Vehicle tracking

March Networks, a global video surveillance and video-based business intelligence solutions company, is pleased to announce several innovative enhancements to its retail solution that use AI and cloud technology, to help quick-service restaurants (QSRs) and other retailers cut losses from theft, improve customer service, and drive profitability. Mobile order pick-up solution With mobile and online ordering more popular than ever, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, streamlining curbside delivery is a top priority for retailers. With this in mind, March Networks has introduced a new mobile order pick-up solution for retailers and QSRs, which alerts operators in real-time, to customers arriving for curbside pick-up. The solution uses a highly accurate, AI-powered analytic, available in March Networks’ ME6 Series IP Cameras, to detect vehicles arriving for pick-up. Retailers can receive an email or text message alert about each vehicle’s arrival, and also capture recorded video of every curbside delivery, for future review and investigation. Integration with Searchlight for Retail software When paired with March Networks’ Searchlight for Retail software, the solution allows businesses to also capture data analytics on curbside deliveries. QSRs, for example, can track the number of mobile deliveries, at different times, throughout the day and on different days, to analyse trends and help improve speed of service. Big box retailers and grocers, meanwhile, can use Searchlight software to oversee all of their curbside deliveries, investigate any disputes and uncover trends, which can help improve customer service. Combining video surveillance with business analytics Searchlight, available as a cloud service, combines video surveillance with POS transaction data and business analytics Searchlight, available as a cloud service, combines video surveillance with point-of-sale (POS) transaction data and business analytics, for exception-based reporting and faster loss prevention investigation times. It also offers valuable information on customer service, operations and business performance, with intelligent easy-to-read dashboards. Retailers can now easily and conveniently access Searchlight data on their smartphone or tablet, with the March Networks’ Command Mobile Plus app. By deploying the app, retailers can see POS transaction data paired with surveillance video, investigate security alerts and review thumbnail images from each of their cameras. Innovative cloud-based suite of tools “By offering this innovative cloud-based suite of tools, March Networks is using AI, to help solve the problems that retailers and QSRs face on a daily basis,” said Net Payne, March Networks Chief Sales & Marketing Officer. Net Payne adds, “This new curbside solution helps retailers adapt to changing consumer demands and use video to improve the customer experience, and gather new insights about a rapidly growing segment of their business.” Global Security Exchange (GSX) 2021 March Networks will showcase these new additions to its portfolio, at the Global Security Exchange (GSX) 2021 tradeshow, at booth 1708, taking place in Orlando, Florida, from September 27-29, 2021.

Teledyne FLIR, part of Teledyne Technologies Incorporated, has announced the release of new additions to its perimeter security portfolio for critical infrastructure. Teledyne’s Elara R-Series commercial ground security radars and the Triton FH-Series multi-spectral fixed cameras. Strengthening perimeter security A first for Teledyne FLIR, the Elara R-Series is the ideal commercial radar system for industrial commercial applications, increasing detection coverage, auto-tracking, dynamic mapping and position intelligence of intruders. Part of the Teledyne FLIR’s premium Triton family of cameras, the Triton FH-Series delivers both, intrusion detection and video verification, through its high-resolution thermal and visible imaging capabilities. These features plus the ability to capture vital details using 4K imagery, enables security personnel to properly identify and assess situations, significantly improving response time. Elara R-Series commercial ground security radars The Elara R-Series introduces compact ground radars that are built to work within larger security systems The Elara R-Series introduces compact ground radars that are built to work within larger security systems, in order to provide advanced warning of both, human and vehicle intrusions, beyond the fence line, while continuously tracking and precisely locating multiple targets. This series consists of two models, each designed with regional certifications in mind: the Elara R-290, which is compliant with United States Federal Communications Commission (FCC) guidelines, and the Elara R-190, which is Conformité Européenne (CE)-compliant for Europe. Elara R-290 security radar The Elara R-290 features a 90-degree field of view, up to a 400-metre range for vehicle tracking, a 200 metres range for human tracking, and provides wide-area protection, as well as situational awareness beyond the fence line. The Elara R-190 offers a 300-metre range for vehicles and 125 metres for humans. These products are designed for reliable detection in all weather and lighting conditions. The radars’ auto-tracking feature helps to direct pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) surveillance sensors in the right direction. The radars also help expand coverage area and significantly minimise false alarms. In addition, both models can provide security personnel with precise and real-time data, 24/7. Triton FH-Series multi-spectral fixed cameras The Triton FH-Series are ruggedised, multi-spectral fixed cameras that integrate industry-renowned thermal imaging for detection with 4K visible imaging, in order to help identify intruders in harsh perimeter security settings. Critical infrastructure facilities will benefit from technological advancements, such as CNN-based video analytics Critical infrastructure facilities will benefit from technological advancements, such as highly-accurate convolutional neural network, CNN-based video analytics, for both thermal and visible spectrums, which minimise false alarms and aid in geo-locating threats for superior situational awareness. On-board scheduling tool The on-board scheduling tool gives the operator the ability to select the type of analytics used, in order to make detections based on time of day, business hours, and seasonality. Additionally, radiometric versions of the Triton FH-Series can be used for early fire detection applications, to help critical sites operate safely and efficiently. “Teledyne FLIR is committed to equipping security directors with technologies that empower them, to protect their facilities and personnel at mission critical sites,” said Kai Moncino, the Global Business Development Manager for Security at Teledyne FLIR. Kai Moncino adds, “The Elara R-Series and Triton FH-Series are built to enhance perimeter protection, providing accurate detection and alerting of threats. As with all of our new products, the Elara R-Series and Triton FH-Series are designed with the latest cyber-hardening features for added security and peace of mind.”

Uri Guterman, Head of Product & Marketing for Hanwha Techwin Europe, champions the use of the DORI standard, as the starting point for designing a video surveillance system and how in doing so, one can ensure that the specified cameras are able to cost-effectively meet the end-user’s expectations. The quality of the images that can be captured by many of the latest generations of super-high definition video surveillance cameras are simply breathtaking, allowing users to see ultra-sharp detail of objects and people within the field of view. 4K and 8K high-resolution cameras The resolution capabilities of 4K and 8K cameras, for example, enables operators to digitally zoom in to see a non-pixelated image of just a very small part of a scene, making them an ideal solution for large open area applications, where installing multiple cameras may be impractical or cost-prohibitive. The deployment of ultra-high-resolution cameras, however, comes at a price, in that they all capture large file size images which, when transmitted over the network, consume large amounts of bandwidth. They also have large data storage requirements.  Proprietary compression technologies Some camera manufacturers, such as Hanwha Techwin, have developed proprietary compression technologies Some camera manufacturers, such as Hanwha Techwin, have developed proprietary compression technologies which, when working in conjunction with H.265 compression, are able to reduce bandwidth and storage demands by up to 80%. It is, however, still wise for system designers to question, if it is really necessary to specify the highest resolution camera available, bearing in mind the higher initial capital cost, as well as ongoing network and storage requirements, even if they are reduced by complementary compression technology. DORI helps specify the ideal camera The phrase ‘horses for courses’ comes to mind, when thinking about what system designers need to take into consideration when deciding on the best camera model for each location and objective. In this respect, the design of the system must obviously reflect the finding of the risk assessment and take into account an end-user client’s operational requirements. They may, for example, need to capture high-quality, evidence-grade images, which will identify an individual or able to verify an intruder alarm event. DORI - Detection, Observation, Recognition and Identification While many system integrators will be familiar with DORI, installers who are relatively new to the world of video surveillance, perhaps do not know that the IEC EN62676-4 international standard provides time-saving guidance, as to which cameras should be specified. So, for those who are not familiar with the standard, listed below is an overview of what the DORI acronym stands for: Detection: The quality of images captured by a camera allows a user to determine, whether a person or vehicle is present. Observation: The captured images are able to provide characteristic details of an individual, such as their clothing. Recognition: The clarity of the images enables operators to see with a high level of certainty that an object or incident is the same as the one that an operator has seen before, e.g. it is a person, vehicle or a fire. Identification: The resolution and quality of the images enable an individual to be identified beyond a reasonable doubt. Cameras ability to achieve DORI defined objectives The ability of a camera to achieve these DORI-defined objectives will depend on a number of factors, such as the resolution, lighting and the amount of movement within the scene. In terms of ‘Observation’, it is worth noting that sequential low-resolution images can provide as much detail (albeit of a different nature) for the human brain to process, than high resolution still images, i.e. the movement of a vehicle is very different to that of someone walking. As an example, a 4-megapixel camera in daylight conditions should deliver the following: Objective 2.88mm lens 3.6mm lens 120 metres Detection 43 metres 80 metres 120 metres Observation 17 metres 32 metres 48 metres Recognition 9 metres 16 metres 24 metres Identification 4 metres 8 metres 12 metres However, the maximum distance that there can be between a camera and an object, in order to meet one of the above requirements, will vary depending on the lighting conditions, the compression format, camera locations and other factors. Sensitivity of the camera sensors The sensitivity of the camera sensors used by different camera manufacturers will also vary The sensitivity of the camera sensors used by different camera manufacturers will also vary and in this respect, Hanwha Techwin’s online Toolbox Plus enables system integrators to compare the specifications of its Wisenet cameras side-by-side and compile a list of the products required for a specific project. There is also the added benefit of being able to generate a report on the estimated bandwidth and storage requirements for the project. It seems almost too simple, but using DORI as a guide for designing a new video surveillance solution, will ensure no wastage of money, by over-specifying the cameras needed for the job in hand. Equally important, the reverse also applies in that the DORI standard will help to avoid experiencing ‘buyers’ remorse’, as a result of installing cameras that are not fit for purpose. Other key factors, such as IR illumination and WDR functionality It is important, however, to bear in mind that DORI is a guide to ensuring that an unsuitable camera is not specified, but on its own is not going to choose the perfect camera for a job. Other requirements need to be taken into consideration, such as if the camera will need to have built-in IR illumination and/or have good WDR functionality because it will be pointing towards an outside window and will have to deal with variable lighting conditions. As always, the best advice is therefore to work with manufacturers you believe you can trust and ask them to confirm that you have made the correct camera choice.

