Lenel Access control systems & kits

A defibrillator can save the life of a person suffering from cardiac arrest – but it is most effective when used in the first few minutes of the patient collapsing. Studies have shown that a shock given within the first three minutes provides the best chance of survival and even one minute of further delay can substantially lower the chances of recovering. Public Access Defibrillators (PADs) were created to allow untrained members of the public to deliver life-saving treatment in those precious minutes before an ambulance arrives. There are currently over 10,000 in the UK, located in parks, offices, high streets and sporting venues, and they are especially popular in rural communities, where ambulance response times are longer. Every second counts Over the years there has been a long-running debate as to whether PADs should be kept openly accessible or locked. Leaving them open could lead to theft, vandalism or misuse. Leaving them locked could mean that precious moments are lost waiting for a local guardian to arrive – and could even cost a life. To save as many lives as possible, it’s clear that PADs need to be available 24/7, fully operational and easily accessible to users and local guardians. But there is a solution that can meet all these conditions – a lock that can protect against vandalism while providing convenient instant access when required. Life-saving solutions Over the years there has been a long-running debate as to whether PADs should be kept openly accessible or lockedDigital locks are ideal for securing PADs because they don’t require a key, and anyone can be given access over the phone. In the case of a cardiac arrest, the user calls 999 and the ambulance controller provides them with a simple, easy-to-remember code. The ambulance controller can then advise them, step by step, what to do. Local guardians, who have responsibility for the PAD, can be provided with an override key to enable them to monitor and maintain the defibrillator. The PAD cabinets built by Duchy Defibrillators show exactly how this works in practice. Based in rural Cornwall, Duchy Defibrillators manufactures, supplies and installs monitored PAD cabinets. To provide public access to the defibrillators, it needed a lock that could keep its cabinets secure, make them easily accessible and withstand the stormy Cornish weather. Codelocks recommended a digital electronic lock that could operate on a standalone battery, making it especially suitable for remote areas. As well as offering flexible access, digital locks come with a range of varying options and functions to suit different applications. As Duchy Defibrillator cabinets are installed in a wide variety of locations and sometimes need to withstand outdoor exposure, it opted for a robust electronic digital lock that is both affordable and easy to set up. A digital-access revolution Using smart locks in combination with a dedicated app or portal allows operators to send time-sensitive codes to end-users The example of Duchy Defibrillators shows how digital locks can be used to keep defibrillator cabinets secure while affording instant access to users when they are needed. But the flexibility of digital locks also makes them suitable for securing property and equipment in a wide variety of situations, especially for shared and public facilities. This is why you’ll increasingly see digital locks used to secure restricted areas in hospitals, schools and offices, as well as shared facilities like hotel and gym lockers, public restrooms and more. Digital locks are available for a number of specific applications, including doors, lockers and cabinets. They can range from simple mechanical locks through to more sophisticated electronic locks and state-of-the-art smart locks. Using smart locks in combination with a dedicated app or portal allows operators to send time-sensitive codes to end users – making them very popular for contactless entry and with facilities managers that need to manage access to buildings and campuses. One thing is certain – whatever your access control requirements are, there’s a keyless lock solution to suit. The digital access revolution is here.

