Thermal imaging

FLIR Systems, Inc. announces three Neutrino midwave infrared (MWIR) camera cores: the small, lightweight FLIR Neutrino LC and two FLIR Neutrino Performance series cores, the SX12 and QX. The latest models expand the FLIR Neutrino cooled camera core family for commercial, industrial, and defence original equipment manufacturers (OEM) and system integrators.   The Neutrino LC is FLIR’s first High Operating Temperature (HOT) MWIR camera core and the first model in the SWaP+C (Size, Weight, Power, and Cost) series. As the smallest, lightest weight, and lowest power consuming Neutrino model available, the LC can be integrated with smaller drones and allow drone operators to fly longer. Provide crisp imagery With HOT technology, Neutrino starts imaging two times faster than previous models, allowing optical gas imaging professionals to detect gases faster. Additionally, the Neutrino’s longer operational lifetime allows installation in security applications where maintenance access is restricted, difficult, or costly.  The two new Neutrino Performance series products, the Neutrino SX12 and the Neutrino QX, offer the highest-resolution MWIR performance from FLIR The two new Neutrino Performance series products, the Neutrino SX12 and the Neutrino QX, offer the highest-resolution MWIR performance from FLIR. The Neutrino SX12 produces high-definition (HD) thermal imaging video, while Neutrino QX, with more than 3.1 megapixels, is FLIR’s highest resolution MWIR core. Both Neutrino Performance models provide crisp imagery at long distances while maintaining a wide field of view and are ideal for ground-based or airborne intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), and counter-drone solutions. Powerful software controls “The three new Neutrino cooled camera cores offer significant technological advances, from setting a new bar for size, weight, power, cost, and lifetime, to offering the highest resolution for a midwave thermal camera in its class,” said Jim Cannon, President and CEO of FLIR Systems. He further added, “With common industry-standard interfaces, simple and powerful software controls, and technical support, the new Neutrino products empower OEMs to reduce product development risk and shorten time to deployment. The expanded Neutrino line opens opportunities for FLIR to help customers solve challenges, increase efficiencies, and save lives.” The Neutrino SX12, QX, and LC are dual-use camera cores for commercial, industrial, and defence products and are classified under the U.S. Department of Commerce Export Administration Regulations as Export Control Classification Number 6A003.b.4.a. 

Terrorism by unmanned aircraft is a growing threat. Using drones to smuggle contraband into prisons is a current trend. While many countries are deploying UAVs in combat, the UAS technology is getting easier and easier to acquire by the general public and ill-intentioned groups. Most of current security systems set up in critical infrastructures are not sufficient to guarantee an appropriate level of protection. Over the past several months, more and more drones have been flying over Florida's prisons, particularly as a means of smuggling. SPYNEL 360° thermal imaging sensors To protect prisons, borders and critical infrastructures from smuggling and terrorism, Electro Optical Industries upgraded their most powerful 360° thermal imaging sensors SPYNEL-X and SPYNEL-S, integrating a visible channel and a laser rangefinder to the thermal cameras. The new V-LRF option aims to facilitate the tracking and the identification of a detected threat, thanks to the full HD visible cameras’ optical zoom (x30). The exact distance of the threat is provided by the laser rangefinder in real time, an option particularly adapted to the detection, tracking and recognition of the smallest targets, like UAVs. SPYNEL & its V-LRF option ensure no blind sector for a real 360° coverage in all surveillance phases: detection & identification An innovation it is, as all other systems on the market must use separate sensors to get similar functions: one sensor for detection, a radar for instance, and another sensor for identification, such as a PanTiltZoom (PTZ) camera. Xavier Elbaz, Sales Manager at Electro Optical Industries explains: "With separate systems, it is hardly possible to ensure a real 360° coverage for detection and identification because of blind sectors created by the mechanical supports. Moreover, separate sensors must be integrated and calibrated to properly operate together. SPYNEL & its V-LRF option ensure no blind sector for a real 360° coverage in all surveillance phases: detection & identification." SPYNEL V-LRF with CYCLOPE detection software In addition, most of the time, UAVs' small size and low electromagnetic signature go unregistered by traditional detection measures. With SPYNEL's thermal imaging technology, it is impossible for a drone to go unnoticed: any object, hot or cold will be detected by the 360° thermal sensor, day and night. SPYNEL V-LRF and its automatic detection & tracking software CYCLOPE are easy to deploy and to use, and the system is easily interfaceable for multi-sensor protection of critical infrastructure like prisons. Data is smoothly merged with other sensors’ data like radars, AIS, fence vibration sensors, etc., and displayed on the same interface, whereas separate sensors must be integrated and calibrated to operate properly together.

UK CCTV design and manufacturing company, 360 Vision Technology, will be showing their range of award-winning high-performance surveillance cameras, at International Security Expo 2018, Olympia, London, 28-29 November. Illustrating 360 Vision Technology’s depth of video surveillance imaging technology, cameras on show will include analogue, HD, Thermal, Radar, stainless steel, and models with built-in Sirius IR & white light LED illuminators. Compatible with the security industry’s software control solutions, also to be seen at the show, is 360 Vision Technology’s high-performance Predator and new cost-effective Invictus ‘all-in-one’ Ultra-low-light PTZ camera. Both feature advanced SSL & 802.1 encryption protection and are available in a variety of camera model/control combinations.  Highly effective surveillance Perfect for a wide range of electronic surveillance applications, 360 Vision Technology’s Security Essen ‘Security Innovation Awards 2018’ award-winning Predator Radar will also be on show. Scanning 360 degrees once every second, the camera can detect and track multiple objects simultaneously (with 400m of coverage), to provide a highly effective surveillance camera solution for wide area security monitoring and intruder detection. “360 Vision will be displaying a range of cameras that feature full compatibility and easy ONVIF systems integration,” says Mark Rees, Managing Director at 360 Vision Technology. “Our strong cyber security protection and depth of technical partnerships with other leading system solutions providers all combine to offer a compelling proposition - from a UK manufacturer solely focused on the design and production of video surveillance cameras.”

Sofradir, a pioneer in developing and manufacturing key classes of advanced infrared (IR) detectors for military, space, scientific and industrial applications, announces its election to the Board of Stakeholders (BoS) at Photonics21, the European Technology Platform (ETP) representing the European photonics community. The BoS is the main decision-making body of the platform. Sofradir’s appointment is effective as of November 19, 2018. As board member, Sofradir will support Photonics21 BoS’ role in defining and prioritising the photonics research and innovation roadmaps to be proposed to the European Commission for funding. It will raise awareness of infrared and thermal imaging within the European photonics sector as well as their potential for application in a cross-section of industries. Significant contribution Sofradir’s representative, Patrick Abraham, private and public partnership manager at Sofradir, was one of 39 candidates elected. He brings close to 30 years’ experience in a diverse range of photonics applications from fiber-optics communication to infrared imaging and in forging strong relationships within the photonics R&D community in Europe. Sofradir is proud of Patrick’s selection to the Photonics21 Board of Stakeholders, where we have no doubt he’ll make a significant contribution" He has experience with H2020 and ECSEL collaborative projects and Private and Public Partnership (PPP) development. His skills include promoting and managing innovation as well as having a clear understanding of academic and industrial needs. “Sofradir is proud of Patrick’s selection to the Photonics21 Board of Stakeholders, where we have no doubt he’ll make a significant contribution,” said David-Billon Lanfrey, chief strategy officer at Sofradir. Efficient food production “Photonics is a key enabling technology across a wide range of industries. It is therefore essential that European players in the private and public sectors actively coordinate efforts on making the European photonics sector strong. Through this it will be capable of harnessing these innovations to bring viable solutions for addressing societal challenges, such as climate change, disease detection and efficient food production in Europe and beyond.” Mr. Abraham will act as an ambassador for infrared and thermal imaging by raising awareness of this technology within the European photonics community. Stakeholder board members are appointed for four years. Sofradir remains within Work Group 5 for Security, Metrology and Sensors, where it has been a member since 2014.