Hanwha Techwin, a global supplier of IP and analogue video surveillance solutions launched Wisenet Road AI, a powerful new line of Automatic License Plate Recognition (ALPR) cameras that feature Make, Model, and Colour Recognition (MMCR) to identify vehicles using AI technology. The cameras, together with a powerful edge-based application, support real-time viewing, event monitoring, forensic search, and a range of widgets and graphs that display daily/weekly/monthly traffic statistics. Road AI edge-based app With multiple types of classifications including car, SUV, van, light commercial vehicle, truck, bus, and motorcycle, users can search based on several attributes including date/time, license plate, photo, type, brand, model, and colour. In addition to displaying plate and vehicle attributes, the Road AI edge-based app also supports black/white list event notifications. Event notifications, descriptive metadata, and traffic metrics are always accessible, even with a simple browser interface As a standalone system, the application can support up to 10,000 detailed records, including the images of plates and vehicles, on the LPR camera’s internal SD card. In addition to camera-based storage and search features, Wisenet Road AI is integrated with popular VMS providers such as Genetec, Milestone, and Hanwha’s Wisenet WAVE. Event notifications, descriptive metadata, and traffic metrics are always accessible, even with a simple browser interface. Equipped with long-range IR For low-mid speed applications, the PNV-A9081RLP and PNO-A9081RLP cameras are ideal for community traffic observation and parking applications. For higher speed applications, the new global shutter-based TNO-7180RLP supports LPR and MMCR at up to 155 MPH with 18x zoom and powerful IR for long-range reads up to 165 feet at any time of day. High-resolution sensors The cameras are also easy to install due to their wide angles and high-resolution 4K sensors Wisenet Road AI cameras, with the embedded and permanently licensed Road AI application, are unique in that they require no external application to read license plates or other vehicle attributes. The cameras are also easy to install due to their wide angles and high-resolution 4K sensors. This allows more flexibility and deployment options than traditional LPR cameras that must be carefully lined up to capture numbers accurately. AI and deep learning benefits “Our goal was to design a new generation of cost-effective LPR cameras that deliver the benefits that deep learning AI algorithms can provide, in terms of both image quality and data capture performance,” said Ray Cooke, Senior Vice President - Products, Solutions, and Integrations at Hanwha Techwin America. “The ease of installation, enhanced accuracy, and meaningful traffic insights derived from the Road AI solution brings a new level of intelligence to businesses, campuses, and smart city developers.” The new Wisenet Road AI solution will be on display at Hanwha Techwin’s booth #1641 at GSX 2021.

Automatic Systems, an industry manufacturer of pedestrian and vehicle entrance control access systems introduces its newly updated FirstLane speed gate to its range of pedestrian turnstiles and vehicle barriers. Door security entrance lane The FirstLane double swing door security entrance lane offers a high bidirectional throughput and uncompromising security. The first line features an elegant modern design and integrates seamlessly into any architectural style. Equipped with high processing capacity and an exclusive detection system, the FirstLane prevents any unauthorised entries and provides end users with accurate user tracking records. A modular speedgate, FirstLane can be installed in either a single or a multi-lane array and can also be combined with standard lanes and wide lanes within the same array. Its new dynamic pictogram provides an even better user experience by offering more intuitive information. Automatic System is debuting the FirstLane at GSX 2021, Booth # 1833, at the Orlando Convention Centre September 27th – 29th. Contactless optical barrier integrations Vision Pass facial recognition enables users a touchless entry through the SlimLane turnstile In addition, Automatic Systems will be demonstrating the new contactless Idemia integrations with its SlimLane glass optical barrier speed gate. Among these integrations is Vision Pass facial recognition, which enables users a touchless entry through the SlimLane turnstile, and the Morpho Wave frictionless biometric reader, which offers a quick, contactless entry ideal for high-traffic, highly secure entry. ETL certified fenced barrier Automatic Systems BLG76 rising fenced barrier which was recently certified ETL to UL325 standards will also be in booth 1833. This automatic vehicle gate helps control both pedestrian and vehicle traffic and the gate’s small footprint and rapid opening and closing speed makes it the ideal solution for perimeters requiring a high throughput while maintaining an increased level of security. “We at Automatic Systems are very proud to showcase our latest product introductions and integrations at GSX,” says David Enderle, VP Sales for Automatic Systems. “Following the strict safety protocols such as face masks, social distancing, and frequent cleaning, we look forward to reuniting face-to-face with the show’s attendees as well as interacting with those who will be attending GSX virtually.”

Surveillance products are widely deployed in modern society to give protection. Facing hundreds of video feeds at a time can be challenging to catch the most vital information. False alarms such as waving branches of a tree on a windy day or movement of small animals have always troubled control room operators. When searching for a security event, watching hours of video footage can be very exhausting. What if one has a security guard who never takes a break and is never distracted? Deep learning AI video analytics GeoVision Deep Learning AI video analytics software can help control room operators focus on responding to real incidents and not waste effort on false alarms. In addition, deep learning software also allows operators to search for a specific object by attributes. GV-AI Guard Basic is deep learning AI video analytics software. It is an open platform to support ONVIF compliant cameras. Push notification on mobile app and SDK for 3rd party software integration is available. Key features are: Smart search in playback Search events by Vehicle Type & Vehicle Colour Search events by Clothing Colour Vehicle detection Colour Vehicle type Illegal parking Human detection Colour of clothes Face mask detection Social distance detection Hard hat detection GV-AI Guard basic software can be practical for city surveillance, industry, commercial building, security company, etc.