Stadiums around the world are still paralyzed from the effects of COVID-19. Fans and spectators in masses have been absent from stadiums since April and there doesn’t seem to be a concrete plan on how or when they’ll be able to return to near capacity. The NBA recently opted to form a bubble philosophy concept in Disney’s facilities, although it’s been a relative success, it’s also been a $200 million temporary solution. This then begs the question: How long can stadiums survive like this without spectator’s present? History tells us that stadiums, venues and sport recover from disasters, so what can stadiums do to speed up the process? This is the catalyst for AI to be integrated on mass level to stadiums around the world. AI is the answer AI’s role in getting fans and spectators back is huge, through capabilities such as: Social Distance Monitoring Crowd Scanning/Metrics Facial Recognition Fever Detection Track & Trace Providing Behavioural Analytics Technologies such as IREX.ai is now working alongside National Leagues, Franchises and Governing Bodies to implement AI surveillance software into their CCTV/surveillance cameras. This is now creating a more collaborative effort from the operations team in stadiums, rather than purely security. Stadiums around the world are still paralyzed from the effects of COVID-19 AI surveillance software such as IREX.ai when implemented into the surveillance cameras can be accessed by designated users on any device and on any browser platform. Crowd metrics Arming stadiums with AI-powered surveillance tools can detect crowd metrics such as “people counting” and “group statistics”. This ensures stadium personnel can monitor social distancing with precision, accuracy and immediately. Alerts can be set up throughout parts of the stadium to alert senior staff members when overcrowding can appear with real time videos, analytics and photos to their hand-held device, such as a smartphone. Fever detection Thermal cameras have been implemented throughout facilities including stadiums and are helping assist to spot people with elevated temperatures. What IREX.ai implements is an alert system, coupled with facial recognition of any individual(s) that read an elevated body temperature. This alert system then provides security and health officials with a photo of the individual with the elevated body temperature, meaning staff can react quicker to the situation prevent this individual from entry. Pandemic monitoring by facial recognition  Thermal cameras have been implemented throughout facilities including stadiums and are helping assist to spot people with elevated temperatures Through facial recognition, staff members will be able to locate individuals through simply uploading a photo. It has never been easier to find a person of interest. With masks becoming an everyday part of society, facial recognition has come under scrutiny regarding the accuracy when a mask is worn. Irex.ai still maintains a 96% accuracy with individuals wearing masks and can set up alerts for any individuals not wearing a mask. Another important aspect of facial recognition is finding persons of interest quickly through technology like IREX.ai’s “searchveillance”. The future is here. Designated staff can track a person from when they enter the stadium by simply uploading their photograph. An example of how this can assist stadium personnel is to help relocate lost children inside the stadium with their guardians/parents when they are separated. Another attribute would be any individuals banned from entering the stadium would trigger alerts once they appear under surveillance, a fantastic collaborative tool to use with Law Enforcement.    Return on investment With security solutions, one of the biggest issues with any security investment is a lack of an ROI. This is where AI security is breaking the mould. The ability to provide business analytics, consumer/fan behaviours, traffic patterns, etc, allows other departments within the organization to gain vital information that can assist with their strategies and practices. Stadium security will never be the same in a post-COVID world, so why will its practices stay the same? AI & Stadiums is no longer the future, it’s the 2020 solution.

Motion detection is a key feature of security systems in residential and commercial environments. Until recently, systems have relied heavily on closed circuit television (CCTV) and passive infrared (PIR) sensors, which both require significant investment and infrastructure to install and monitor. Developments in wireless technology are increasing home security possibilities. Few years ago, these developments led Cognitive Systems to discover that the wireless signals surrounding oneself can be used to detect motion. Known in the wireless industry as WiFi sensing, this technology brings many benefits that other motion detection solutions have not been able to provide. The working of WiFi sensing At Cognitive Systems, the company has used WiFi sensing technology to develop a motion detection solution called WiFi Motion™, which measures and interprets disruptions in RF signals transmitted between WiFi devices. When movement occurs in a space, ripples in the wireless signals are created. WiFi Motion interprets these ripples and determines if an action, such as sending a notification, is needed. Enabling this functionality in a space is incredibly simple. With a software upgrade to only one’s WiFi access point (or mesh router), motion sensing capabilities are layered into one’s WiFi network. Existing connected WiFi devices then become motion detectors without detracting from their original functions or slowing down the network. Using artificial intelligence (AI), WiFi Motion establishes a benchmark of the motionless environment and learns movement patterns over time, which could be used to predict trends. This allows unusual movement patterns to be detected with greater accuracy while decreasing the potential for costly false alerts. WiFi Motion requires no line-of-sight or installation WiFi sensing and other home monitoring solutions