FLIR Systems, Inc. has announced FLIR TruWITNESS, an industry-first wearable sensor platform designed for city-level security and public safety operations. TruWITNESS combines video, audio, location data, Internet of Things (IoT) capabilities, and cloud and management software in one solution, allowing organisations to reach a new level of situational awareness. TruWITNESS wearable sensor platform TruWITNESS is designed for any public safety organisation that requires on-scene, real-time mobile surveillance. Worn on an individual’s body or mounted inside vehicles, TruWITNESS includes visible-video, audio, global navigation satellite system (GNSS), gyroscope, accelerometer and magnetometer sensors. These sensors combine to send alerts and stream data to a central command center in real-time to ensure full situational awareness and global event handling. Featuring FLIR Neighbor Aware inter-device connectivity, TruWITNESS acts as an IoT device, triggering nearby TruWITNESS devices, fixed and motorised Pan-Tilt-Zoom (PTZ) security cameras, and other connected sensors to act upon an alarm event. TruWITNESS becomes a key component of FLIR Systems’ Video Management System, United VMS, which command centers use to manage video surveillance. United VMS combines video, audio, and other related data and makes it available for real-time situation management and forensic purposes. Visible and thermal sensorsFLIR offers both visible and thermal sensors for use by cities in security, traffic and public safety applications FLIR offers both visible and thermal sensors for use by cities in security, traffic and public safety applications, and FLIR United VMS integrates these devices into one comprehensive, omniscient system. Adding TruWITNESS to the system, extends the reach to virtually anywhere, providing for enhanced real-time situational awareness, informed decision making and additional opportunities to affect a positive outcome.  “The market for wearable video surveillance technology today is confined mainly to law enforcement, but we believe TruWITNESS helps extends well beyond it,” said Jim Cannon, President and CEO at FLIR. “Imagine a private security professional finds an injured pedestrian in front of a building they patrol. Equipped with a TruWITNESS platform and devices, security personnel can stream video of the situation not only to their command center, but with local law enforcement, the emergency medical personnel who are on route to the scene, or doctors in a nearby hospital. For the first time, TruWITNESS enables any public safety organisation to use video to respond to complex situations and evolving threats as they occur.”

Hikvision, the global supplier of innovative video surveillance products and solutions, exhibited the latest AI products and technologies at 2018 Security China. More than 1,000 organisations participated in the exhibition which attracted a diverse audience of global distributors, integrators, IT professionals, technology enthusiasts and consumers to join the conversations about solutions around AI, intelligent security, cloud and other mega trends. At the show, Hikvision announced the release to the Chinese market of its AI Cloud framework including platforms for AI Applications, Resource Management, Operations and Maintenance Services. Hikvision is working closely with eco-system partners on AI Cloud network infrastructure, platform services and application interfaces. A 3D camera with the capability of 3D face modelling, which can prevent spoofing attack of photos, video and masksExhibiting various cameras In the product area of the exhibition, Hikvision showed its latest, core technological breakthroughs and products including: A 3D camera with the capability of 3D face modelling, which can prevent spoofing attack of photos, video and masks, and improve the comparison of facial features and side face; A demo model of 64MP PanoVu camera that adopts integrated design, panoramic images by an eight-sensors patchwork to support 360 ° panoramic monitoring, as well as simultaneous panoramic and close-up pictures; A deep learning-based thermal imaging camera for effective fire detection and with algorithms for behaviour analysis and accurate face temperature measurement. Intelligent solutions for public security In addition, Hikvision showcased its intelligent solutions for public security and commercial applications, like safe cities, intelligent transport systems (ITS) and smart retail with more than 20 scenario-specific intelligent solutions on display. One example was the ITS solution, which has the capability to analyse video feeds, learn traffic behaviour and support management of traffic flow, congestion and incidents. Visitors could also see a wide range of innovations and products for new Hikvision enterprises, such as smart home products (EZVIZ), industrial automation (Hik Robotics), automotive electronics and intelligent storage.

Consolidation persisted in the physical security industry in 2018, and big companies such as Motorola, Canon and UTC continued to make moves. Also among the mergers and acquisitions (M&A) news in 2018 was a high-profile bankruptcy (that ended well), continuing consolidation in the integrator market, and the creation of a new entity called “LenelS2.” Here’s a look at the Top 10 M&A stories in 2018: 1. Motorola acquires Avigilon Motorola Solutions announced in February that it had entered into a definitive agreement to acquire video surveillance provider Avigilon in an all-cash transaction that enhances Motorola Solutions’ portfolio of mission-critical communications technologies. Avigilon products are used by a range of commercial and government customers including critical infrastructure, airports, government facilities, public venues, healthcare centers and retail. The company holds more than 750 U.S. and international patents. 2. UTC Climate, Control & Security buys S2 Security UTC Climate, Controls & Security agreed in September to acquire S2 Security, a developer of unified security and video management solutions. UTC subsequently combined S2 with its Lenel brand to create LenelS2, “a global leader in advanced access control systems and services” with “complementary strengths.” 3. Costar Technologies acquires Arecont Vision after bankruptcy Arecont Vision, the provider of IP-based megapixel camera and video surveillance solutions, announced in July that the acquisition by Costar Technologies, Inc. of its assets had been approved by the bankruptcy court. After the closing of the sale, the company began operating as Arecont Vision Costar, LLC and is part of Costar, a U.S. corporation that designs, develops, manufactures, and distributes a range of products for the video surveillance and machine vision markets. 4. Allegion acquires access control company ISONAS Allegion plc, a security products and solutions provider, agreed in June to acquire ISONAS through one of its subsidiaries. ISONAS’ edge-computing technology provides access control solutions for non-residential markets. ISONAS' devices – like its integrated reader-controllers – utilise power over ethernet, making them easy to install and cost effective as they utilise existing customer infrastructures. The company is based in Boulder, Colo. 5. HID buys Crossmatch for Biometrics HID Global announced that it had acquired Crossmatch, a provider of biometric identity management and secure authentication solutions, from Francisco Partners. Crossmatch’s portfolio of products includes biometric identity management hardware and software that complement HID’s broad portfolio of trusted identity products and services. 6. BriefCam announces acquisition by Canon BriefCam, a global provider of video synopsis and deep learning solutions, announced its acquisition in May by Canon Inc., a global digital imaging solutions company. The addition of BriefCam to Canon’s network video solutions products portfolio complements the Canon Group’s previous acquisitions of Axis Communications and Milestone Systems. 7. Allied Universal acquires U.S. Security Associates Allied Universal, a security and facility services company, finalised its acquisition of U.S. Security Associates (USSA) in October, further building on its position in the security services industry. This acquisition includes Andrews International (including its Government Services Division and Consulting and Investigations and International Division) and Staff Pro. 8. Johnson Controls acquires Smartvue Corp. Johnson Controls announced in April that it had acquired Smartvue, a global IoT and video provider that empowers cloud video surveillance and IoT video services. The addition of the Smartvue cloud-based video platform will enhance Johnson Controls’ offering of an end-to-end, smart cloud-based solution that can provide superior business data and intelligence to customers and added value to partners. 9. ADT acquires Red Hawk Fire & Security (and others) ADT Inc.’s acquisition of Red Hawk Fire & Security, Boca Raton, Fla., was the latest move in ADT Commercial’s strategy to buy up security integrator firms around the country and grow their footprint. In addition to the Red Hawk acquisition, announced in mid-October, ADT has acquired more than a half-dozen security system integration firms in the last year or so. 10. Convergint Technologies continues to acquire Convergint Technologies announced in August the acquisition of New Jersey-based Access Control Technologies (ACT), bringing further electronic security systems experience to Convergint's service capabilities. Convergint has strategically grown its service footprint across the United States, Canada, Europe and Asia Pacific through strong organic growth and the completion of 18 acquisitions since early 2016. And it continues: Convergint announced acquisition of SI Technologies, Albany, N.Y., in November and Firstline Security Integration (FSI), Anaheim, Calif., in December. (And Convergint itself was acquired in February by private equity group Ares Management.)

