Robotics

Johnson Controls will exhibit security technologies and platforms that are helping to advance the safety, comfort and intelligence of spaces in order to power the mission of its customers at Global Security Exchange (GSX) in Chicago from Sept. 8 through Sept. 12. In booth #703, Johnson Controls will showcase innovative technologies that work together to construct connected, intelligent facilities in an “Integrated Smart Buildings Command Center.” Attendees will have an inside look into Johnson Controls integrated security, building controls, and life safety offerings that help to create safer, smarter and more sustainable environments. Create smarter, more integrated buildings “As we help empower our customers to create smarter, more integrated buildings, it is important for us to exhibit our solutions in a connected environment instead of having siloed displays,” said Hank Monaco, vice president, marketing, Johnson Controls, Building Solutions North America. “At GSX, we have traditionally demonstrated our security, fire and life safety technologies, but we are excited to also layer in our additional capabilities in building controls and data-driven solutions to reinforce how critical they are to the equation of more secure and intelligent spaces.” Johnson Controls Digital Solutions group will be highlighting the following solutions that work at the nexus of data and business to gather insights that allow for smarter buildings, increased efficiencies and new business value. Assurance Services helps deliver preventative service insights to maintain high availability of security assets Enhancing life-safety standards Connected Converged Security (CCS), a SaaS-based platform that provides proactive, holistic, and smarter security solutions, CCS is a hardware agnostic software solution that enhances health and life-safety standards while providing measurable results and a basis for superior decision-making. As a result, customers can save on operational costs and hardware spend, and improve their security return on investment. Assurance Services and False Alarm Reduction Service (FARS), both offerings analyze data to increase safety, streamline operations and decrease costs through actionable insights into a facility’s space and security considerations. Assurance Services helps to deliver preventative service insights to maintain high availability and reliability of security assets. When problems are detected, a remote resolution team can automatically resolve issues in minutes, rather than days. FARS analyzes and identifies alarm patterns to deliver to help reduce false alarms and their associated risks and costs. Identify false alarm triggers Athena Security sends authorities an alert, getting people to the scene faster with an up-to-speed video feed into what’s going onThe software leverages artificial intelligence and machine learning capabilities to identify false alarm triggers and help to stop the activities that trigger them. In addition, cutting-edge startups from Johnson Controls Open Innovation – a global innovation center in Tel Aviv, Israel launched to foster collaboration between the company, customers and the startups to deliver effective solutions worldwide – will be revealing emerging technologies, including: Indoor Robotics A smart robot that operates indoors after-hours to run security and inspection missions, follow up on alerts, detect leaks and fires, patrol the indoor space, learn the environment and respond to various anomalies detected. Weapons detection Athena Security offers a sophisticated AI-driven solution that utilizes existing security cameras to work to detect dangerous objects, such as guns and knives, in real-time. The platform sends the authorities an alert, getting the right people to the scene faster with an up-to-speed video feed into what’s going on and where. Evolv Technology, a fully automated high-speed concealed weapons detection solution, integrates firearm and explosives detection with facial recognition for early detection of unauthorized concealed weapons or persons of interest.

