages do customers have in AI-based video security from Bosch? Magnus Ekerot: A key advantage is strong customer focus with tailored solutions that are at the same time modular and scalable through new AI algorithms A key advantage is our strong customer focus with tailored solutions that are at the same time modular and scalable through new AI algorithms. Take the example of Camera Trainer, a machine learning software that can be directly uploaded to Bosch network cameras. The camera is thus trained up on recognising objects and situations – tailored to the specific needs of our customers. If the camera detects the defined scenario, it performs a predefined action in real-time – for example, a count or an alarm. The latest example is our new camera platform Inteox. As a completely open camera platform, Inteox combines Bosch's intelligent video analytics with an open operating system. This allows programmers to develop specific software applications - or apps - for various application purposes. These can then be loaded onto cameras – the same principle as an app store for smartphones. To sum up, Bosch AI applications support customer-specific needs related to data analysis while enabling totally new applications within and beyond the video security market. Q: Can you name a specific current project where Bosch has deployed an AI-based solution? Magnus Ekerot: A current ground-breaking project using our smart cameras is being implemented as a pilot in the USA. Smart Ohio enables users to configure more intelligent traffic flows and thus ensure mobility, safety, and the efficient use of roads today and tomorrow. The new vehicle detector mentioned by Mr. Seiter also plays a central role here. Our overall goal is to provide connected smart sensor solutions for public and private transportation agencies to enable them to operate their roads safely and efficiently. The Intelligent Insights can anticipate potentially dangerous situations, for instance in maintaining social distance and a maximum number of people numbers in any one area Q: Mr. Seiter, you have been involved with the topic of mobility for some time. What experience from your previous job in the automotive business of Bosch might help you when it comes to further develop the video portfolio of Bosch Building Technologies? Michael Seiter: There's a lot to tell. First of all, the development of core algorithms for video-based solutions, whether for autonomous driving, for vehicle interior monitoring, or for our Bosch Building Technologies video systems, all come together at Bosch's Hildesheim location. This gives us considerable synergies and allows us to bring R&D results to market faster and more flexibly. Essentially, assisted driving systems use AI algorithms that process ever-increasing volumes of video data. Attempts are being made to imitate the human being and enable the vehicle to understand better the surrounding environment with its ‘eyes’. This predictive capability is especially critical with autonomous driving. For example, key questions include: “How should the car respond and what could potentially happen next?” “What kind of environment does it find itself in?” etc. There are many activities in this area at Bosch that in my new role in security we can also strongly benefit from. I am now bringing a lot of this experience and existing R&D achievements to Bosch Video Systems & Solutions, which also results in further synergies with our mobility division: At Stuttgart Airport, autonomous driving is already being implemented together with Mercedes-Benz and the parking garage operator Apcoa as part of the "Automated Valet Parking" project, or AVP for short, in which intelligent video systems from Bosch Building Technologies are making a significant contribution. Mr. Ekerot, you have a lot of experience in the video security area. Where do you position Bosch Building Technologies now in this market and what specific goals are you pursuing? Magnus Ekerot: Our clients are looking for reliable partners and products. We are a strong brand; you can rely on Bosch products. Bosch is a thought leader in video and a pioneer in AI applications in this field since 2016. Data security is everything to us: Our products conform to the EU’s GDPR regulations. Beyond that, we have an extensive camera portfolio that complies with the US National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for video security devices. This enables our portfolio to be deployed for example within US government buildings. We are planning to conclude more software maintenance agreements with our clients in 2021. These deliver investment and future security for our customers and include for example a ‘patch guarantee’ along with regular updates with new functionalities. This is the first step in a comprehensive plan to access new revenue channels for us and our partners delivering the best technology and excellent service to the end-user! Overall, many new products will be launched this year and this trend will intensify. Our goal is to establish new product families that follow a simple principle: “The development and delivery of disruptive, predictive video solutions that every user can trust because of the underlying sustainable forward-thinking mindset.” It’s been much discussed of late that Bosch is one of the very first companies globally that operates on a CO2-neutral basis. How does sustainability impact your business? Magnus Ekerot: IoT solutions are actually sustainable and contribute to environmental protection Our IoT solutions are actually sustainable and contribute to environmental protection. For example, our cameras are sustainable in that they remain up-to-date through software updates and needn’t be constantly exchanged for new ones. Our systems demonstrate sustainability also operationally as they can be managed remotely. System integrators don’t need to be physically present, thus avoiding unnecessary travel with its accompanying emissions. All in all, Bosch Building Technologies develops ways to accompany and support our clients in reaching their climate goals via new technologies. This can be done, for example, through improved energy efficiency, the total cost of ownership models, organising and simplifying the supply chain, and helping our customers meet their social responsibilities. The Power of Bosch helps us here to leverage company-wide research to be two steps ahead, a shade faster, when it comes to new technologies and initiatives that our and future generations will benefit from. I should also say that I am personally very proud to work for a company that set an ambitious climate goal for itself and achieved it! Can you already share a preview of your technology innovations in 2021? Michael Seiter: We see great market potential for our cameras that use artificial intelligence and can be updated flexibly throughout their lifecycles. I have already mentioned the deep learning-based vehicle detector in our cameras. More such solutions – also for other applications where object and person recognition are important – will follow in the course of the year. And the best part is: with AI, the more data we collect and the more intelligently we use it, the better the solutions become and the more added value they bring to the customer. This will revolutionise our industry! Another example is our cloud-based solutions, for example for alarm monitoring. Here, we can now also integrate third-party cameras and, building on this, offer and jointly develop our intelligent software-based solutions. This gives our customers more opportunities to take advantage of the opportunities created by AI. The trend towards integration of the various security technologies seems to be driven mostly by the rapid progress in software development. Does this affect full-range suppliers such as Bosch and what specific plans for fully integrated security solutions do you have for the future? Michael Seiter: Naturally, this suits us as a full-scope supplier. Bosch solutions are deployed in many cross-domain client projects. We have experts for the different domains under one roof and a strong brand with the same quality promise for all areas. Nevertheless, it is always also about specific domain excellence. Only when you master all different areas and have profound and proven expertise in each of them you can succeed in integrated cross-domain projects. The respective business units craft their future strategies and innovation roadmaps with this in mind – as we do in the field of Video Systems & Solutions. Our business unit offers fully integrated Bosch video solutions that can be extended and operated on open systems. This is why we drive open platforms such as Inteox, to offer customers from a wide range of industries the right solutions. Our Bosch Integration Partner Program that we launched in 2012 is also heading in this direction – every product can be integrated into multiple other systems and VMS solutions. In summary: At Bosch, we are both a one-stop-shop, but also an open-system, meaning we offer customers maximum flexibility in their choice of products and services.