All of these capabilities are made possible by WiFi sensing and together create a motion detection system that provides unparalleled accuracy, coverage, privacy and affordability compared to other solutions on the market. PIR integration is far more complex and imposes electronic and physical design restrictions compared to WiFi sensing. In terms of placement, PIR systems are difficult to install, requiring line-of-sight and a device in every room for localization. WiFi Motion requires no line-of-sight or installation and is also a scalable solution compared to PIR. Much like cameras, PIRs can only cover so much space, but WiFi Motion can cover the entire home and even detect motion in the dark and through walls, without adding additional devices to the home. WiFi Motion detects less distinguishing context than cameras and microphones, but more context than regular PIR sensors for the perfect balance of privacy and highly accurate motion detection. Privacy solution While cameras have been the security solution for years, WiFi Motion offers a more affordable solution that can rival the privacy and coverage capabilities of even the most high-end cameras. With such a wide coverage area, one might think that WiFi sensing infringes on privacy, but actually, the opposite is true. With WiFi Motion, the contextual information collected cannot be used to identify a specific individual, unlike cameras which can clearly identify a person’s face or microphones, which can identify a person’s voice. It is different from other smart home security options that use cameras and microphones because it only senses motion using WiFi signals - it doesn’t “see” or “listen” like a camera or microphone would. This provides opportunities for added security in spaces where privacy might be a concern and installing a camera may not be a comfortable solution, such as bathrooms and bedrooms. The data collected is also anonymized and highly encrypted according to stringent industry privacy standards. Existing connected WiFi devices then become motion detectors Additional WiFi sensing applications Since WiFi sensing technology requires no additional hardware or subscription fees, it is much more affordable than other motion detection solutions. It can be used as a standalone solution, or it can be easily layered into more complex systems. This ease of integration, scalability and relatively low cost brings a lot of potential for various applications. Motion detection can trigger other smart devices in the network to turn lights on or off In eldercare, for example, WiFi sensing can be used to help seniors live comfortably in their homes for as long as possible. With the increasing aging population and high costs associated with care homes, the market for this application is considerable. Caregivers can use an app to monitor movement in their loved one’s home and be alerted about unusual movement patterns that could indicate a concern. For smart homes and other environments that have a network of smart devices, the artificial intelligence (AI) component of the technology allows for improvements to automated features. Motion detection can trigger other smart devices in the network to turn lights on or off or make adjustments to the temperature in a room. Security for the commercial sector For office buildings and other commercial properties, it is easy to see how all of these features could be scaled up to offer a highly accurate and cost-effective motion sensing and smart device automation solution. Cognitive Systems is closely involved with the development of WiFi sensing technology, working with various industry groups to establish standards and help it reach its full potential. WiFi Motion is merely the tip of the iceberg in terms of motion sensing possibilities, but its applications in the world of security are undeniably compelling. It is an exciting time for the wireless industry, as one works with stakeholders in the security space to explore everything this technology can do.

New interface expands functionality, increases compliance in highly regulated markets and simplifies administration and deployment LenelS2 announced an interface between the OnGuard® physical access control system and the DMP XR550 and XR550E intrusion detection systems. The interface expands functionality, increases compliance in highly regulated markets and greatly simplifies the administration and deployment experience. LenelS2, a pioneer in advanced security systems and services, is a part of Carrier Global Corporation, a global provider of healthy, safe and sustainable building and cold chain solutions. “The DMP interface expands the OnGuard system’s built-in, real-time intrusion detection capabilities, providing end users with an outstanding option for monitoring and controlling alarms,” said Ryan Kaltenbaugh, vice president, Vertical Market Solutions, LenelS2. “Having a native interface with DMP also helps OnGuard system users better meet the stringent requirements and policies in highly regulated vertical markets, including the U.S. federal government.” Leveraging the new interface The OnGuard platform can now centrally manage and link cardholders with users for both systems minimizing manual and redundant input of user profile information. Additionally, the interface provides command and control of the DMP-monitored areas, zones and devices within the DMP panels. OnGuard users will now be able to easily arm and disarm the system as well as quickly see all alarm events within the OnGuard interface. “At DMP it’s all about our customers and the integrity of our products. This interface with the OnGuard system provides our joint customers with an improved experience,” said Mark Hillenburg, vice president, Marketing at DMP. “From a simplified setup and programming process to enhanced management capabilities, this new interface is a game changer, and we are thrilled with the advancement.” The interface was developed by the LenelS2 Advanced Services team and covers the DMP XR550 and XR550E intrusion detection systems, the flagship in DMP’s line of products.