BIRD Aerosystems, global developer of Airborne Missile Protection Systems (AMPS) and Special Mission Aircraft Solutions (ASIO), has announced plans to officially launch the OSCAR - Ocean Surveillance Control and Reconnaissance solution, and demonstrate it for the first time at the Paris Air Show 2019.   Maritime Domain Awareness Combined with a secure over-the-cloud deployment and multi-sensor integration, OSCAR is an affordable and quick to deploy Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) solution delivering real-time intelligence and threat assessments for the vessels within the country’s areas of interest. Alongside the OSCAR, BIRD will also present its SPREOS DIRCM in its latest production configuration. "Fully autonomous and personally customized for the needs of each customer, BIRD's OSCAR solution drives operational costs down and detection probabilities up, and I am confident that it will be a real game-changer in the field of maritime surveillance and patrol" says Ronen Factor, Co-Chief Executive Officer and Founder at Bird Aerosystems. BIRD’s OSCAR is an ideal solution for a nation’s maritime protection needs "The OSCAR Solution and the SPREOS DIRCM are two of our latest innovative and advanced solutions, that demonstrate BIRD's unique capability of combining operational know-how with high-end technology and engineering capability. We are happy to present them at the 2019 Paris Air Show". Machine-Learning algorithms BIRD’s OSCAR is an ideal solution for a nation’s maritime protection needs, as it provides 24/7 protection of the maritime domain and Tier 1 Level of prevention against illegal activities at sea such as Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing, oil theft, smuggling and illegal transshipment, as well as for Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) monitoring. BIRD Aerosystems will also present its patented Self Protection Radar Electro-Optic System DIRCM Fully autonomous and advanced multi-sensor system, OSCAR applies machine-learning algorithms on real-time data sources such as satellite and terrestrial AIS, satellite SAR/EO/IR, LRIT, coastal radars, tactical sensors and more, and uses it to detect, analyze and prioritise suspicious vessels while providing automatic alerts to the user once these threats are found. Autonomous multi-Sensor system Once OSCAR detects potential threats, it plans an effective flight plan for the ASIO special mission aircraft which is then loaded into the MSIS mission management system to enable an effective surveillance mission. Additionally, during the mission OSCAR receives the real-time tactical sensor data of the aircraft which is then further analyzed and detect additional possible threats. BIRD Aerosystems will also present its patented Self Protection Radar Electro-Optic System (SPREOS) DIRCM, which combines a radar-based confirmation sensor and an active laser jammer to ensure optimal protection against different MANPADS threat types. The patented SPREOS uniquely performs threat confirmation to ensure zero false alarms hence jamming will be activated only once the threat has been confirmed and analyzed.

Dahua Technology, a video-centric smart IoT solution and service provider, is highlighting its latest innovative industrial products as well as the related cutting-edge solutions of machine vision at Automate 2019, one of the biggest automation solutions convention in North America, during April 8th to 11th at booth #8831 in Chicago. Focused on the theme of ‘Win the Future’, the biennial show collected the latest innovative automation solutions, covering robotics, vision, motion control, and related technologies. Amongst over 500 exhibiting companies, Dahua Technology has presented its leading expertise and vision for the future. Comprehensive Range Of Cameras Area Scan Camera: With 0.3MP~25MP effective pixels and max 815fps, the device transfers image data via GigE, USB3.0, CameraLink and CoaXPress. Compatible with various industrial and non-industrial applications, the wide range of products with great cost-efficiency are designated to meet customers’ needs. Large Area Scan Camera: The ultra-high pixel camera with resolution of 12MP~50MP supports multiple interfaces, including GigE, CameraLink and CoaXPress, suitable for various high-precision applications. Smart Camera: Includes code reading cameras equipped with Movidius processor, which supports most 1D, 2D barcode reading with high speed and high recognition rate; and X86 open platform camera with IntelX86 main control chip inside, which is convenient for customers to carry out secondary development. 3D Camera: With a maximum speed of 2m/s, 3D camera can scan objects as big as 1000mm (W) * 1000mm (H) * 2000mm (L). Accuracy is up to 5mm * 5mm * 5mm, making it suitable for a variety of logistics, express delivery and other sorting occasions. Integrated Solution And Advanced Demo Video Tracking System: By realizing the binding of product barcodes and video streams, the system provides visual backtracking methods to improve workflow and resolve quality disputes, well-applied to assembly lines, warehousing centers, transfer stations and distribution centers. High-speed Code Reading Demo: Able to read the bar code quickly and accurately under high-speed circumstances, which shows Dahua Technology’s expertise in bar code reading. Its applications cover logistics sorting, logistics warehousing, visual traceability, etc. High-precision 3D Demo: High-precision 3D camera can measure small parts with a 20μm margin of error, widely used in the field of high precision and small parts such as parts collecting and PCR. High-resolution Demo: A large-area camera based on 31MP Sony chip displays high-precision images, suitable for fields like LCD screen inspection, wafer inspection, and semiconductor inspection. The success of Dahua Technology’s exhibition at Automate 2019 with cutting-edge products and technologies further proves the company’s long-term commitment to the industry and worldwide customers. With a mission of ‘Enabling a safer society and smarter living’, Dahua Technology will continue to explore emerging opportunities based on video IoT technologies to create value for customers.