In the 1977 book, The Age of Uncertainty, author John Kenneth Galbraith wrote, “All of the great leaders have had one characteristic in common: it was the willingness to confront unequivocally the major anxiety of their people in their time. This, and not much else, is the essence of leadership.” Fast-forward four decades, and we are facing uncertainty like no other - anxiety levels are high, and fake news has become part of our daily lexicon. With this in mind, what can security and technology leaders do to alleviate fears, safeguard and reassure the public? The COVID-19 pandemic is the single biggest accelerator of digital transformation I have ever seen. We have had to survive in a world where digital was our only option. Digital solutions have connected us to each other, enabled us to work, and kept our streets and families safeDigital solutions have connected us to each other, enabled us to work, kept our streets and families safe, and even helped scientists to develop a COVID-19 vaccine in an unprecedented timeframe. Now, as we look towards the new next, we are entering a fresh era for disruptive thinking and innovative business models. Yet, our first and foremost thought among this must focus on responsible technology. Trust at an all-time low Make no mistake, the public are deeply disenchanted and trust is at an all-time low. In 2020, the Edelman Trust Barometer recorded a significant drop in the public’s trust in the tech sector. Three in five British people believe that technological change is happening too fast. CEO Richard Edelman notes that “Trust in tech has declined substantially. A lot of this has to do with suspicion not just about size, but about data and privacy.” The responsible use of technology The responsible use of technology will rebuild trust in technology at a time when our lives are intrinsically linked with itThe responsible use of technology (RUOT) will rebuild trust in technology at a time when our lives are intrinsically linked with it. Prioritising the RUOT gives organisations an opportunity to earn the trust of customers and employees. It goes beyond compliance or public relations. It also directly impacts the bottom-line. Employees at high-trust companies report that they have more energy at work, are 50% more productive, and are more engaged. Trust is the second most important purchasing factor for brands. The Copenhagen Letter As leaders, we have a responsibility towards our customers and the public to ensure all software and technology is used in an ethical and responsible way. To that end, Milestone has taken an active role in creating the Copenhagen Letter, a technology declaration developed by 150 people from all industries and signed by over 5,000 individuals.Milestone has taken an active role in creating the Copenhagen Letter, a technology declaration developed by 150 people from all industries and signed by over 5,000 individuals The core message in the Copenhagen Letter is to make sure that all technology is used in a balanced matter. Based on this, Milestone has also included a “Copenhagen Clause” in its end-user licensing agreements. The Copenhagen Letter provides a guide to direct how Milestone develops its products, who it sells to and partners with, and what its technology, ultimately, is used for. Having such frameworks in place is increasingly vital, as digital has become so ubiquitous in our lives, and the coming years, Milestone will further advocate, orchestrate and introduce mechanisms to ensure that our technology and software is being used responsibly. We’ve become used to using video conferencing to hold meetings, ANPR (automatic number plate recognition) to track vehicle usage in our cities and spot breaches of Coronavirus measures, and occupancy counters to aid social distancing. The growth of video surveillance and analytics, in particular, is highlighting concerns around the use, privacy, and security of video data. A boardroom priority As those concerns increase, expect to see RUOT and digital ethics become more of a boardroom priority. We’ll even see it in future KPIs across all departments. Technology creates value in every business domain — part of that value comes from the ethical use of technology. Until today, most conversations around digital ethics and RUOT has focused on compliance and risk. But innovation governance will become a license to operate, it won’t be just another risk metric. Innovating with transparency and trust will become a competitive differentiator. The first steps towards responsible use of technology With this in mind, what can technology leaders do now to ensure the RUOT? Committing to a wider movement like the Copenhagen Letter is a good first step. But we need to do more.Educating employees on industry-leading practices and commitments, will help to create a culture of RUOT Leaders must look for opportunities to turn awareness around the need for responsible technology, into action across all business domains. They can spearhead the cultural change needed for digital ethics to be seen as a source of business value. They can become influencers in their field, to lead the way for end-users and partners. Ethics must become core to all business strategies. E.g. instituting an ethics board will help to guide technology use and evaluate proposed innovations and new use cases. As well as RUOT being a board-level responsibility, it is also integral to every employee’s role. Educating employees on industry-leading practices and commitments, will help to create a culture of RUOT throughout an organisation. Collaboration needed Greater collaboration is also needed across the wider industry, with Government, and society as a whole. Unless all citizens are equipped with the means to reflect and feedback on the use of digital (and their data), the power will swing too close towards an autocracy. The uses of technology will be dictated by a few multi-nationals, who stand to reap the most benefits as a result. Global imbalances will widen further. Technology that’s equal My message to all leaders today is this: as you look toward the next decade and your digital transformation gathers pace, make sure every decision has the RUOT front of mind. And don’t go through it alone. Businesses, Government, and others, must work together for technology to be used ethically and equally across society, to benefit everyone.