Global and domestic threats have highlighted the need for tighter security across all verticals. One of the technologies that has redefined situational awareness and intrusion detection is thermal imaging. Once a technology exclusively manufactured for the military operations, thermal cameras today are deployed across hundreds of security applications and continue to see strong demand in existing and emerging commercial markets. With thermal technology, security personnel can see in complete darkness as well as in light fog, smoke and rain Technology overview and early adoption What distinguishes thermal cameras from optical sensors is their ability to produce images based on infrared energy, or heat, rather than light. By measuring the heat signatures of all objects and capturing minute differences between them, thermal cameras produce clear, sharp video despite unfavorable environmental conditions. With thermal technology, security personnel can see in complete darkness as well as in light fog, smoke and rain. Originally a military developed, commercially qualified technology, the first thermal cameras for military and aircraft use appeared in the 1950s. By the 1960s, the technology had been declassified and the first thermal camera for commercial use was introduced. However, it wasn’t until the late 1990s - when FLIR Systems introduced a camera with an uncooled thermal detector - when the technology began to see substantial adoption beyond government defense deployments. Installations at critical infrastructure sites In the 2000s, industrial companies were some of the first adopters of thermal, using the technology for predictive maintenance to monitor overheating and machine malfunctions. In the years following the September 11 terrorist attacks in 2001, there was an increase in thermal camera installations across critical infrastructure sites. Stricter security requirements drove the deployment of thermal cameras for perimeter protection, especially in the nuclear power sector. Thermal cameras produce clear video in daylight, low light or no light scenarios and their sharp images result in higher performing analytics In 2010, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Committee released its 73.55 policy, which states nuclear facilities must “provide continuous surveillance, observation and monitoring” as a means to enhance threat detection and deterrence efforts onsite. Because thermal cameras produce clear video in daylight, low light or no light scenarios and because their sharp images result in higher performing analytics, thermal cameras quickly became the preferred option for nuclear facilities. Likewise, following the 2013 sniper attack on PG&E Corporation’s Metcalf transmission substation, the Federal Energy Regulation Commission introduced the Critical Infrastructure Protection Standard 014 (CIP-014). The policy requires utilities to identify threats to mission critical assets and implement a security system to mitigate those risks. This statute also led to more thermal installations in the utility sector as thermal cameras’ long-range capabilities are ideal for detection of approaching targets beyond the fence line. The demand from both industrial and critical infrastructure entities, as well as other factors, helped drive volume production and price reduction for thermal, making the technology more accessible to the commercial security marketplace. Commercial applications In recent years, the increasing affordability of thermal cameras along with the introduction of new thermal offerings has opened the door to new commercial applications for the technology. In the past, thermal cameras were designed for applications with enormous perimeters, where the camera needed to detect a human from 700 meters away. Locations like car dealerships, marinas and construction supply facilities can be protected by precise target detection, thermal analytic cameras providing an early warning to security personnel Today, there are thermal cameras specifically designed for short- to mid-range applications. Developed for small to medium enterprises, these thermal cameras ensure property size and security funds are no longer barriers to adoption. Lumber yards, recreation fields and sports arenas are some of the commercial applications now able to implement thermal cameras for 24-hour monitoring and intrusion detection. Affordable thermal cameras with onboard analytics have become attractive options for commercial businesses Innovation and advancements Innovation and advancements in the core technology have also spurred growth in thermal camera deployment, providing faster image processing, higher resolution, greater video analytic capabilities and better camera performance. In particular, affordable thermal cameras with onboard analytics have become attractive options for commercial businesses that need outdoor, wide area protection. Car dealerships, marinas and construction supply locations all store valuable merchandise and materials outside. Without protection, these assets are vulnerable to vandalism and theft. However, by providing precise target detection, thermal analytic cameras provide an early warning to security personnel so that they can intervene before a crime is committed. By helping to deter just one incident, the thermal solution delivers a clear ROI. New market opportunities Not only are there more thermal cameras in use today than ever before, but there are also more thermal sensors being integrated with other multi-sensor systems, driving the adoption of thermal in new markets. For large perimeter surveillance applications, thermal is repeatedly being integrated with radar and drones to expand situational awareness beyond the point of fixed cameras. Users get immediate, accurate alerts of approaching targets and evidentiary class video for target assessment In the commercial market, thermal imagers are combined with optical sensors, analytics and LED illuminators into one solution that integrates with central monitoring station platforms. By bringing these technologies together, users get immediate, accurate alerts of approaching targets and evidentiary class video for target assessment. The result is a lower number of false positives, reducing the total cost of ownership for the solution. These multi-sensor solutions also feature two-way audio capabilities, which enable remote security officers to act as “virtual guards” and speak to intruders in real-time to dissuade them from illegal activity. The introduction of solutions that integrate all these state-of-the-art technologies under one unit reduces the amount of capital and infrastructure needed for deployment. Consequently, more small businesses and alarm monitoring companies can implement advanced perimeter security technologies like thermal sensors, some for the very first time. Thermal cameras have gone from military defense devices to widespread commercial security cameras Multi-sensor thermal solutions Multi-sensor solutions featuring thermal are quickly gaining traction and opening the door to new business opportunities for the security channel. One of the primary reasons for the strong market interest in these systems is they enable integrators to increase their recurring monthly revenue (RMR). With intense price competition and eroding margins on CCTV equipment, integrators have to rely on RMR to grow their businesses. Offering remote video monitoring services and virtual guarding technologies is one of the best ways to do so.  Additionally, there is a clear demand for it. Central stations are continually looking for new technologies to offer their customers and businesses are interested in economical alternatives to physical guards. In conclusion, thermal cameras have gone from military defense devices to widespread commercial security cameras that are a substantial segment of the outdoor security protection market. From nuclear power plants to construction locations, thermal technology is being implemented to secure sites around the globe.

Video surveillance across the world is growing exponentially and its major application is in both public safety and law enforcement. Traditionally, it has been fixed surveillance where cameras provide live streams from fixed cameras situated in what is considered strategic locations. But they are limited in what they can see given by their very definition of being "fixed." The future of video surveillance includes the deployment of more mobile video surveillance with the benefits it offers. Instead of fixed cameras, this is the ability to live stream from mobile devices on the move such as body-worn cams, drones, motorbikes, cars, helicopters and in some cases, even dogs!Sending drones into the air, for example for missing people or rescue missions, is much more cost-effective than deploying helicopters Advantages of mobile surveillance The advantage of mobile surveillance is that the camera can go to where the action is, rather than relying on the action going to where the camera is. Also, sending drones into the air, for example for missing people or rescue missions, is much more cost-effective than deploying helicopters. The ability to live stream video from cars and helicopters in high-speed pursuits can be used to take some of the operational issues from the first responders on the ground and share that “life and death” responsibility with the operational team leaders back in the command centre. This allows the first responders in the pursuit vehicle to focus on minimising risk while staying in close proximity of the fleeing vehicle, with direction from a higher authority who can see for themselves in real time the issues that are being experienced, and direct accordingly. In addition to showing video live stream from a pursuit car or motorcycle, by using inbuilt GPS tracking, the video can be displayed on a map in real time, allowing a command chief to better utilise additional resource and where to deploy them, through the use of displaying mapping information with real time video feed. It allows police chiefs to make better informed decisions in highly-charged environments. The 4G phone network can now be used with compressed video to live stream cost effectively Application in emergency situations The same is true of first responders in many different emergency situations. Mobile surveillance opens up a new area of efficiencies that previously was impossible to achieve. For example, special operations can wear action body-worn cameras when doing raids, fire departments can live stream from emergency situations with both thermal and daylight cameras, and paramedics can send video streams back to hospitals allowing doctors to remotely diagnose and prepare themselves for when patients arrive at the hospital. How can special operations and emergency first responders live stream video from a mobile camera with the issues of weight, reliability and picture-quality being considered? H265 mobile video compression Law enforcement insists on secure transmissions, and it is possible to encrypt video to the highest level of security available in the public domain The 4G phone network can now be used with compressed video to live stream cost effectively. The issue of course is that 4G is not always reliable. Soliton Systems has mitigated this risk of low mobile quality in certain areas, by building an H265 mobile video compression device that can use multiple SIM cards from different cellular providers simultaneously. H265 is the latest compression technique for video, that is 50% more effective than conventional H264, and coupling this with using multiple “bonded” SIM cards provides a highly reliable connection for live-streaming high-quality HD video. The 400-gram device with an internal battery can be connected to a small action cam, and can live-stream simultaneously over at least three different cellular providers, back to a command centre. Latency is typically less than a second, and new advance improvements are looking to reduce that latency further. Encrypted video transmission What about security? Law enforcement insists on secure transmissions, and it is possible to encrypt video to the highest level of security available in the public domain, i.e. AES256.What about integration into existing video infrastructure at the command centre? It is not untypical for a police force to have an existing video management system (VMS) at their command centre such as Milestone System’s Xprotect. The Soliton range of products are ONVIF-compliant, a standard used by video surveillance cameras for interoperability, allowing cameras and video devices that are ONVIF-compliant to simply “plug&play” into existing video management systems. These mobile transmitters are deployed with law enforcement and first responders across the globe. Their ability to provide secure, full HD quality and highly-reliable video streaming within a small unit, and to enable it to be integrated into the current eco-system that is already installed at the receiving end, has made them a favourite choice with many companies and government agencies.

