Transport security

Videonetics has announced the Industry’s first Artificial Intelligence & Deep Learning powered ‘No Seat Belt Detection’ technology, which aims to detect in real-time those drivers who are not wearing seat belt while driving four-wheeler, consequently violating traffic laws and putting their lives to risk. ‘No Seat Belt Detection’ technology According to World Health Organisation (WHO), about 1.3 million people die in road crashes and 20 - 50 million are injured every year, globally. The risk of dying in a road traffic crash is more than three times higher in low-income countries than in high-income countries. Wearing a seat-belt reduces the risk of death among drivers and front seat occupants by 45 - 50%, and the risk of death and serious injuries among rear seat occupants by 25%. Powered by patented AI & DL-framework, No Seat Belt Detection technology is trained with real-time video data of over five years Powered by patented AI & DL-framework, No Seat Belt Detection technology is trained with real-time video data of over five years, thereby ensuring highest level of precision in identifying the most dangerous driving risks even in tough environmental conditions including night. LPR and ANPR-enabled AI technology The indigenous technology is well-competent to analyse gesture movement of the driver who is driving any type of four-wheelers including private car, taxi, jeep, lorry truck so on. After capturing the license plate of the violating vehicle with ANPR, the system generates alert with the evidence video. Additionally, events will be stored for later analysis. No Seat Belt Detection technology can seamlessly assimilate with Integrated e-Challan/e-Ticket Management Software to generate challans/e-tickets with details such as violation image, time stamp, date and vehicle number etc. The enormous potential of the solution empowers Videonetics Intelligent Traffic Management System (ITMS) suite to enhance real-time traffic monitoring, identify & process traffic offences, eventually it further modernising the traffic management solution and establishing traffic regulation and enforcement across the city. Use of Artificial Intelligence in traffic regulation At Videonetics, we are constantly innovating state-of-the art technologies for evolving markets"Expressing on the launch, Dr. Tinku Acharya, Fellow IEEE, Founder & MD of Videonetics said, “At Videonetics, we are constantly innovating state-of-the art technologies for evolving markets. This is indeed a proud moment to launch Industry’s first AI & DL-based No Seat Belt Detection technology globally. The new addition to ITMS suite will further inculcate traffic discipline amongst citizens as well as reduce road crashes.” ANPR, RLVD and data visualisation With this latest addition, Videonetics augments ITMS portfolio encompassing Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) system, Red Light Violation Detection (RLVD) system, Detection of Use of Cellphone while Driving, No Helmet Detection, Triple Riding Detection, Free Left Turn Block Detection, Over Speed Detection, Traffic Congestion Detection, Wrong Parking Detection, No Parking Detection, Smart Dashboard, Data Visualisation to name a few. ITMS is successfully deployed at many cities such as Kolkata, Ranchi, Indore, Bhopal, Bangalore & many more; that has achieved benchmark in replacing tedious manual processes to track, regulate and analyse vehicle movement on roads, and to enforce traffic rules for safety of citizens towards success of national Smart City mission

Matrix Comsec, a manufacturer and provider of security and telecom solutions, is participating in ISC WEST 2019, Las Vegas, USA on 10th April 2019. Matrix will be showcasing its comprehensive range of IP video surveillance, people mobility management - an innovative range of access control and time-attendance solutions at the event. Both these solutions are specifically designed for large and multi-location enterprises, SME and SMB organisations. Matrix is known for offering technology driven, innovative, futuristic solutions catering to diverse and complex deployments especially for the SMB, SME and Large Enterprises. Matrix Comsec is going to unveil COSEC ARGO – The Next Generation Door Controller with a blend of performance and aesthetics.  The new door controller is equipped with features like 3.5” IPS Touchscreen LCD with Gorilla Glass, Powerful Processor for Ultra-fast User identification, Intuitive User Experience, Vandal Resistant (IK08). Matrix SATATYA is an IP video surveillance solutions portfolio which includes NVRs, IP cameras and centralised video management system Cloud-based time-attendance solution In people mobility management - access control and time-attendance domain, they have launched COSEC VYOM – a scalable, cloud based time-attendance and access control solution. In addition, few more controllers and devices with new generation identification technologies are in the pipeline. The solution also includes COSEC ARC - a unique IP based access control panel having multiple benefits over conventional access control panel. Being PoE based, it eliminates complex wiring and local power requirements.   Matrix SATATYA is an IP video surveillance solutions portfolio which includes network video recorders (NVRs), IP cameras and centralised video management system. Matrix SATATYA is positioned as an enterprise grade solution. IP cameras with STARVIS sensors Matrix Comsec will showcase Professional Series IP cameras powered with SONY STARVIS series sensors and EXMOR technologyMatrix Comsec will showcase Professional Series IP cameras powered with SONY STARVIS series sensors and EXMOR technology. This technology provides the camera an edge over others in terms of exceptional low light performance, consistent image quality during varying light conditions (True WDR), better bandwidth optimisation and various other features. It is most suitable for enterprises demanding much more than just video capturing, viewing and recording. Matrix SATATYA offers centralised video surveillance with add-on applications such as Command & Control, Parking Management, Weighbridge Integration and Cognitive Response Engine. SATATYA’s flexible architecture and vast range of functions-features are designed to cater diverse industries including BFSI, retail, services, hospitality, manufacturing, transport, ports & logistics, research laboratories, data centres, defence and government. Talk to Matrix's solution experts to know more about these unique solutions by visiting Matrix at Booth No. 7038 on 10th April 2019, at ISC West 2019.