If you’re a security or facilities manager, you may already be aware of the quiet revolution that’s taking place across businesses and organisations up and down the country. By the end of 2020, 20% of all ID and access control systems featured mobile capability, and this is set to increase by a further 34% over the next three years. There’s no doubt that using a smartphone or mobile device in place of traditional credential and access control is a growing trend that’s only been sped up by the pandemic. It’s true that many businesses are still very much focused on remote working, although many are now starting to implement new-and-improved strategies that are better suited to protect the workforce moving forward. Mobile ID systems As the next normal becomes clearer, businesses will be reviewing procedures such as access control, occupancy monitoring, reducing touch points and tracking visitors. Mobile ID systems are ideally suited to this task. But what are the key reasons for considering such a setup in 2021? But why is this new technology so well-suited to future-proof your physical access system, and why is it becoming so popular? Eradicating outdated legacy credentials Have you seen just how vulnerable outdated Proximity card technology can be? Low-frequency 125kHz cards can be cloned in a matter of seconds with the use of cheap, readily available tools. Despite their weaknesses, they are still used by a huge majority of businesses – big and small. All smartphones include two industry-standard features that make them perfect for operating a secure, contactless credential Replacing such a system with a mobile-enabled system is one of the best ways to increase security ten-fold. Thanks to a cloud-based infrastructure, mobile ID offers best-in-class security and cryptography. All smartphones include two industry-standard features that make them perfect for operating a secure, contactless credential. Bluetooth Smart and NFC (Near Field Communication) make them the best product to operate such a credential via a secure app. If you’re looking for best-in-class security in 2021, mobile access is most definitely the way forward. Removing touch points across the business Reducing touch points and the adoption of touchless facilities has become a key priority for businesses in the wake of COVID-19. Even as businesses start to return to the office and operate a home/office split, it will be imperative that unnecessary contact is kept to an absolute minimum between staff. The traditional issuance of identification and access control credentials can pose problems in this regard. Facility and security managers who are responsible for onboarding and processing ID have done the process face to face. Mobile access makes it possible to carry this process out without people coming into direct content. First, the security manager has access to a secure portal, allowing them to create, manage and edit credentials anywhere. They can upload and remotely transfer mobile ID and access control credentials directly to users’ smartphones over the air. Via the secure app, users can view and see their credentials and immediately begin using it for ID and access control by simply placing their smartphone over card readers. Enabling a more flexible way of working The way in which we work has changed for good. Even as people more people return to the office in 2021, a majority of businesses will be operating a home/office split indefinitely. This once again reinforces the need for a smarter, more adaptable onboarding system. Implementing mobile ID is the perfect way of doing this: over-the-air delivery of credentials and security data is now a given, helping businesses create the perfect balance between the home and the office. No longer do people have to come into the office for the onboarding process. Increasing convenience and user experience More often businesses are realising the value mobile ID can have for enhancing the work experience as well as security Ok, so mobile ID is the perfect way of increasing security and adapting workplaces to a post-COVID way of working. And we’ve not even touched on the most obvious advantage yet: Convenience. How many times have you forgotten your ID card? We’re sure it’s more times than you forget your smartphone. These powerful processors have become intertwined with the way we carry out tasks on a daily basis. They’re so vital that people will soon notice if they’ve forgotten it. From an employee’s perspective, mobile ID and access control is simple, convenient and extremely user-friendly. More and more businesses are realising the value mobile ID can have for enhancing the work experience as well as security. From the employer’s perspective, mobile ID means it’s easier for administrators to manage access and credentials. Future-proofing access control now will ensure that in the longer term, mobile ID is well worth the investment. The annual expenditure of printing ID cards and purchasing credentials can be vast, while reissuance costs can also quickly add up for larger organisations. These issues are a thing of the past for businesses using mobile ID. Mobile ID perfect tool for 2021 and beyond Until mobile ID, new and improved credentials’ main focus was on increasing security. Mobile ID not only delivers that, but it also provides a more convenient way of accessing the office in a way that’s perfectly suited to returning to the office in 2021. If there was ever a time to upgrade, now is the time. Summing up, mobile access is changing the way we access the office by: Eliminating weak links in security systems such as outdated legacy card technologies Eradicating the need for touch points across multiple areas of the workplace Enabling a smarter, more flexible approach to onboarding Increasing convenience – for both employers and employees.