The best route to greater adoption of robotics in the field of physical security is intellectual honesty, says Travis Deyle, CEO and co-founder of Cobalt Robotics. “Robots are not a panacea, so we must be clear and honest about capabilities and use cases,” he says. “If you are dishonest, people will lose faith. We must have clear expectations about what’s feasible today and possible tomorrow.” The robotics tide is turning in the security market, which is notoriously slow to embrace new technologies. “The tone has changed at recent security events,” says Deyle. “Previously, robots were thought of as a science experiment. But now, there are big-name users wanting to discuss proof of concept. It has evolved from being a novelty to now it’s time to give it a serious look. They want us to help them sell the concept up the chain of command. It’s helpful to have conversations with other parts of the company because it has an impact on the culture of the company.” The robotics tide is turning in the security market, which is notoriously slow to embrace new technologies Cobalt’s robots are purpose-built for a specific use case: providing after-hours support and security for corporate locations. Indoor environments, confined and controlled, present fewer navigation challenges for robots, which can quickly become familiar with the surroundings and navigate easily through an office space. Indoor robots can provide benefits beyond security, too, such as facility management, promoting employee health and safety, and emergency response. Cobalt's human-centred design Cobalt’s robots also interact well with people. They are friendly and approachable and make employees feel safe and secure. The human-centered design promotes that interaction, and a real person (located remotely) can enter into any interaction instantly as needed. “We combine machines with people,” says Deyle. “We allow the machine to do what it does best, such as dull and boring activities, and add the flexibility and cultural relevancy of having a person there.” Cobalt’s robots also interact well with people, they are friendly and approachable and make employees feel safe and secure When a robot is deployed, it performs a brief mapping phase (about an hour), in which it moves around and builds up a “map” of its space and develops its patrol route. Over time, it lingers more in areas where it encounters more incidents. There are 60 sensors on the robot, including day/night cameras, high-resolution thermal cameras, a card reader that integrates with the corporate access control system, a microphone, and environmental sensors for temperature and humidity.  The robot builds models of what’s normal in its environment in terms of people, sound, motion, open doors and windows, and even leaks and spills. And then it detects anomalies and sends relevant notifications to Cobalt specialists, who respond and manage any events in real time. The machine provides unwavering attention, perfect recall, and accountability. Cobalt robots have been designed to help bridge the problems faced with utilising guards and cameras  Accommodating various anomalies  The Cobalt robot is designed to blend into a high-end office environment, with flexible fabric and a corporate design aesthetic. It is stable beyond 45-degrees, so it’s hard to topple over. The 5-foot-2-inch robot can see over desks and cubicles. It is designed to bridge the gap between guards, who are expensive and underutilised during uneventful night shifts, and cameras, which are unable to respond to nuanced situations. Cobalt Robotics already has customers in defense, finance and manufacturing, and a handful of Fortune 500 companies are looking at the service Autonomous navigation uses artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to avoid static and dynamic obstacles. Over time, the robot accommodates various anomalies such as loud machinery noise, and “semantic mapping” adds intelligence to its map. When the robot figures out that a picture on the wall is not a real person, for example, it stores that information for future reference.  The technologies enabling robotics in the indoor environment are mature – there have been variations of security robots in operation for decades. What has changed is the costs of the technologies, which are now inexpensive enough to make a robot affordable to businesses. Cobalt Robotics offers an all-inclusive service providing hardware, software, service and maintenance as well as the remote human interface. All together, the service is a third to half the cost of a man-guard, and it bills monthly, says Deyle. Cobalt Robotics offers an all-inclusive service providing hardware, software, service and maintenance as well as the remote human interface Cobalt Robotics already has customers in defense, finance and manufacturing, and a handful of Fortune 500 companies are looking at the service. They are currently operational in the San Francisco Bay area and Chicago and will be in six other geographies in the next three months (in response to customer needs). Uses include offices, museums, warehouses, technology centres, and innovation centres.  A former Google employee, Deyle’s experience in robotics goes back to his Ph.D. studies at Georgia Tech, where he worked on developing a robot to deliver healthcare to homebound patients. Deyle and Cobalt Robotics co-founder Erik Schluntz departed Google in 2016 to form Cobalt Robotics. In just 12 months, Cobalt went from the initial idea to paid robot deployments.