Rajant Corporation, the exclusive provider of Kinetic Meshâ wireless networks, has entered into a strategic partnership with DG World, a Dubai-based company that develops products and solutions using the most advanced form of Artificial Intelligence (AI), automation and self-driving systems. This partnership formalizes a working relationship the two companies have had for two years and aligns with their co-exhibition at TOC Asia 2019 at the Marina Bay Sands in Singapore on April 9th-10th, 2019 (Booth D4). Industrial Wireless Network DG World evaluated a range of technologies before choosing Rajant’s secure and resilient industrial wireless network DG World evaluated a range of technologies before choosing Rajant’s secure and resilient industrial wireless network as the backbone solution for their self-driving container terminal trucks. Due to the mission-critical nature of their fleet, specific to seaport operations, DG World requires continuous connectivity for never-fail mobility. Rajant’s Kinetic Mesh network is not only mobile but smart, working peer-to-peer to form connections with other nodes as they move in range. The network nodes can hold multiple connections simultaneously over multiple frequencies. Often in port operations, one path can become blocked. Rajant’s technology has machine learning capability to identify and route communications via the next-best available option overcoming any obstruction instantaneously and autonomously without outside intervention. Chris Mason, Rajant’s Director of Sales – EMEA, shared “DG World has been working with Rajant since 2017, incorporating Kinetic Mesh with InstaMesh into their advanced vehicle automation technology. The resiliency, high bandwidth and low latency of Rajant’s Mesh network have enabled them to develop sophisticated control systems ideally suited for use in container ports.” Asset And Vehicle Tracking The set of long-range sensors track high-speed objects, such as oncoming vehicles DG World’s autonomous technologies combine LiDAR and camera data to classify and track objects helping to identify pedestrians, vehicles and roadway details such as lane lines, construction zones, and signage. Their set of long-range sensors track high-speed objects, such as oncoming vehicles, while short-range sensors provide details about moving objects near the vehicle, such as pedestrians and bicycles. Close coordination between hardware and software team evaluations have afforded DG World the ability to pinpoint potential failure modes for all systems and address them throughout the development cycle to ensure a safe, reliable product. According to Gautam Ahuja, DG World’s Business Development & Sales Director: “No one technology makes this 'brain' (autonomous system) work. Instead, the computers use a combination of systems that work safely together, including Mapping, Simulation, Behavioral Control, Machine Learning, Localization, Planning, Safety, Controls, Networking, Dispatch and Routing, Perception, and Remote Assistance. All of these data points need a mission-critical, fail-safe network as Rajant has to offer. Partnering with Rajant, a global leader and sole provider of their Kinetic Mesh wireless network, will strengthen our offering of an end-to-end solution for any port in the world. Showcasing our technologies together at TOC Asia is a one-stop service to any seaport operator looking to automate their ITVs and other port vehicles.”