The manufacturer of steel doors and physical security solutions, Bradbury Group, are announcing their move into their new headquarters located on Foxhills Industrial Estate in Scunthorpe, North Lincolnshire, totalling an investment of around £8 million. The new 135,000 sq. ft production facility is an integral part of a mass expansion plan to be rolled out by the company, which is now in its 28th year of production. As part of the expansion, the company have invested several million pounds into new state-of-the-art machinery, including a new Salvagnini punch form line and a new fully-automated powder coating paint line, to provide service levels unlike any other in the UK. We are aiming high, with the aspiration to be the best and most trusted steel door manufacturer in the world" This innovative, streamlined process achieves unrivalled production timescales and product quality, and has significantly reduced any work in progress and the need for heavy manual handling by its employees. As a result of this investment, Bradbury Group have also announced their new three-day express steel door service, called M2MGO, for those customers that require an immediate, rapid solution or replacement security door. Increase in doorsets production The vast scale of the new premises means it can store up to 4,000 finished units, 10 times more than the previous facility, meaning that the Bradbury Group can accommodate and distribute larger orders more quickly and efficiently. Last year alone, the business produced around 17,000 doorsets to clients throughout the UK, and with the capacity to produce circa 100 doorsets on the new system in an average working day, higher levels of production can be achieved to satisfy increased demand. “The decision to move to a new facility became a necessary investment as we simply outgrew our previous production facility,” says Managing Director, Tim Strawson. “Since 2010, Bradbury Group has secured a fivefold increase in turnover, and we predict a continued growth of around 20% per year. The group produce a range of steel doors, including Bradbury Security’s M2M range of security, fire, flood and acoustic doorsets “This investment marks the start of a new journey for Bradbury Group. We are aiming high, with the aspiration to be the best and most trusted steel door manufacturer in the world. We’ve invested in infrastructure, machinery and our people, and we’re very proud to continue the company’s growth in our home town of Scunthorpe.” Security solutions for various sectors The Bradbury Group operates three divisions: steel door manufacturer Bradbury Security; Newton Security Doors, based in Scotland specialising in communal entrances in the public and housing sectors; and Martin Roberts, who have installed doors in some of the London’s most iconic skyscrapers, including the Gherkin, the Walkie Talkie and the Cheesegrater. The group produce an extensive range of steel doors, including Bradbury Security’s M2M range of security, fire, flood and acoustic doorsets, and provide security solutions to a vast array of sectors, including utilities, transport, retail, energy, commercial, finance, construction, and many more. Alongside steel doors, the Bradbury Group operates a grilles and cages arm of the business through their sister company, Cross-guard. Investment in automation and new machinery In line with the company’s vision to be ‘the world's best steel door manufacturer’, they are keen to expand the brand’s global presencePaul Sweeting, Technical Director at the Bradbury Group, highlights the group’s ability to adapt to new markets as playing an integral role in keeping the business going from strength to strength over the years. “We have not only developed our product range, but have also invested heavily in automation and the purchasing of new machinery to make our manufacturing process as lean as possible. We’re very grateful to our customers, partners and staff for their support and patience during the move to the new facility.” Recently, the company have also been developing its export programme, and have built a strong presence in the Middle East. In line with the company’s vision to be ‘the world's best steel door manufacturer’, they are keen to expand the brand’s global presence, and have appointed a team dedicated to continuing the group’s growth internationally in the next phase of their expansion.

CeComunica, a Professional Mobile Radio (PMR) operator in Panama, is slated to launch in December a Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) Tier III trunking network supplied by Hytera, global provider of innovative PMR solutions. This new nationwide network will provide advanced and reliable mission and business critical communications services to a large number of users from sectors such as ports, airports, ground transportations, hospitality, retailing and security companies in Panama. DMR Tier III trunking network The DMR Tier III trunking network has been set up with 15 sites of Hytera DS-6210 base station and multiple models of industry-leading digital two-way radios from Hytera DMR portfolio, including PD6, PD7, PD9, X1, MD6, MD7 and its flagship Multi-mode Advanced Radio PDC760 which can provide high quality narrowband voice under DMR protocol and fast data transmission in LTE broadband. To realise the full capability and maximise the productivity, this network can interoperate with other communications systems of different technologies by adopting Hytera SmartOne solution. “We are excited to supply our DMR trunking system and facilitate CeComunica’s further penetration into the PMR operator business, and we have been looking forward to introducing more cutting-edge products and technologies for Panamanian users to increase productivity and security of their daily operation, as well as unexpected scenarios,” said Fernando Camelo, Regional Sales Director of Hytera.

Genetec Inc., a technology provider of unified security, public safety, operations, and business intelligence solutions, announced its plans for Smart City Expo World Congress 2018, taking place at Gran Via Venue, Barcelona from 13-15 November 2018. Genetec will be present at Smart City Expo at six locations around the show floor including technology partner booths with Axis Communications, Bouygues Energies & Services, Microsoft, Schréder and IoT.ATL; as well as in the USA Pavilion with the City of San Diego and Atlanta. At each of these locations, smart city solutions will be showcased that demonstrate how Genetec enables them to better serve the city. For any urban environment, safety, security, and the flow of people and goods have always been a critical factor" Building a safe and smart city Christian Chenard-Lemire, Team Lead for Intelligent Transport Systems at Genetec stated: “In order for citizens to benefit from a ‘Smart City’, it must also be a ‘Safe City’. For any urban environment, safety, security, and the flow of people and goods have always been a critical factor, driving the need for new, innovative technology. “Through the open-architecture, unified security platform in Genetec Security Center, and our other investigation management and decision support solutions, we are in a strong position to support cities in their goal towards a safer and smarter future.” Axis Communications Axis Communications will showcase a range of solutions, delivering safety and mobility in a city. Enhanced citizen safety and improved traffic flow are two essential pillars in any urban environment and provide the focus for Axis solutions on show at Smart City Expo 2018, along with real-world examples of its technology in action. The Genetec solutions being demonstrated at booth B211 will include Traffic Sense, a solution that gives traffic managers a complete picture of incidents as they happen. Bouygues Energies & Services Energy, digital and industrial transition specialist Bouygues Energies & Services will be presenting solutions that increase the efficiency of services to the city at booth Bouygues Energies & Services/ Colas D485. There, Genetec will be showcasing the Security Center integration with Bouygues solutions. Microsoft to demonstrate how connected technologies can help cities become more sustainable Microsoft Microsoft will be demonstrating how connected technologies can help cities become more sustainable, prosperous and inclusive. Genetec will have a pod at booth B213 to demonstrate neighbourhoods aligned to solutions, which will showcase Community Connect and Clearance. Schréder Smart street lights are the gateway to a smart city. A pioneer in intelligent outdoor lighting solutions, Schréder will present infrastructure that enables city planners to create open, fluid, connected and safer cities. Genetec will be showcasing Security Center, Intercom and Analytics on booth E567. IoT.ATL and the City of San Diego – USA Pavilion Representatives from the City of Atlanta and the City of San Diego will demonstrate how they have deployed Genetec technology to create scalable smart cities at the USA pavilion, booth D491. In the Atlanta and San Diego sections, Genetec solutions on display will include Clearance and SaaS Cloud with Shotspotter.

After a successful participation in the trade fair for Security, Safety and Fire Protection in 2018, SeeTec will exhibit again at Intersec 2019. There, the company will again be presenting its latest video management software products for a wide range of application areas and industries. The first show of the year will also be the perfect venue to present the brand-new functionalities of the latest SeeTec release R13 to customers and partners for the first time. Advanced video solutions Kaj Svenningson, Vice President Business Development, explains: “The positive feedback from visitors of the 2018 show as well as the projects that were initiated there proved that it was the right strategic decision to present our video management software solutions on site to our ever-growing customer base in the Middle East. As an additional benefit, our booth also gives our local partners in Dubai the ideal platform to welcome their customers.” From 20 – 22 January 2019 interested visitors will be able to get in touch with the new functionalities of SeeTec Cayuga R13 on booth SA-B41 From 20 – 22 January 2019 interested visitors will be able to get in touch with the new functionalities of SeeTec Cayuga R13 on booth SA-B41 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre. In addition, all presentations highlight how advanced video solutions can become an essential part of security and business ecosystems. Interact with third-party systems “A focal point of our presentation this year will be how easy software from SeeTec can interact with third-party systems to form a holistic security solution. It’s this flexibility either to work in the front of your solution or as a component in the background, adding the power of video into your processes, that sets SeeTec apart.” states Andreas Conrad, Marketing Director at SeeTec. He further added, “Our SeeTec Business Video Intelligence (BVI) range of products, which will also be presented in Dubai, takes this idea even beyond security applications. With SeeTec BVI, customers can combine video data and business processes, e.g. in logistics, transportation or retail, in order to safeguard their processes and to make better decisions for the future.”

