Vehicle tracking

Limitless Security, a provider of security solutions for the housebuilding and construction industries, has launched the VIDAR detector. This standalone, wire-free security system combines motion detection with integrated image verification to help reduce the cost of break-ins, theft and vandalism. VIDAR is a key part of Limitless Security’s new fixed cost, fully managed service which takes away the headaches and hassles involved in installing, managing and maintaining security equipment on building sites.  According to Adam Lees, Managing Director of Limitless Security: “Developed as a result of more than 30 years’ experience, VIDAR is an integrated, technology-led security solution that detects intruders and captures images for visual verification around the clock. It provides building sites with unparalleled flexibility in terms of deployment as it does not need to be connected to an external power supply, control panel, telephone line or internet service.” Clear images of intruders during day/night VIDAR works in colour during the day and black & white at night using four high powered infrared spotlightsVIDAR uses a high-quality CMOS camera with automatic exposure, colour encoding and focus to capture images that clearly show when intruders are onsite. It works in colour during the day and black & white at night using four high powered infrared spotlights. Operating in conjunction with a PIR that uses a highly directional Fresnel lens, VIDAR has a day/night range of up to 30 metres – over double the distance of other market-leading solutions. When the PIR sensor detects motion, VIDAR’s embedded SIM automatically transmits images to a Monitoring Centre for visual verification before an agreed response plan is implemented. Limitless Security installs VIDAR after completing a risk assessment and configures the units to auto-arm and disarm at times and days required by individual sites. Unique SmartArm technology is used to scan target locations for any activity at pre-set arming times. VIDAR will only arm itself when no movement has been detected for a continuous period configurable from 15-60 minutes to minimise false alarms and unnecessary call-outs. It can also be used in ‘Gate’ mode to monitor the routine entry and exit of people and vehicles at building sites. SIA-licensed security guarding service Our managed solution includes detection, monitoring and response using a SIA-licensed security guarding service" “Our managed solution includes detection, monitoring and response using a SIA-licensed security guarding service. It covers everything from risk assessment, the supply, installation and management of all equipment and site security signage through to documentation of any events for evidential purposes and the provision of information to responding agencies,” continued Lees. “Importantly, we are focussed on providing a complete security solution for a single, fixed monthly cost to make budgeting easier and eliminate any unexpected additional charges.” VIDAR is IP65 rated with dimensions of 240mm (h) x 120mm (w) x 60mm (d). Each unit weighs 0.62Kg excluding batteries.

Digitalisation technologies promise great improvements in an enormous variety of logistics processes. German manufacturer Dallmeier is particularly well positioned for the combination of systems from video technology, sensor systems, data management and intelligent use of elements of AI. At transport logistic 2019 in Munich, from June 4-7, 2019, Dallmeier will present a broad portfolio of solutions especially for customers in general cargo logistics at Stand 620, Hall A3. Dallmeier's customer base also includes the very largest logistics corporations. Logistics management systems The German manufacturer Dallmeier can look back on more than 35 years of experience in the development of cameras, recording systems and software. Solutions for customers in the logistics sector represent a primary focus of the company's corporate strategy. The portfolio includes systems for protecting property, entrance and exit areas, claims management, yard management, and a broad range of logistics management systems from real-time localisation of unit goods up to automatic volume calculation. A very recent development is their cooperation with the SAP integrator T.CON A very recent development is their cooperation with the SAP integrator T.CON. The solutions developed jointly by the two companies enable the transmission of a wide variety of valuable business data straight from video systems into SAP ERP systems and address major challenges in the supply chain, HR and compliance area. SAP standard objects To date, the cooperation between Dallmeier and T.CON has produced two solutions for the supply chain area: The ‘Digital Gate’ automates vehicle registration and consignment notes management with a self-service portal running on SAP Fiori. The system recognises vehicle classes, registration numbers, ID numbers and hazardous substance categories. Depending on the requirement, the system can be integrated in yard management and hazardous substance handling functions. The freight data in SAP is supplemented with the optically acquired data using SAP standard objects. Accordingly, it can be integrated directly in SAP TM or LE-TRA (ECC 6.0). The ‘unit good measurement’ solution enable freight items to be measured and weighed automatically by video systems and wireless weighing forks, and the data can be integrated in SAP EWM or WM. Perimeter protection The many advantages of this innovation range from the optimal use of load capacities to plausibility checks and up to coordinated warehouse storage and retrieval strategies. For perimeter protection, Dallmeier combines its patented Panomera® camera technology with a two-tier object classification system using neural networks. This places customers in the position of being able to reduce the number of false alarms to practically zero This places customers in the position of being able to reduce the number of false alarms to practically zero. At the same time, the role of the cameras is changed so not only do they function as a verification system, they can also assume most of the responsibility for incident detection, and consequently fewer systems are needed to guarantee effective perimeter protection. Optimised vehicle control The combination of the Dallmeier video technology and the proprietary, modular process management software with a sensor system offers logistics companies very many advantages. Most significant among these are systems for real-time localisation of unit goods, permanently solving the problem of misplaced or lost packages, which in many medium-size firms happens to between five and ten percent of all items handled every day. With the Dallmeier system, the position of every package is known from the moment it is received until the moment it is shipped. A similar system also enables uninterrupted package tracking for large logistics businesses and privacy-compliant theft investigation among other capabilities. Other solutions on display at the Dallmeier stand are concerned with optimising the efficiency of all kinds of processes, such as improved yard management and optimised vehicle control, e.g., through the display of loading levels, automatic gate assignment or even optimised claims management.

Videonetics, global visual computing platform development company, showcased its AI & DL-enabled unified video computing platform for vertical markets, including enterprise, industrial, education, IT Parks, healthcare and hospitality, etc. at IFSEC Bangladesh 2019, recently held from 18th to 20th April, Dhaka. Powered by its patented and award-winning AI & Deep Learning Framework, Videonetics demonstrated its unified video computing platform, which is custom-built for securing enterprise workplace and workforce. Unified video computing platform Videonetics unified video computing platform encompassing intelligent VMS & video analytics like fire & smoke detection, safety gears like helmets, glasses and apron detection, graffiti and vandalism detection, property cleanliness detection & garbage management, crowdIFSEC Bangladesh provided an excellent opportunity to demonstrate our AI & Deep Learning enabled Visual Computing platform"detection, perimeter protection, object classification, vehicle movement monitoring using ANPR and speed detection, vehicle entry-exit monitoring for gate management and facial recognition, will be demonstrated live during the show. Expressing on the participation, Mr. Avinash Trivedi, VP-Business Development Videonetics said that, “IFSEC Bangladesh provided an excellent opportunity to demonstrate our AI & Deep Learning enabled Visual Computing platform which was well received and appreciated by the consultants, end users and system integrators. We garnered huge response throughout three days with recording high footfalls ranging from manufacturers, distributors, installers, integrators, consultants to end users.” Mitigating safety & security risks “Field-proven and tested with real-time video data of varied environment, our solutions are well-competent to solve their day-to-day challenges as well as address critical needs such as mitigating safety & security risks, improving work environment, reducing production loss and improving profitability, improve workers/employees occupational safety, create situational awareness, maintaining business continuity and optimising operations for organisations, assets and infrastructure.” The exhibition had nearly 2500 visitors and saw an overwhelming response as visitors poured in through the 3 days of the show, curious to learn about company’s solutions on showcase, and how they can be leveraged to secure their establishments.