In my coverage of China Tariffs impacting the security industry over four recent articles, products on the tariff schedules routinely integrated into security solutions included burglar and fire alarm control and transmission panels, video surveillance lenses, HDTV cameras used for broadcast use cases and fiber optic media converters. The general ‘callout’ of ADP (Automatic Data Processing) devices and peripherals technically includes servers, workstations and microcomputers, all of which are commonly used to support security solutions. The underperformance, from June 15 to August 24, of U.S. stocks with high revenue-exposure to China, and that of Chinese stocks with high revenue-exposure to the United States was significant and almost identical at 3.2%, significant losses to some investors already involved in security industry M&A activity. Significant Public Safety Facial Recognition (FR) vendors leveraging AI expanded their market focus to retail and public safety While it was not apparent that practitioners’ security program budgets kept pace with the growth of the more popular solution providers like video surveillance and cyber security, the ICT industries supporting the security economy continued to expand, especially in wireless and wired infrastructure, including preparations for 5G wireless rollouts. These omnipresent technologies drove significant public safety, smart city and public venue projects in 2018. Facial Recognition (FR) vendors leveraging AI expanded their market focus to retail and public safety. In 2018, virtually every public presentation, webinar and published Q&A on social media monitoring and facial recognition technologies I worked on, involved significant pushback from privacy advocates, almost to the point of alarmism. Massive Risk Reduction Several solution providers in these areas have made significant strides on data protection, accuracy, powered by AI and documented crime reduction cases; however, this real news is quickly shadowed by privacy advocates, seemingly ignoring massive risk reduction, especially in the case of active assailants and gang-related crime. Will FR become mainstream? The cautious security industry may take a cue from the maverick retail industry, sports venue and VIP verification solution providers that grew in 2018. 2019 trends: presupposition or repudiation; winners and losers. Chinese tariffs have had a huge impact on the security industry, which can be seen from changes to U.S and Chinese stocks  Although technology adoption forecasting is inexact, there are definitive opportunities in the security industry born on necessity. With the widespread problem of false alarm transmission and inability for first responders to ‘be everywhere,’ developers of solutions that provide automated verification and alternative security incident detection are expected to become mainstream. Promising Detection Systems The use of AI, NLP, LiDAR, UAS (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles aka drones) with surveillance and thermal imaging will grow, mostly due to higher acceptance in other industries like autonomous vehicles, rail safety, terrain and post devastation mapping/rescue. However, legacy ‘listing’ or certification organizations will be forced to make an important decision for their own survival: work toward integrating these promising detection systems into acceptance by insurance, licensing and standards development organizations. 2019’s ‘true’ Industrial Philanthropists will be needed to fund early warning tech for firefighters and the presence of active assailants 2019’s ‘true’ industrial philanthropists will be needed to fund early warning tech for firefighters and the presence of active assailants. For these use cases, 5G infrastructure rollouts, FR acceptance, lower cost perimeter detection and long range object and fire recognition by LiDAR and Thermal imaging will all be watched closely by investors. Should public agencies and philanthropical solution providers in the security industry cross paths, we may just yet see a successful, lifesaving impact. Cyber Risk Profile The ‘Digital twin’ refers to a digital replica of physical assets (physical twin), processes, people, places, systems and devices that can be used for various purposes. Your ‘Security Digital Twin’ has a similar physical and cyber risk profile, either through common threats, similar assets or both. Good news: managing your risk, protecting assets and securing your facilities in 2019 will get easier as security digital twin profiles will grow in maturity, while keeping their data sources private. This will be accelerated by the maturity of AI-based, auto-generated visualizations and image recognition, that happens to also drive the FR solutions. The 5G wireless infrastructure market is emerging as far more of a quantum leap in connectivity, like ‘wireless fiber optics’ performance, than an upgrade to 4G LTE. The 5G infrastructure market will be worth $2.86 billion by 2020 and $33.72 billion by 2026, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 50.9%. Intelligent Applications The explosion of ingested voice, video, and meta-data, the interconnectivity of devices, people and places, and the integration of intelligent applications into expanding ecosystems all require faster communications. To be more accurate, 5G rollouts will accelerate in 2019; however, current project funding will include and be impacted by future enterprise security connectivity: 5G and FWA (Fixed Wireless Access). 5G rollouts will accelerate in 2019; however, current project funding will include and be impacted by future enterprise security connectivity Quite simply put, larger solution providers are gently coaxing practitioners into seemingly ‘open systems;’ the negative discovery during an M&A process, audit or integration with a smart city’s public/private partnerships will continue to be revealed, and related industries will force reform. Autonomous things will be enabled by AI and image recognition. With few affordable rollouts of security robots and outdoor unmanned ground vehicles (UGV) that leveraged platforms popular with research and even NASA, the autonomous security robot was mostly MIA from a security practitioner’s program in 2018. Perimeter Intrusion Detection One platform was even accused of intimidating homeless people in a public place, at a major city. Industries mutually beneficial are often unaware of each other; this will change gradually: one major domestic