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has accentuated our digital dependency, on a global scale. Data centres have become even more critical to modern society. The processing and storage of information underpin the economy, characterised by a consistent increase in the volume of data and applications, and reliance upon the internet and IT services. Data centres classed as CNI As such, they are now classed as Critical National Infrastructure (CNI) and sit under the protection of the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), and the Centre for the Protection of National Infrastructure (CPNI). As land continues to surge in value, data centre operators are often limited for choice, on where they place their sites and are increasingly forced to consider developed areas, close to other infrastructures, such as housing or industrial sites. Complex security needs One misconception when it comes to data centres is that physical security is straightforward One misconception when it comes to data centres is that physical security is straightforward. However, in practice, things are far more complex. On top of protecting the external perimeter, thought must also be given to factors, such as access control, hostile vehicle mitigation (HVM), protecting power infrastructure, as well as standby generators and localising security devices to operate independently of the main data centre. Face value How a site looks is more important than you may think. Specify security that appears too hostile risks blatantly advertising that you’re protecting a valuable target, ironically making it more interesting to opportunistic intruders. The heightened security that we recommend to clients for these types of sites, include 4 m high-security fences, coils of razor wire, CCTV, and floodlighting. When used together in an integrated approach, it’s easy to see how they make the site appear hostile against its surroundings. However, it must appear secure enough to give the client peace of mind that the site is adequately protected. Getting the balance right is crucial. So, how do you balance security, acoustics and aesthetics harmoniously? Security comes first These are essential facilities and as a result, they require appropriate security investment. Cutting corners leads to a greater long-term expense and increases the likelihood of highly disruptive attacks. Checkpoints Fortunately, guidance is available through independent accreditations and certifications, such as the Loss Prevention Certification Board’s (LPCB) LPS 1175 ratings, the PAS 68 HVM rating, CPNI approval, and the police initiative - Secured by Design (SBD). Thorough technical evaluation and quality audit These bodies employ thorough technical evaluation work and rigorous quality audit processes to ensure products deliver proven levels of protection. With untested security measures, you will not know whether a product works until an attack occurs. Specifying products accredited by established bodies removes this concern. High maintenance Simply installing security measures and hoping for the best will not guarantee 24/7 protection. Just as you would keep computer software and hardware updated, to provide the best level of protection for the data, physical security also needs to be well-maintained, in order to ensure it is providing optimum performance. Importance of testing physical security parameters Inspecting the fence line may seem obvious and straightforward, but it needs to be done regularly. From our experience, this is something that is frequently overlooked. The research we conducted revealed that 63% of companies never test their physical security. They should check the perimeter on both sides and look for any attempted breaches. Foliage, weather conditions or topography changes can also affect security integrity. Companies should also check all fixtures and fittings, looking for damage and corrosion, and clear any litter and debris away. Accessibility When considering access control, speed gates offer an excellent solution for data centres. How quickly a gate can open and close is essential, especially when access to the site is restricted. The consequences of access control equipment failing can be extremely serious, far over a minor irritation or inconvenience. Vehicle and pedestrian barriers, especially if automated, require special attention to maintain effective security and efficiency. Volume control Data centres don’t generally make the best neighbours. The noise created from their 24-hour operation can be considerable. HVAC systems, event-triggered security and fire alarms, HV substations, and vehicle traffic can quickly become unbearable for residents. Secure and soundproof perimeter As well as having excellent noise-reducing properties, timber is also a robust material for security fencing So, how do you create a secure and soundproof perimeter? Fortunately, through LPS 1175 certification and CPNI approval, it is possible to combine high-security performance and up to 28dB of noise reduction capabilities. As well as having excellent noise-reducing properties, timber is also a robust material for security fencing. Seamlessly locking thick timber boards create a flat face, making climbing difficult and the solid boards prevent lines of sight into the facility. For extra protection, steel mesh can either be added to one side of the fence or sandwiched between the timber boards, making it extremely difficult to break through. A fair façade A high-security timber fence can be both, aesthetically pleasing and disguise its security credentials. Its pleasant natural façade provides a foil to the stern steel bars and mesh, often seen with other high-security solutions. Of course, it’s still important that fencing serves its primary purposes, so make sure you refer to certifications, to establish a product’s security and acoustic performance. Better protected The value of data cannot be overstated. A breach can have severe consequences for public safety and the economy, leading to serious national security implications. Countering varied security threats Data centres are faced with an incredibly diverse range of threats, including activism, sabotage, trespass, and terrorism on a daily basis. It’s no wonder the government has taken an active role in assisting with their protection through the medium of the CPNI and NCSC. By working with government bodies such as the CPNI and certification boards like the LPCB, specifiers can access a vault of useful knowledge and advice. This will guide them to effective and quality products that are appropriate for their specific site in question, ensuring it’s kept safe and secure.

As the multi-billion-dollar market for artificial-intelligence-based video analytics continues to grow, so does the number of video analytics solution providers. In Q3 of 2018, Stockholm-based consulting company Memoori identified 128 active companies in the supply chain for AI video analytics [i]. This list is far from exhaustive, considering how analytics has been gaining interest and becoming mainstream in 2020, with users expecting more accurate alerts based on object detection instead of motion detection, hardware providers developing more powerful but compact chip sets for deployment, and more startup solution providers carving out their niche in the market.   Given so many choices, the question arises as to how a system integrator can evaluate and select the best solution for his customer. Although the criteria vary for each vertical, there are some key metrics to consider across the field: Open platform Ease of use Robustness and reliable performance Versatility Good support and integration Low total cost of ownership 1. Open platform Open platform allows the user to have complete flexibility, avoid being locked into any particular manufacturer, and utilise the best-of-breed solution available in each category. Analytics has been gaining interest and becoming mainstream in 2020 In 2019, an IPVM survey shows that 51% of system integrators always prefer an open platform to an end-to-end solution (i.e., all components including camera, VMS, analytics, etc. provided by one manufacturer), and 24% select open platform or end-to-end depending on customer requirements [ii]. For analytics, as the users commonly have an existing infrastructure, investing in a technology overhaul would be too expensive. An open-platform analytics product, i.e., a camera-agnostic, VMS-agnostic, and computer-server-agnostic product, will add value to the existing infrastructure within a reasonable budget. Open platform also makes it easier and more cost-efficient to upgrade each component when necessary. 2. Ease of use One of the main reasons and goals of applying AI to security is to help the user automate the process of watching hours and hours of surveillance videos, extract useful information and send alerts when necessary. In other words, AI should make it easier for the user to operate the security system. Thus, a good AI video analytics solution must be easy to set up and connect to the existing infrastructure, easy to use on a daily basis, and easy to scale with the expansion of the business. Let us examine each point in more details: Easy to set up: a turn-key, plug-and-play solution helps save time and money. The system integrator can spend a couple of hours instead of days to help the customer set up. In both 2018 and 2020, the most common reason that integrators cited for choosing a solution is that “it just works” [iii][iv]. Easy to use: an intuitive, no-learning-curve user interface allows the customer to make the solution second-nature, maximize its utility and gets the highest return on investment. The best-case scenario is that everyone in the user’s organisation, e.g., every police officer in a city police department, can use the solution on a daily basis, not limited to a technical staff with rigorous training. Easy to scale: the solution must be designed to seamlessly scale in different ways: number of cameras (e.g., from a few to a few thousands); deployment locations (e.g., can we access data in our branch office in another city? how about another country?); types of device and deployment (e.g., body-worn cameras, in-vehicle, control center, cloud). 3. Robustness and reliable performance Traditional VMD (video motion detection) -based analytics have many limitations and false alarms, so AI-based analytics were developed, primarily to identify different objects in the videos with high accuracy. However, such accuracy must be achievable in different real-life environments. The best solution does not let low lighting, snow and rain, spider crawling in front of the cameras, etc., interfere with human intrusion detection or license plate recognition at night. In the case of temperature detection, users should be able to walk by the system at a normal pace without removing the mask to minimise disruption and maximise worker efficiency. A more robust solution means less time and resource spent on false alarms. 4. Versatility A versatile, feature-rich, multi-functionality video analytics is the most effective choice for system integrators in the long term. Not limited to only object detection, AI can be trained to recognise higher levels of details (e.g., faces, age, gender, license plates), track objects (including people and vehicles), and detect certain behaviours (e.g., loitering, theft). In other words, a more versatile analytics solution can recognise more types and behaviors of objects for more use cases. Most users have certain pain points today and are looking for only one or a few solutions. However, as the organisation grows, new situations and requirements may arise, which call for new detection functions in video analytics. The costs and complexity will add up quickly if each solution has only one function. A few examples: An LPR camera may be perfect for the need to record all license plates today, but if the police wants to find a black Toyota Prius with “A23” in the plate number, a solution that can detect the plate number, vehicle make and model will save much more time and effort. Intrusion detection based on the ability to distinguish human from other moving objects (e.g., animals) is only the first step. What if the user needs an alert for people that enter a construction zone without a hard hat and safety vest? The answer is an AI solution that can grow its repertoire. In the current pandemic, business must adopt temperature screening, distancing detection, occupancy detection, and mask detection; a solution that can provide all four analytics in one platform is clearly more useful than four individual solutions, not to mention whether the solution can be repurposed after the pandemic has been resolved. 5. Good support and good integration One of the main reasons that system integrators might select an end-to-end solution instead of an open-platform one is technical support: more responsiveness and less finger-pointing. In terms of responsiveness, good technical support is a part of the ease of use, where the system integrator and the user can rest assured that any question can be answer via email or a phone call to the manufacturer. A more robust solution means less time and resource spent on false alarms In terms of having a one-stop-shop solution to reduce finger-pointing, good support means the manufacturer can provide easy integration to 3rd-party systems, which includes API interface support. One example is access control. Video analytics is a great tool to enhance access security (e.g., face recognition to open doors for employees; LPR for parking management; weapon detection linked to automatic locked-down system), but only 24% of video surveillance systems today are integrated with access control [v]. Two of the main reasons: (1) integration is expensive, and (2) the systems are not compatible. Both hurdles can be overcome if the analytics solution bridges the gap between cameras and access control system via its API. 6. Low total cost of ownership These six criteria help both the system integrator and the end-user save time, money, and effort Cost is always a determining factor, especially in the SMB market [vi]. Customers’ expectations are high, and higher-resolution cameras are decreasing in price and increasing in numbers, which means more data to process than ever. A good analytic software solution is not only capable of many functions, its algorithms are efficient enough to fit more into the same server specs, and it does not require expensive cameras to have good accuracy, thereby increasing cost saving for the entire system. In summary, these six criteria help both the system integrator and the end-user save time, money, and effort and get the most out of video analytics in the long run. A high-performance, versatile, turnkey solution is already a reality with today’s technology, and it will only continue to improve, so there is no reason to settle for less. [i] Memoori, The Global Market for Intelligent Video Analytics 2018 to 2023, 2018 [ii] IPVM, Open vs. End-to-End System: Statistics 2019, November 11, 2019 [iii] John Honovich, IPVM, Favorite Video Analytic Manufacturers 2018, April 2, 2018 [iv] IPVM, Favorite Video Analytic Manufacturers 2020, February 25, 2020 [v] Brian Rhodes, IPVM, Access Control and Video Integration Statistics 2020, October 8, 2020. [vi] Brian Karas, IPVM, Low Cost, Low End Competitors Challenge SMB Surveillance Market, September 1, 2017