Security industry stakeholders from across the subcontinent have descended upon Mumbai for the 8th edition of Secutech India, which opens its doors today at the Bombay Exhibition Center. Taking place from 25 – 27 April, the fair offers business, networking and sourcing opportunities for India’s commercial security, smart home and fire safety sectors. In addition, plenty of educational value can be gained through the fairs fringe events, which include a fire safety training and two full days of smart city and security technology forums. Ms Regina Tsai, the Deputy General Manager of Messe Frankfurt New Era Business Media Ltd, spoke about the distinguishing features of this year’s fair: “In response to market demands, this year’s show features more exhibitors from the smart home and intelligent transportation sectors. “Exciting products gaining traction in these sectors include home surveillance systems, integrated home networks and vehicle tracking solutions. We have also refined the fringe programme to incorporate the most relevant topics for the Indian market, including smart city solutions, cyber security, and the growing role of artificial intelligence.” Altogether, 100 exhibitors representing over 400 brands are featured across 15,000 sqm of exhibition space Security products on display The ‘Make in India’ initiative has sparked a renaissance among Indian OEMs, with many domestic security and fire safety brands such as ESSL, Mantra, Biomax and AAAG represented across the show floor. In addition to the domestic companies, there is also a significant international presence. Brands Avigilon, Hikvision, Vanderbilt and Veracity, join the fair’s strong exhibitor line-up to display the latest surveillance cameras, access control systems, intrusion alarms, police equipment, and perimeter security systems for the commercial and government sectors. Altogether, 100 exhibitors representing over 400 brands are featured across 15,000 sqm of exhibition space. A highlight of the international contingent is the Shenzhen pavilion, where buyers are able to find security, smart home solutions, components, networking communication systems and peripherals. Shenzhen is one of China’s powerhubs for security manufacturers, and the attending exhibitors were carefully selected to represent a wide array of solutions for visitors seeking OEM opportunities. Smart home zone The new smart home zone features a selection of smart cameras, locks and integrated networksAnother convergence point at the fair is the new smart home zone. Featuring a selection of smart cameras, locks and integrated networks, the zone serves as a hub for suppliers to connect with property developers, architects, system integrators and other related buyers. Elsewhere, the concurrent ‘Fire and safety India’ event is a significant attraction for the fire safety fraternity. The event returns for its 4th edition this year as the destination for visitors to get hands-on with the latest fire detection and alarm systems, firefighting gear, evacuation apparatus and rescue equipment. Whether trying to penetrate the Indian market or further bolster their brand exposure, exhibitors will be aiming to connect with as many trade visitors as possible during the show. Fair organisers are anticipating a similar visitor turnout to the previous edition, which attracted 22,720 trade visitors, including distributors, system integrators, architects and consultants. Smart City Infrastructure Conference On top of being a business and networking occasion, the fair adds even more value to the visitor experience through its fringe programme of forums, seminars and events. This year’s programme is headlined by the ‘Smart City Infrastructure Conference’, which takes place on day one. A panel discussion is set to examine how smart cities will develop in India over the next five yearsAs part of the conference, a panel discussion is set to examine how smart cities will develop in India over the next five years. Other discussions analyse emergency response mechanisms and cyber security in smart cities. In addition, the ‘Security Technology Conference’ takes place on the second day of the fringe programme to explore supply-chain security in e-commerce, as well as AI and its impact on the security industry. Fire safety training to raise awareness On the final day, industry experts will gather for the highly anticipated fire safety training day. As part of the concurrent ‘Fire and Safety India’ event, and run by the State of Maharashtra Fire Service and the Mumbai Fire Brigade, the training aims to raise awareness among corporate professionals and wider society. Important topics to be addressed during the training include the common causes of fire, fire safety precautions, fire drills, evacuation procedures and safety legislation. On top of providing a platform conducive to information exchange, the fringe programme is also a hub to celebrate the achievements of India’s security and fire safety fraternity. The SECONA Shield Awards return this year to acclaim OEMs, system integrators, consultants and end users for product innovations, R&D, successful projects, unique designs and outstanding individual contributions to India’s safety and security landscape. The awards are co-organised with the Security Consultants Association of India, and the winners will be announced on the 26th April.

Synesis introduced a high precision AI solution which enables regular CCTV cameras to count the number of available and occupied parking spots in the visible area in real time. Unlike existing analogues, the Smart Parking module based on the bound of deeply trained neural networks and computer vision allows to solve three major problems simultaneously: a real-time monitoring and notification, compatibility with parking lots of any scale and configuration, and minimisation of control resources. Synesis Smart Parking has a great potential for further use and is implemented both by parking space operators (city administrations, shopping and entertainment centres, hotels, parking lots, etc.) and drivers. Using computer vision, the module analyses the location and number of cars in the frame with a specified time span Accurately count parking spaces The solution works as follows: using a special software module, parking space operator allocate parking zones and their maximal capacity. Using computer vision, the module analyses the location and number of cars in the frame with a specified time span - for example, 5 or 600 seconds. The analysis performance by Synesis’ layers of deeply trained neural network and own dataset of multiple vehicle masks excludes scenario in which any other objects – people, tree crowns, etc. – can be falsely indicated as a car. Сomputer vision can accurately count parking spaces even when parking striping layout is covered with snow or when it’s absent at all. The accuracy rate of technology is significantly higher than that of similar solutions, reaching out to 95%. After testing the technology in real conditions at the streets of Minsk, Belarus, the developers’ team plan to continue the neural network training for further accuracy rate improvement. Integration into third-party services The module can be used both to improve the level of urban environmental comfort and safetyThe solution was developed as a part of Synesis’ Kipod Smart City platform. However, the software company does not exclude that in future the module can be integrated into third-party services for transmitting information to online maps, mobile applications, chatbots, etc. As a part of Kipod cloud platform, the module can be used both to improve the level of urban environmental comfort and safety. It allows parking operators and drivers to set special rules for recognising and notifying events such as a car’s unplanned departure from a parking spot, trespassing, suspicious crowding and even emergencies (smoke/fire, shooting sound, broken glass sound, etc.). Such Kipod module is widely used in the United Kingdom for autonomous management of filling station networks. Kipod’s ‘traffic’ module had also been trained to indicate parameters such as vehicle’s type, colour, speed, parking legitimacy. It allows to determinate parking and traffic violations, as well as to investigate traffic accidents as quickly as possible. It also simplifies the search of vehicles with missing or not readable license plates.