Today, customers are demanding immediacy, personalisation and seamless services from their providers and our desire for instant gratification means that those servicing the public need to provide easy, fast, smooth and continuous ways to meet customer expectations. This is where interactive kiosks can really help organisations to deliver a high level of service in an easy to use, automated way. In recent years, kiosks have fast gained popularity, not only because they enhance customer satisfaction, as they operate in self-service mode, but they also provide crucial information or services to customers as and when they need it. Think about how you utilise such services, at a railway station to buy tickets, in a fast food outlet to order food or in other ways as you go about your daily business. Interactive kiosks can really help organisations to deliver a high level of service in an easy to use, automated way Today, kiosks are typically placed in high foot-traffic environments such as retail stores, hospitals, banks, hotels, airports, courthouses, libraries, railway stations – you name it – providing customer access to information, products, websites, tools, or applications.   For those less familiar, an interactive kiosk is a computer terminal featuring specialised hardware and software that provides access to information and applications for communication, commerce, entertainment, or education.  Kiosk software platforms are easy to deploy  Integration of technology allows kiosks to perform a wide range of functions, for example, kiosks may enable users to order from a shop's catalogue when items are not in stock, check out a library book, look up information about products, issue a hotel key card, or enter a public utility bill account number in order to perform an online transaction. Kiosks are computing platforms where the user interface needs to be limited to serve a specific purposePut simply, kiosks are computing platforms where the user interface needs to be limited to serve a specific purpose. Whether it is a citizen-facing platform in a government building or a device in a train station, the common theme is that the user is constrained to undertake very specific tasks with that device i.e. buy a train ticket. The device itself might have a full-blown operating system but all the user can see is the app and what they need to do.  Therefore, it is very important for kiosk software platforms to be very easy to deploy and they must provide a very intuitive user experience. It is very much about the interaction the user is undertaking and little beyond that, which means the software must be optimised for user interaction in that context. But what that means is that security is often a secondary consideration, with many kiosk software providers paying lip service to security, while they focus primarily on ease of use and ease of management. Thinking of a kiosk as just a terminal that wouldn’t be of interest to a hacker is precisely why they are so attractive to attacks The threat of cyber attacks However, today we are seeing cyber-attacks escalating and becoming an everyday occurrence; as adversaries seek out new methods of attack and new threat vectors, so kiosks are becoming more of a target and an attractive platform for cyber adversaries to attack. Most kiosk software platforms just provide a management layer to configure an endpoint device in that kiosk. If you think about a traditional endpoint device such as a laptop, they are more likely to have a greater set of defence tools deployed, actively managing and monitoring the device, regularly patching and updating it. This is not the same where kiosk platforms are concerned.  Kiosks are becoming more of a target and an attractive platform for cyber adversaries to attack So why is this? Often, the business can’t justify having a full-blown operating system and sophisticated defence tools on that platform, especially if they have a large number of kiosks deployed out in the field. They are normally in highly remote or widely geographically dispersed locations, which means there are significant costs involved to go out and fix them. Protecting devices in a more robust way  Likewise, organisations don’t always have the local IT resource in many of these locations to maintain the equipment and its security. Or, if there is a patch management process in place it might not always be timely. For example, if you adopt an Android platform, Google regularly announces the vulnerabilities they have patched. This means the device manufacturers have to try and create patches for the vulnerabilities that have been announced publically to the cybercriminals. Adversaries know there is a window of opportunity they can exploit because the software author has told them about it. That time delay can be even worse in kiosk ecosystems, where there may be a diverse geographic spread of devices. We need to increasingly think about how we protect these devices in a more robust way Or the kiosk might simply be old. One of the reasons the WannaCry ransomware attack ended up being so widespread, is that there were old computing terminals throughout the NHS, running old operating systems. Any unpatched version of Windows is susceptible, so it can end up being a false economy by attempting to run these legacy systems for too long.  As we continue to exploit and expect technology in every far-flung corner of the world, we need to increasingly think about how we protect these devices in a more robust way. Thinking of a kiosk as just a terminal that wouldn’t be of interest to a hacker is precisely why they are so attractive to attacks, because they know the security might not be as tight as it should be. Making kiosks more secure could be the difference between you being breached and remaining safe.

As anyone who has ever flown on a commercial airline since 2001 knows, security measures at airports are well enforced and the emphasis on traveller safety is all around the airport and its grounds. Mass transportation, meanwhile, presents a special but not any less significant challenge when it comes to determining security issues. These facilities need to develop the means to protect a constantly changing and large population of passengers. And unlike airports these facilities often have hundreds of points of entry and exit on multiple modes—buses, subways, light rail, commuter trains, even ferries. About 2 million Americans will use the nation’s airways on a given work day, while 35 million people will board some form of public transportation. In fact, statistics have shown that nearly 11 billion trips are taken on public transportation every year. In some large metropolitan areas in North America where mass transit is well established, more than 20 percent of the area’s inhabitants get around via public transportation.About 2 million Americans will use the nation’s airways on a given work day, while 35 million people will board some form of public transportation Solving mass transit security For transportation officials and their security providers, solving the mass transit security issue begins with determining the key concerns and then creating the proper responses via security systems, policies and procedures to mitigate the risks. Although vandalism and graffiti are very visible signs of criminal behaviour in mass transit settings such as bus stops and subway stations, this is not where transportation officials typically focus their energy. Fences and gates can secure out-of-service buses and train cars, as can remote surveillance methods to keep such vandalism at a minimum. Instead, it is the day-to-day safety and security of transit riders and employees that should become the highest priority. This begins with creating the safest environment possible that is highlighted with appropriate signage and, when necessary, audible warnings, and supporting that with technology, such as surveillance cameras, that will document what has happened if an incident occurs.Analytics can also be useful in alerting security about other suspicious behaviours at a transit stop, such as an untended bag or package Crime prevention in transportation Analytics can also be useful in alerting security about other suspicious behaviours at a transit stop, such as an untended bag or package Incidents of concern within a transit setting can take several forms, ranging from legitimate accidents or crimes to false claims such as faked fall down the stairs to potential and actual suicides. Bus and subway stations also have become magnets for homeless people who may put themselves and others in harm’s way by trying to access less secure public areas within a station as temporary shelters. If someone is injured on a subway platform and the transit provider is held liable, it could be on the hook for hundreds of thousands, if not millions of dollars. Suicides are a major concern for operators, with personnel now being trained to look for individuals who seem distressed, are loitering in the area or are intentionally putting themselves in a dangerous situation, such as standing too close to the edge of a platform. The deployment of video analytics, which can be programmed to send alerts when certain pre-set actions occur, can help determine when such dangerous behaviours come into play. Analytics can also be useful in alerting security about other suspicious behaviours at a transit stop, such as an untended bag or package or a person going into a restricted area. Whether it is on the bus, train or ferry or at the stops themselves, cameras and intuitive video management systems are the key to both active and forensic transit security. Some cities use buses that are up to 60 feet long and those can be equipped with up to a dozen cameras Train security and safety By using the proper cameras and recording systems in a transit environment, quick-acting personnel can locate a person of interest who boarded a train at one station, follow him during his trip and produce a crisp, clear identifiable image at the end. Those setting up the system thus should keep in mind proper camera positioning, resolution and motion-based changes to framerates or other compression settings. A typical 30-foot bus often has six cameras—one each at the front and middle doors, two more within the bus and then one looking forward and another looking behind the bus. The latter two are important in the event of accidents to verify liability. Some cities use buses that are up to 60 feet long and those can be equipped with up to a dozen cameras.Train stations often deploy high-definition cameras to better support facial recognition software to get that actionable image Train cars are similarly equipped with two to four cameras to view activity down the centre aisle. Within the stations themselves, there can be from 15 to 30 or more cameras capturing wide-angle shots. Train stations, which have a restricted point of egress, often deploy high-definition cameras to better support facial recognition software to get that actionable image. Installing the right technology for the solution Although bandwidth and storage can be a concern, with motion-based recording, the resolution can be bumped up during event, resulting in a 1-megapixel stream jumping to 4 or even 8mbps when needed. By changing the resolution on demand, end users can cut their storage needs significantly. Transportation settings often rely on the same technology used in other security installations, primarily mini dome cameras, although there are some mini transit domes built specifically for the environment with the proper aesthetics. Because of vandalism threats, transit typically avoids pendant mounts, which can be more easily grabbed and damaged. Temperature ratings for cameras also come into play in cold climates with cameras often getting outdoor exposure.Today’s new buses and trains are constructed with the cameras onboard and newer stations also take security into consideration at the earliest design stage As trains and buses move along their routes, especially those that service outlying areas, Internet connectivity becomes an issue as well. Because it may be difficult for video to be sent in transit, security bus barns are equipped with Wi-Fi so video from onboard cameras can be downloaded at the end of the day. And the use of hardened recorders at the stations allows security personnel to retrieve recorded video. Transit security with modern technology Today’s new buses and trains are constructed with the cameras onboard and newer stations also take security into consideration at the earliest design stage. Older infrastructure from long-standing subway and bus terminals can prove to be a challenge when adding security, but these issues aren’t insurmountable. Often the solution is to add more cameras to cover the same square footage because of less-than-ideal sight lines and to place conduit wherever it works best, which may mean positioning it under platforms or in other out-of-the-way places within older stations. Looking ahead, transit security will continue to evolve, not only as new stations and modes of transportation are added to the system, but in terms of communicating with commuters. People can expect to get mass notification alerts on their mobile devices, and those same devices can provide vital data to transportation entities to better develop their overall systems.