Security beat
Thermal cameras can be used for rapid and safe initial temperature screening of staff, visitors and customers. Used the right way, the cameras can help prevent unnecessary spread of viruses like the novel coronavirus. During the global pandemic, use of thermal cameras has increased, but they have not always been used correctly, and therefore, not effectively. Hikvision’s temperature screening thermal products are currently assisting users in initial temperature screening across the global market. During 2020, demand increased in most markets, and the company highly recommends that Hikvision’s thermographic cameras be used in accordance with local laws and regulations. Limitations of the technology include throughput and the impact of ambient conditions. Detect viruses and fever Hikvision releases a video that illustrates how skin temperature measurements are normalised within minutes Thermal cameras cannot detect viruses and fever and should only be used as a first line of screening before using secondary measures to confirm, says Stefan Li, Thermal Product Director at Hikvision. “We also believe it is important for businesses and authorities to use [thermal cameras] alongside a full programme of additional health and safety procedures, which includes handwashing, regular disinfection of surfaces, wearing protective clothing such as masks, and social distancing.” Hikvision has released a video that illustrates how skin temperature measurements are normalised within minutes after someone emerges from the cold. Mr. Li says the video demonstrates the accuracy of forehead measurement under difficult circumstances when people come inside from a cold outdoor environment. Temperature screening facilities “There have been some claims that measuring the forehead temperature is not as accurate as measuring the inner canthus, and we believe this video demonstrates the accuracy of forehead measurement very well,” he says. “We also illustrate how the skin temperature will experience a process of recovery (warming up), no matter if it is measured by a thermal camera or a thermometer.” Mr. Li adds that people should wait five minutes in such circumstances before starting a temperature measurement. “We hope that stakeholders who are involved in the design of temperature screening facilities and associated health and safety procedures will recognise how important it is to consider the skin temperature recovery time, and that forehead measurement can provide accurate test results,” says Mr. Li. Thermal imaging manufacturers The algorithm is based on a large number of test results to obtain a value that tends to be dynamically balanced The temperature measurement principle of thermal imaging is to detect the heat radiation emitted by the human body. The detected heat value often does not reflect the true internal body temperature of an individual. Furthermore, the temperature varies among different parts of the human, such as the forehead, ears, underarms, etc. A temperature compensation algorithm can be used to adjust the measured skin temperature to align with the internal body temperature. The algorithm is based on a large number of test results to obtain a value that tends to be dynamically balanced. At present, thermal imaging manufacturers in the market, and even forehead thermometer manufacturers, have developed their own algorithms to map the skin temperature measured by the camera to the internal body temperature, so as to compensate the skin temperature to the internal body temperature. Thermal cameras This is also why Hikvision recommends that the "actual body temperature" should be checked with a secondary device for confirmation. The calibration work for a thermal camera is completed in the production process at the factory, including calibration of reference values and detection point and so on. At the same time, the equipment parameters should be adjusted before on-site use to ensure accurate temperature reads. Hikvision does not deny the accuracy of temperature measurement at the inner canthus but prefers forehead temperature measurement and algorithms based on actual use scenarios, says Mr. Li. A large amount of test data and practical results indicates that the forehead is a correct and easy-to-use temperature measurement area, says the company. There are advantages and disadvantages of choosing different facial areas for temperature measurement. Default compensation temperature Two main approaches direct the measurement area and how compensation algorithms are applied: Forehead area + default forehead compensation algorithm value Upper half face (forehead + canthus) + default inner canthus compensation algorithm value. Both methods deploy compensation algorithms, but the default compensation temperature of the inner canthus will be less than the default compensation temperature of the forehead, generally speaking. The reason is that the temperature of the inner canthus of most people is higher than their forehead, so the temperature compensation is relatively low (i.e., closer to the actual temperature inside the body.) Upper face area Hikvision found that selecting the upper face area plus the default compensation value for the inner canthus resulted in situations when the calculated temperature is lower than the actual temperature. For the Hikvision solution, the forehead is a relatively obvious and easy-to-capture area on an entire face Mr. Li explains: “The reason is that when the camera cannot capture the position of the inner canthus (for example, when a person is walking, or the face is not facing the camera), the camera will automatically capture the temperature of the forehead. Then the result that appears is the sum of the forehead temperature plus the default compensation temperature of the inner canthus, which is lower than the actual temperature of the person being measured. Therefore, errors are prone to occur.” Thermal imaging products But for the Hikvision solution, the forehead is a relatively obvious and easy-to-capture area on an entire face. Also, the default forehead compensation temperature is based on rigorous testing and can also correctly mimic the actual temperature of the person being measured, says Mr. Li. After many test comparisons, considering that the results of forehead temperature measurement are relatively more stable, and in order to avoid the false results from inner canthus temperature measurement, Hikvision chose the forehead temperature measurement approach. “We look forward to bringing thermal imaging products from a niche market where there is a relatively high-end industry application to a mass market and serving more users,” says Mr. Li. Facial recognition terminals Additional application parameters can maximise effectiveness of thermal cameras for measuring body temperature: Positioning and height - All cameras must be mounted appropriately to avoid loss of accuracy and performance. The installation height of each camera must be adjusted according to camera resolution and focal length, and stable installation is needed to avoid errors caused by shaking. Ensuring a ‘one-direction path’ - The detection area must ensure that cameras capture the full faces of all those passing by or stopping, and obstacles should be avoided in the field of view, such as glass doors that block the camera. Adequate start-up and usage - A waiting time of more than 90 minutes is required for preheating, after the initial start-up. Before conducting a thermal scan, people should be given three to five minutes to allow their body temperature to stabilise. When Hikvision MinMoe facial recognition terminals are used, people must stand at a fixed distance, pass one by one, make a short stop, and face the camera directly. Hikvision cameras support efficient group screening, but one-by-one screening is suggested for more accurate results, says Mr. Li. Unstable environmental condition An unstable environmental condition may affect the accuracy of thermal camera systems Environmental factors can impact the accuracy of thermal cameras, and the idea of using a black body is to provide the camera with a reference point that has a stable temperature. The black body is heated to a specific temperature and helps the thermal camera to