Percepto announced that it has launched its all-in-one aerial solution for autonomous security, safety and inspection missions in Australia, following the completion of a series of successful live mission demonstrations in Canberra. The tests were observed in the capital by a delegation representing government, defence and industry organisations from across the country. During the demonstration, Percepto conducted missions to highlight how its autonomous ‘Sparrow’ drones can deliver value across a diverse range of industrial and enterprise applications in sectors including mining, oil and gas, renewable energy, utilities, port and sea terminals. The Percepto Solution delivers fully autonomous real-time human/vehicle detection and tracking, thermal inspection, gas/oil leak detection, 2D mapping, 3D modelling as well as fence and property patrols, all achieved without a need for a pilot or on-site operator. Equipped with HD thermal cameras Percepto is a recipient of the Frost & Sullivan Global Enabling Technology Leadership Award. Its cost-effective autonomous drones are equipped with high-definition thermal cameras to enable day and night operation and can perform in hostile weather conditions including rain, snow and dust. When deployed in-the-field they take-off on-demand or at scheduled times and navigate pre-defined routes. The system is controlled through Percepto’s cloud management system and is powered by computer vision and AI Once the mission has been completed the Sparrow returns to its base station - a highly secure enclosed weather-proof box - where automated post flight checks and fast battery charging are completed, ensuring the drone is primed for the next flight. The system is controlled through Percepto’s cloud management system and it is also the only ‘drone-in-a-box’ solution that is powered by computer vision and AI, and provides communications over LTE. Application of commercial drones The Percepto demonstration coincides with the announcement of Google’s first commercial drone delivery service, that was also launched in the Australian capital in April and highlights the progressive approach of the Civil Aviation Safety Authority in Australia, regarding drone usage. CEO of Percepto, Dor Abuahsira states: “With Australia already breaking new ground in the adoption and application of commercial drones, we are excited that our market leading technology is now widely available here. We look forward to working closely with our partners, industry and enterprises across Australia, to discover new and innovative ways the Percepto Solution can be deployed.”

Artificial intelligence allows machines to do jobs previously done by people. When it comes to security and surveillance, this technology allows cameras and control room equipment to identify a wide range of threats automatically and in real time across hundreds or even thousands of cameras – allowing security teams to take immediate action to protect people and assets. AI technology and surveillance solutions Artificial Intelligence technology built into surveillance solutions help organisations optimise their security Video surveillance cameras are the electronic eyes of any security operation. In the past, human supervision was needed to make sense of the images captured, and to assess whether certain events posed a security risk or not. With some organisations using hundreds or even thousands of cameras to protect their people and assets, manual review of footage is simply impossible – potentially leaving them vulnerable to security breaches. Advanced Artificial Intelligence technology built into surveillance solutions can help organisations overcome this challenge and optimise their security. This means cameras, control-room equipment and back-end infrastructure can now ‘learn’ about potential threats for themselves by recognising people, vehicles and even behaviours. Detection and prevention The manual interventions needed with traditional security systems mean that teams were frequently reacting to breaches that had already happened. Artificial Intelligence changes all this by recognising potential threats before they impact company’s people or assets – allowing security teams to react immediately to neutralise any potential threat. Artificial intelligence solutions can automatically trigger alerts when a person appears in a restricted area For example, artificial Intelligence solutions can automatically trigger alerts when a person appears in a restricted area, or when a vehicle with a blacklisted number plate enters a site. With alerts delivered in real time, teams can identify and react to security threats and protect people and assets more effectively. And because alerts are automated, potential threats are hardly missed or overlooked. How does artificial intelligence work? Artificial Intelligence systems become more intelligent over time, building databases of potential threats and reacting to new events accordingly. This allows systems to ‘think for themselves’ and to alert teams of any suspicious events or people who are caught on camera. Artificial intelligence technologies use advanced algorithms based on Deep Learning to distinguish between different kinds of security events and threats. Technologies incorporated into the Hikvision portfolio include: Facial recognition which allows law enforcement personnel to identify suspects and commercial teams to identify VIP customers in real time. Vehicle identification which can be used to identify vehicle number plates and recognise different types of vehicles (even down to make and model), or to trigger alerts when vehicles enter restricted areas. Perimeter protection which helps organisations to identify real threats by distinguishing people and vehicles from other moving objects and keeping false alarms to a minimum. Business intelligence which employs people counting, queue detection, and heat mapping technologies, so that organisations can enhance operational efficiency by making use of the data report. Increasing commercial success  Artificial intelligence isn’t just useful for identifying security threats – although this is a key strength of the technology. It can also help organisations increase their competitiveness and commercial success. For example, VIP customers who opt to participate in special marketing promotions or other incentives can be identified so staff can provide the right kind of service at the right time. This gives organisations the opportunity to personalise the service experience, foster loyalty and maximise customer lifetime revenues. Artificial Intelligence can help organisations to better understand customers and meet their needs more effectively In the same way, artificial Intelligence can help organisations to better understand customers and meet their needs more effectively – leading to more commercial opportunities. One feature – called People Counting – allows stores and commercial centres to map footfall at peak times, ensuring that staffing is optimised to meet demand. At the same time, stores can see which areas of the building customers visit most and adjust their merchandising and product positioning accordingly to maximise the sales opportunities. Artificial intelligence at Hikvision Hikvision’s family of artificial intelligence products include the DeepinView network cameras and DeepinMind NVRs. The products help to tackle security with facial recognition; monitoring and counting of people; and recognition and detection of vehicles, to name a few. These features all depend on artificial intelligence technology to recognise, classify and respond to security threats. This article was written by Hikvision.

Public spaces in cities and suburbs are important places for community development and promoting outdoor recreation. These areas may include main streets, parks, promenades, band shells and fields. Such locations are often utilised by public event planners for community activities, including summer festivals, wintertime ice skating rink installations, music concerts and art fairs. As the year drew to a close, holiday and Christmas markets as well as major New Year’s Eve events, presented cities with constant public event security needs. The public nature of these events increases risks of incidents with high-speed vehicles that put attendees in danger. Fortunately, there are three ways for public space managers to prevent casualty-causing collisions and further promote the use of local public areas. Developing an effective action plan    When strategising how to react to an alert, think about what time of the year and time of day the event is occurring It is important to have a plan developed before an incident or accident occurs. Warning systems, utilising doppler radar and digital loop technologies, alert guards to abnormal vehicle velocity changes in the surrounding area. Managers of public areas should organise a meeting with public safety authorities and local agencies to discuss what must immediately occur when a high-speed vehicle is approaching a public event. When strategising how to react to an alert, think about what time of the year and time of day the event is occurring. Having such a reaction plan in place combines technology and strategic planning to ensure everyone is on the same page to effectively target a threat and promote overall event safety. Securing public areas  Ideally, there will be no need to implement a well-conceived action plan. After all, taking preventive measures to secure public areas where events take place is important to keep people safe from accidental vehicle collisions and intentional attacks. Protect attendees by clearly separating pedestrian and vehicle locations using security devices such as – Barricades Portable barriers Bollards Install guard booths  Avoid the risk of vandalism and theft, making sure people are safe when walking back to the cars at night by keeping parking areas illuminated with flood lights. Install guard booths with employees who monitor activity in the parking area and who are prepared to react if an alert is triggered. Furthermore, prevent accidental collisions by clearly marking the parking area with informative warning signs and using barricades to direct traffic. These three tips can be used by public area managers to promote security at the next community event. Additionally, the technologies used to secure an event can also be used as infrastructure for year-round security. Installing gates that shut when the public space is closed or using aesthetically pleasing bollards are steps any public area manager can take to promote community safety.