airport is currently evaluating a UGV platform performing perimeter intrusion detection, runway weather conditions and potential aircraft taxiing dangers. The platform is being used largely in transportation research, yet offers significant opportunities to the security industry. Research firm Gartner estimates that 70% of today’s technology products and services can be enhanced with ‘multi-experience’-based VR/AR/MR The ‘immersive experience’ of virtually any security or threat detection is a twist on virtual/augmented/mixed reality (VR/AR/MR) with additional sensory features. Although VR/AR/MR is well underway in other industries, there are several companies with solutions like VR-based active assailant training that could provide a fighting chance for practitioners, employees, visitors, faculty and children. Research firm Gartner estimates that 70% of today’s technology products and services can be enhanced with ‘multi-experience’-based VR/AR/MR. Security Ecosystem Members Not necessarily MIA, but of special mention is the need of security and safety practitioners to prioritize communications systems over ‘nice to have’ expansive video surveillance systems for mass casualty threats. This will eventually improve with 5G for Enterprise solution rollouts. At the past GSX and upcoming CES Technology trade shows, a new roundup of technologies is discovered: a wider diversity of protection promise to save ASIS members on their technical security program is realized. With each of the ‘winners,’ (5G, AI, NLP, LiDAR, UAS [Unmanned Aerial Vehicles aka drones], thermal imaging, digital security twins and smart-city-friendly technologies) it is both exciting and challenging work for both security practitioners and solution providers. All things equal and with the necessary technology acceptance testing processes, this is a truly great time for security ecosystem members.

If you’ve been paying attention over the last twelve months, you will have noticed that deep learning techniques and artificial intelligence (AI) are making waves in the physical security market, with manufacturers eagerly adopting these buzzwords at the industry's biggest trade shows. With all the hype, security professionals are curious to know what these terms really mean, and how these technologies can boost real-world security system performance. The growing number of applications of deep learning technology and AI in physical security is a clear indication that these are more than a passing fad. This review of some of our most comprehensive articles on these topics shows that AI is an all-pervasive trend that the physical security industry will do well to embrace quickly. Here, we examine the opportunities that artificial intelligence presents for smart security applications, and look back at how some of the leading security companies are adapting to respond to rapidly-changing expectations: What Is Deep Learning Technology? Machine Learning involves collecting large amounts of data related to a problem, training a model using this data and employing this model to process new data. Recently, there have been huge advances in a branch of Machine Learning called Deep Learning. This describes a family of algorithms based on neural networks. These algorithms are able to learn efficiently from example, and subsequently apply this learning to new data. Here, Zvika Ashani explains how deep learning technology can boost video surveillance systems. Relationship Between Deep Learning And Artificial Intelligence With deep learning, you can show a computer many different images and it will "learn" to distinguish the differences. This is the "training" phase. After the neural network learns about the data, it can then use "inference" to interpret new data based on what it has learned. For example, if it has seen enough cats before, the system will know when a new image is a cat. In effect, the system “learns” by looking at lots of data to achieve artificial intelligence (AI). Larry Anderson explores how new computer hardware - the Graphic Processing Unit (GPU) – is making artificial intelligence accessible to the security industry. Improving Surveillance Efficiency And Accuracy With AI Larry Anderson explains how the latest technologies from Neurala and Motorola will enable the addition of AI to existing products, changing an existing solution from a passive sensor to a device that is “active in its thinking.” The technology is already being added to existing Motorola body-worn-cameras to enable police officers to more efficiently search for objects or persons of interest. In surveillance applications, AI could eliminate the need for humans to do repetitive or boring work, such as look at hours of video footage. Intelligent Security Systems Overcome Smart City Surveillance Challenges AI technology is expected to answer the pressing industry questions of how to use Big Data effectively and make a return on the investment in expensive storage, while maintaining (or even lowering) human capital costs. However, until recently, these expectations have been limited by factors such as a limited ability to learn, and high ongoing costs. Zvika Ashani examines how these challenges are being met and overcome, making artificial intelligence the standard in Smart City surveillance deployments. Combining AI And Robotics To Enhance Security Operations With the abilities afforded by AI, robots can navigate any designated area autonomously to keep an eye out for suspicious behavior or alert first responders to those who may need aid. This also means that fewer law enforcement and/or security personnel will have be pulled from surrounding areas. While drones still require a human operator to chart their flight paths, the evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) is increasing the capabilities of these machines to work autonomously, says Steve Reinharz. Future Of Artificial Intelligence In The Security Industry Contributors to SourceSecurity.com have been eager to embrace artificial intelligence and its ability to make video analytics more accurate and effective. Manufacturers predicted that deep learning technology could provide unprecedented insight into human behaviour, allowing video systems to more accurately monitor and predict crime. They also noted how cloud-based systems hold an advantage for deep learning video analytics. All in all, manufacturers are hoping that AI will provide scalable solutions across a range of vertical markets. 