The Physical Security Interoperability Alliance (PSIA) has announced that it has elected Jason Ouellette, as its Chairman and Ewa Pigna, the Chief Technology Officer for LenelS2, a part of Carrier Global Corporation, as its Vice Chairman. Standards-based digital data In addition, Peter Boriskin, the Chief Technology Officer for ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions Americas, will continue in his role as the organization’s Treasurer. The PSIA membership develops specifications for enabling standards-based sharing of digital data and intelligence throughout the physical security and enterprise ecosystems. “Jason and Ewa are long-standing Board members with strong technology, commercial, and industry leadership skills,” said David Bunzel, Executive Director at the PSIA, adding “They and their companies have been important advocates for open standards in the physical security industry and also active proponents for the PSIA’s access control specification - PLAI.”  Identifying new and enhanced PSIA specifications Open standards are critical to large scale deployments and solving complex enterprise problems" As PSIA Chairman, Jason Ouellette will work closely with the PSIA board to expand membership, commercialize its specifications, and identify industry needs for new and enhanced PSIA specifications. “Open standards are critical to large scale deployments and solving complex enterprise problems,” noted Jason. He adds, “With that in mind, I truly see the value that PSIA and PLAI bring to the security industry where multiple Physical Access Control Systems, Biometric solutions, and other integrations exist in the market. The PLAI specification provides a means for reducing complexity and cost in these environments with the application of open standards which provide a method to share personnel, credentials, and biometrics in a way that respects PII and security concerns.” Defining the technical aspects of PLAI Ewa Pigna’s role as PSIA Vice Chairman will include defining the technical aspects of PLAI necessary to make this an effective commercial standard. This will include enhancing and promoting the PLAI specification in order to assure industry compliance and interoperability. “My involvement with PSIA and promotion of physical security standards is focused on delivering solutions to our customers that derive value from integration and interoperability,” said Ewa Pigna, adding “Our mission is to simplify the complex world of disparate systems and enable technical information sharing for more holistic decision making.” Access and video security products expert At Johnson Controls, Jason Ouellette serves as the Lead of Technology Business Development, for its access and video security products group. He is based at the company’s Westford, Massachusetts office. Ouellette, joined Tyco International in April 1999, and has served as a Customer Support Specialist, Software Engineer, Engineering Manager, Director of R&D for the American Dynamics Intellex products and Software House access control products, and as Director of Product Management for the global access control business. In 2017, after Tyco merged with Johnson Controls, Jason was promoted to Product General Manager for access control. In 2019, he served as General Manager for direct to channel access & video products. U.S. Air Force veteran Pigna held senior management positions at GE Security, prior to her current role at LenelS2 Prior to this, he served in the U.S. Air Force, from 1989 to 1996, as a Medical Laboratory Specialist and later as a Computer Implementation Specialist. Ouellette also held positions at CDSI, and SAIC in development and network roles, before coming to Tyco International. At LenelS2, Ewa Pigna serves as the Chief Technology Officer. She started her career at IBM in Boca Raton, Florida, where she was a Software Engineer in the robotics group. Pigna held senior management positions at GE Security, prior to her current role at LenelS2. She holds a BS degree in computer science and mathematics from UCLA. Security technology and enterprise security expert At ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions, Peter Boriskin, is the Chief Technology Officer, leading the Americas innovation team. He has over twenty years’ experience working with security technology and enterprise security. In his previous roles, he was the Product Management Leader for UTC Fire & Security in their Lenel business and the Vice President of Product Management for Tyco International’s access control and video systems division. Prior to joining Tyco International, Peter founded a networking company, where he was Owner and President. He is regularly quoted in industry publications and has authored numerous articles on physical security. He holds a BA degree from Brandeis University.