know how much error is caused by environmental factors in the room, and how the camera should calibrate itself in real time to improve its accuracy. A black body can help increase the temperature measurement accuracy, and the most common improvement is from ±0.5 degrees to ±0.3 degrees. However, it also increases the cost of the installation. In some markets, customers may require black bodies in order to comply with regulatory accuracy requirements. An unstable environmental condition may affect the accuracy of thermal camera systems for measuring temperature. Medical temperature measurement Therefore, Hikvision suggests that the ambient conditions should be met for installation and use. First of all, users should avoid installing devices in hot or changeable environments. All cameras require indoor environments with calm air, consistent temperature and no direct sunlight. Installation should also be avoided in semi-open locations that may be prone to changes in ambient conditions, such as doorways, and there should be enough stable, visible light. All devices should be installed to avoid backlighting, high temperature targets, and reflections in the field of view as far as possible. “We often see the misconception that thermal cameras can replace medical temperature measurement equipment, which is not the case,” says Mr. Li. Rapid preliminary screening “Temperature screening thermographic cameras are designed for the detection of skin-surface temperatures, and the measurement should be conducted to achieve rapid preliminary screening in public areas. It is really important that actual core body temperatures are measured subsequently with clinical measurement devices.”
Case studies
Secure the main campus building and provide access control and communication throughout the school. Install the IS Series system to ensure all access points into the main building are secure throughout the day. “This is a true, all-in-one solution that provides educational institutions with entry security, classroom communication, paging, emergency call, and access control,” said Ed Maffey President, Maffey’s Security Group. The Situation Founded in 1856, Seton Hall Preparatory School is the oldest Catholic college preparatory school in New Jersey. Educating young men in grades 9-12, the school’s administration aims to provide a safe and nurturing educational environment. Michael Gallo, Assistant Headmaster for Seton Hall Preparatory, admitted the school faced great challenges in properly securing the building, faculty, and student populations. The main campus building in question was built in the 1920s and lacked an automatic door locking system. “We had a situation where all of the doors in the school had to be manually locked and one door would be left unlocked throughout the school day, mainly for faculty access,” Gallo said. “Before employing the Aiphone IS Series, we had to have faculty members keep eyes on all of the hallways to make sure no unauthorised persons had entered the building.” Furthermore, the school was not equipped with an intercom system to communicate between classrooms and the main office, or between the main office and front door. “It created a potentially dangerous situation if a really dire, time-sensitive event occurred.” The Challenge Secure the main campus building and lock all building access points and doors. Integrate new features with the existing paging system and provide audio/video access control and communication throughout the school. The Solution Install Aiphone’s IS Series, a flexible hardwired intercom system with IP capability, to ensure all access points into the main building are secure throughout the day. Achieve reliable communication between classrooms and the main office in emergency situations. The All-in-One Security Solution The IS Series IP Video Intercom installed at Seton Hall Preparatory School is a network-based all-in-one security control system Seton Hall Preparatory School administrators looked toward the expertise of Maffey’s Security Group to correct the campus’ security flaws. “Maffey’s realised the critical nature of the security threat posed by our leaving the front door of the building opens all the time. Thus, the perfect solution was the IS Series system from Aiphone that addressed and solved our challenges with perimeter security, classroom communication, multiple paging zones, bell scheduling, and accessing our paging system from multiple locations,” Gallo said. After consulting Seton Hall Preparatory, Maffey’s recommended installing Aiphone’s IS Series IP Video Intercom. “Here at Maffey’s, we have become full Aiphone supporters and only install Aiphone intercoms,” said Ed Maffey, President of Maffey’s Security Group. IP Video Intercom The IS Series IP Video Intercom installed at Seton Hall Preparatory School is a cost-effective, network-based all-in-one security control system. It features video entry security, internal communication, rescue assistance, paging, and bell/chime scheduling. The door station provides video identification, including a 170° wide-angle camera with digital PTZ (pan, tilt, zoom) control. The IS Series can connect multiple schools or buildings within a district or campus. The system allows for after-hours security, as well as extensive communication between buildings and schools to identify visitors, announce emergencies, program daily bulletins and bell schedules, and connect with classrooms and exterior buildings. IS Series Features: Flexible system size can be small or can scale to a large capacity Can have local hardwired components, IP components, or a mix of both Easy wiring with dedicated CAT-5e cable Integrates with CCTV systems for a broader view of the area Convenient remote door unlocking Keyless entry with embedded card reader stations Seamless System Set-Up The IS Series installation at Seton Hall Preparatory included 60 classrooms, 4 video door stations, 9 paging zones, and 6 master stations to provide the most comprehensive level of security. Minimizing the cost of installation and disruptions for the school, Maffey’s Security Group offered to implement the IS Series system on a voluntary basis during non-school hours. “We worked nights and weekends to complete the install,” Maffey said. “During this time, we were able to install all of the room stations and wire mold in the classrooms and offices. We also integrated the IS Series with a new, audio/ video access control and card access system for authorized personnel on the four perimeter doors.”IS Series rescue assistance tower was installed to alert administrators of any emergencies The system is also used to signal class changes and emergency notifications, such as weather advisories and school-wide lockdowns. In addition, an IS Series rescue assistance tower was installed at the school’s game field to alert administrators of any immediate emergencies occurring outside of the main building. Easy to use systems With the IS Series in place, the administrative staff at Seton Hall can control school entry points. “The Aiphone IS Series works well and is easy to use,” Gallo said. “The video and volume in all elements of this system are clear. We’re also allowed to have remote control over the doors, so we can grant access to people as needed without jeopardizing the student and faculty population by having a single door unlocked all day long. We now know who is in the building at any given time.” The system provides emergency assistance and day-to-day communication throughout the school that had previously been lacking. Response time to anything threatening members of the Seton Hall community is now quicker and handled more efficiently. “This is a true, all-in-one solution that provides educational institutions with entry security, classroom communication, paging, emergency call, and access control,” states Maffey. Overall, Gallo and the Seton Hall Preparatory School staff are impressed with the ease and security offered by the Aiphone IS Series system. “This is what we were looking for. The Aiphone IS Series answers to all the elements of security absent from our daily routine before this,” Gallo said. “This system ensures the safety of our students and faculty, unlike anything we’ve seen in our over 150-year existence.”