The coronavirus pandemic has brought about an unprecedented crisis for businesses and individuals. It has also created a new normal, notwithstanding the disruption to our lives, ultimately changing life as we knew it. However, our resilience as humans will ensure that we survive and become better, stronger, and more determined than ever before. As I mentioned, both businesses and individuals have struggled significantly to balance the need for safety versus survival. But at AxxonSoft, we remain committed to keeping our people safe, while ensuring that our support and commitment to our clients are not compromised. Ensuring business continuity At AxxonSoft, our vision has always been to ensure business continuity through enhanced safety and video surveillance offerings. Adhering to the COVID-19 regulations, we are prescribing to social distancing to slow the spread of the virus. As such, we are utilising this time to ensure that our service offering is optimised to afford our clients the ability to repurpose and extend their remote working viabilities. As an essential service provider, we have ensured that we are providing the right tools to our clients to comply with regulations. Our video analytics and face recognition services have no reliance on on-site control rooms and, therefore, clients’ security solutions and personal safety are not compromised. Innovation reimagined During these precarious times, our focus remains on support and service. Our development team continues to work tirelessly to ensure that you can use our software during the lockdown and have accelerated innovation to this end. While we must maintain social distancing, we can and will still be of service to our community Therefore, we are proud to present version 4.11 of the Intellect PSIM, which offers our clients a neural network-based analytical tracker which recognises specific types of objects, such as humans and vehicles. We have also equipped this version with video wall management interface, automatic object tracking and a web reporting subsystem. Behavioural analytics generates data by detecting specific postures, like crouching, shooting or any potentially dangerous scenario. Our surveillance software operates on a three-pronged approach: calibration, detection and measurement, offering a comprehensive bird’s-eye view to clients. This upgrade also upholds mandated social distancing measures and keeps any face-to-face meetings to a minimal. The silver lining is that you can even use this technology when the pandemic is over. Now that’s what I call experiencing the next with AxxonSoft! Finding solutions to the challenges Our specialist technology and frontline technical support staff will ensure that your business is protected during and post-lockdown. We will continue to ensure that we provide solutions to the new challenges that the coronavirus brings, ensuring that our clients can emerge stronger and more responsive to any changes in the future. Our surveillance software operates on a three-pronged approach: calibration, detection and measurement While we must maintain social distancing, we can and will still be of service to our community. After all, change is not just about technology but about mastering mindsets. The COVID-19 disaster has demanded that businesses embrace tech disruptions as early as possible and apply technology in imaginative ways to define the new world of work. Until next time, stay safe!

