SALTO Electronic Locks  (68)

In part one of this feature, we introduced the shotbolt – a solenoid actuator – as the workhorse at the heart of most straightforward electric locking systems. Shotbolts remain at the core of most sophisticated electric locking solutions as well. But they are supplemented by materials and technologies that provide characteristics suited to specialist security applications. Here we look at some more demanding electric locking applications and contemporary solutions. Preventing forced entry Where the end of the shotbolt is accessible, the electric holding force can be overcome by physical force. That’s why anti-jacking technology is now a frequent feature of contemporary electric solenoid lock actuators. Anti-jacking, dead-locking or ‘bloc’ technology (the latter patented by MSL) is inherent to the way the locking assembly is designed to suit the requirements of the end application. The patented bloc anti-jacking system is highly effective and incorporated into many MSL shotbolts deployed in electric locking applications. The bloc technology uses a ring of steel balls in a shaped internal housing to physically jam the actuated bolt in place. A range of marine locks is widely used on Superyachts for rapid lockdown security from the helm Real life applications for MSL anti-jacking and bloc-equipped shotbolts include installation in the back of supermarket trucks to secure the roller shutter. Once locked from the cab, or remotely using radio technology, these shutters cannot be forced open by anyone with ‘undesirable intentions’ armed with a jemmy. A range of marine locks is widely used on Superyachts for rapid lockdown security from the helm. While anti-jacking features are an option on these shotbolts, consideration was given to the construction materials to provide durability in saltwater environments. Marine locks use corrosion-proof stainless steel, which is also highly polished to be aesthetically pleasing to suit the prestigious nature of the vessel while hiding the innovative technology that prevents the lock being forced open by intruders who may board the craft. Rotary and proportional solenoids sound unlikely but are now common A less obvious example of integrated technology to prevent forced override is a floor lock. This lock assembly is mounted beneath the floor with round-top stainless-steel bolts that project upwards when actuated. They are designed to lock all-glass doors and are arguably the only discreet and attractive way to lock glass doors securely. In a prestigious installation at a historic entranceway in Edinburgh University, the floor locks are remotely controlled from an emergency button behind the reception desk. They act on twin sets of glass doors to quickly allow the doors to close and then lock them closed with another set of subfloor locks. No amount of stamping on or hitting the 15mm protruding bolt pin will cause it to yield, thus preventing intruders from entering. Or leaving! Explosion proofing In many environments, electric locking technology must be ATEX certified to mitigate any risk of explosion. For example, remote electric locking is used widely on oil and gas rigs for stringent access control, general security and for emergency shutter release in the event of fire. It’s also used across many industrial sectors where explosion risks exist, including flour milling, In many environments, electric locking technology must be ATEX certified to mitigate any risk of explosionpowder producers, paint manufacture, etc. This adds a new dimension to the actuator design, demanding not only intrinsically safe electrical circuits and solenoid coils, but the careful selection of metals and materials to eliminate the chance of sparks arising from moving parts. Resilience under pressure The technology boundaries of solenoids are always being pushed. Rotary and proportional solenoids sound unlikely but are now common. More recently, while not directly related to security in the traditional sense, proportional solenoid valves for accurately controlling the flow of hydrogen and gases now exist. Magnet Schultz has an extensive and somewhat innovative new range of hydrogen valves proving popular in the energy and automotive sectors (Fig. 2-6). There’s a different kind of security risk at play here when dealing with hydrogen under pressures of up to 1050 bar. Bio security Less an issue for the complexity of locking technology but more an imperative for the effectiveness of an electric lock is the frequent use of shotbolts in the bio research sector. Remote electric locking is commonplace in many bioreactor applications. Cultures being grown inside bioreactors can be undesirable agents, making 100% dependable locking of bioreactor lids essential to prevent untimely access or the unwanted escape of organisms. Again, that has proven to be topical in the current climate of recurring coronavirus outbreaks around the world. More than meets the eye In part one, I started by headlining that there’s more to electric lock actuation in all manner of security applications than meets the eye and pointed out that while electric locking is among the most ubiquitous examples of everyday security, the complexity often involved and the advanced technologies deployed typically go unnoticed.Integrating the simplest linear actuator into a complex system is rarely simple For end users, that’s a very good thing. But for electro-mechanical engineers designing a system, it can present a challenge. Our goal at Magnet Schultz is to provide a clearer insight into today’s electric locking industry sector and the wide range of locking solutions available – from the straightforward to the specialized and sophisticated. Integrating the simplest linear actuator into a complex system is rarely simple. There’s no substitute for expertise and experience, and that’s what MSL offers as an outsource service to designers. One benefit afforded to those of us in the actuator industry with a very narrow but intense focus is not just understanding the advantages and limitations of solenoid technology, but the visibility of, and participation in, emerging developments in the science of electric locking. Knowing what’s achievable is invaluable in every project development phase.

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.