The Internet of Things (IoT) is having a significant and ever-changing impact on the way we view video security. Today, cameras are expected to be so much more than devices with which to simply capture images; they need to be far smarter than that. These future-facing cameras are becoming an integral part of the vast digital connectivity infrastructure, delivering a parallel performance as intelligent sensors with the ability to extract the kind of invaluable data that helps businesses make improvements in the area of video security, and beyond. However, as the list of possibilities grows, so too does the risk of unauthorised access by cybercriminals. We should all be aware that a single weak link in a communications infrastructure can give hackers access to sensitive data. That’s the bad news. Safeguarding data and utilising deep learning The good news is cybercrime can be avoided by employing a data security system that’s completely effective from end-to-end. One technological advancement that the trend-spotters are predicting will become part of the video security vocabulary is ‘deep learning’ Once this level of safeguarding is in place you can begin to confidently explore the technologies and trends happening now, and those on the horizon. So, what will be having an influence on surveillance in 2018? Well, according to IHS Markit, one technological advancement that the trend-spotters are predicting will become part of the video security vocabulary is ‘deep learning’, which uses algorithms to produce multiple layers of information from the same piece of data, therefore emulating the way the human brain absorbs innumerable details every second. In Europe, GDPR compliance will also be a big talking point as new principles for video surveillance data collection, use limitation, security safeguards, individual participation and accountability are introduced. And, as the popularity – and misuse – of drones continues to rise, the recent developments in drone detection technology will be particularly welcomed by those whose primary concern relates to large areas, such as airport perimeter security. The future of 'smart' video analytics An important feature of today’s intelligent cameras is the ability to provide smart video analytics. The Bosch ‘i’ series, for example, offers a choice of formats – Essential Video Analytics and Intelligent Video Analytics. Essential Video Analytics is geared toward regular applications such as small and medium businesses looking to support business intelligence (e.g. inter-network data transfer), large retail stores and commercial buildings for advanced intrusion detection, enforcing health and safety regulations (no-parking zones or detecting blocked emergency exits) and analysing consumer behaviour. The camera-based, real-time processing can also be used to detect discarded objects, issue loitering alarms and detect people or objects entering a pre-defined field. Intelligent Video Analytics provides additional capabilities. It is designed for demanding environments and mission-critical applications, such as the perimeter protection of airports, critical infrastructures and government buildings, border patrol, ship-tracking and traffic-monitoring (e.g. wrong-way detection, traffic-counts and monitoring roadsides for parked cars: all vital video security solutions). An important feature of today’s intelligent cameras is the ability to provide smart video analytics Intelligent Video Analytics can also differentiate between genuine security events and known false triggers, such as challenging environments created by snow, wind (moving trees), rain, hail, and water reflections. For more expansive areas, like an airport perimeter fence, the system has the range and capability to provide analysis over large distances. And, if a moving camera is employed, it is also possible to capture data on objects in transit when used in conjunction with the Intelligent Tracking feature. For roadside use, Intelligent Video Analytics systems, such as the Bosch MIC IP range, are resistant to vibrations and can still operate in extreme weather conditions, continuing to detect objects in heavy rain or snow.  Evolving cameras past surveillance It’s becoming ever clearer that the IoT is transforming the security camera from a device that simply captures images, into an intelligent sensor that plays an integral role in gathering the kind of vital business data that can be used to improve commercial operations in areas beyond security. For example, cities are transitioning into smart cities. The capabilities of an intelligent camera extend to the interaction and sharing of information with other devices (only those you have appointed) With intelligent video security cameras at the core of an urban infrastructure smart data can be collected to optimise energy consumption via smart city lighting that responds to crowd detection and movement. Cameras can also be used to improve public transport by monitoring punctuality and traffic flow based on queue lengths, with the ability to control traffic lights an option should a situation require it. As the urban sprawl continues and this infrastructure grows, the need for more knowledge of its use becomes more essential, necessitating the monitoring technology developed for use by human operators to evolve into smart sensing technology, that no longer just provides video feeds, but also uses intelligent analytics and sophisticated support systems. These systems filter out irrelevant sensor data and present only meaningful events, complete with all relevant contextual data to operators to aid their decision-making. Expanding the video security camera network Today, video analytics technology has tangible benefits for human operator surveillance, and delivers KPIs that are highly relevant to transport operators, planners and city authorities. As an existing infrastructure, a video security camera network can be improved and expanded by installing additional applications rather than replaced. From a business perspective, that means greater value from a limited investment. Thereafter, the capabilities of an intelligent camera extend to the interaction and sharing of information with other devices (only those you have appointed), image and data interpretation, and the ability to perform a variety of tasks independently to optimise both your safety and business requirements. The fact is, cameras see more than sensors. Sounds obvious, but a conventional sensor will only trigger an alarm when movement is detected, whereas a camera can also provide the associated image and information like object direction, size, colour, speed or type, and use time stamps to provide historical information regarding a specific location or event. Based on this evidence, the video security camera of today is more than ready for the challenges of tomorrow.