A new generation of video cameras is poised to boost capabilities dramatically at the edge of the IP network, including more powerful artificial intelligence (AI) and higher resolutions, and paving the way for new applications that would have previously been too expensive or complex. Technologies at the heart of the coming new generation of video cameras are Ambarella’s newest systems on chips (SoCs). Ambarella’s CV5S and CV52S product families are bringing a new level of on-camera AI performance and integration to multi-imager and single-imager IP cameras. Both of these SoCs are manufactured in the ‘5 nm’ manufacturing process, bringing performance improvements and power savings, compared to the previous generation of SoCs manufactured at ‘10nm’. CV5S and CV52S AI-powered SoCs The CV5S, designed for multi-imager cameras, is able to process, encode and perform advanced AI on up to four imagers at 4Kp30 resolution, simultaneously and at less than 5 watts. This enables multi-headed camera designs with up to four 4K imagers looking at different portions of a scene, as well as very high-resolution, single-imager cameras of up to 32 MP resolution and beyond. The CV52S, designed for single-imager cameras with very powerful onboard AI, is the next-generation of the company’s successful CV22S mainstream 4K camera AI chip. This new SoC family quadruples the AI processing performance, while keeping the same low power consumption of less than 3 watts for 4Kp60 encoding with advanced AI processing. Faster and ubiquitous AI capabilities Ambarella’s newest AI vision SoCs for security, the CV5S and CV52S, are competitive solutions" “Security system designers desire higher resolutions, increasing channel counts, and ever faster and more ubiquitous AI capabilities,” explains John Lorenz, Senior Technology and Market Analyst, Computing, at Yole Développement (Yole), a French market research firm. John Lorenz adds, “Ambarella’s newest AI vision SoCs for security, the CV5S and CV52S, are competitive solutions for meeting the growing demands of the security IC (integrated circuit) sector, which our latest report forecasts to exceed US$ 4 billion by 2025, with two-thirds of that being chips with AI capabilities.” Edge AI vision processors Ambarella’s new CV5S and CV52S edge AI vision processors enable new classes of cameras that would not have been possible in the past, with a single SoC architecture. For example, implementing a 4x 4K multi-imager with AI would have traditionally required at least two SoCs (at least one for encoding and one for AI), and the overall power consumption would have made those designs bulky and prohibitively expensive. By reducing the number of required SoCs, the CV5S enables advanced camera designs such as AI-enabled 4x 4K imagers at price points much lower than would have previously been possible. “What we are usually trying to do with our SoCs is to keep the price points similar to the previous generations, given that camera retail prices tend to be fairly fixed,” said Jerome Gigot, Ambarella's Senior Director of Marketing. 4K multi-imager cameras “However, higher-end 4K multi-imager cameras tend to retail for thousands of dollars, and so even though there will be a small premium on the SoC for the 2X improvement in performance, this will not make a significant impact to the final MSRP of the camera,” adds Jerome Gigot. In addition, the overall system cost might go down, Gigot notes, compared to what could be built today because there is no longer a need for external chips to perform AI, or extra components for power dissipation. The new chips will be available in the second half of 2021, and it typically takes about 12 to 18 months for Ambarella’s customers (camera manufacturers) to produce final cameras. Therefore, the first cameras, based on these new SoCs, should hit the market sometime in the second half of 2022. Reference boards for camera manufacturers The software on these new SoCs is an evolution of our unified Linux SDK" As with Ambarella’s previous generations of edge AI vision SoCs for security, the company will make available reference boards to camera manufacturers soon, allowing them to develop their cameras based on the new CV5S and CV52S SoC families. “The software on these new SoCs is an evolution of our unified Linux SDK that is already available on our previous generations SoCs, which makes the transition easy for our customers,” said Jerome Gigot. Better crime detection Detecting criminals in a crowd, using face recognition and/or licence plate recognition, has been a daunting challenge for security, and one the new chips will help to address. “Actually, these applications are one of the main reasons why Ambarella is introducing these two new SoC families,” said Jerome Gigot. Typically, resolutions of 4K and higher have been a smaller portion of the security market, given that they came at a premium price tag for the high-end optics, image sensor and SoC. Also, the cost and extra bandwidth of storing and streaming 4K video were not always worth it for the benefit of just viewing video at higher resolution. 4K AI processing on-camera The advent of on-camera AI at 4K changes the paradigm. By enabling 4K AI processing on-camera, smaller objects at longer distances can now be detected and analysed without having to go to a server, and with much higher detail and accuracy compared to what can be done on a 2 MP or 5 MP cameras. This means that fewer false alarms will be generated, and each camera will now be able to cover a longer distance and wider area, offering more meaningful insights without necessarily having to stream and store that 4K video to a back-end server. “This is valuable, for example, for traffic cameras mounted on top of high poles, which need to be able to see very far out and identify cars and licence plates that are hundreds of meters away,” said Jerome Gigot. The advent of on-camera AI at 4K changes the paradigm Enhanced video analytics and wider coverage “Ambarella’s new CV5S and CV52S SoCs truly allow the industry to take advantage of higher resolution on-camera for better analytics and wider coverage, but without all the costs typically incurred by having to stream high-quality 4K video out 24/7 to a remote server for offline analytics,” said Jerome Gigot. He adds, “So, next-generation cameras will now be able to identify more criminals, faces and licence plates, at longer distances, for an overall lower cost and with faster response times by doing it all locally on-camera.” Deployment in retail applications Retail environments can be some of the toughest, as the cameras may be looking at hundreds of people at once Retail applications are another big selling point. Retail environments can be some of the toughest, as the cameras may be looking at hundreds of people at once (e.g., in a mall), to provide not only security features, but also other business analytics, such as foot traffic and occupancy maps that can be used later to improve product placement. The higher resolution and higher AI performance, enabled by the new Ambarella SoCs, provide a leap forward in addressing those scenarios. In a store setup, a ceiling-mounted camera with four 4K imagers can simultaneously look at the cashier line on one side of the store, sending alerts when a line is getting too long and a new cashier needs to be deployed, while at the same time looking at the entrance on the other side of the store, to count the people coming in and out. This leaves two additional 4K imagers for monitoring specific product aisles and generating real-time business analytics. Use in cashier-less stores Another retail application is a cashier-less store. Here, a CV5S or CV52S-based camera mounted on the ceiling will have enough resolution and AI performance to track goods, while the customer grabs them and puts them in their cart, as well as to automatically track which customer is purchasing which item. In a warehouse scenario, items and boxes moving across the floor could also be followed locally, on a single ceiling-mounted camera that covers a wide area of the warehouse. Additionally, these items and boxes could be tracked across the different imagers in a multi-headed camera setup, without the video having to be sent to a server to perform the tracking. Updating on-camera AI networks Another feature of Ambarella’s SoCs is that their on-camera AI networks can be updated on-the-fly, without having to stop the video recording and without losing any video frames. So, for example in the case of a search for a missing vehicle, the characteristics of that missing vehicle (make, model, colour, licence plate) can be sent to a cluster of cameras in the general area, where the vehicle is thought to be missing, and all those cameras can be automatically updated to run a live search on that specific vehicle. If any of the cameras gets a match, a remote operator can be notified and receive a picture, or even a live video feed of the scene. Efficient traffic management With the CV52S edge AI vision SoC, those decisions can be made locally at each intersection by the camera itself Relating to traffic congestion, most big cities have thousands of intersections that they need to monitor and manage. Trying to do this from one central location is costly and difficult, as there is so much video data to process and analyse, in order to make those traffic decisions (to control the traffic lights, reverse lanes, etc.). With the CV52S edge AI vision SoC, those decisions can be made locally at each intersection by the camera itself. The camera would then take actions autonomously (for example, adjust traffic-light timing) and only report a status update to the main traffic control centre. So now, instead of having one central location trying to manage 1,000 intersections, a city can have 1,000 smart AI cameras, each managing its own location and providing updates and metadata to a central server. Superior privacy Privacy is always a concern with video. In this case, doing AI on-camera is inherently more private than streaming the video to a server for analysis. Less data transmission means fewer points of entry for a hacker trying to access the video. On Ambarella’s CV5S and CV52S SoCs, the video can be analysed locally and then discarded, with just a signature or metadata of the face being used to find a match. No actual video needs to be stored or transmitted, which ensures total privacy. In addition, the chips contain a very secure hardware cyber security block, including OTP memory, Arm TrustZones, DRAM scrambling and I/O virtualisation. This makes it very difficult for a hacker to replace the firmware on the camera, providing another level of security and privacy at the system level. Privacy Masking Another privacy feature is the concept of privacy masking. This feature enables portions of the video (say a door or a window) to be blocked out, before being encoded in the video stream. The blocked portions of the scene are not present in the recorded video, thus providing a privacy option for cameras that are facing private areas. “With on-camera AI, each device becomes its own smart endpoint, and can be reconfigured at will to serve the specific physical security needs of its installation,” said Jerome Gigot, adding “The possibilities are endless, and our mission as an SoC maker is really to provide a powerful and easy-to-use platform, complete with computer-vision tools, that enable our customers and their partners to easily deploy their own AI software on-camera.” Physical security in parking lots With a CV5S or CV52S AI-enabled camera, the camera will be able to cover a much wider portion of the parking lot One example is physical security in a parking lot. A camera today might be used to just record part of the parking lot, so that an operator can go back and look at the video if a car were broken into or some other incident occurred. With a CV5S or CV52S AI-enabled camera, first of all, the camera will be able to cover a much wider portion of the parking lot. Additionally, it will be able to detect the licence plates of all the cars going in and out, to automatically bill the owners. If there is a special event, the camera can be reprogrammed to identify VIP vehicles and automatically redirect them to the VIP portion of the lot, while reporting to the entrance station or sign how many parking spots are available. It can even tell the cars approaching the lot where to go. Advantages of using edge AI vision SoCs Jerome Gigot said, “The possibilities are endless and they span across many verticals. The market is primed to embrace these new capabilities. Recent advances in edge AI vision SoCs have brought about a period of change in the physical security space. Companies that would have, historically, only provided security cameras, are now getting into adjacent verticals such as smart retail, smart cities and smart buildings.” He adds, “These changes are providing a great opportunity for all the camera makers and software providers to really differentiate themselves by providing full systems that offer a new level of insights and efficiencies to, not only the physical security manager, but now also the store owner and the building manager.” He adds, “All of these new applications are extremely healthy for the industry, as they are growing the available market for cameras, while also increasing their value and the economies of scale they can provide. Ambarella is looking forward to seeing all the innovative products that our customers will build with this new generation of SoCs.”