The experience of the COVID-19 pandemic has made us all more conscious of who is coming and going from our property. Whether it is a family home, business premises or public building, property owners want full control over access for protection and peace of mind. As a provider of access control technologies, we are seeing a growing demand for automated gates with a variety of access control systems. There are a number of considerations that buyers need to make when investing. And as an installer, there is advice that you can offer to help your clients make the right choice for their property. Here are some of the key considerations you’ll need to make and discuss with your client. Whomever you buy from, you should be offered more than a simple instruction manual. Electronic locks, magnetic locks and code security In the first instance, you’ll need to advise on the type of lock and access control available. Electronic locks release on the operation of the automation system to allow the gates to open. Locks are required for all non-locking (also known as reversible) operators and are recommended for any gate on a multi-user site or any gate over 2.5m. Apply the same logic to an automated gate as you would to a domestic door – for example, you wouldn’t fit your front door with a lock on the same side as the hinges or a drop bolt at the hinge end of a manual gate so why dispense with this logic when the gate is automated? Electronic locks release on the operation of the automation system to allow the gates to open There are a number of locks on the market including magnetic locks, drop locks that “shoot” a bolt into the ground and side latching locks. These are all designed for external use. While the gate itself will provide physical security, the customer will want to feel in control of who enters their property, when and for what purpose. Consider access for mail and deliveries, waste disposal and visitors arriving on foot etc. There is a range of options available. Intercom systems will allow the user to vet visitors, keypad entry can allow remote access for visitors with a specific code, remote controls allow an oncoming driver to open the gates without getting out of the vehicle, and a timer control can be used to open or close the gates at certain times of the day. Vehicle detection loops can be installed discreetly under the tarmac allowing the presence of vehicles to exit the gates and prevent closing while obstructed. Sliding gates versus swinging gates There are a number of locks on the market including magnetic locks, drop locks that “shoot” a bolt into the ground and side latching locks Gates can be automated to either swing or to slide open and in the case of swinging gates, the opener may be concealed underground or gate mounted. The most suitable opener for your installation will depend on the space available and the type of gate selected. Concealed underground automation is ideal for highly ornate gates. However, where gates are fully infilled (typical of many timber designs), gate mounted openers are concealed from the front of the gate by the gate leaf and present a cost-effective option. The choice between slide and swing is largely down to space - swing gates require a clear space for their opening arc while sliding gates require space to one or both sides of the gate. Sliding gates are perhaps the best choice where the drive slopes or when drive space is limited, as they use the least space when opening. Voltage Most swing gate and sliding systems are available in 24v or 230v. The 24v systems still need 230v mains power – there is a transformer built into the 24v control panels. Deciding which voltage to use can include a combination of factors such as the material of the gates, the location of the system and the safety features you want. Concealed underground automation is ideal for highly ornate gates With wrought iron gates, the wind can pass through them whereas with fully boarded wooden gates (popular because they give full privacy) the wind has nowhere to go, so they act like sails. For commercial or industrial applications with larger entrances and a heavy gate, you may need 3 Phase 400v power (sliding gates only). Installing gate motors in confined spaces The environment in which you are fitting may well influence which gate and motor you recommend. Will it be in an exposed area which is subject to the elements? Will it be positioned on a slope? Sliding gates are perhaps the best choice where the drive slopes or when drive space is limited Installers have always faced the challenge of installing gate motors in confined spaces. When fitting a pedestrian gate, there is often limited space in which to work – potentially making an installation time consuming and technically demanding. If this is the case for you, consider a gate operator which is designed specifically for installations with limited space for maneuver. An example of this is the E5 compact gate operator. The operator is not only small but has an optional slide lever attachment designed for installations where there is extremely limited space, meaning that just 8cm of the pillar is needed for installation. What’s more, improved fixing points and a simple ‘hook and fasten’ process means assembly is safe, quick and straight forward. Ultimately, you’ll be looking for a good quality, reliable product with good service. Work with a supplier that offers more than just a manual. If they are happy to offer training, their time and advice when you buy, the chances are you’ll get their support long term.

SALTO Systems, a manufacturer of wire-free smart electronic locking solutions, and Livly, a Chicago-based developer of operating systems for multifamily rentals, have partnered to deliver SALTO’s robust electronic access control features from within Livly’s multifamily management platform and resident app. “SALTO continues to be an innovative company and Livly has developed an impressive multifamily property management tool. By adding SALTO electronic lock management to the Livly platform, it will provide residents the convenience of using their mobile device to manage property access via the Livly mobile app. For management, it will give them the power to better manage and control full building access,” said SALTO Sales Strategy North America, Colin DePree. Electronic locking solutions SALTO provides electronic locking solutions that offer easy-to-use applications for multifamily residential owners, developers, property managers, and residents. Time and money-saving solutions provide real-time, wireless access control for all building, department, and resident doors in an apartment, condominium, or luxury high rise. The key to unlocking tremendous value in real estate will come from smart access control" “Touchless technology is the future. The key to unlocking tremendous value in real estate will come from smart access control and we’re excited to be working together with SALTO, pushing the needle in what multifamily real estate technology can be,” said Alex Samoylovich, Founder and Co-CEO, Livly. Managing property access Livly delivers multifamily residents a single platform to manage tasks like rent payments, package deliveries, and on-demand services. For property managers, Livly focuses on unlocking new revenue streams by monetizing physical and digital transactions within the property ecosystem. The new Livly- SALTO integration incorporates electronic locking into Livly’s Guest Management service, providing residents a convenient way to manage property access via the Livly app, and equipping management with 24/7, real-time control over access.