Wind is a free and unlimited resource that provides potential energy toward the growing demand for clean, renewable power. In coastlines, islands, grasslands, mountainous areas, and plateaus that lack water, fuel, and convenient transportation, wind power poses a potential boon for addressing local challenges. Chaka Wind Farm is located on the Gobi Desert in Qinghai Province, China. At an altitude of 3,200 meters (nearly 2 miles), Qinghai has abundant wind energy reserves. Since its commissioning in December 2012, the energy-capturing capacity of the installed wind power turbines has reached 99 MW, while the annual average power generation is about 184 million kWh and the average annual utilisation hours are a mere 1,850 hours. Mechanical energy of rotation However, the plateau environment experiences squally winds all year round, and in severe cold winters the temperature often falls below minus 30° C! At those temperatures, the biting cold wind carries a severe risk of freezing for wind farm employees, and the harsh weather makes operation and maintenance extremely difficult. The difficulty lies in the fact that most of the wind farms are located in remote areas A wind turbine’s transmission system is composed of blades, hubs, main shafts, gear boxes, and couplings. Its main function is to convert the kinetic energy of wind into mechanical energy of rotation, then into electrical energy. As the key element in wind power, these wind turbines require routine maintenance. At present, maintenance relies mainly on the on-site staff climbing up the towers to check for and predict unit failures. However, the difficulty lies in the fact that most of the wind farms are located in remote areas. Personnel safety management When they rely solely on manual maintenance, the costs remain high enough to threaten the economics of the whole operation. Chaka Wind Farm hosts 62 wind towers, distributed across a wide 38,000 square meters (9.4 acres). This generous area creates a big challenge for maintenance staff who spend large amounts of time on transportation and logistics from tower to tower. Furthermore, according to the maintenance plan, workers have to climb each 80-meter-high wind tower for routine inspections each month. To solve these challenges, Hikvision provided a set of intelligent operation and maintenance systems for Chaka Wind Farm, including intelligent visual inspection equipment, personnel safety management, and real-time communication, providing a 24-hour online ‘Smart Examiner’ for the wind farm. Monitoring equipment temperatures Technicians at headquarters can remotely support personnel during on-site maintenanceFirst, for core unit components, thermal cameras are deployed in the wind turbine cabin to monitor equipment temperatures. This way, machine failures can be detected immediately, and staff can be automatically alerted when abnormal conditions (such as overheating) are found. In addition, with the wind towers located in the expansive Gobi Desert, unstable communications can leave operating personnel feeling disconnected. To resolve this, Hikvision’s one-key alarm intercom at the bottom of wind tower provides communication with the control center. Technicians at headquarters can remotely support personnel during on-site maintenance operations, assisting with diagnoses and repairs. Lastly, panoramic and thermal cameras and other equipment vastly expand the visual capabilities of the control centre. Staff can monitor the situation and various parameters around the wind turbines at all times. If an abnormality is found, they can immediately receive an alert from the system and identify specific problems. Engine room equipment “Originally, each wind turbine had to be inspected by staff members every month; climbing the towers was difficult and the risk factor was high. After the intelligent operation and maintenance system was installed, the engine room equipment on each tower can be inspected daily through the video system. Now each wind turbine only needs to be visited once every three months, and the frequency of climbing is reduced more than 60 percent,” said Sun, a technical operating engineer from Chaka Wind Farm. “More importantly, those problems that could only be discovered by personnel on the scene can now be identified by the intelligent operation and maintenance system – even proactive and early warnings of abnormal problems – which is a great help for our overall equipment operation and maintenance.”