Several recent terrorist and mass violence attacks have been directed at soft targets, or relatively unprotected locations where people gather such as outside a music venue or in the unscreened passenger areas at airports. Attacks in public areas have led to the development of new security technologies aimed at protecting soft targets. One company addressing the challenges is Evolv Technology and its Edge automated high-speed personnel screening solution. The system integrates walkthrough firearm and explosive detection for high-throughput protection of events and soft targets.The Edge system has multiple detection sensitivity settings to respond to various threat scenarios Enhanced visitor experience The system seeks to increase security without compromising the ‘customer experience’. People simply walk through single-file – between two 5-foot-tall stanchions. One lane can screen up to 800 people per hour, and the system detects explosives or metallic objects without the need for pat-downs or wands or other invasive procedures. Any personal belongings can remain in visitors’ pockets. A single security guard is needed for each lane to verify any detected threats. “The system combines an improved security posture with a better visitor experience,” says Mike Ellenbogen, CEO of Evolv Technology. “We need to fly and have been trained to be screened at the airport, but we don’t expect to be screened going to see a ball game or a Mozart concert. Evolv recognised a need for a new way to inspect people before they enter these types of facilities. It’s a seamless system that pulls various technologies together. We want to feel safe but without having to sacrifice the quality of the experience.”Screening analytics provide data on the numbers of people screened by time of day and by result The system combines millimetre wave and magnetic field sensors, along with artificial intelligence (AI)/ machine learning and can incorporate additional data such as biometrics. Known bad actors can be identified using facial recognition. The system has multiple detection sensitivity settings to respond to various threat scenarios. Expanding perimeter protection A security guard provides the human touch by verifying any threats detected by the system. The locations of concealed items are displayed on a photo of the individual using a color-coded box overlay. Screening analytics provide data on the numbers of people screened by time of day and by result. Ellenbogen says the company is working to have the system adopted at entertainment venues, performing arts centres, sports centres, for air and rail transportation, and to protect high-profile government buildings. The Edge system can expand the protected perimeter to a wider area that was previously unprotected. The Edge system can expand the protected perimeter to a wider area that was previously unprotected For example, concert-goers exited the arena of an Ariana Grande concert May 22, 2017, in Manchester, U.K., and entered the surrounding area that was unscreened and unsecured. Placing a user-friendly screening system around a wider perimeter outside the concert venue might have prevented the use of an improvised explosive device in the terrorist attack.Placing a user-friendly screening system around a wider perimeter outside the concert venue might have prevented the use of an improvised explosive device in the terrorist attack Threat mitigation with soft target approach Likewise, a 2016 bombing at the Brussels Airport occurred in the departure hall outside the passenger screening areas. Securing a wider perimeter – for example, screening customers discreetly as they enter the airport building from a parking area – could have provided additional security against such an attack. Ellenbogen confirms Evolv has sold a number of systems to major European airports to screen visitors and passengers as they enter the front door. “Addressing the threat to an airport or train system is different than screening passengers; we are looking for different types of objects and different types of materials. The idea is to be able to detect threats to a venue before they get into the venue.” The soft target approach can also be applied to public buildings, such as courthouses, and used in lieu of more invasive metal detectors and x-ray machines. The portability of the Edge system enables a ‘pop-up’ approach to security – i.e., to relocate the system to address specific or changing security threats easily. The self-contained system only requires a wall plug. Labour reduction (because of faster throughput) can help offset the system costs but it’s difficult to quantify the improvement in the visitor experienceImproving security posture at event venues “It’s surprising the level of importance [venue owners] put on the visitor experience,” says Ellenbogen. “They see that their brand starts at the front door. They are eager to find alternative security solutions that come across as more inviting, less imposing, less closed down, less invasive than the solutions they have been using,” he says. “They are driven by a desire to improve the visitor experience as they improve the security posture.” He says current events, including terrorist attacks and mass shootings, drive awareness among venue owners to improve the security of soft targets. “The level of interest is high, and it spikes somewhat when there is a big headline,” Ellenbogen says. He notes that the system is more expensive than a metal detector, but about a third the cost of familiar airport body scanners. Labour reduction (because of faster throughput) can help offset the system costs, but “it’s difficult to quantify the improvement in the visitor experience,” Ellenbogen says.

Information can be a scarce commodity in the midst of terrorism or a mass shooting incident. Information can also save lives during the first critical moments of such events. The general public can now download a free smartphone app that provides instantaneous real-time information as a terrorism or mass shooting event is unfolding. TerrorMate crawler software Called TerrorMate, the app began development in 2013, in the wake of several terrorist attacks in France. People in the affected areas were relying on media sources, which sometimes do not provide information on a real-time basis as an event unfolds. To provide information faster, TerrorMate’s proprietary “crawler software” uses more than 200 key words to monitor Internet, social media and “dark web” sources. They also monitor Telegram channels, which are private encrypted messages that terrorists use to communicate. TerrorMate has access to four channels used by the Islamic State. Know your enemy Any leads are then confirmed using 1,100 human sources “on the ground” around the world, including contracted security consultants and law enforcement. TerrorMate employs 15 analysts and 10 software developers who work in a global control room in Belgium 24/7 to monitor any situations. Unlike media professionals, who are monitoring a range of news stories in a variety of fields, TerrorMate operators are focused solely on terrorism and mass shooting events. TerrorMate’s proprietary “crawler software” usesmore than 200 key wordsto monitor Internet, social media and dark web sources “We keep up with what the threat is doing,” says Barry Oberholzer, founder of TerrorTech, the developer of TerrorMate. “You need to know your enemy. We keep analysing and researching so we know the enemy. Mass shootings are hard to predict, and terrorists keep changing their methods, from suicide bombings to vehicle attacks. The game keeps changing, and we see that and keep up to speed on what they’re doing.” Intelligence communication TerrorMate also keeps up to date by communicating with authorities around the world, ranging from an intelligence agency in Spain to the customs and immigration services in Great Britain, from Belgium’s state security services to France’s national police. In addition, TerrorMate is an authorised alert distributor of the Integrated Alert and Warning (IPAW) system operated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Mission goals TerrorMate has a two-pronged mission. One goal is to provide actionable intelligence to law enforcement to help prevent an imminent attack. If TerrorMate personnel identify a possible threat, whether on social media or the dark web, they confirm the information and then communicate it to local law enforcement. The second goal is to provide real-time information to the general public about terrorism and mass shooting events. The app can be downloaded from the iTunes app store or Google Play. TerrorMate employs 15 analysts and 10 software developers who work in a global control room 24/7 to monitor any situations In addition to providing timely reports, the TerrorMate app includes a “safety guide” during an attack, advising phone numbers that users can call or people they can contact for additional information; listing which areas they should avoid; which public transport systems are functioning, etc. The goal is to get people to safety as soon as possible. During an attack in Barcelona on August 17 this year, the app provided a discount code to enable users to get a free taxi ride home from the affected areas. Tailored location alerts Because the app uses the smartphone geolocation feature, TerrorMate can send tailored alerts based on where a user is located. Users can also choose whether they want only local (in-country) or international alerts. Users may upload media, including photos and video, to the app; all information is verified by the TerrorMate control room and then shared with authorities. Because the app uses the smartphone geolocation feature, TerrorMate cansend tailored alerts basedon where a user is located The app also allows users to share their location with a list of contacts, in effect enabling users to see where their loved ones are during an incident, and to send and receive messages. The feature was developed after the May 2017 bombing at an Ariana Grande concert in Manchester, United Kingdom, when parents needed information on whether their teenagers were safe as the tragedy unfolded. Vehicle integration TerrorMate will integrate with vehicle systems such as OnStar and Uconnect within the next six months. Companies may also subscribe to the service. A benefit is early warning of a terrorist event that might impact a company’s operation. For example, one stock broker subscribes to the service to get early warning of any incident that might negatively impact stock prices. Corporate licensing fees are one source of potential revenue for the company, which currently is self-funded and has little revenue, according to Oberholzer. Identifying what constitutes a mass shooting is not always a clear-cut process, and often the determination happens in real-time. The basic criteria TerrorMate uses is multiple casualties in a highly populated area. Analysts make the call based on real-time information as it comes into the control center about an unfolding incident. Any early information that is reported is labelled as a “possible” mass shooting until it is confirmed. TerrorMate is currently available in English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Russian, Korean, Japanese, Chinese, Dutch, Swedish and Portuguese.