SALTO access control hardware has achieved a huge milestone in having its SPACE readers and controllers certified to EN 60839 standard. This important standard provides guidelines for those responsible for establishing and planning an electronic access control system (EACS) both in terms of levels of protection and levels of performance necessary to provide the degree of physical access (entry and exit) access control and protection considered appropriate for an installation. Products certified Driven by SALTO’s factory-based Certification Department, the XS4 2.0 reader and XS4 2.0 control unit products – specifically the CU4000 series, CU4000 expansion board, Panel reader and Mullion reader have achieved grade two level EN 60839-11-1 for alarm and electronic security systems (electronic access control systems) and EN 50131-3 alarm systems (intrusion and hold-up systems). Standards must be met Ramesh Gurdev, Managing Director SALTO Systems UK, says “Standards play an ever increasingly important part in the specification and construction process framework. From carbon status to quality management and sustainability to the Internet of Things, standards must be met to ensure businesses remain regulatory aligned and competitive.” “The EN 60839 standard is becoming requested more frequently and in some cases is mandatory in tenders where the access control platform must be installed together with the alarm system, so it is excellent news for potential SALTO customers that our SPACE readers and controllers are now certified to this standard.”

Eagle Eye Networks, a global company in cloud video surveillance announced an official partnership with Co-Liv, a non-profit association of coliving professionals. As the global co-living movement continues to gain momentum, technology companies such as Eagle Eye Networks for video surveillance and Salto for Access Control will be crucial in providing tech solutions that allow coliving operators to scale faster and more efficiently than they would on their own.  Advantages of cloud surveillance Using a cloud solution, the video is accessible to integrate with other applications Storing surveillance video data in the cloud comes with many advantages, especially for residential buildings, such as hotels, urban apartments, and coliving developments. Traditionally, video surveillance footage is only accessible if something bad happens – typically a security breach, such as a robbery. Therefore, the video is rarely used and the high price tag of the camera and data storage equipment remains just a “cost of doing business,” yielding no financial returns or useful insights. Using a cloud solution, the video is accessible to integrate with other applications and can deliver powerful insights that allow businesses to improve their people, product, and processes. Video surveillance technology “We are excited to join the Co-Liv organization as technology partner alongside Salto. As the Coliving movement is growing, we want to support this with our video surveillance technology that both ensures the safety of the residents and provides relevant business insights for coliving operators." "As Eagle Eye Networks is fully integrated with Salto’s state-of-the-art Access Control systems, we provide a full solution for coliving operators,” says Rishi Lodhia, Managing Director Eagle Eye Networks. Building tech ecosystem Using artificial intelligence to analyze the video, operators can also discover how people interact in those spaces and use these insights to improve their communities, enhance their reputation as being secure and resident-focused, and make informed spatial design decisions in future developments. Eagle Eye also integrates with other technology solutions, such as SALTO’s access solutions, so the entire tech ecosystem of a building can work together to provide the best living experience possible. Seamless security Christian Schmitz, from Salto Systems, adds, “We have been a long-standing partner of the Co-Liv Organization as we do believe a seamless access control system helps coliving operators to create peace of mind about the safety of the property." "Adding Eagle Eye Networks means we can provide a seamless overall security solution without adding complexities with different systems that are not connected to each other.” Advantages of coliving Eagle Eye’s cloud video surveillance captures video for security purposes and provides unlimited access to artificial intelligence The advantages for the coliving industry can be best summed up with a quote from European coliving operator BaseCamp: “BaseCamp Student operates seven student housing facilities in Denmark, Germany, and Poland, with more locations coming soon. We are continuously striving to build and operate a global community focused on enhancing the student journey." "So, when we set out to find a security partner, we sought one that was willing – and able – to be as creative as our students and our spaces. We found this in Eagle Eye Networks. Its video surveillance solution captures video for security purposes, but because the video is stored in the cloud, it opens up unlimited access to valuable artificial intelligence – information that helps us and our residents make better decisions.” Benefits of video surveillance  “For example, management can use data to understand which amenities are used most often, informing future designs and builds. And students can engage with the system, as well. They may want to check the laundry room in real-time to determine if machines are available." "Or pull data regarding gym occupancy before heading to work out. By using our video surveillance system creatively, we’re enhancing the spaces where our residents live, learn, work, and connect – now and in the future,” says Daniel Doherr, Managing Director for BaseCamp Student Operations.  Emerging partnerships “As coliving operators around the world continue to experiment with different communal living models, the ones that are able to use technology to more efficiently achieve their goals will be at a distinct advantage when compared to their peers,” concludes Connor Moore. “At Co-Liv we believe technology providers, such as Eagle Eye Networks, are excellent partners for innovative and tech-savvy coliving companies.”