The Physical Security Interoperability Alliance (PSIA) announced it has elected Jason Ouellette, as its Chairman and Ewa Pigna, the Chief Technology Officer for LenelS2, a part of Carrier Global Corporation, as its Vice Chairman.  In addition, Peter Boriskin, the Chief Technology Officer for ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions Americas, will continue in his role as the organization’s treasurer. The PSIA membership develops specifications for enabling standards-based sharing of digital data and intelligence throughout the physical security and enterprise ecosystems. Leadership skills “Jason and Ewa are long-standing Board members with strong technology, commercial, and industry leadership skills,” said David Bunzel, Executive Director, the PSIA. “They and their companies have been important advocates for open standards in the physical security industry and also active proponents for the PSIA’s access control specification–PLAI.” As PSIA Chairman, Ouellette will work closely with the PSIA board to expand membership, commercialize its specifications, and identify industry needs for new and enhanced PSIA specifications. “Open standards are critical to large scale deployments and solving complex enterprise problems,” noted Ouellette. “With that in mind, I truly see the value that PSIA and PLAI bring to the security industry where multiple Physical Access Control Systems, Biometric solutions, and other integrations exist in the market. The PLAI specification provides a means for reducing complexity and cost in these environments with the application of open standards which provide a method to share personnel, credentials, and biometrics in a way that respects PII and security concerns. ” Assure industry compliance Pigna’s role as PSIA Vice Chairman will include defining the technical aspects of PLAI necessary to make this an effective commercial standard. This will include enhancing and promoting the PLAI specification in order to assure industry compliance and interoperability. “My involvement with PSIA and promotion of physical security standards is focused on delivering solutions to our customers that derive value from integration and interoperability,” said Pigna. “Our mission is to simplify the complex world of disparate systems and enable technical information sharing for more holistic decision making.” Access control At Johnson Controls, Ouellette leads Technology Business Development, for its Access and Video Security Products Group.  He is based at the company’s Westford, Massachusetts office. Ouellette, joined Tyco International in April 1999, and has served as a customer support specialist, software engineer, engineering manager, director of R&D for the American Dynamics Intellex products and Software House Access Control products, Director of Product Management for the global access control business. In 2017, after Tyco merged with Johnson Controls, Ouellette was promoted to Product General Manager for Access Control. In 2019, General Manager for Direct to Channel Access & Video Products. Senior management positions Prior to this, he served in the U.S. Air Force from 1989 to 1996 as a medical laboratory specialist and later as a computer implementation specialist. Ouellette also held positions at CDSI, and SAIC in development and network roles before coming to Tyco. At LenelS2, Pigna is the Chief Technology Officer. She started her career at IBM in Boca Raton, Florida, where she was a software engineer in the robotics group. Pigna held senior management positions at GE Security before her current role at LenelS2. She has a BS in computer science and mathematics from UCLA. Security technology and enterprise security At ASSA ABLOY Americas, Boriskin, is the Chief Technology Officer, leading the Americas innovation team. He has over twenty years’ experience working with security technology and enterprise security. In his previous roles, he was the Product Management Leader for UTC Fire & Security in their Lenel business and the Vice President of Product Management for Tyco International’s Access Control and Video Systems division. Prior to joining Tyco, Peter founded a networking company where he was owner and President. He is regularly quoted in industry publications and has authored numerous articles on physical security. Peter holds a BA from Brandeis University.