According to the reports of not-for-profit organisation Gun Violence Archive, the year 2018 has seen 323 mass shooting incidents as of November 28 in the United States. This number is 346 for the year 2017 and 382 for 2016 (more statistics are available here), with “mass shooting” defined as cases where four or more people are shot or killed in the same time period and location. While definitions of mass shooting vary with organisations in the US, the count of over 300 incidents per year, or about once per day on average, is simply alarming. It raises public safety concerns, ignites debates and protests, which in turn lead to public unrest and potentially more violence, and increases costs for governments from the regional to federal level. Most importantly, the loss of lives demands not only improvement in post-incident handling and investigation, but also new prevention technologies. Gunshot detection solutions AI weapon detection offers a more efficient alternative to prevent active shooting There are several gunshot detection solutions in the security market, commonly used by law enforcement agencies to detect and locate gun fires. These systems function based on acoustic recordings and analyses and often in combination with signals detected by sensors of the optical flash and shockwave when a gun is fired. However, gunshot detection by nature dictates that the law enforcement can only react to a shooting incident that has occurred. With fast action, law enforcement can prevent the incident from escalating, but lives that are lost cannot be recovered. With the development of artificial intelligence in object recognition, AI weapon detection offers a more efficient alternative to prevent active shooting: AI can visually detect guns based on their shapes before they are fired. The AI is trained to recognise firearms in different shapes, sizes, colours, and at different angles in videos, so that the AI weapon detector can be deployed with existing cameras systems, analyse the video feeds, and instantly notify security staff when a gun is spotted. Comparison of the advantages for law enforcement and public security agencies Legacy gunshot detection using sensors AI weapon detection Reactive measure: detect after guns have been fired Proactive measure: detect before guns are fired Time to action: within 1 second Time to action: within 1 second Unable to provide visual data about shooter(s) Can provide data about shooter(s) based on the camera recording: clothing, luggage (backpack, handbag, etc.), facial features, vehicle Unable to track the location of the shooter(s) before and after shooting because of the lack of sound Can track the shooter(s) using AI Person & Vehicle Tracking, AI Face Recognition, and AI License Plate Recognition False detection caused by similar sound such as fireworks and cars backfiring Minimal to no false detection, as AI can distinguish different types of handguns and rifles from normal objects (umbrella, cellphone, etc.) Require physical deployment of gunshot detection sensors Can be used with existing camera systems, do not require special hardware Complicated to deploy, require highly trained professional Easy to deploy as an add-on to existing video surveillance system - Can integrate with gun-shot detection to create a “double knock” audio and video active shooter alert system Gun-shot detection advantages In addition to advantages for law enforcement and public security agencies, this type of visual-based pre-incident detector has three-fold advantages for the public: Save lives by spotting the shooter before the shooting event. Minimise the chaos entailing an incident: panic and chaos caused by a shooting incident often adds to injury, as people run, fall, trample on others… With an AI weapon detector, when a gun is spotted, the system sends an alert to security staff, who can quickly control the situation in an organised manner and apprehend the intending shooter. Can be added as a SaaS (Security as a Service) component to small business and home surveillance systems, e.g., intrusion detection alerts (home invasion incidents with firearms number over 2500 per year nationwide). For a complete active shooter detection system, video-based AI detector can operate in conjunction with gunshot detectors for enhanced security. Traditional X-ray based weapon detection or metal detection entrance systems are complicated and expensive; with AI video technology, active shooter detection system can be cost-effective, and after all, what price tag can one put on a life? Written by Paul Sun and Mai Truong, IronYun