We can add another technology category to those aspects of the physical security market on the verge of being changed by cloud technology. The new category is the printing and encoding of ID cards. HID Global is adapting the benefits of cloud computing to the ID card printing market with the introduction of HID Fargo Connect, a cloud-based personalisation and issuance system for ID cards. The new cloud approach, which will be introduced at the ASIS 2017 show in Dallas, converts standalone card printers and encoders into edge devices in the Internet of Things (IoT). In effect, ID cards can now be printed from any device anywhere on any other device anywhere else. Evolving ID card market Historically, ID cards were printed by local standalone printers connected to on-premises personal computers (PCs). Using the cloud approach, a card can be printed from a tablet or similar device and directed to a cloud-connected card printer. The cloud approach is a new twist in a mature market that has been largely unchanged for the past two decades. HID Global, which acquired the Fargo printer business in 2006, is seeing customer needs evolving to include both printing and encoding ID cards. In the future, customer needs will broaden to encompass every aspect of managing identity issuance, according to Craig Sandness, Vice President and Managing Director of the Security Issuance business unit at HID Global. “This is not a one-off product but a new platform, and new solutions will continue to be introduced and evolve in the market,” says Sandness. “We are initially focusing on the higher-education market, but there are lots of opportunity in several major verticals, such as corporate environments with multiple locations. The solution can be centrally managed for all the locations.” Other HID Global vertical markets include government and public administration, healthcare, financial, transportation, and enterprise. Benefits for end users Benefits for end users include greater flexibility in how card printing systems are designed and operate, says Sandness. More flexibility enables end users to streamline processes and promote a better “customer experience” when issuing ID cards and credentials. The new cloud approach converts standalone card printers and encoders into edge devices in the Internet of Things For example, students no longer have to wait in long queues at multiple PC workstations to be issued cards in a higher education environment. Instead, card issuance can be managed in a more casual, relaxed environment, with operators using tablet computers to input data and capture images for the cards, which can then be printed in bulk at a large production facility connected to the cloud. Kent State University, Kent, Ohio, is an early user of HID Fargo Connect. The cloud approach also takes away the need to manage software and other IT resources. End users get better visibility and more control of the card issuance processes, according to HID Global. New economic models for security integrators For integrators, the approach introduces new economic models for their business. It allows their customers to transform the issuance of ID cards from a capital expenditure (capex) to an operating expense (opex). Security dealers no longer need to be just in the business of selling card printers; they could also be in the business of providing cards as a service, payable as a monthly operating expense based on how many cards are needed, for example. Providing a service rather than a product can position dealers for a longer-term relationship with a customer, in effect promoting “stickiness” (customer retention). The service aspect also provides dealer/integrators new opportunities to realise recurring monthly revenue (RMR). Benefits for dealers Dealers can also benefit from automated replenishment systems. A cloud-connected printer can signal a dealer automatically when it needs a new ribbon, for example, thus boosting a dealer’s ongoing business in consumables. “There could be an annual or monthly contract that allows the integrators to provide much better and more timely service and faster consumables,” says Sandness. As with any IoT approach, cybersecurity is paramount, and HID Global emphasises the cloud card issuance system is secure. The system uses HID’s Identrust Certificates and end-to-end encryption, and all personal data is transcient, not stored, and communicated between highly secure end points. “The print systems have unique firmware and will only work with Fargo Connect,” says Robin Tandon, Director of Product Marketing, Cloud Solutions, Secure Issuance Business Unit of HID Global.

Apstec Systems (Apstec) announces that its Human Security Radar (HSR) system will be deployed at the Palexpo Exhibition and Congress Centre in Geneva to improve safety and security for the International Motor Show 2019. Asptec’s HSR system is the world’s first fully automatic real-time mass people screening solution. Held over a period of ten days, the Geneva International Motor Show is one of the automotive industry’s flagship events and attracts large numbers of visitors every year. The organisers are anticipating up to three-quarters of a million visitors over the duration of this year’s event, with capacity reaching 150,000 attendees a day during peak times. Largest conference centres The Palexpo is one of the largest conference centres in Europe, and as such has a duty of care to its visitors HSR is uniquely well suited to managing this level of throughput and providing a high level of security without causing disruption to the flow of visitors into the venue, or negatively impacting their experience. Two HSR systems will be deployed for the show, each capable of screening up to 10,000 people per hour. The Palexpo is one of the largest conference centres in Europe, and as such has a duty of care to its visitors. Traditional security checkpoints or manual searches, which scan one individual at a time, are not suited to large venues and public places, leading to queues and delays. Although security is still paramount, attention has moved towards the need to add a critical level of defence that doesn’t impede visitor experience. Cost-effective solution HSR was designed to address this challenge, and offers a practical and cost-effective solution to security screening in high footfall scenarios. The first fully automated, real-time mass screening solution, HSR provides seamless security to protect public places from terrorist attacks. Developed by specialists in the fields of radio physics, electronics and software engineering, the walkthrough system has been built in conjunction with authorities and ‘end users’ in security and counter-terrorism. HSR screens for mass casualty threats including improvised explosive devices concealed on the body or in body-worn bags, and firearms wherever they are carried, without the need for an operator to inspect suspect materials.  It leverages centimeter wave technology, meaning it can discriminate explosives from benign materials, with a high degree of accuracy. Security screening The Palexpo’s deployment of HSR is the latest major implementation of this new technology Gregory Labzovsky, CEO, Apstec, explained: “Until recently, it’s been almost impossible to secure public spaces in a simple and cost-effective way, with existing approaches to security screening proving to be impractical, inconvenient and expensive to operate. HSR enables venue owners to close a critical security capability gap without impacting the experience of their patrons. We’re delighted to be working with The Geneva International Motor Show to enhance safety for thousands of motoring exhibitors and enthusiasts.” The Palexpo’s deployment of HSR is the latest major implementation of this new technology. The system has been installed in some of the world’s busiest airports, as well as in sports stadiums, entertainment venues, mass transport hubs and networks.