The Brazilian state of Mato Grosso has deployed a multi-agency communications solution using Sepura’s SC20 TETRA radios to support security operations on the border with neighbouring Bolivia. The solution enables coordination between the Border Task Force, Military and Civilian Police forces, the Military Fire Department, and other supporting agencies. Robust communication solution The solution is an extension of the TETRA network currently in operation in the Brazilian state, built on infrastructure provided by Teltronic. The Sepura SC20 radios interact with Teltronic’s control centre solution, CeCoCo NG, ensuring that operations can be seamlessly coordinated and information shared between the various operational teams. The radio’s large screen ensures that images and text-based messages can be clearly read in varying light conditions The SC20 provides users with a powerful TETRA communication device – with loud, clear audio and a robust design to withstand repeated rough treatment in tough environments. The SC20 also benefits from advanced connectivity options, allowing links to data sources and improving the situational awareness of both control room staff and field officers. The radio’s large screen ensures that images and text-based messages can be clearly read in varying light conditions, adding another element to the team’s ability to communicate. Environment-friendly solution The border between Brazil and Bolivia is characterised by changing landscape, from dense rainforest to urban developments. The SC20 is equally at home in either, as it benefits from water porting technology, meaning that even in torrential downpours or areas with significant moisture, the radio will maintain outstanding service. Meanwhile, its loud audio and flexible set of audio accessories mean that voice communications will be heard even in noisy environments. In addition, its extended range ensures that communications are maintained, whether based in remote areas with undulating terrain or in high-rise urban areas. Terence Ledger, Worldwide Sales Director at Sepura said, “The SC20 is a trusted device for public safety officers around the world. We have seen many organisations adopt the radio to maintain the advantage of TETRA networks and benefit from a market-leading tough, powerful radio. We are delighted to support the police in Mato Grosso state and throughout Brazil with their operations and look forward to working with them to extend their communication solutions in the future.”
Violence in sports events is an important social problem in several Latin American countries. Uruguay is no exception, and in recent years there have been numerous serious episodes in the field. Due to this escalation of violence, it is in 2016 that Uruguay's security authority, the Ministry of Interior, asked the Uruguayan Football Association to implement a security system to address this problem. “This is a very important step and a great contribution to football because this system will also be a very important tool for the authorities,” said Wilmar Valdez AUF, President. Intuitive system The system is used by many people of different profiles, technical and non-technical. The challenge was to achieve a user-friendly, intuitive system with appropriate training so that both the operational staff and the police could make the most of the tools. The three stages where this system was implemented are different. The design of the project had to contemplate the Centennial Stadium, built-in 1930 with very little maintenance, the Champion of the Century Stadium, built-in 2016, and the Grand Central Park Stadium, undergoing remodelling and constant works during implementation. This was a very rewarding challenge in the management of the project to be able to meet the objectives of the project and the times committed. Access control requirements The entire system designed should be robust, scalable and in a high availability scheme, the access control system would become a key element in the stadiums' qualification. This is why extreme collections of redundancy and high availability are taken. To meet this challenge, DDBA turned to the integration of technologies from several pioneering companies in the market, such as Axis for cameras, Herta for facial identification, Wavestore as VMS, and Huawei for networking. The main approaches were: - Turnkey and robust system Design of transportable and autonomous mobile units Centralised connectivity Ticket control to reduce access time, according to FIFA regulations Video Management System without blind spots in the stands FIFA. Facial identification platform Herta uses BioSurveillance NEXT in all the cameras of the stadium access doors. This product allows facial identification in crowds with a speed of millions of comparisons per second, which makes it appropriate for the flows of people entering the stadiums. In the cases where the software detects an unauthorised person to access, in addition to the warning on the screens of the monitoring centre, it sends alerts to tablets that are used by the police located at each access door so that they can act immediately and prevent unauthorised access. A central database (BioMaster) located in the Ministry of Interior synchronises the blacklist with all stadiums and mobile stations. This central base also centralises the identification alerts of all the servers of the stadiums and mobile stations Any addition or modification in this database updates all points in real-time. This central base also centralises the identification alerts of all the servers of the stadiums and mobile stations. "The facial identification is done at the entrance of people and then there is an internal camera system that films and can recognise all the spectators who are in the stadium. It is a biometric work and its effectiveness is 99%," said Germán Ruiz DDBA Technical Manager. Forensic Tools Positions for forensic work were implemented to be able to perform subsequent analysis using Herta’s BioFinder and BioCompare. These two tools allow you to search for subjects on recordings (BioFinder) and also on the images taken by BioSurveillance of all cameras (BioCompare). These workstations were placed in the forensic analysis room of the Ministry of Interior, from where all storage servers are accessed. Positive results The system is being used since March 31, 2017. The results have been very satisfactory. Since then there have been highly positive results on four levels: Numerous people have been arrested at the entrance that was already blacklisted. It has been enlisted as subjects to identify in the blacklist people with improper behaviour (violence, flares in stands, etc.) inside the stadium thanks to the quality of the images. Subsequently, several of these people have been arrested while trying to access in later matches. At that time they were identified and the registration was made to the list of Non-Admitted with their complete data, making use of the law of admission. The behaviour within the stadiums has improved substantially and the system has resulted in a disincentive of incidents. The number of police officers assigned to the parties is decreasing. In fact, there have been no incidents of magnitude during 2017 and the number of arrests has fallen by 80% according to figures from the Ministry of Interior (Commissioner Pablo Duarte, Head of the Technology Department of the Ministry of Interior).