A result of the COVID-19 pandemic has been fewer crowds gathering for outdoor events. However, sooner or later, crowded events will surge, as will the danger of injury or death from vehicle attacks. The threats of vehicular violence are still present even though collisions have become less frequent and traffic, in general, is at a significant low. Preparing for such instances remains a high priority, and institutions are seeking to take a preemptive stance to prevent major incidents before they happen. Vehicle security barriers Even amid the pandemic, manufacturers of vehicle barriers have not seen a major impact on their sales. “Half of the battle against aggressors perpetrating a vehicle attack is pre-planning,” says Greg Hamm, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Delta Scientific. He says Delta is fortunate to have long-standing trust relationships with many agencies, built over the last 46 years. “We're happy to see that demand for vehicle security barriers has not changed much – customers are preparing for the future when crowds will be present again, and probably larger than ever,” adds Stuart Glen, National Sales Manager of Jackson’s Fencing. “Lots of councils are using the downtime to install or upgrade security around town and city centers, which is promising.” Physical structures such as bollards, barriers, and barricades can stop a vehicle from entering a high-foot-traffic area. Temporary venues can deploy portable barriers. "We're happy to see that demand for vehicle security barriers has not changed much" Fully automated system The first consideration is the level of security required for a particular location. A parking garage for a foreign embassy or federal courthouse will require far more serious security measures than a parking lot for a mall. Other primary factors to consider include the frequency of vehicles moving in and out and whether there will be vehicle inspections performed or a fully automated system at the entrance. “A key challenge when protecting people from vehicle attacks is trying to ensure that the public are kept safe, but do not feel worried or overly aware of any risks,” says Glen. “People should feel protected and be able to move freely. Discreet measures such as bollards are ideal as they don't restrict pedestrian flow but are very effective in the case of a hostile vehicle attack.” Sparking future assaults The use of vehicles as tools of destruction has become one of the top concerns for security specialists Events and sports venues need increased protection as they are likely targets due to the high numbers of crowds. Places of worship are sadly another target that should be given extra protection, says Glen.  The use of vehicles as tools of destruction has become one of the top concerns for security specialists. This tactic has grown popular regardless of ideology and is especially alarming when coupled with cars’ accessibility. In many places, individuals only need a valid driver’s license to rent a truck. News of a particular attack encourages or inspires other individuals to perpetuate the same form of violence. Unfortunately, this creates a feedback loop as more reports emerge following these tragedies, potentially sparking future assaults. Straightforward security solutions In the case of vehicle-ramming attacks, there are straightforward security solutions to protect patrons. Delta Scientific offers over 100 product designs, emphasising barriers that stop and destroy attacking vehicles. Delta’s barriers carry crash ratings from PU50 up to K54 and include sophisticated control systems that provide custom optimisation. Control systems feature the latest, most advanced protection technology. Early warning systems enable active security measures built into Delta products plus alert features to on-site security personnel. Delta Scientific’s High Security Protection and Barricade Systems are used internationally by governments, armed forces, federal agencies, private corporations, and other industries. Jackson’s Fencing’s range of solutions includes fencing, bollards, road blockers, and gates. They have been tested to PAS 68 standards and can stop a 7.5-ton vehicle travelling at 50mph (80km/h). The products come with a 25-year guarantee. Attractive timber appearance They offer crash ratings up to M50 and include both automated barriers and passive bollards In addition, their unique Linebacker PNR system is a cable crash fence, encased within a timber post and rail fence, offering a completely discreet yet highly effective vehicle security barrier with an attractive timber appearance. Facilities that require day-to-day employee and civilian access need permanent solutions installed to thwart daily terror threats, says Hamm of Delta Scientific. Solutions include wedge barriers, bollards, beams, and sliding gates with high duty cycles and excellent reliability coupled with appropriate crash ratings. Local fairs and festivals, parades, conventions, sports, and vaccination sites utilise portable barriers that can be towed into place and set up within 30 minutes. They offer crash ratings up to M50 and include both automated barriers and passive bollards. They can be plugged into a local 120v source and provide a portable solution that allows vehicle throughput by pushing a button. Vehicle-borne attacks Both temporary and permanent barriers are extremely effective, says Glen of Jackson’s Fencing. Temporary barriers can be deployed rapidly and removed when a threat has passed (for example, an event such as the London marathon, where large crowds gather), while permanent measures are used for sites that will always be a high-risk target. Glen says temporary barriers also generally have a more dominating appearance and wider footprint. Permanent measures are used for sites that will always be a high-risk target.  Temporary barriers can be used immediately after a risk assessment highlights vehicle-borne attacks as a threat to a site before permanent measures are installed. They can help to identify the ideal positioning of permanent barriers – often it's a case of trial and error before finding a solution that works well for one’s particular needs. The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has provided certification according to the Support Anti-terrorism by Fostering Effective Technology Act (SAFETY Act) of 2002. Access control products This certification minimises insurance risks for organisations that deploy authorised Delta vehicle access control products to protect against terrorists and errant drivers. All products certified are covered retroactively back to 1984 and are now authorised to carry the SAFETY Act Designated mark. By minimising insurance risks to deploying authorised Delta vehicle access systems, this certification lets customers feel comfortable knowing that they have the full faith and backing of the Department of Homeland Security. A common planning deficiency occurs when designers choose non-certified barriers or barricades A common planning deficiency occurs when designers choose non-certified barriers or barricades. Certified equipment has been tested and proven to work under extreme conditions, thus giving planners the confidence they rely on. No area is more critical to the vehicle barrier selection process than testing. Without adequate testing, there is no assurance that the barrier will resist the threat. Independent testing company Testing is normally done by an independent testing company or government agency, such as the Department of State (DOS) and ASTM. Comprehensive reports of test results are issued and are available from the testing agency or manufacturer. A common misconception among the general public is that the barriers are ‘ugly,’ but this often comes from the appearance of temporary barriers that are installed for testing purposes before deciding on permanent measures. Temporary barriers often have a large footprint because they have no foundations and can be quite obtrusive. There are actually many discreet and attractive permanent solutions such as road blockers and stainless steel rising bollards, which allow flexible control over entry and security, and can be rapidly activated.

As the deal/no deal prospects of Brexit are tossed in a whirlwind of UK and EU politics, the uncertainty of the back-and-forth has broadly impacted general economic trends, and by extension, the physical security market. The new deadline for a Brexit agreement is October 31, already postponed six months from the scheduled April 12 departure date. Numbers show that Britain’s GDP shrank in the second quarter, possibly reflecting fewer exports because of Brexit uncertainty. And beyond the current indecision lies the long-term impact of a possible change in trading status between the United Kingdom and continental Europe. Other issues include capital flow and labor mobility. Brexit uncertainty leading to security concerns Loss of shared information with the EU will make the UK less safe “Companies … are unclear about their future,” comments Martin Warren of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales. “Companies are making decisions now about jobs, supply chains, headquarters and asset locations, incurring significant, and possibly unnecessary, cost and upheaval.” Warren fears the destructive effects of a ‘no deal’ outcome and hopes politicians will break the deadlock and restore business confidence. Security implications of Brexit extend beyond economics. Loss of shared information with the EU will make the UK less safe. Extradition across EU borders will be more difficult, and exchange of data such as fingerprints and vehicle registrations is at risk. The Irish border after Brexit is of particular concern to security professionals. Countering threat of international terrorism Robert Hall of London First and Alison Wakefield of Security Institute say the security impact of departing the EU will be long lasting and profound. “In security terms, the UK will still have to contend with international terrorism, transnational crime and the global movement of people, all challenges that require wide scale cooperation.” They add that leaving the EU will require “a significant investment in people, resources and databases to cope with the anticipated volumes of traffic through ports, airports and tunnels.” Analyst company IHS Markit earlier commented about the impact on the security industry of Brexit’s drag on the UK economy, “Access control, intruder and fire alarm markets typically track construction rates closely and are forecast to be affected most. However, a large cut to infrastructure spending would be just as damaging to the video surveillance market.” UK security companies prefer ‘soft exit’ from EU If a ‘soft exit’ trade deal is not negotiated, the UK would have to revert to WTO trade rules If a ‘soft exit’ trade deal is not negotiated, the UK would have to revert to World Trade Organisation (WTO) trade rules, which means tariffs on trade between the UK and the EU, says IHS Markit. There are five British-based access-control and intruder-alarm vendors supplying the European market in significant quantity – each with revenue exceeding $10 million. IHS Markit estimates these companies combined account for less than 10 percent of total European, Middle-Eastern and African (EMEA) market revenues for both industries.  Uncertain future of UK security marketplace Asset protection specialist VPS Security Services has warned that the ongoing Brexit saga will likely lead to a rise in vacant commercial and residential properties as developers and investors are more reluctant to move forward with their UK real estate strategies. Seemingly endless machinations and shifting proposals are making the eventual outcome of Brexit very much a guessing game. Uncertainty translates into a volatile and changing outlook, and the eventual impact on the broader economy is an open question. As a reflection of that economy, the security marketplace will inevitably feel the economic impact, too, not to mention the new security challenges likely to ensue.