More good news for exhibitors on the second day of the Global Security Exchange (GSX) in Las Vegas. Brisk attendance continued early in the day, and then slowed somewhat in the afternoon, but most comments from exhibitors were positive. Exhibitors such as Lenel were “thrilled” with the show, and noticed the steady, good traffic and lots of sales leads. Lenel’s position at the front of the hall probably helped. New developments in mobile credentialing are a big trend at GSX, and Lenel’s BlueDiamond mobile credentials are traveling on a new path, so to speak. The access control company is introducing the idea of “Pathways” as a way of automatically signaling intent to a Bluetooth-enabled smart phone to open a door. A recognisable “pathway” is programmed into the phone, based on signals from nearby readers and locks and also geolocation signals. The system recognises when a user travels along the pathway and automatically signals the correct door(s) to be opened along the way without the user having to touch his smart phone.A recognisable “pathway” is programmed into the phone, based on signals from nearby readers, locks and also geolocation signals Providing a lightweight alternative “When you trigger a pathway, it’s signalling intent to open the door,” says Greg Berry, Vice President Mobile Credentialing, Global Security Products, for United Technologies, parent company of Lenel. “Pathways are customised to a user’s needs and are the common places you are going all the time.” A user who walks the same path daily to the door of an office will find that door opens automatically. Previously using mobile credentials has been “slightly more work than using a badge,” says David Weinbach, Manager of Identity and Product Innovation for Lenel. “Now with Pathways, it’s less work than using a badge.” Specifically, a user no longer has to take out his phone and push a button to signal intent. “Rather than trying to emulate the badge, you create an experience that is better than the badge,” adds Berry. “We want to change the paradigm and turn the market on its ear.”New browser-based clients are being released with each new version of OnGuard software Other news from Lenel includes the release of more mobile and browser-based clients for OnGuard to be used for greater convenience alongside the Window-based clients. Providing a “lightweight” alternative enables some of the functionality of the Windows client in a format that is easy to access on the go. New browser-based clients are being released with each new version of OnGuard software. Cloud-hosted systems using Microsoft Azure are also among the plans for OnGuard, which ultimately will offer on-premises and cloud options. There’s not much comment from the Lenel folks about their parent company United Technologies’ plan to acquire S2 Security, which was announced days before the show. They would only say that the acquisition is waiting for regulatory approval, and that the expectation is that the two companies’ products will be complementary, given S2’s focus on the SMB (small and medium-sized business) market and Lenel’s strength at the enterprise level. The acquisition strategy is to grow both businesses. More details to come about the new combined company. Modern network infrastructure NVT Phybridge, a PoE connections company located near the back of the hall, also reported steady booth traffic on Day 2. “There are lots of customers and partners here,” said Steven Fair, Executive Vice President. “We are pleased with the quality of people, but not overwhelmed with the quantity.” FacePRO AI facial recognition is used for real-time searches of terror suspects or criminals throughout a location NVT Phybridge, which provides IP networking products for the telephony industry as well as security, is focused on networking concepts at GSX, in particular the changing requirements for network infrastructure in the age of IoT. We are pleased with the quality of people, but not overwhelmed with the quantity.” Fair uses the term “Modern LAN” to describe the new, changing requirements and in consideration of the specific networking needs of each edge device, whether cameras, sensors, or door access control devices. “Start with the edge device — what does it need from the network? What are its needs and have there been any innovations to enable you to connect to the network more economically?” asks Fair. There is also a green aspect to designing network infrastructure. Can existing equipment, such as coaxial or single twisted-pair cabling, be used, and thus save on disposal costs of the used cabling as well as lowering installation costs? Among NVT Phybridge’s offerings that can serve the changing networking needs in the IoT era is Smart Path PoE, which offers smart power, smart network access and secure connections. The CLEER family of products provides ethernet over existing coaxial cabling to enable easy transition from analogue to IP cameras. The PoLRE products supply ethernet and power to travel over a single unshielded twisted pair cable with reach over 400 metres. The products have been used recently to transition a series of cruise ships from analogue to IP video without having to replace cabling and spending only two days in dry dock for the installs. A new focus away from AI Panasonic is looking to apply AI-based capabilities to vehicle recognition in the near future, with the ability to identify vehicle characteristics Deep learning and artificial intelligence (AI) seem to be taking a lower profile at this show, perhaps signaling the end of the hype. Companies that mention AI point to specific products that use the technology and are currently available. For example, Panasonic is featuring its FacePRO AI-based facial recognition system. The system uses face images captured from video — grabbing up to 30 to 35 faces a second as video is recorded. The system saves the best of those face images, eliminating extensive duplication, as thumbnails, which are linked to the video footage where the faces appear. To find video in which a face appears, the operator merely drags-and-drops the thumbnail image and commands the system to “go fetch” video that contains that face. The system then produces a timeline showing where the face appears in the feed from each video camera on the premises, so an operator can track the movements of a suspect throughout a facility. The tool helps to simplify and shorten the workflow of locating a suspect in real-time and is affordable for a wider range of uses beyond the traditional airports or high-end applications.  The FacePRO software is offered on any Panasonic camera, and works with a separate FacePRO server that is integrated with the video recorder. The system can be added easily to existing systems and is useful for such applications as real-time searches for terror suspects or other criminals throughout a location. Panasonic is also looking to apply AI-based capabilities to vehicle recognition, too, in the near future, with the ability to identify vehicle characteristics such as color, type of vehicle and direction of travel. On the VMS side, Panasonic is transitioning its Video Insight software to a modular approach, tailoring solutions for a growing range of vertical markets, such as transportation and retail, all using “plug-ins” that enhance operation of Video Insight software. No additional license fees are involved That’s just a sampling of what I saw on Day 2 of the show. I have more to share in a final show report, including what I see tomorrow on the final (shortened) day.

Working together to develop an intelligent body-worn camera for public safety users, Motorola Solutions and artificial intelligence (AI) company Neurala are demonstrating how AI can be added to everyday devices such as smart phones using existing hardware platforms.  AI software, working at the “edge,” provides the capability to add AI functionality to existing cameras, such as Motorola’s Si500 body-worn camera. An agreement to develop the products follows Motorola’s strategic investment in Neurala in January 2017. “The technology is real, as our prototypes have demonstrated,” says Massimiliano “Max” Versace, Neurala CEO. “The technology will mature dramatically by the end of the year.” A final, marketable product from Motorola might be a year or more away, and the timing will depend on extensive testing in the meantime, he says. The goal is to enable police officers to more efficiently search for objects or persons of interest, such as missing children or suspects. Adapting hardware for artificial intelligence Neurala’s learning capabilities “at the edge” are hardware-agnostic; its software-only focus enables the principles of artificial intelligence to be applied to a variety of hardware platforms, including low-cost platforms used inside smart phones. Typically, cost and the need for speed are limitations that determine what hardware can be leveraged using the software. The goal is to enable police officers to more efficiently search for objects or persons of interest, such as missing children or suspects In the case of the Motorola body-worn camera, AI functionality is being added to existing hardware in the device, which is much like a smart phone encased in the form factor of a body-cam. Today’s smart phones include cameras, gyroscopes and accelerometers to provide sufficient data to drive AI applications. Software adapts existing hardware to transform them into AI devices capable of continuous learning in the field. Finding missing people in crowds Neurala and Motorola are promoting the new agreement with a use case of how a policeman’s body-worn camera could help find a missing child in a crowd. A network “pushes” a photo of a missing child to a network of 1,000 body-worn and/or dashboard cameras in the field, which employ AI to search for the child within each camera’s field of view and then provide an alert when a match is found. The cameras operate passively, without involving police officers, in effect automating the process without police officers having to look at every face in a crowd. AI’s contribution is to eliminate the need for humans to do repetitive or boring work, such as look at hours of video footage. Neurala began working in AI 11 years ago, long before the current buzz in the market. In a sense, awareness has caught up with the company, which has been developing its technologies ahead of the curve. “The same technology could be applied to closed circuit cameras to detect other objects,” says Versace. “The Neurala Brain is neural network software that can be trained to find a variety of objects, such as backpacks or vehicles, in the air or on the ground.” AI’s contribution is to eliminate the need for humans to do repetitive or boring work, such as look at hours of video footage Adding AI to existing security devices Other applications are also being developed. For example, Neurala has applied its technology to help the Lindbergh Foundation fight poaching of elephants and rhinos in southern Africa using video from drones as part of its Air Shepherd Program. Neurala’s software helps human analysts by searching through terabytes of video, including infrared, in real time as the drone is flying, pinpointing animals, vehicles and poachers during the day and at night. Versace expects the first applications of AI on existing products, including cameras and drones, before it is applied to robotics and other new applications. In effect, Neurala provides a “brain plug-in” that can add AI to change an existing solution from a passive sensor to a device that is “active in its thinking,” he adds. AI is here to stay, says Versace. “The market should know that AI has reached a point of no return. Companies that don’t use AI will be left behind. It’s the way to go to amplify your output.” Does Artificial Intelligence threaten humans? However, the technology isn’t perfect and shouldn’t be expected to be. “It’s still a growing technology, so you can’t expect 100 percent correct performance, especially if you deploy it in a constrained environment such as a cell phone,” says Versace. “AI can approximate 90 percent of a human’s ability to detect an object, and it’s tireless and can work 24 hours a day. It’s a liberating technology that takes on jobs that are not interesting, such as looking for a backpack on a computer screen.” AI tends to engender anxiety among some, with people like Elon Musk warning of an existential threat of the technology and a coming AI apocalypse. We should all relax, says Versace. “It’s a liberating technology,” he says. “Anyone who talks about AI as dangerous is not an AI expert. The less you know about AI, the more alarmist you are.” He suggests the physical security market should “learn more about it so they won’t be so scared.”