The last day of Global Security Exchange (GSX) in Las Vegas proved to be the calm after the storm. But a slower third day could not undermine a largely successful 2018 show for exhibitors and attendees. Sometimes the success of a trade show isn’t measured by numbers of attendees (which were reportedly down again this year). Sometimes it’s the individual successes that make an impression. “Just learning about this made the whole trip worthwhile,” said one GSX attendee at the Johnson Controls booth, referring to the company’s new PowerSeries Pro intrusion devices. It’s the kind of feedback that makes the expense of exhibiting at a big trade show worthwhile. The new PowerSeries Pro is an extension of Johnson Controls’ existing line that is expressly designed for the commercial security market. The ‘hybrid’ (wired or wireless) device offers ease of installation and full cybersecurity including 128bit AES encryption with spread spectrum for no jamming or interference. It employs frequency hopping technology first developed for the Israeli defence force. Wireless technology for cybersecurity PowerG eliminates the need for wires by providing ‘invisible wired technology’, a marketing term that emphasises the cybersecurity of the product PowerSeries Pro uses PowerG wireless technology and expands the portfolio of PowerG devices from residential through commercial. For use in a wired solution, the main advantage is ease of installation; terminal blocks ‘pop out’ easily and can be wired and plugged back in. Alternatively, PowerG eliminates the need for wires by providing ‘invisible wired technology’, a marketing term that emphasises the cybersecurity of the product – wireless at the same level of cybersecurity as wired. Johnson Controls addresses three big factors with the product line: cybersecurity, user control, and easy installation and dependability. It’s part of Johnson Controls’ broader approach to provide ‘one-stop shopping’, enabling an end user to control their environments, video and access, and protect their contents, according to the company. Need for more security in K-12 schools In addition to reaching end users, lock company Allegion sees the show as an opportunity to meet with technology partners. “It’s great to bring together a concentration of people in the industry,” said Brad Aikin, Channel Led Business Leader, Integrator Channel. “We have had good conversations with technology companies here at the show in terms of partnering, both physical access control and OEM partners. We have also had good conversations with the integrator channel.” From speaking with education end users at GSX, Aikin sees a large unmet need for security in K-12 schools, more so than in colleges and universities. “K-12 is underserved,” he says. “They need to identify their priority of needs, and now they can serve needs they couldn’t before, both layering levels of security and phasing in implementation over time. Now things can be applied and tried out without disrupting the environment.” An example is the Von Duprin RU RM (Remote Undogging and Remote Monitoring) door exit devices, which are being integrated by access control partners Sielox, IDenticard and Vanderbilt. Intelligence is added to the door exit device to enable inexpensive monitoring of secondary, previously unconnected doors. The doors can be monitored and locked or unlocked at various points in the day. Lock company Allegion sees the show as an opportunity to meet with technology partners Bridging the gap between IT and physical security One exhibitor – ADT – noticed more information technology (IT) professionals accompanying their physical security counterparts at this year’s GSX exhibition. “They come along to kill dreams on the spot,” said Morgan Harris, Senior Director Enterprise Solutions, noting the IT department’s frequent hesitancy to add untrustworthy elements to the network. ADT is looking to transform and expand its 144-year-old brand in the commercial security space and has completed eight acquisitions in the last year to accomplish the goal. Some of the acquisitions build on ADT’s expanding cybersecurity initiative, which is both a fully-functioning stand-alone business and an effort to bridge the divide between IT and physical security. ADT is positioning itself to manage enterprise risk in the broadest sense. Combining IT and cybersecurity The Internet of Things (IoT) is fuelling convergence but are we missing out on how to talk to each other and communicate effectively between IT and security?" “The Internet of Things (IoT) is fuelling convergence but are we missing out on how to talk to each other and communicate effectively between IT and security?” asked Harris. “Projects have failed because information was lost in translation.” ADT seeks to have skillsets, experience and certifications on both sides of the issue. “It enables us to be the in-between,” says Harris. “We can blend the two together and be the translator. It’s great for both sides, advocating for security counterparts and for the network simplifies deployment and processes.” Harris sees a trade-off between cybersecurity and convenience in the industry. For example, if a manufacturer says they have a simplified process and only offers firmware updates once a year, cybersecurity suffers, he said. Lack of third-party testing is another way that manufacturers sometimes trade cybersecurity for convenience, at heightened risk to integrators and end users. Training courses for integrators and partners Milestone Systems is expanding its level of involvement with integrator partners, and now provides Partner Business Reviews (PBR) to assess an integrator’s activities, sales and training, pipeline and marketing initiatives. The partner reviews often uncover issues that can be easily rectified through additional training, says Megan McHugh, Milestone’s Training Marketing Manager, Learning and Performance. Milestone uses a dashboard to track each integrator’s completed training courses and can point out additional courses needed to ensure an integrator partner’s success. Milestone offers a variety of in-person, e-learning and YouTube video courses to train installing partners, systems integrators and self-integrators on best practices Milestone offers a variety of in-person, e-learning and YouTube video courses (in 12 different languages) to train installing partners, systems integrators and self-integrators on best practices. ‘Cloud Labs’ are instructor-led online classes. All courses are linked to a variety of support resources. Sometimes a simple checklist accessed on a smart phone can ensure that every aspect of an install is performed and can instil added confidence in customers. The open platform company’s new agile development cycle – releasing multiple versions of XProtect software throughout the year – creates extra challenges to keep learning initiatives up to date. Along with each new release, various existing courses are updated. The concepts of “training and certification” are being replaced at Milestone with “learning and performance,” says McHugh. Milestone is also looking to hire 170 new R&D staff and open a new centre in Barcelona (in addition to current R&D centres in Copenhagen and Sofia, Bulgaria). Making camera installation easy Hanwha Techwin is another company that is seeing more interest in cybersecurity, as well as concern about whether a product is supported professionally. They have doubled-up production in South Korea and added capacity in Vietnam to avoid manufacturing in China. Thinking about their integrators, Hanwha Techwin is putting more emphasis on making installation easy. Installation costs may be up to 50 percent of a job, so easier installation frees up money to buy more or better cameras. With a new design of their cameras, an electrical contractor can now install the camera base and conduit, and then the integrator can easily plug in the camera later. Camera bases are common across multiple models, so a customer could switch out a 5-megapixel for a 2-megapixel camera later on if they want to (same housing plate). ‘Skins’ allow the colour of cameras to be changed to match surrounding décor. “We are changing the idea of how people approach selling a camera, and it’s a whole new idea of how to install cameras,” said Tom Cook, Senior Vice President, North American Sales, Hanwha Techwin. Hanwha cameras can include a sound classification analytic to detect sounds such as gunshots Cameras with sound detection technology Hanwha offers more flexibility in the field – interchangeable parts are packed together to enable configuration on site. And there is no need to stand on a ladder to position cameras; stepper motors help with remote camera positioning. Multi-sensor cameras have modules (combining lenses and sensors) that can be switched out at installation. Hanwha Techwin cameras can also include a sound classification analytic to detect sounds such as gunshots, screams or glass breaks, especially useful in K-12 education environments. Unification and the customer journey were a key emphasis for Genetec at GSX 2018. Unification for Genetec means combining multiple functions on one platform, from one vendor and using one source code. The company approaches the market by analysing each customer’s journey as it relates to Genetec products. A typical customer journey involves (1) a company looking for standalone systems; (2) the need to centralise systems through integration and unification; (3) increasing automation and workflow; and (4) adding intelligence for more informed decision-making. “Genetec wants to get more in-depth with customers, be more comfortable with their business, and understand their challenges,” said Derek Arcuri, Product Marketing Manager. “We want to get naked with our customers.” Machine learning engine for crime prevention In the city of Chicago, Citigraf detects patterns in crime behaviour and determines where a crime is likely to occur There was a big crowd at the Genetec booth, and not because the comment was applied literally. Genetec has divided itself into multiple parts, each focussed on a vertical market such as retail or transportation. The approach is to operate as a ‘federation of startups’, with each market sector accountable to fill in the gaps in the portfolio to meet the specific needs of each vertical. For example, Genetec’s Citigraf is an unsupervised machine learning engine with an algorithm to detect anomalies and trends from a large pool of data in a municipal environment. In the city of Chicago, Citigraf detects patterns in crime behaviour and determines where a crime is likely to occur. The system alerts operators in a bureau or area that has a higher risk level and should beef up the number of first responders. Chicago has seen a 39 percent decrease in average response time of first responders as a result. In the retail market, Genetec leverages the security infrastructure to analyse shopping trends and provide data for merchandising and operations. “Each customer is getting a portfolio of products tailored to the industry they are in,” says Arcuri. Demonstrating IoT devices Axis Communications displayed its range of products at GSX, demonstrating its almost total transformation from an IP camera company to a supplier of a full range of Internet of Things (IoT) devices. “Axis is broadening its portfolio to include more solutions,” said Scott Dunn, Senior Director, Business Development Systems and Solutions. “Our success is driven by continuing to innovate our portfolio. The market is continuing to grow, and Axis is continuing to expand its market share.” Eight ‘Axis Customer Experience Centers’ around the United States help Axis stay close to their integrators, customers, partners and prospects. IP addressable audio speakers from Axis can provide music as a service, and then can be interrupted for audio messages on behalf of physical security Axis has offered access control IP edge devices since 2013, and now has a new A1601 door controller being sold with partner-only software (no embedded Axis software like previous A1001 devices). In audio products, Axis has a portfolio of speakers, intercoms, and public address systems. Acquisition of IP door intercom company Enhancing the audio line was acquisition in 2016 of 2N, an IP door intercom company headquartered in Prague, Czech Republic. In North America, the 2N team is now fully part of Axis. The line emphasises simple architecture, programmability, and the ability to integrate widely. The products use Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) to integrate through the cloud or peer-to-peer. IP addressable audio speakers from Axis can provide music as a service, and then can be interrupted for audio messages on behalf of physical security. Retail, education and enterprise customers are gravitating to IP audio. An IP bridge can tie existing analogue components into the IP system. For perimeter security, Axis offers a radar device to help eliminate false alarms, as well as thermal cameras.