In a surveillance monitoring context, video metadata refers to the structured details that the user can extract from given video footage. It is data that provides information about other data – a “data about data” in short. Human-based video metadata, as its name suggests, are data derived from human targets in the monitored scene. It can be utilised based on user’s requirements to significantly enhance the management and operation of various application scenarios, while carefully maintaining people’s privacy at the same time. To give some insights into its practical usage, here are three conventional applications of human-based video metadata to adopt based during monitoring needs: 1) Searching targets One of the most common applications of human-based video metadata is for target searching after an event. Intelligent surveillance devices, such as the Dahua WizMind products, offer a Quick Target Search function that can locate suspects in time using their physical attributes. Irrelevant targets in the captured images are filtered out by the back-end devices (IVSS, NVR) or by the platform Target attributes include beard, glasses, mask, hat, etc., which are continuously being developed and increased to meet the requirements of various application scenarios. Irrelevant targets in the captured images are also filtered out by the back-end devices (IVSS, NVR) or by the platform. It can capture up to 640* targets (with attributes) per second with an impressive detection rate of 98%*. Generating statistics In addition, another useful application of human-based video metadata technology is for target statistics. WizMind counts in real time the human targets in the monitored scene and filters them based on target category and direction. The directions include A>B, B>A, or A<>B. And to top it up, it can also generate reports by year, month, and day. It can capture up to 96** objects per frame, providing a detection rate of 98%** and an accuracy rate of 96%**. 2) Detect PPE wearing WizMind can detect wearing PPEs in construction sites including safety hats, protective vests, face masks, and glasses Wearing personal protective equipment or PPE is a must on any construction site. Depending on the scope of the project, monitoring the proper wearing of PPEs on the site could be a tough challenge to implement. The latest PPE Detection Technology of Dahua WizMind can detect wearing of commonly used PPEs in construction sites including safety hats, protective vests, face masks, and glasses. It can even detect the colour of the uniforms (top and bottom) of workers. When a violation has been detected, the site supervisor or manager can be notified via the DMSS mobile app. Similar to target searching and statistics functions, it also offers a detection rate of 98%**, with an accuracy rate of 96%**. 3) Aid city road planning Who would have thought that aside from vehicle-related data, statistics related to people on the street can also be useful in planning city roads? By collecting attributes of pedestrians, directions, and periods, local road planning departments can design better roads tailored for road users and commuters. One good example is the Dahua solution developed for a local organisation in Ireland. Aside from motor vehicles and non-motor vehicles, metadata of pedestrians are also captured on main city roads and streets around plazas. These data are then securely transferred to an SFTP server for further data analysis. The data summary is relayed to the local transportation department to help them plan and manage streets more efficiently. Key Takeaways Human-based video metadata can be effectively utilised to optimise the monitoring operation of various application scenarios. Metadata based on human targets can be used to search suspects after an event, and to generate accurate statistics of the people in the monitored scene. Also, these structured data can be used to detect proper wearing of PPEs in a particular site, and help local transportation departments in planning and maintaining city roads to benefit the general public.

Foreign embassies are an essential part of establishing and maintaining peaceful cooperation, and collaboration between countries all over the world. They can also be the focus of tensions, peaceful and violent protests, terrorism, and many other risks, which mean that thorough and effective security solutions are essential to keep people, property and sensitive documents safe. Foreign embassies Usually located in capital cities, each foreign embassy is the workplace and often residence, of a Country Ambassador. They are used for important diplomatic meetings, holding events, hosting VIPs, and a range of other activities that focus on the political, cultural and social relationships with the host nation. In some instances, foreign embassies even provide sanctuary to their nationals and individuals from other nations In some instances, foreign embassies even provide sanctuary to their nationals and individuals from other nations, during times of trouble. G4S security services in Jordan “Anywhere in Amman, where a foreign embassy has outsourced their security, you can be certain that G4S is the company they have come to,” said Ashraf Abul-Hajj, the Managing Director of G4S in Jordan. Ashraf Abul-Hajj adds, “We’ve been doing this for decades and have excellent, long-standing relationships providing security for many embassies in the capital city. We secure over 30 embassies at the moment, and we’ve been working with some of them for over 20 years.” In fact, it was a small Jordanian security company, called Safe and Sound (now under G4S), which started to provide embassy security in Amman, Jordan, all those years ago, before it became a part of G4S, in 2004. Embassy security services G4S now provides a wide range of services to the embassies that it secures in Jordan. These include manned guarding, installing and maintaining security systems, such as CCTV, access control and alarms, secure escorting for VIPs, during their visits, with G4S vehicles and highly-trained drivers, and coordinating security for events, which are being hosted at the embassy. “The main purpose of most of our security solutions is to ensure that nobody gains access to an embassy, who shouldn’t be there,” said Ashraf Abul-Hajj, adding “There are a lot of different risks that embassies face - big and small. Terrorist incidents, while very rare, remain a threat, so our security teams are trained to be vigilant and notice any suspicious behaviour.” Securing embassies during protests Protests at embassies are more common, when people disagree with the actions of a specific country" Ashraf Abul-Hajj adds, “Protests at embassies are more common, when people disagree with the actions of a specific country. Protests, even peaceful ones, are volatile and have the potential to turn violent, so our security officers and systems are there to monitor tensions, continuously assess the risk levels and prevent breaches.” Terrorism and protests are the more extreme examples of security threats, but day-to-day G4S security teams also deal with lower level threats that still need to be managed sensitively and professionally. Preventing breaches Ashraf Abul-Hajj stated, “People try to access their foreign embassies for a variety of reasons, often at times of personal stress or hardship, and can become distressed, and even aggressive, if they are not permitted to enter.” He adds, “Sometimes, we have to deal with very unusual scenarios. At one embassy, a man turned up saying that he had been informed by the embassy that he had won a competition and he was visiting the embassy to collect his cash prize. It was obvious to the team that he was the victim of a con, but his behaviour became very challenging, when he realised this and could not gain entry. Our security officers had to try to calm him down, while stopping him from entering the embassy, without consent.” Ashraf Abul-Hajj concludes, “This shows how varied the challenges facing our teams at foreign embassies can be. An embassy can be peaceful for a long time, but it can only take one negative news story or a single social media post, to spark a significant protest. With our security systems, highly trained security officers and extensive experience, G4S is more than prepared to meet those risks. We are proud to deliver such an important service, keeping foreign embassies safe and secure in Jordan.”

Smiths Detection, a globally renowned company in threat detection and security inspection technologies, has secured a contract with Japan Customs, to provide two Hi Energy 9 MeV, interlaced, dual view HCVS high-performance cargo inspection systems for screening trucks and cargo containers, to Tokyo Customs, at Jyonanjima and Kobe Customs, at Mizushima, in Japan. Installations will start in April 2022. HCVS X-ray screening system This improved HCVS X-ray stationary screening system utilises a new upgraded conveyor mechanism, which optimises security checks, by scanning whole trucks (cabin included), containers, and vehicles for threats and contraband. The HCVS reduces the need for manual inspection while producing rapid and reliable results With the ability to discriminate between organic and inorganic materials, the HCVS reduces the need for manual inspection, while producing rapid and reliable results. It is already deployed at various ports, across Japan and at international ports, such as Belgium’s Port of Antwerp and Israel’s Haifa Port. Japan, major importer and exporter of goods Japan is the world’s fourth largest importer and exporter of goods, making trade essential for the country’s economy. In August 2021, imports and exports rose by over 20 percent, on a year-on-year basis, as Japan’s economy continues to recover from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. “As the volume of goods and trade increases globally, being technologically innovative is vital for establishing trust between stakeholders and maintaining the flow of goods, through our local and global markets,” said Kevin Davies, the Global Director of Ports and Borders for Smiths Detection. Ease of trade and securing movements of cargo Kevin Davies adds, “Smiths Detection is proud to support Tokyo and Kobe Customs, in creating the safest port environments possible. With state-of-the-art technology and our global team, we look forward to strengthening the region’s ease of trade and securing movements of cargo, around the world.”