IDF Aluminium has installed transom closers, solenoid locks and hook locks from Alpro Architectural Hardware at a building in a historic section of London’s Finsbury Square. 4 Chiswell Street backs onto the Artillery Ground which has seen archery in Tudor times, some of the first organised games of cricket in the 1730s and even a hot-air balloon flight in 1784. The four-storey structure was refurbished by main contractor Parkeray to a design by Ben Adams Architects that created column-free office space with exposed concrete soffit and a signature golden mesh & grille facade based on curtain walling with bold circles. Automatic voltage regulation The glazing is unusual since the Reynaers’ curtain walling for the double-height reception uses innovative bracketry to support massive panes from Euroview Architectural Glass. The Alpro closers are on the distinctive gilt exterior doors and the client is also benefiting from solenoid bolts in the door heads. Alpro transverse action deadlocking bolts offer high levels of physical strength with holding forces of up to 2,000kg Alpro transverse action deadlocking bolts offer high levels of physical strength with holding forces of up to 2,000kg, a bolt throw of 14mm and models with oversize pins. The advanced microprocessor module provides power reduction allowing for continuous operation without heat generation as well as automatic voltage regulation, dual monitoring and access control features to fully monitor and control movement. Installers can use housings from the same series for surface mounting which facilitates the securing of glass doors. Dress plates are offered for a clean finish. Public sector environments The 4 Chiswell Street refurbishment was carried out with tenants in occupation and even involved use of abseiling techniques to replace glazing. A temporary reception was created for access and egress. Daylight has been maximised and floor-to-ceiling height is used wherever possible in a design that meets the Equality Act and includes a revised fire strategy. IDF specialises in the design, manufacture and installation of aluminium doors. The door projects are often in business and public sector environments where usage may be high but maintenance costs must be minimised. IDF has 30 years’ experience in the shop front and commercial door market. The company ensures a quality service by designing and fabricating all of its doors and shop fronts in-house with no use of sub-contractors. The client portfolio covers transport, local government, healthcare and education from schools through to universities.

Door Group, a unit of ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions UK & Ireland has supplied a number of high security steel doorsets to Network Rail for the upgrade of its remote signal rooms. The project was commissioned through Kent-based trade customer Taylor Refit, who removed the existing doors and installed new high security steel doorsets certified to LPS 1175 security ratings from the Powershield range. Network Rail specified that the high security doors supplied needed to offer maximum protection to the remote rooms The upgrade comes as part of Network Rail’s plan to heighten the security level to its signal rooms following the recent vandalism. High security doors for Network Rail  Network Rail specified that the high security doors supplied needed to offer maximum protection to the remote rooms, whilst also providing a cost-effective solution. ABLOY Protec cylinders were also incorporated into the specialist locks throughout the sites. Due to the easy-to-install products, Taylor Refit was able to remove and install the security doors in just one day, resulting in minimal disruption to services. Superior security doorsets Chris Cole, Area Sales Manager (SE & London) for Door Group, ASSA ABLOY EMEA comments: “We are delighted that Network Rail gave us the opportunity to provide superior security doorsets to this project and we hope to build on our relationship in the future. We had to ensure that the doorsets we were supplying offered maximum security, as per the customer’s specifications" "We pride ourselves on supplying high quality products and we work closely with our customers to understand their specific requirements and to provide specialist and tailored solutions. We had to ensure that the doorsets we were supplying offered maximum security, as per the customer’s specifications.” Door Group’s work with Network Rail follows a number of high-profile contracts with Transport for London and Crossrail Limited. Brian Sofley, Managing Director for Door Group, added: “We pride ourselves on our portfolio of well-respected clients that choose to work with us time and time again. We attribute this to our comprehensive service offering and expert advice throughout each project.”

Apstec Systems announces that its Human Security Radar (HSR), the first fully automatic real-time mass people screening solution, has been selected by Esenboga Airport, Ankara, to significantly boost security in land side areas. Chosen following a rigorous selection process, including a pilot installation, HSR will be installed at the terminal entrances as part of ongoing security enhancement measures by the Turkish State Airports Authority. It will enable people screening without slowing down the flow of traffic, with each system capable of scanning up to 10,000 individuals per hour. The technology was deployed in partnership with local distributer AKBA. Cost-effective solution The devastating attacks on Ataturk Airport in Istanbul and Brussels Airport highlighted the vulnerability of the land side of airports to terrorism The devastating attacks on Ataturk Airport in Istanbul and Brussels Airport highlighted the vulnerability of the land side of airports to terrorism. Since these events there has been global interest in securing the land side of airports, but traditional aviation style security checkpoints or manual searches, which scan one individual at a time, are not suited to purpose and result in large queues of passengers, which are vulnerable to attack in their own right. With existing approaches to security screening providing impractical, inconvenient and expensive to operate, terminals have remained susceptible to attack, or are subject to intrusive and disruptive security screening regimes. HSR was designed to address this challenge, and offers a practical and cost-effective solution to security screening in such high footfall scenarios. Enhanced security measures The first fully automated, real-time mass screening solution, HSR provides seamless security to protect public places from terrorist attacks. The walkthrough system uniquely combines unparalleled high throughput, speed and accuracy, simultaneously screening multiple subjects in real-time for threats, without the need for an operator to inspect suspect materials. With 40,000 passengers traveling through Esenboga Airport every day, the deployment of HSR will be instrumental in improving security for millions of people. Through deploying HSR as part of its commitment to terminal safety and enhanced security measures" “HSR constitutes a major breakthrough in the way airports protect the land side of terminals,” commented Osman Aksoy & Sirzat Balin,Co-Founders, AKBA. “Through deploying HSR as part of its commitment to terminal safety and enhanced security measures, the Turkish Airport Authority has taken a major step to prevent the reoccurrence of terrorist attacks.” Mass transport hubs Esenboga Airport’s uptake of HSR is the latest major deployment of the technology, which is currently utilised by some of the world’s largest airports, as well as sports stadiums, entertainment venues, mass transport hubs and networks, places of worship, hotels and high-end retail and entertainment centres. “HSR is proven to dramatically improve safety in crowded public spaces, and enables venue owners to close a critical security capability gap,” added Gregory Labzovsky, CEO, Apstec. “We’re therefore delighted to be working with Esenboga Airport to enhance safety for millions of travellers. AKBA, our distributor in Turkey, were instrumental in helping the Turkish Authorities understand the potential of HSR.”