Security Essen 2018, held in Messe Essen, Germany, promised attendees a newly modernised trade show with a simplified layout and more interactive experience. Compared to previous years, halls were reorganised by technology area, with aisles laid out to make more direct pathways for attendees. The fair welcomed 950 exhibitors and more than 36,000 trade visitors from the global security market. Several manufacturers mentioned that footfall had been lighter than expected, but that the show had delivered on its promise to welcome more international visitors, in particular from the Middle East region. Exhibitors also grumbled about higher costs for booth space. Key security industry exhibitors Exhibitors expressed concern that the absence of key players reduced overall foot traffic Exhibitors praised the bigger aisles, which made it easier for visitors to navigate the show. However, some were unsure whether this was due to a better layout or simply because the show was missing key exhibitors. Notably absent were access control provider Dormakaba, security solutions company Honeywell, and surveillance providers Geutebruck and Dallmeier. Exhibitors expressed concern that the absence of key players reduced overall foot traffic. Security Essen hosted a particularly strong access control presence. Halls 2 and 3 were home to companies from across the access control and mechatronics spectrum. Sponsorship by EVVA covered the west entrance. The locking systems manufacturer, which celebrates its 100th anniversary next year, boasted significant floorspace. Exhibitors were pleased with the large access and locking presence, commenting that London-based IFSEC International tends to be dominated by video surveillance providers. EVVA, which celebrates its 100th anniversary next year, boasted significant floorspace Deep learning and artificial intelligence The push toward artificial intelligence (AI) in physical security continues, although the tone at Security Essen seemed to be shifting beyond hype and more toward how the technology can actually add value. For example, Hikvision’s cameras boasted more intelligence and processing power, and the company emphasised faster-paced product cycles. Customers ultimately do not buy AI – they buy benefits and solutions VIVOTEK embraced artificial intelligence as the biggest trend in the industry. The company demonstrated its latest deep learning technology for crowd detection applications. For Dahua, artificial intelligence allows users to easily search metadata in a video, including age and behaviour. Dahua demonstrated its solution for the transportation market, which is able to learn if a bus or train driver is falling asleep at the controls. However, some manufacturers chose not to focus on artificial intelligence. Representatives from Brivo and Eagle Eye Networks highlighted that customers ultimately do not buy AI – they buy benefits and solutions. Historically, video analytics were oversold and underdelivered, and the same could happen to AI if the term is overused in marketing security solutions. VIVOTEK embraced artificial intelligence as the biggest trend in the industry The German market & GDPR While the fair welcomed an increase in international visitors, many stands offered a distinctly German flavour. Exhibitors catered to German customers’ preference for data protection and high levels of privacy. Visitors were welcomed to the show by banners from Genetec, emblazoned with the slogan “Privacy matters… So, remember to forget me.” The video security provider’s stand demonstrated this concept more tangibly, via its Privacy Protector Module.  The surveillance software, which is certified with the European Privacy Seal (EuroPriSe), monitors events while automatically pixelating people and vehicles in real time. If an incident occurs, an authorised operator can securely access the unaltered video. Visitors were welcomed to the show by banners from Genetec Other companies also acknowledged issues of privacy and cybersecurity. Hikvision noted that Europe is more regulated, which limits the implementation of the company’s products compared to those used in China. Dahua emphasised that its data for the German market is stored in Frankfurt to meet demands for data protection. IDIS made a point of saying there are no backdoors to their products. The deep learning products are easy to use and 96% accurate, says the company. FLIR has developed a cybersecurity hardening document, and strives to be transparent about cyber issues, including a web landing page where customers can raise any concerns. Vanderbilt is also pushing the cloud as a way forward with its ACT365 cloud-based access and video solution. Users are not intimidated by the cloud anymore since we all use it in our personal lives, says the company. Also on the access control side, EVVA were clear on the security of their AirKey mobile access system, which uses technology based on internet banking, double encryption and high-quality hardware. As well as demonstrating its SAROS thermal camera, FLIR strived for cybersecurity concerns to be addressed by customers Taking a broader view Nedap views security as being about allowing people to focus on their daily lives and work, safe in the knowledge that security is being taken care of. At the show, Nedap launched its new slogan ‘Security for Life’, stating that “true security is when you don’t have to think about it”. Nedap’s global client program represents a long-term commitment to projects. They are having more discussions with clients about risk management through standardisation and centralised policy.Solutions – as opposed to products – were also a focus at Security Essen, as at IFSEC before it Clients remain with Nedap because they keep investing in the platform, constantly updating the code and simplifying it to improve scalability for organisations, says the company. Nedap had one of the few double-decker booths at Security Essen. Solutions – as opposed to products – were also a focus at Security Essen, as at IFSEC before it. HID Global touted their extensive use of partnerships to provide solutions. SeeTec highlighted their move away from products to a more solution-based approach. FLIR, perhaps best known as a thermal camera company, were pushing their solutions approach to markets including intelligent traffic, smart city, video management and PSIMs.  Nedap had one of the few double-decker booths at Security Essen Vertical markets in focus As vertical markets go, retail was big, and several players were offering some type of retail solution. Retail – along with banking, finance and transportation – was among Hikvision’s vertical markets of choice. Dahua's new panoramic cameras stitch together the image inside the camera instead of on the server SeeTec’s retail solution combines EAS with business intelligence and heat mapping. Dahua’s retail offerings include people counting and emotion detection, which can correlate with weather data, for example. Genetec also showcased a range of retail solutions. Technology improvements announced at Security Essen include FLIR's more robust FB6 series thermal line, Promise Technology's SMARTBOOST technology improved playback performance, and Videotec's cameras with better night performance. The extended 50m range of Optex's intrusion detection laser sensor reduces the need for cameras. Dahua's new panoramic cameras stitch together the image inside the camera instead of on the server. The Hanwha Techwin booth featured Korean flags and a “Korean at heart” motto to set the company apart Signs of the U.S. congressional ban There were signs at Security Essen of an impact of the recent U.S. ban on use of Hikvision and Dahua equipment in government installations, although both big Chinese manufacturers maintained a high profile at the German show. For example, the Hanwha Techwin booth featured Korean flags and a “Korean at heart” motto to set the company apart. Chinese camera manufacturer Uniview were keen to stress that they are not owned by Chinese government (neither is Dahua). Uniview’s all-IP camera line offers high resolution, low-light, multisensor and fisheye options, and AI software provides facial recognition, object detection, and fire and smoke detection at the edge. The company aims to increase its global presence with more international branch offerings and international factories.

PureTech Systems recently announces a delivery milestone for the next phase of the Border Patrol’s Mobile Video Surveillance Systems (MVSS) program. The latest deliveries, consisting of ruggedised Ford F-150 trucks outfitted with telescoping surveillance payloads, are being deployed in San Diego, CA and will support mobile video surveillance up to 6 miles away. Remote surveillance scenarios The event was followed by Fox 5 News and ABC 10 News in San Diego and highlighted the value to Border Patrol agents in the field, including rapid deployment and ease of use. The MVSS platform utilises PureTech Systems’ PureActiv software as its central command and control, providing video intelligence, user interface display and sensor collaboration logic for the surveillance suite which consists of visible and thermal cameras mounted on a telescoping mast which extends over 35 feet in the air. Mobile surveillance solution In the interview with ABC 10 News, Michael Scappechio, a supervisor with the Border Patrol, said, it’s their increased rate of arrests that landed the trucks here, “nearly a 90 percent increase is significant, that’s going to get attention, that’s going to get resources, that’s going to get man power, infrastructure and technology.” Border Patrol also furthered that these trucks won’t replace the border wall but instead, will go hand in hand with it. PureTech Systems is teamed with Benchmark Electronics to deliver the complete mobile surveillance with the mission to track and identify Items of Interest (IOI) along the U.S. southwest border and other remote surveillance scenarios where rapid mobile deployment is needed. The most recent delivery of the mobile video surveillance solution is not the first, with several systems already being deployed along the border in Texas.

Texas A&M University-San Antonio (A&M-SA) has become the first university in the world to deploy an Indoor Positioning Solution across its entire campus for the purpose of providing the safest possible environment. The SafeZone indoor positioning solution, provided by CriticalArc, provides the campus police with an unprecedented three-dimensional view of multi-story buildings. For example, instead of receiving an alert about ‘an incident somewhere in the student union building’, they get pinpoint specifics, such as ‘it’s on the fourth floor, west wing, outside room 410’.  "With indoor positioning and SafeZone, we're able to provide a faster response time, whether it's a medical emergency or an active shooter,” says Roger Stearns, A&M-SA’s assistant chief of Police, featured in this video. The entire police department benefits from advanced features such as heat mapping and incident playback to optimise performance" Safer environment for students The university’s Chief of Police Ron Davidson wanted to innovate with this full-coverage system because the campus was expanding, including a newly completed residence hall, which meant having students around the clock for the first time in A&M-SA’s history. He was committed to ensuring a safer environment for students, staff and visitors. In addition, Chief Davidson was in search of a common operating view that would provide the Emergency Operations Center and all officers on patrol a real-time location of all available officers and volunteers, as well as showing the location of all incidents ̶ essential for coordinating first responders and the Campus Community Emergency Response Team (CCERT). Heat mapping and incident playback “SafeZone is essential technology to position your organisation on the cutting edge of campus law enforcement. The real-time common operating view both enhances officer safety and acts a force multiplier. Plus, the entire police department benefits from advanced features such as heat mapping and incident playback to optimise performance,” Davidson said. Texas A&M-San Antonio has adopted the indoor positioning solution as a standard and will deploy it in all future buildings on campus. The solution is fully supported by the University’s Information Technology department and has been assessed for additional applications to enhance the student experience including wayfinding and research by academics in the newly completed Science and Technology building. Easy to maintain wireless installation The process to get the SafeZone indoor positioning solution deployed is a simple one, as it’s a wireless installation and easy to maintain"SafeZone was easy to deliver with no disruption to the campus. It was deployed in a matter of weeks during the summer break. “The process to get the SafeZone indoor positioning solution deployed is a simple one, as it’s a wireless installation and easy to maintain,” added Stearns. Organisations can install wireless, wearable duress alarms able to pinpoint anyone anywhere on campus as an alternative to fixed, expensive, wired panic alarms. Among other capabilities, SafeZone allows users to get the most rapid help simply by activating an alert, using an app or a wearable duress alarm. As soon as the alert is triggered, the location and details of the user are streamed to the monitoring team, allowing officers to coordinate a smarter, more targeted response. By enabling responders to visualise the precise location of an incident, anywhere on campus, SafeZone is much more powerful than traditional, fixed panic alarms and blue light telephones, which are more expensive to install and less accurate in operation. SafeZone public safety solution Glenn Farrant, Chief Executive Officer, CriticalArc, notes; “I’m delighted by the close partnership between A&M-SA and CriticalArc resulting in this ground-breaking implementation of the SafeZone public safety solution. Chief Davidson and his team are at the forefront of using this technology and we are pleased to be helping them improve the quality of life, and the learning experience, for everyone on their campus.” The SafeZone indoor positioning solution is commercially available worldwide for a range of university, hospital, enterprise and finance applications and is being deployed in more than 80 countries worldwide.