Cumbria Police have refreshed their fleet of frontline TETRA radios, deploying Sepura SC21 hand-portable radios to police officer roles and SCG22 mobile radios in vehicles. In total over 1,400 radios have been deployed to enable the force to upgrade to the latest standard of TETRA radio capability. Enhanced mobile communication Aware of the need to refresh their radio fleet, the force organised field trials for new radios. Feedback from officers using the new Sepura SC21 TETRA radio was overwhelmingly positive. A vital advantage for the SC21 over the previous Airwave estate being the powerful TETRA engine and receive sensitivity. These combine to allow Cumbria Police officers to maintain Airwave coverage and keep communicating in the county’s many rural locations, where less powerful handsets frequently lose coverage. This deployment was further supported by the ability of the SCG22 to act as a Gateway, extending Airwave coverage where it might not otherwise reach and further enhancing the overall critical communications solution. Minimised training required The radios were programmed with a bespoke user interface designed to offer officers a familiar user experience The mobile radio was chosen as it has comprehensive deployment options, including car, van, motorcycle, and desk mount options, and shares a common interface to the SC21 meaning officer training is minimised. The transition to the new Sepura devices was undertaken during the COVID pandemic in the UK, with the Sepura team working with Cumbria Police to identify safe and effective ways to support an accelerated transition. This included Sepura supporting the force with a provisioning service, meaning the radios were pre-programmed and delivered to force headquarters ready to deploy. In addition, the radios were programmed with a bespoke user interface designed to offer Cumbria Police officers a familiar user experience, minimising officer training. Secure communication solution Adrian Johnson, ICT Operational Change Business Lead at Cumbria Police said, “Our officers require reliable secure communications with the easy-to-handle, reliable kit. Our old terminals were no longer supported by the manufacturer and were starting to fail. Our officers have been providing Policing services to our citizens and visitors to Cumbria throughout the COVID pandemic.” “The Sepura rollout has occurred during this global pandemic, during which the team had to learn new ways of doing things safely. The project team worked effectively with Sepura’s support teams to successfully deliver this new equipment to our teams.” “It is imperative in a mission-critical environment that we have excellent relationships with suppliers and immediate access to subject matter experts when our technicians need help or advice. Sepura understands Cumbria Police’ requirements and willingness to work together was key to achieving the agreed solution.” Providing effective solutions Dawn Griffiths, Business Development Manager for Sepura said, “We are delighted to support Cumbria Police in upgrading their hand-portable radios to the SC21.” “The expectation for modern radios is much greater than it was previously, and Sepura’s SC range can support these demands with powerful data applications, intelligent connectivity, and advanced features such as wireless Over The Air Programming which will enable the force to keep evolving their TETRA solution for many years to come.”

Genetec Inc., a technology provider of unified security, public safety, operations, and business intelligence solutions, has deployed its Security Centre unified platform to enable the City of Chattanooga’s ‘Dragonfly Community Connect,’ a public-private policing initiative to enhance public safety in the Tennessee community. Through the initiative, when calls come into the Chattanooga Police Department (CPD) to report a crime, the Real-Time Intelligence Centre (RTIC) can check with participating businesses in the area to see if they can share video from their security cameras. Cloud-based VMS Using Stratocast™, a cloud-based video monitoring service from Genetec, business owners can give permission and provide access to their video streams to the CPD upon request so that investigating officers can monitor live video during an incident or review recorded video during an investigation directly from the Security Centre platform located in the RTIC. Stratocast allows business owners to keep an eye on their business and view live and recorded video 24/7 With Stratocast, business owners can also keep an eye on their business and view live and recorded video from their laptop, tablet, or smartphone 24/7. High-quality, detailed video not only provides timely information to responding officers but also simplifies the ensuing investigation. Hosted on Microsoft Azure®, Stratocast requires less hardware to install and maintain, lowering overall costs. Because recorded video is stored in the cloud, it is safe from physical damage and secures from unauthorised access. Reduces suspect determination time “Having the capability to view live video allows our investigators to quickly send images of suspects, their vehicles, and other crucial information to officers who are responding to calls for service,” said Chattanooga retired Police Chief David Roddy. "It dramatically reduces the time officers spend requesting, accessing, or obtaining video evidence relative to the event or crime to which they are responding." Real-time crime fighting The link between the public and private sectors is essential for real-time crime-fighting, for improving neighbourhood safety" Genetec National Director of Public Sector Security, Rick Taylor, said, “The link between the public and private sectors is essential for real-time crime-fighting, for improving neighbourhood safety, and promoting the growth of local businesses." "Many cities around the world have successfully rolled out similar Community Connect™ projects and we’re pleased to be a part of Chattanooga’s Dragonfly Community Connect program.” The city chose ‘Dragonfly’ for its project name as dragonflies have a nearly 360-degree field of vision, with a single-blind spot, behind them. “Video is an increasingly essential part of our investigations,” Roddy noted. “We’ve seen the value demonstrated by our cameras in the community, and with the addition of participating local businesses, we can greatly increase our field of view.” Unified platform Genetec™ Security Centre is a unified platform that blends IP video surveillance, access control, automatic license plate recognition, intrusion detection, and communications within one intuitive, modular solution to enable organisations to be more efficient, make better decisions and respond to situations and threats with greater confidence.

A revamped G4S security solution at the chemical industry company Synthomer’s operational centre in the Czech Republic ensures that employees and valuable assets are protected from potential threats. The Sokolov region in the western Czech Republic, not far from the German border, is home to an operational centre for the British chemical industries company Synthomer, one of the world’s foremost suppliers of water-based polymers. Synthomer’s polymers are used to manufacture many everyday products: from the medical gloves used by the doctor and dentist, the sound damping in cars, to the backing of carpets in offices. As with any site where chemicals are stored and used, security is a top priority and the G4S team in the Czech Republic has recently revamped the entire security solution at the site to give the best protection to Synthomer’s staff, property, and other important assets. Risk-based approach “G4S always takes a risk-based approach with our security solutions” explains Pavel Nerheš, G4S Project Development Manager in the Czech Republic. “We visit the site and carry out a thorough risk assessment, and then we design a tailored integrated security solution for our customer based on their unique risks and assets that they need to protect.” There are several risks and threats to consider when preparing the security for a chemical site. Strong measures to prevent unauthorised entry into the perimeter and to key buildings within the site were essential “Strong measures to prevent unauthorised entry into the perimeter and to key buildings within the site were essential,” said Pavel. “You have to consider the assets that are held on-site that you do not want to fall into the wrong hands, such as important technology that is used in the chemical manufacturing process, as well as further restricting access to high hazard zones within the site.” Perimeter security solution As part of the new integrated security solution, G4S redesigned the perimeter security for the site, which covers a large 4km2 area, with cameras with video analytic functionality and new IP speaker systems. The cameras automatically detect potential intruders and instantly send information to the on-site security operation centre where G4S mobile patrol officers, who are permanently on-site with patrol vehicles, can quickly respond. Visitor management system In any risk assessment for chemical sites, the threats that have to be considered include terrorist attacks and organised crime attacks. Visitor Management System at entrance sites ensure strict access control and recording of any vehicles and visitors “We have highly-trained security officers located throughout the site, we’ve installed new mechanical barriers in key areas, and our new guest kiosks (Visitor Management System) at entrance sites ensure strict access control and recording of any vehicles and visitors,” said Pavel.  “This means that Synthomer can have confidence that we always know who is on-site, and that we can quickly respond to any threats or incidents.” Protection G4S will also carry out annual risk assessments of the site and security solution for Synthomer to ensure that it remains as effective as possible in protecting the site and employees from evolving threats. Milan Brejchal, Synthomer Site Manager, said, “Security is very important to us because of the high potential for security and safety risks at a site like ours. We would like to thank G4S for its professional approach. As a result of their expert risk assessments and installations the integrated security system on site optimises our current measures, mitigates risks and helps us to create a more secure environment for our employees.”

Perimeter security is the first line of defence against intruders entering a business or premises. Traditionally associated with low-tech options such as fencing, the field of perimeter security has expanded in recent years and now encompasses a range of high-tech options. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the latest trends in perimeter security technology?

In the past few weeks, the light at the end of the COVID-19 tunnel has brightened, providing new levels of hope that the worst of the pandemic is behind us. Dare we now consider what life will be like after the pandemic is over? Considering the possible impact on our industry, we asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: Which security technologies will be most useful in a post-pandemic world?

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?