Advances in LPR: License plate recognition (LPR) is used widely today in law enforcement applications, but the enterprise security market is also catching on to benefits of the technology – especially when it is combined with other video analytics. PlateSmart Technologies, Oldsmar, Fla., is working to maximise those benefits and to use LPR as a real-time, proactive tool for physical security. PlateSmart’s ARES Enterprise Video Analytics System is a software-only platform that combines LPR with video analytics. The system is compatible with the newest HD cameras or can be retrofitted to legacy cameras, even analog. The system can work alone or can be integrated with existing video management systems and server hardware. The newest option is availability of LPR software inside the camera: PlateSmart offers an LPR-based video analytics “app” that can be loaded onto a Samsung Techwin Wisenet III camera. The company is working with other camera manufacturers, too. “That’s one of the beautiful things, we are a software-only, open-platform technologies, and we can easily conform to a given camera platform if there is enough processing capability,” says John Chigos, PlateSmart’s CEO. Combining LPR with video analytics provides better, more proactive, real-time results, adds Chigos. Integration of LPR and video analytics with various federal, state or private industry databases provides additional real-time data about vehicles as they come, go and move around a secured site. For example, the system can tell if a vehicle drives into an area where it shouldn’t go, say in a certain parking lot, in effect recognising the behavior of the vehicle. Benefits of Platesmart ARES: “Technology such as ours will be part of a solution that, combined with human intelligence and other video analytics capabilities, can prevent acts of terrorism,” In addition to reading the license plate number, Chigos says the system can also read the jurisdiction, country and province on the license plate, and video analytics can recognise the type of vehicle, its color, even the make and model (by recognising emblems or logos on a vehicle). Although designed for the U.S. market, the system easily adapts to applications throughout the world; for example, the license plate numbers in Europe are larger and easier to read. (In Europe, LPR is often referred to as ANPR [automatic number plate recognition].) PlateSmart’s system can also enable patterns to be developed based on the actions of a vehicle; databases can be created of vehicle activity; and “black lists” or “white lists” of vehicles can be compiled. “We do not touch the data; all the data is given to the end user,” says Chigos. “We set up the rule sets, or they can set them up.” “Technology such as ours will be part of a solution that, combined with human intelligence and other video analytics capabilities, can prevent acts of terrorism,” adds Chigos. “Technologies are changing to meet market needs, and we are part of that solution.” The company also offers a facial recognition software suite that can match video images of a driver’s face against faces in a driver’s license database, for example. High-speed vehicle tracking: The ARES system reads plate number and performs other analytics using a single video image, unlike some LPR systems that use two cameras – one to view the total image for context and a second, specialised IR camera to read the numbers on the license plate. There are also no other hardware elements, such as frame grabbers; it’s just the cameras and the software. Scalability is easy given that one installation may include hundreds of cameras plugged into the system. "The system can also make out three different numbers in a single video image, and the overall accuracy is 90 percent." PlateSmart says its system can read the license numbers from vehicles traveling at rapid speeds – the system captures numbers on vehicles traveling between 0 and 80 miles per hour on a highway between Tampa and Orlando, Fla. The system can also make out three different numbers in a single video image, and the overall accuracy is 90 percent. Chigos emphasises that means 90 out of 100 vehicles passing by; sometimes other manufacturers quote accuracy figures based on the number of plates it recognizes, not on the total number of vehicles passing by. Therefore, the percentage is higher. Market sectors: Applications so far have included water treatment plants, ports, and military bases. An initial pilot program was implemented at the Republican National Convention in 2012 in Tampa. The system is currently being used at Port Tampa Bay, Florida’s largest maritime port and the 16th largest in the United States. The system can also be used for site surveillance at hospitals, universities, and manufacturing and distribution centers. “Our technology takes advantage of cameras these facilities already have installed,” says Chigos. “When you add LPR on top of existing systems, we produce additional information without having to incur large capital expenditures.” Teaming up with defense systems integrator enrGies, Huntsville, Ala., PlateSmart is working to perfect the first LPR and video analytics technology for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs, or drones) to assist security agencies and military personnel in combatting crime and terrorism. Soon the “eye” in the sky will be able to read your license plate numbers.

Neath Port Talbot residents have been given a road safety boost in the form of a new Mobile Enforcement Vehicle (MEV). It has been supplied by Videalert, one of the UK’s leading suppliers of intelligent traffic enforcement, video surveillance and management solutions, which was awarded the contract after due procurement process. Mobile enforcement vehicle “Indiscriminate and dangerous parking around Neath Port Talbot will no longer be tolerated,” said Councillor Rob Jones, Leader of Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council. “The newly purchased mobile enforcement vehicle seeks to challenge those drivers who choose to park on school keep clear markings, within clearly defined bus stops and on pedestrian crossings with no thought for the safety of others. It is hoped that this MEV vehicle will help to further ensure greater safety and protection for pedestrians and other road users as we progress through 2019.” It is hoped that this MEV vehicle will help to further ensure greater safety and protection for pedestrians" As part of an ongoing campaign, the council’s road safety team carried out a county-wide School Gate Parking campaign in partnership with South Wales Police and the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service. This included banners to be displayed outside all schools to raise awareness as well as delivering education to all pupils - encouraging them to be a positive influence on their guardians taking them to and from school. However, it was determined that enforcement for persistent drivers was the most effective way to tackle this growing road safety menace. ANPR and Digital Video Platform The Mobile Enforcement Vehicle (MEV) comes equipped with two roof-mounted high-tech ANPR cameras and two colour cameras to capture contextual video evidence of vehicles whose drivers have chosen to contravene traffic orders across the County’s territories. The on-board systems are controlled by one of the Council’s Civil Enforcement Officers using a dashboard-mounted touchscreen. All contravention evidence data is transferred to Videalert’s Digital Video Platform in the parking office at the end of each shift. The Videalert system automates the construction of video evidence packs which are reviewed by trained council operatives prior to sending confirmed offences to the back-office processing system for the issuance of penalty charge notices to the registered keepers of vehicles. Road and residential safety The winning entry of ‘iPatrol’ was submitted by a pupil at Gnoll Primary School In order to promote the safety messages to younger residents, the Council’s Road Safety Team also engaged with all Primary School pupils in a competition to name the vehicle. The winning entry of ‘iPatrol’ was submitted by a pupil at Gnoll Primary School who was presented with a Chromebook, sponsored by Videalert, by Neath Port Talbot Council Mayor Cllr Dennis Keogh at the Mayor’s Parlour in Port Talbot on Thursday, January 24th. According to Tim Daniels, Sales and Marketing Director at Videalert: “This new generation of multi-purpose mobile enforcement vehicles (MEVs) gives Councils greater flexibility in the way that they can deal with a wide range of moving traffic and parking contraventions.”