Located roughly 30 miles southwest of Los Angeles, Torrance Unified School District hosts roughly 24,000 students from kindergarten through high school. Torrance USD has 34 school sites encompassing elementary schools, middle schools and high schools. They’re joined by three preschool, continuation and community day schools. Violent crime and other offenses are an inescapable reality for US schools and their students. During the 2013–14 school year, 65 percent of public schools [Source: U.S. Department of Education] recorded one or more violent incidents occurring, representing an estimated total of 757,000 incidents. This figure translates to a rate of approximately 15 crimes per 1,000 students enrolled in 2013–14. Outstanding service “Visibility of what happens on campus gives us the upper hand with all forms of crime that may be committed. School safety is our number one concern and being able to see what’s happening and identify those involved is paramount. Sony cameras definitely give us that advantage. Their reliability, imaging quality and technology – combined with outstanding service – made Sony the best choice for us.” Gil Mara, Chief Ed Tech and Information Services Officer, Torrance Unified School District While Torrance consistently ranks among the safest cities in Los Angeles County, its schools face the same challenges as other academic institutions. In common with all school systems, TUSD has an obligation to maintain the safety, security and wellbeing of students as well as staff and campus visitors. Alongside violent assault, other key concerns include theft, break-ins, vandalism and graffiti – together with the need to maintain a visible deterrent against criminal activity. Sub-standard image quality Torrance Unified School District had relied on some ad-hoc installations at a few schools that were both poorly planned and had no consistent standards To date, Torrance Unified School District had relied on some ad-hoc installations at a few schools that were both poorly planned and had no consistent standards in place. The cameras poor positioning and sub-standard image quality – particularly in low light conditions – meant that perpetrators were frequently not identified successfully. This severely limited schools’ ability to resolve incidents and serve as an effective deterrent against further incidents. In addition to physical attacks and theft, schools in the district routinely reported instances of vandalism to the cameras themselves. As a further challenge, the heat and dust of the Southern Californian climate placed even more strenuous demands on the reliable performance of Torrance Unified School District’s existing analogue cameras. Security camera strategy To benefit from significantly improved round the clock image quality – as well as greater reliability and reduced ownership costs – Torrance Unified School District elected to re-think its security camera strategy. In total, the district has installed roughly 1,100 Sony video security cameras across 34 school sites. All cameras have been supplied and installed by integrator NIC, together with a networked video management solution provided by OpenEye. The majority of cameras are Sony SNC-EM632RC and SNC-VB632D ruggedised minidome model and bullet cameras, offering superb Full HD image quality in all weather and lighting conditions. “Torrance police have access to our security camera system and it affords them visibility on our campuses, as was the case just recently where a vehicle burglary suspect was identified and apprehended thanks to our Sony Video Security system.” Will Boxley – Network Analyst, EDU Tech and Information Services. Measurable effect on student safety Reliable cameras are deployed extensively around all outdoor areas of each school campus, including social and sports areas as well as parking lots The cameras’ highly sensitive Exmor CMOS image sensor and powerful IPELA ENGINE EX processing engine can even cope with harshly backlit conditions, where extremes of light and shade in the same scene often pose problems for other cameras. As an additional benefit, built-in IR (infrared) illumination gives a clear picture of people and suspicious incidents in conditions of total darkness. The rugged, reliable cameras are deployed extensively around all outdoor areas of each school campus, including social and sports areas as well as parking lots. Since initial installation in 2015, the Sony cameras have performed flawlessly, with no operational issues reported by IT and security staff. The cameras’ installation has had an immediate and measurable effect on student safety. Suspensions due to violence and assaults have been reduced considerably, while the incidence of weapons on campus has been reduced by more than 40%. What’s more, the cameras’ presence serves to reassure students and staff, while acting as a powerful deterrent against criminal activity.

Cherokee Nation Entertainment (CNE) is the gaming and hospitality arm of the Cherokee Nation, operating multiple casinos and hotels across northeast Oklahoma, USA, including the prestigious Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa. Concerned that their security team was spending an overly large number of person-hours reviewing video recordings searching for a single person of interest, CNE sought to reduce the time it took to review security footage, so their security team could remain focused on proactive tasks, and optimise their day-to-day efficiency. CNE also wanted to obtain and assess accurate data on occupancy and visitor trends for business intelligence purposes. Furthermore, CNE wanted to be alerted to security-related events in real-time, in order to handle security issues as they developed.  savVi’s video surveillance solution                                   CNE selected savVi, Agent Vi’s on premise video analytics solution, due to the wide range of video analytics capabilities that savVi offers. Over 1,000 savVi licenses were purchased, allowing cameras at CNE’s ten Oklahoma-based casinos to be enabled with different combinations of real-time event detection, video search and business intelligence capabilities. CNE utilises the video search capability most widely – to enable rapid search through the surveillance video to pinpoint events of interest – and therefore video search capabilities are enabled on the majority of cameras at the sites. Business intelligence capabilities are mostly deployed around the various gaming machines, and at entrance and exit points, to show traffic patterns and real-time people counts. Real-time event detection capabilities are used largely for the high-security areas to ensure that CNE’s security team is informed regarding situations, as they unfold. savVi is deployed through integration with a range of Axis network cameras, primarily the AXIS P3225 and Q3505 fixed cameras, the AXIS P5635, Q6044 and Q6045 PTZ cameras, and for outdoor vehicle search, the AXIS Q3708 fixed camera with three sensors. CNE uses Milestone XProtect Corporate Video Management System (VMS), which is fully and seamlessly integrated with savVi, a Milestone Certified Solution. savVi’s video search capabilities allow for verification of personal injury claims by customers who may be trying to defraud the casino savVi’s real-time event detection savVi’s video search capabilities are of considerable importance to CNE. There is a prevailing need for the casinos to be able to swiftly locate specific events within masses of footage (“incident remediation” as it is known within the entertainment industry). Among other things, this allows for verification of personal injury claims by customers who may be trying to defraud the casino. Previously, the security team’s time was heavily occupied by observing hours of footage in search of a specific person or incident. savVi now enables CNE to run the search automatically, allowing far more effective use of the operators’ time, and reduced search time from as much as 16 hours for a single search, down to a matter of minutes.  savVi’s real-time event detection capabilities are primarily used by CNE to ensure a safer and more secure environment within the casino parking facilities. By immediately alerting to any suspicious event, such as people loitering or cars moving in an unauthorised direction, the security team can monitor events and act accordingly as they unfold. savVi’s heat mapping capabilities savVi also allows CNE to gather and analyse essential business intelligence data on occupancy and visitor trends. savVi delivers accurate headcounts, meaning that the security team is constantly aware of how many people are on-site and using the casino facilities. This provides essential knowledge in the case of an emergency where a facility might need to be evacuated, and also helps prevent over-crowding. By utilising savVi’s heat mapping capabilities, CNE has knowledge of which areas of the casino are more heavily populated, and at what times. CNE can then leverage the data collected in a number of ways, including negotiating leasing deals for externally-owned casino equipment and knowing which internal locations require heavier investment of machines and personnel. This puts CNE well ahead of its competitors, as it is one of, if not the, first gaming company to employ Business Intelligence through video analytics. SavVi’s deployment in CNE’s casinos is an endorsement of the great benefit that savVi’s video analytics capabilities" savVi’s video analytics capabilities “It was savVi’s swift and effective video search that caught CNE’s attention when searching for an enhanced security solution, in particular due to the automated query ability,” said Joshua Anderson, Director of Surveillance and Technology, Cherokee Nation Entertainment. “We have been extremely impressed with savVi’s capabilities and the quality of its performance, and fully expect savVi to increase efficiencies and provide true ROI which will have a major impact on the bottom line.”  “Cherokee Nation Gaming Commission’s approval of savVi’s deployment in CNE’s casinos is an endorsement of the great benefit that savVi’s video analytics capabilities offer to gaming concerns,” commented AJ Frazer, VP Business Development, Agent Vi. “Having selected to deploy the full range of savVi video analytics functionalities, savVi offers CNE valuable insights into the activities and customer experience at their multiple sites, benefitting both CNE and their customers.”