ATG Access has launched the next generation in bridge protection technology: the Bridge Deck Expansion Beam. The system was developed in response to a call to the industry by the Centre for the Protection of National Infrastructure after it identified the need for a hostile vehicle mitigation solution that could span across large bridge expansion joints. The system was developed after the identification of unique characteristics encountered when trying to secure bridge infrastructure from a hostile vehicle mitigation attack. A tested solution was required that could span across large bridge expansion joints facilitating a continuous line of protection. Impact of the Bridge Deck Expansion Beam The Bridge Deck Expansion Beam has an unrivaled expansion capacity of more than 250mm, and can also be used within a street scene environment to span across other obstructions such as service chambers or manhole covers, to achieve a continuous line of security measures. The new system was impact tested at the MIRA testing facility fitted on two of ATG’s Populus Bridge Bollards with unconnected foundations with a span of over five metres, simulating a wide double bridge expansion joint. It achieved the IWA 14-1 standard, successfully arresting a 7,200kg vehicle travelling at 48 kph. Vehicle access This means that the product can generally be accommodated within existing road finishes The Populus Bollard system onto which the Expansion Beam is mounted sits in a 40 mm deep foundation. This means that the product can generally be accommodated within existing road finishes and doesn’t require a new or additional upstanding curb to accommodate the bollard structure. The beam can be removed to allow for occasional vehicle access. As an additional benefit, the Expansion Beam’s slim profile means that it can be clad to accommodate a wide range of aesthetic options, including bespoke heritage designs if desired. Double expansion bridge joints Robert Ball, engineering director at ATG Access, commented, “Following the tragic terror attacks on Westminster Bridge and London Bridge, the security industry has been working hard to develop new solutions to ensure pedestrians and cyclists are as safe as possible when using bridges.” “Our new Bridge Deck Expansion Beam has been shown to work very effectively in tandem with our existing Populus system. While this system was already capable of dealing with normal bridge expansion joints, this next stage of innovation will now enable it to cope with large or double expansion bridge joints.” “We are very pleased to have developed a solution that will further improve the level of safety and security the Populus provides, while also complementing the surrounding aesthetics thanks to the array of cladding options available.”
Optilan, the pioneering security and communications company for the energy, infrastructure, pipeline, and rail sectors, announces that it has been contracted to supply telecommunications and security services for the Seagreen Wind Farm project. Optilan will supply telecoms services, including the provision of integrated telecoms and CCTV solutions, for both the offshore and onshore elements of the wind farm project. The contract has been awarded by Linxon, the joint venture between ABB and SNC-Lavalin, who are supporting Petrofac on the delivery of substations for the project. The £3bn Seagreen offshore wind farm is situated approximately 90km from the Angus coastline. Upon completion, the site will become one of the largest operating wind farms, with approximately 114 wind turbines being installed. Renewable energy Winning the tender boosts our engineering portfolio and allows us to showcase our ‘green’ capabilities once more Bill Bayliss, CEO of Optilan, continues: “The project was won by our teams in the UK and the Middle East, who worked extremely closely to deliver a thorough and detailed proposition. Winning the tender boosts our engineering portfolio and allows us to showcase our ‘green’ capabilities once more. We’ve had an enviable last quarter with numerous contract and tender wins across a wide range of sectors as part of our energy transition strategy. As the world begins to ‘open up’ again this year, we hope to build on our recent successes.” “Renewable energy, as with all nascent technologies, brings with it challenges and evolving security risks that need to be addressed from the outset. We’re perfectly placed to help the industry combat and overcome these.” Critical national infrastructure With over 20 years’ experience in transmission and distribution in the UK, Optilan will bring in-depth knowledge and understanding of onshore substation design to this high-profile offshore wind project. Optilan is a global company with renowned expertise in delivering large-scale projects in sectors such as energy, telecommunications, rail, pipeline monitoring systems and critical national infrastructure. The offshore wind industry will be integral to the UK’s energy system by as soon as 2030, with the UK planning to generate 40GW from offshore wind farms by this date (According to GOV UK). This Seagreen contract win represents a pioneering project in the offshore wind industry for Optilan. Optilan provides communications, information and safety and security management systems for offshore and onshore renewable developments, with resilience as a core feature.


Round table discussion
2019 was a big year for the Expert Panel Roundtable. The range of topics expanded, and we had more participation from more contributors than ever before. In closing out the year of contemplative discussions, we came across some final observations to share. They can serve both as a postscript for 2019 and a teaser for a whole new year of industry conversations in our Expert Panel Roundtable in 2020.
Environmentalism is a universal consideration in most business sectors in 2016. Whether seeking to provide greener products, or looking for new ways to minimise waste of manufacturing processes, most companies are involved to some degree with environmental concerns. Green has not traditionally been a big driver in the security industry, but there are indications the profile of environmentalism is increasing. We asked this week's Expert Panel: How green (environmentally friendly) is the security industry? How should the industry as a whole (integrators and manufacturers) work to improve the industry’s environmental record?
"Going green" is not a new initiative, but rather, one that businesses and individuals are constantly aware of and continuously making a conscious effort to contribute to. The global population has become increasingly environmentally conscious over the years. Businesses and homeowners alike are investing more in green alternatives for their various needs. Many businesses adopt a green business ethic by ensuring that their products and ways of working are compliant with certain green standards. We asked our panellists for their thoughts on how technology can help keep the security industry green. Let's take a look at their responses.
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