Bath and North East Somerset Council (B&NES Council) is extending its Videalert CCTV enforcement platform with the installation of additional cameras for its approved class C clean air zone (CAZ) that gives exemptions to private cars but charges higher polluting buses, coaches, HGVs, LGVs/vans, private hire vehicles and taxis. Videalert was awarded the contract to ensure full and seamless integration with the council’s existing hosted digital video platform which is already being used to enforce a wide range of restrictions including bus lanes, bus gates and permit parking.  Videalert CCTV enforcement platform B&NES Council was one of 28 councils directed by the government to prepare an action plan to urgently reduce high levels of nitrogen dioxide (caused by vehicle emissions) to within EU and national limits by 2021 at the latest. The authority had originally proposed a Class D CAZ, charging all higher emission vehicles, including cars, to drive in the city centre. However, following further ongoing technical work and a public consultation in December - which garnered an unprecedented 8,421 responses - a class C option with additional traffic management, was agreed. According to Chris Major, group manager for Transport and Parking at B&NES Council: “The new charging class C CAZ will achieve compliance by 2021 apart from a single exceedance caused by localised traffic issues. We believe this will be resolved by installing traffic signals at two junctions.” HD ANPR cameras Videalert will be installing HD ANPR cameras to enforce the new CAZ scheme at key road junctions across the designated boundary Videalert will be installing HD ANPR cameras to enforce the new CAZ scheme at key road junctions across the designated boundary. The hosted Videalert platform will automate the management and enforcement of this new zone, providing real-time identification including vehicle make, model, colour and euro standard rating for pre-filtering and updating the whitelist of compliant vehicles held at the edge to minimise transmission costs. Information on non-compliant vehicles will then interface with the UK government’s new national clean air zone database for vehicle validation and payment. The system will also provide detailed analytics and impact analysis highlighting the reduction in non-compliant vehicles entering the zone over time. Support multiple applications Tim Daniels, Sales and Marketing Director at Videalert, added: “The award of this high-profile contract confirms Videalert’s ability to handle the evolving requirements of clean air and low emission zones. It also demonstrates how a single video data platform can support multiple applications, enabling councils to address the challenges of improving traffic congestion and air quality simultaneously.” The CAZ should commence operation at the end of 2020. The daily charge will be £9 for non-compliant taxis, private hire vehicles and light goods vehicles (the minimum standard being euro 6 for diesel and Euro 4 for petrol), and £100 for buses, coaches and HGVs (the minimum standard being euro 6).

Sony 4K security cameras act as ‘intelligent eyes’ at EDGE Olympic, one of Amsterdam’s most technologically advanced sustainable buildings. The rugged minidome cameras give a clear picture of the flow of workers and visitors into and around the premises. In addition, their excellent low-light sensitivity is an asset for the reinforcement of security at entrances and car parking areas. Playing a key role in EDGE Olympic’s intelligent design are thirteen Sony SNC VM772R 4K minidome cameras EDGE Olympic is an exciting landmark in sustainability. Opened in May 2018, the building constructed by EDGE offers over 11,000m2 of innovative co-working space close to Amsterdam’s Olympic Stadium. Providing a creative and energy-efficient workspace for commercial tenants, the building’s design is focused on a sophisticated digital infrastructure that connects people, devices, sensors and information via a secure cloud platform. Sony SNC VM772R 4K minidome cameras Playing a key role in EDGE Olympic’s intelligent design are thirteen Sony SNC VM772R 4K minidome cameras installed by Netherlands security specialist, Lancker Wolters. The cameras are integrated with Genetec’s video management system to create a comprehensive video security and monitoring solution. Ruggedly built for all-weather outdoor operation around the clock, the SNC VM772R camera features a large, highly sensitive 1.0-type back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS image sensor. Offering four times higher resolution than Full HD, the camera is capable of capturing smooth, crisply detailed 4K video in conditions of near darkness. This allows people and objects to be seen clearly in a wide range of lighting conditions – and thus helps to ensure round-the-clock safety and security of employees, co-workers and visitors to the building. Video data in building operations optimisation In the future, it is expected that video data will also be used to optimise building operations In the future, it is expected that video data will also be used to optimise building operations. For example, intelligent analysis of traffic patterns could enable more efficient room bookings and use of resources such as heating, lighting and cleaning services. Further, SNC-VM772R cameras monitor the EDGE Olympic car park, scanning the registration license plates of vehicles and checking the number against a database to admit authorised staff and visitors only, while automatically raising the barrier to let vehicles exit. This also allows instant confirmation whether a particular employee is present in the building: this overview can be beneficial, for example, in the event of an emergency evacuation. Sony 4K surveillance cameras "The initial price of a particular camera doesn’t matter" comments Erik Ubels, CTO, EDGE Technologies. "It’s the usability over its lifetime that makes it a better investment. That's why we chose Sony 4K cameras for this landmark building and other properties that we’re planning in the near future."

Integrity Security Group is using SmartTask’s SmartForms to gain added visibility and dramatically cut down on its administrative burden. Having adopted the employee scheduling and mobile workforce management software last year for the provision of proof of attendance, control room management and staff rostering, the company is now using its electronic data capture functionality to streamline a range of operational processes. Initially, SmartForms are being used for vacant property and mobile patrol inspections as well as daily vehicle checks, already saving more than 15 hours of admin a month. SmartTask SmartForms The SmartForms replace previous paper-based processes that were increasingly difficult to manage by the office-based admin team “We are now using the SmartTask SmartForms to help reduce administration, capture critical work data and enforce health and safety procedures,” explains James Chittil, General Manager at Integrity Security Group. “We are constantly looking at clever ways to take advantage of the software’s rich functionality, so we can continue to simplify and enhance the way we operate.” The SmartForms replace previous paper-based processes that were increasingly difficult to manage by the office-based admin team. All reporting for vacant property and mobile patrol inspections – for both scheduled patrols and alarm activations – are now completed using a SmartTask-enabled smartphone. By electronically capturing all relevant information, including photo evidence, Integrity can quickly provide customers with a status update and details of all undertaken work as well as respond to any identified issues. Vehicle checks and fleet management Meanwhile, daily vehicle checks for Integrity’s fleet of vans are now completed using a specially-developed SmartForm, so the company can instantly see if drivers are complying with this health and safety procedure. Any vehicle-related problems or damage can be raised by the driver and actioned immediately by the admin team to mitigate fleet risk. Mileage data is also captured through the software, enabling maintenance requirements to be tracked and scheduled at appropriate intervals. “The SmartForms are enabling us to dramatically reduce paperwork and remove manual processes. This is making it much simpler for both our security officers in the field and our office-based admin team to capture, collate and communicate essential operational data. This is not only helping us make better use of our valuable resources, but also enhance the service we are providing to customers,” added James Chittil. Paul Ridden, CEO of SmartTask commented: “Our experience within the security sector means we are continually developing new functionality that overcome real-world problems for our customers. This is the reason we are working in partnership with a growing number of security businesses who recognise the value they can gain and the benefits they can achieve from using the SmartTask software.” Integrity selected SmartTask to replace an outdated time and attendance system, enabling it to effectively monitor the whereabouts and welfare of staff Lone worker protection Integrity selected SmartTask to replace an outdated time and attendance system, enabling it to effectively monitor the whereabouts and welfare of staff as part of its commitment to lone worker protection. The company is also using the intelligent rostering functionality to streamline internal planning processes, while the interactive dashboard supported the launch of a dedicated, out-of-hours control room operation by providing a live view of all scheduled shifts and expected or missed check calls. SmartTask is an advanced and simple-to-use employee scheduling and mobile workforce management solution that enables security companies to better plan and manage their workers, so they are at the right place, at the right time. The cloud-based software solution combines intelligent rostering, live monitoring and integrated proof of attendance across both static and mobile teams, making it the ideal tool to improve operational control, enhance customer satisfaction, and support duty of care to staff.