One of the UK’s largest video surveillance projects in recent years involving the deployment of 845 Wisenet cameras manufactured by Hanwha Techwin, is nearing completion. The video surveillance system, which is designed to play an important role in helping ensure the safe and reliable delivery of public transport across the West Midlands, is being used to monitor activity at over 50 railway stations, 11 bus stations, 3 Midland Metro park and ride sites, as well as the main Number 11 bus route around the City of Birmingham. Live and recorded images from all cameras are being monitored at an advanced control room, located in central Birmingham Wisenet HD IP camera integration The project which is targeted for completion in July 2018 has so far seen approximately 845 Wisenet cameras installed by Total Integrated Solutions Ltd. (TIS) on behalf of Transport for West Midlands which was set up by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) to co-ordinate investment needed to improve the region’s transport infrastructure. The remaining work includes the deployment of the latest generation of Wisenet high definition IP cameras at a number of car parks, together with significant camera upgrades in Walsall and Solihull, two of four Local Authority public space CCTV systems are already monitored by WMCA. Live and recorded images from all the cameras are being monitored at a £1.2M state-of-the-art control room located in central Birmingham. “Our approach to this very large, complex project was not simply one of agreeing to meet exacting KPI’s from a performance perspective,” said Eamonn Murphy, Coleshill based TIS’s key account manager. “We felt the route to success would be to adopt a more partnership type approach, where we were not only the provider of technical solutions but were also involved at a strategic level in identifying with Transport for West Midlands a pathway of system upgrade, improved efficiency, cost reduction, innovation and utilising latest technology such as video analytics to the best advantage.” TIS is assured seamless integration between Wisenet cameras and Veracity Coldstore ‘direct to storage’ solution Wisenet cameras & Veracity Coldstore solutions Transport for West Midlands evaluated cameras available from 9 different manufacturers. The subsequent decision to source all the cameras from Hanwha Techwin, (previously known as Samsung Techwin), was partly due to the price/performance ratio of its cameras, but there were two other important factors which were taken into consideration. Firstly, Hanwha Techwin has a close working relationship with its technology partner, Veracity. This meant TIS could be assured that there would be seamless integration between Wisenet cameras and the Veracity Coldstore ‘direct to storage’ solution. This negates the need for Network Video Recorders (NVRs) and thereby substantially reduces capital costs, as well as minimising setup and maintenance requirements. Open Platform cameras The Veracity Coldstore recording solution is unique in the linear way that data is written to the hard drives. Only 2 hard drives are spinning at any one time, meaning a significant reduction in power consumption, lower heat generation and greater longevity of the hard drives, reducing the overall cost of ownership. When drive failures do occur, the faulty drive can be swapped with a new drive allowing uninterrupted use. The second important factor was the capability of the Wisenet open platform cameras to accommodate a variety of edge-based analytics such as ANPR and heat mapping, should Transport for West Midlands wish to deploy these at some point in the future. Trials of the Wisenet People Counting application are currently being carried out. This utilises the analytics software developed by Facit Data Systems, another Hanwha Techwin technology partner. Wisenet SNP-6320H cameras are configured for the transmission of 25 images per second (ips) at 1080p resolution Intelligent Day/Night cameras A large percentage of the cameras installed are Wisenet SNP-6320H 2 Megapixel Full HD network PTZ dome cameras. In addition to being a true Day/Night camera which is able to capture high quality images in low light, the SNP-6320H’s powerful 32 x zoom capability enables operators to observe the close-up detail of any activity. Trials were conducted where the cameras were capped at 2 Mbps and configured for the transmission of 25 images per second (ips) at 1080p resolution. The performance at this low bandwidth level was impressive and further contributed to the selection of the Wisenet SNP-6320H, which are also equipped with intelligent auto-tracking capability to ensure a greater level of detail can be captured when no operator is present. Other Wisenet cameras deployed as part of the project include the SNV-6084R vandal-resistant IR dome and the SNB-6004 fixed camera, both of which are able to capture Full HD 2 Megapixel images. Video Surveillance Technology “Working on rail, Metro and bus station sites spread across the wider West Midlands area is a complex and challenging operation and the TIS team deserve recognition for its expertise and diligence,” said Mark Babington, Safety & Security Manager for Transport for West Midlands. Suppliers such as Hanwha Techwin and Veracity have also worked extremely well in partnership with us to ensure we could achieve maximum benefit from this substantial investment" “TIS’s engineers were qualified to the highest degree to support the latest video surveillance technology, as well as being experienced to cope with older legacy systems. Both were needed within the unique environment of a busy integrated transportation network which brings its own exceptional requirements of compliance with bespoke health and safety legislation.” “Suppliers such as Hanwha Techwin and Veracity have also worked extremely well in partnership with us to ensure we could achieve maximum benefit from this substantial investment in the West Midlands transport infrastructure.” Commenting on the success of the project, Bob (H.Y.) Hwang Ph.D., Managing Director, Hanwha Techwin Europe, said: “We greatly value the opportunity to have been involved in this project. It is a excellent example of the benefit of all stakeholders interacting with each other in partnership at an early stage of a project to ensure the most suitable products are specified and subsequently installed to the client’s satisfaction.”

3xLOGIC, Inc., global provider of integrated, intelligent security solutions, and a three-time Deloitte Technology Fast 500 winner, has announced that, in cooperation with Control Installations of Iowa (Ci3), the two companies have donated a completed video surveillance system for this iconic ball field and movie set located in Dyersville, Iowa. Installations of Iowa collaboration “Several weeks ago, there was an act of senseless vandalism that occurred on this high-profile ball field and a lot of damage was done by someone with a very poor sense of judgement,” recalled Carl Bracken, Technical Security Sales for Ci3. “The president of my company shot me a text before I even knew about the vandalism, suggesting we get involved and try to help.” Field of Dreams, released in 1989, is a movie that has inspired millions and became an Academy Award nominee for Best Picture of the Year Field of Dreams, released in 1989, is a movie that has inspired millions and became an Academy Award nominee for Best Picture of the Year. “Nearly thirty years later, we still get more than 110,000 visitors a year,” said Denise Stillman, Manager of the Field of Dreams movie site. “Most folks come to run the bases or explore the corn field. We’re the only ball park open 365 days a year, and we’re the world’s largest pick-up baseball game.” The vandalism to the field was fairly extensive and, unfortunately, also involved destruction of expensive irrigation equipment. Bracken contacted Denise Stillman to explore installing a video surveillance system for the tourist site. After initial discussions, he visited the site on a Saturday, with demo gear in hand, to show Stillman the possibilities. She was keen on what she saw but there was nothing in the budget for such a system. 3xLOGIC V250 NVR and mini dome cameras Installation comprised of a 3xLOGIC 8-channel V250 NVR; one 3xLOGIC thermal imager, pointed at the bridge leading to the site entrance Working with his company president and reaching out to various vendors, including 3xLOGIC, Bracken came up with a plan to provide the Field of Dreams with the enhanced asset protection and increased security they needed. Recently, Bracken and his team of skilled technicians completed the installation comprised of a 3xLOGIC 8-channel V250 NVR; one 3xLOGIC thermal imager, pointed at the bridge leading to the site entrance; a 3xLOGIC 3 MP mini-dome to cover the retail sales area; and two cameras covering the field itself. The recording equipment is installed on a shelf in the retail store, which is convenient and secure. “We hadn’t really thought much about security, because for 29 years we had no incidents,” said Stillman. “Now that the system is in place, it’s doing a lot of things for us. The gift shop staff feels much more confident now that they have eyes and ears watching over them. For me, I have a sense of comfort that wherever I am in the world I can see what is happening at the field at all times—I can even check if the sod is greening up. I love that, and the 3xLOGIC mobile app, View Lite II, is easy to use and empowering.” This place is important to the fabric of Iowa life and lifestyle" “This place is important to the fabric of Iowa life and lifestyle,” continued Stillman, “and Ci3 really stepped up. Carl (Bracken) was very generous with his time and he gave us a solid comfort level in understanding what we needed, what the system would look like, and how it would function. Other local vendors wanted to help, but no one took the time like Carl and Ci3.” “Along with 3xLOGIC, we were happy to make this donation. We knew Denise didn’t have sufficient budget, and they still needed to find the money to pay for their expensive irrigation system repairs,” said Bracken. “This really gives us piece of mind when no one is on site,” said Stillman, “we now have excellent visibility to areas we must be able to see, and the system provides a great deterrent effect, too.”