Globally-renowned Pay on Foot parking systems manufacturer, DESIGNA, has worked with the White Rose shopping centre in Rhyl, North Wales, to update its car parking system to the company’s advanced ABACUS software and equipment. Contactless card payment The installation included new state-of-the-art entrance and exit terminals accepting tap in/tap out contactless card payment technology After many successful installations abroad, the shopping centre is the first DESIGNA site in the UK to have installed its new tap in/tap out contactless credit card technology. The installation included new state-of-the-art entrance and exit terminals accepting tap in/tap out contactless card payment technology. There are also three full pay stations, a DBS server, manual pay station and intercom. All of this helps improve the efficiency and security of the car park, which is popular with shoppers due to its seafront location. As the first part of the shopping experience, the convenience and availability of a car park is crucial to the overall service and satisfaction of a customer. DESIGNA recognised this and developed ABACUS, an advanced car park access system that intelligently integrates various elements to create the ultimate system that is highly reliable and requires less maintenance. It can also cope with large volumes of traffic while providing the highest level of monitoring to ensure a secure parking environment. ABACUS car park access system The parking system is barrier controlled and makes use of DESIGNA barcode ticket technology. In addition to the standard ticket technology, the car park offers the facility to tap in/tap out using a contactless credit card. This operates with a unique identifier from the credit/debit card as a substitute for a ticket for the duration of the stay at the car park. When the customer presents a contactless card on entry, it recognises them and by tapping again at the exit it automatically calculates the tariff and allows payment to take place at the exit. The system has three pay on foot machines which accept coins, notes and credit cards. With more than 30 stores, White Rose shopping centre, Rhyl’s number one shopping destination, has a wide range of quality stores. Located in the centre of the town, White Rose is a short walk from Rhyl’s seafront, railway station and sea aquarium, and has direct access car parking for 300 vehicles. The centre previously had a chip coin solution installed on site. Advanced ticket machines The biggest advantage of having the DESIGNA system in place is the easy payment method" Sue Nash, Centre Manager at the White Rose commented, “The biggest advantage of having the DESIGNA system in place is the easy payment method. The advanced ticket machines make it possible to pay using several means, therefore reducing the problem of queuing at the pay machines and having to pay with change. Another payment option we now have is the facility to pay through mobile devices and via contactless cards.” She continued, “The majority of people move around with credit cards rather than cash and having a versatile payment option in the car park makes for a painless process. The maintenance of the system at our local level was extremely important to avoid costly and timely engineer callouts. Simple things like ticket and coin jams, system resets are now extremely easy to resolve as is the exchange of entry tickets when required. I would certainly recommend the DESIGNA system to others and we are extremely pleased with the results.” Car parking ease and convenience Specifier Andrew Bailey, of Parking Ideas, commented, “Parking Ideas is a complete car parking and transportation consultancy that helps institutions, property owners, landlords and managing agents develop and optimise their assets. I have worked with the White Rose shopping centre for a number of years and following a competitive tender found that DESIGNA’s systems best suited the client’s requirements.” He continued, “The ABACUS system is good value, commercially viable and ticked all the right boxes for the White Rose. It is very important to have the facility to pay by card, so the payment terminals having this feature are vital to the centre and have made all the difference to the running of the car park. Parking Ideas has been in the parking industry for more than 15 years, so we have worked with DESIGNA before and are very happy with the end result.”  DESIGNA ticket terminals The car park’s entrance and exit are installed with DESIGNA In+ and Out+ ticket terminals so that using the site is fast and easy The car park’s entrance and exit are installed with DESIGNA In+ and Out+ ticket terminals so that using the site is fast and easy. The advanced terminals operate on the lowest energy consumption of their class with the ability to hold more tickets than before, with the bin adapting itself to the fill quantity. Customers are greeted with excellent user-friendliness due to the simplicity of the equipment and illuminated display with clear instructions. The four-way barcode readers also ensure visitors can insert their ticket any way round into any of the pay stations around the site. DESIGNA Pay on Foot machines For payment, three of DESIGNA’s new Pay on Foot machines are in place in the car park. This allows customers to pay for their visit before returning to their car and exit the car park more quickly. The pay station is deliberately designed to allow disabled customers to pay freely without assistance. Each of the pay stations is installed with an interactive monitor that makes it easy to pay and offers several different languages. Shopping centre management has full control of the ABACUS system through the DBS server, with a manual pay station (MPS) to allow them to create or override payments. The control room also links with the ticket and payment terminals via a DESIGNA VoIP Intercom to assist customers if required. Global implementation DESIGNA has more than 15,000 systems installed globally across a wide range of car park situations DESIGNA’s parking systems are used in a number of impressive shopping centres around the world. These include the Dundrum shopping centre in Dublin, the Mid Valley Megamall in Malaysia and the Mall of Emirates in Dubai. In the UK the Belfry shopping centre in Redhill, the Woolshops shopping centre in Halifax and the Wellgate centre in Dundee have also benefited from the ABACUS system. Recognised worldwide for its high quality and intelligent systems, DESIGNA has more than 15,000 systems installed globally across a wide range of car park situations, including shopping centres, airports and hospitals. ABACUS is one of the company’s innovations and demonstrates the endless possibilities available to car park operators. The future-proof technology allows for expansions of premises or new property acquisitions by allowing additional systems to be added to the network. In its many global applications, ABACUS has proved to be an effortless system for both operators and users and is a great investment for companies looking to the future.

From 2019, Airbus will embark on the modernisation of the PMR (Professional Mobile Radio) network of the Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe (BVG) public transport company. By 2020, the PMR provider will have overhauled the network infrastructure and converted the system to Internet protocol (IP). Airbus has also concluded a service agreement with the BVG until 2025. Airbus will provide the Berlin-based company with advice and support over the course of the modernisation process. The entire contractual package also comprises, alongside the technical retrofitting, the supply of the latest technology, such as an IP-based switch and an in-service maintenance and service provision. Communicate more securely The partners have also agreed to the possibility of progressively expanding the network with other base stations and to run these using the simulcast technology. Simulcast, also called Single Frequency Network, allows all base stations to transmit on the same frequency. This means that signals can be propagated very well over large areas. With the upgraded Tetrapol network, drivers and the control centre will be able to react more efficiently to all kinds of situations Since the network was rolled out in 2001, Airbus has partnered with BVG and, with its modern radio technology, it will make a further important contribution to the efficient running of Berlin's bus traffic. With the upgraded Tetrapol network, drivers and the control centre will be able to react more efficiently to all kinds of situations and to communicate more securely. Safe transport system The modernisation also implies an increase in the system’s capacity so that it can transmit even greater volumes of data. For approximately 2,100 radio users at the BVG, the Tetrapol network was made even more robust and user-friendly. A total of around 14,600 people work for the BVG and its subsidiaries to provide an environmentally friendly, reliable and safe transport system for more than a billion travellers each year. To coordinate the complex bus traffic in Berlin, the company built the Airbus Tetrapol network around nine base stations. Buses run on more than 150 lines over a catchment area of approximately 1000 km². The BVG also operates night buses on more than 60 lines, along with 22 tramway lines.

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