Access control system specialist Nortech has recently seen a luxury hotel in Bath update its car park by replacing its existing Nortech FeeMaster system with the latest specification. Nortech’s FeeMaster range was installed by access control system experts APT Security Systems, which is currently updating its past application of the FeeMaster system, so that staff can continue to monitor use of the hotel’s car park. APT Security Systems is the provider of vehicle access control and traffic management systems in the UK. Using its experience in designing and delivering practical and cost-effective solutions, APT installed the updated system which includes the FeeMaster Smart Entry Station, FeeMaster Smart Exit Station, and a FeeMaster Smart Console inside the building. The console allows the staff to control any misuse of the car park and ensures that there are enough parking spaces for its guests. Upgrading car parking system to latest version Nortech’s FeeMaster Smart parking management system is a flexible, simple and cost-effective way of managing car parking accessMary Lynskey, Operations Manager at APT Security Systems commented, “Nortech’s systems have been used on our projects for a number of years and as with this hotel we are currently updating the equipment at these sites to the latest versions. We have worked with Nortech for more than 20 years and are very pleased with its equipment.” She continued, “The FeeMaster range has always worked well for the hotel and they were happy to renew the system as it’s the right fit for their business. The client likes how the products work and we will always recommend Nortech to others looking to upgrade their car parking systems.” Nortech’s FeeMaster Smart parking management system is a flexible, simple and cost-effective way of managing car parking access and controlling validity periods using Mifare smart cards. This avoids the need for expensive cabling between components and minimises disruption. Functioning of the FeeMaster system The FeeMaster Smart exit station prevents unauthorised vehicles leaving a car park or entering restricted areasThe FeeMaster entry station is designed to be used to record the date and time that a vehicle enters a car park. Located at the entrance of the car park, it issues tickets to visitors as they arrive, with each ticket containing a barcode, serial number and the date and time. Dispensing the ticket triggers an ‘open’ signal to the entry barrier. The ticket is then taken to the hotel’s reception desk where the date and time is used in conjunction with the FeeMaster Smart Console. The FeeMaster Smart exit station prevents unauthorised vehicles leaving a car park or entering restricted areas. Located at the exit of the car park or the entrance to a restricted area, it validates the Mifare smart cards and exit tokens. The exit station is equipped with a barcode scanner to read exit tokens issued by the FeeMaster Smart console, as well as entry tickets issued at the entry station. Each ticket is valid for single use at the exit station during the validity period assigned to it. The exit station controller checks the details on the barcode ticket and sends an ‘open’ signal to the barrier. Encoding reusable Mifare access control cards The FeeMaster Smart Console is a compact and easy-to-install device that reads barcode tickets issued at the entry stationThe FeeMaster Smart Console is a compact and easy-to-install device that reads barcode tickets issued at the entry station, calculates the fees based on pre-programmed tariff details, and encodes reusable Mifare access control cards with validity data. If necessary, the console can print customer receipts and/or barcode exit tokens. It can also control a till drawer and can optionally provide a relay output signal which can be used by third equipment i.e. barrier control whenever a card has been encoded or an exit ticket printed. The console may also be connected to a PC so that transactions can be analysed and additional tariff management features may be used. Nortech has supplied products and solutions to the security industry for over 25 years as an independent British company. The company uses extensive experience and expertise to create new security products to fit their clients’ needs and designs everything with the customer in mind. 

Primark, the international retailer that offers Amazing Fashion at Amazing Prices, is using Traka’s dock door and intelligent management solutions to ensure maximum efficiency and safety across its warehouse and distribution centres. Primark operates from eight distribution centres. Its most recent opening was in Islip, Northamptonshire, UK covering 1.1 million sq. ft. of space – the equivalent of 17 football pitches. It has 13 miles of aisles and is a 24/7 operation powered by over 250 committed employees. A key part of Primark’s success is its efficient distribution of goods to store to meet growing customer demands. This is a complex operation involving the use of a wide range of technology.  Traka DockSafe door dock solution To ensure effective turnaround times, Traka’s multifunctional DockSafe door dock solution was installed to stop vehicles prematurely leaving Goods Out Bays, alongside intelligent key management systems. Traka supports Primark’s distribution centres with its DockSafe solution and key management systems" David Flavell, Primark’s Operations Development Manager – Supply Chain said: “Primark’s products fly off the shelves and rails, so we need to get our products from suppliers to stores as quickly and as safely as possible. Implementing the Traka DockSafe has been critical here. Not only is it simple to use, but also provides data on driver activity and bay usage, as well as increased peace of mind thanks to the prevention of driveways. It ensures the system runs like clockwork, which is great news for our colleagues whilst working hard to deliver Amazing Fashion to our customers.” DockSafe combination with iFob technology Traka’s intelligent DockSafe solution has been exclusively designed to stop vehicles prematurely leaving the Goods Out bays of a busy distribution centre. DockSafe combines Traka’s iFob technology with a unique Susie lock to create a robust protocol where a vehicle must be immobilised prior to the loading dock door being opened. Once goods are loaded, the door must be closed and the loading bay clear of forklifts or personnel, before the vehicle can be unlocked and driven away. Steve Bumphrey, UK Sales Director added: “Traka supports Primark’s distribution centres with its DockSafe solution and key management systems. With advanced features and data reporting, it ensures its people can optimise loading bay planning for long-term efficiency and productivity, in a safe and secure working environment.”

It seems there are more “bad things” happening than ever before. We hear news every day of workplace shootings and terrorist attacks, of smash-and-grab thefts and child abductions. Beyond the possible human tragedy involved, such events pose a persistent question to anyone involved in the realm of security: Could we have prevented it? The first step toward prevention is to predict or foresee an event before it happens. Too often, technology enters the picture after the fact, most commonly the use of forensic video. Isn’t there more our industry can do before such events occur? We put the question to this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: How can security systems be used to predict bad things before they happen?