The year 2017 saw some of the worst natural disasters in North America, with Hurricanes Harvey and Irma wreaking havoc on Houston, Texas, and the Caribbean with force of which we haven’t seen before. While many people chose to evacuate these areas, many were left to deal with the devastation and first responders had the difficult job of assessing the damage, rescuing trapped victims and delivering food and supplies. AI-Enabled Drones And Robotics To Assess Damage In addition, more than 1,800 FEMA employees were deployed to support the hurricane relief efforts along with over 340 workers from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.Robots could be vital in ensuring that security is maintained within a disaster zone - and they only cost a quarter of a police officer's salary That’s on top of the resources that were already actively working to save lives in the affected areas, including the Texas National Guard, the entirety of which was activated by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott shortly after Harvey came ashore. While these rescue workers work tirelessly to make a difference, many times there simply aren’t enough hands to truly help everyone in need. As a result, some companies look at this as a way to introduce technology to the equation that can be easily deployed in the event of disaster, including artificial intelligence-enabled drones and robotics to assess damage, provide initial triage for patients, and provide basic supplies to people in need. While still in the beginning stages, these initiatives are already being implemented in some emerging markets. Robots As Mobile Sentries Disaster situations tend to bring out the best in people as evidenced by those who turn out en masse, either on their own or by volunteering with service organizations, to try and help their fellow citizens following storms, earthquakes and other types of calamities.Utilizing a robot instead of a human as a sentry means less law enforcement and/or security personnel Unfortunately, these types of incidents also bring out the worst in humankind in the form of looters and others who seek to take advantage of people who have lost everything. Although it should be noted that fears and reports of looting are often overstated during events like Harvey and other disasters, there’s no denying that keeping the peace and making sure that things do not descend into chaos and anarchy during what is a stressful time for all involved is paramount. Given that law enforcement and the National Guard must devote the majority of their attention to other recovery efforts, robots could be vital in ensuring that security is maintained within a disaster zone. In addition to not having to allocate manpower to security, which again involves bringing in people and placing further burdens on available resources, deploying robots to act as mobile sentries offers a number of benefits. Sustainable Resources Obviously, there are cost advantages to using robots rather than people. For example, in a typical commercial environment, robots can be deployed for about half the cost of a traditional unarmed guard and they only cost about a quarter of what it takes to employ a police officer in a law enforcement-type application. Most robots are also outfitted with surveillance cameras, which provide authorities the ability to constantly monitor an area and record video for evidentiary purposes. Artificial intelligence-enabled drones and robotics aid to assess damage, provide initial triage for patients, and provide basic supplies to people in need during a natural disaster  Perhaps the most appealing benefit that robots offer to emergency management officials in a security role during disaster recovery efforts is sustainability. Robots never get tired, nor do they have to use the bathroom, eat or take a break. With the abilities afforded by AI, robots can also navigate any designated area autonomously to keep an eye out for suspicious behavior or alert first responders to those who may need aid.Pattern recognition programs are essentially the building blocks that make the larger umbrella of general AI possible The SMP Robotics S5 Security Robot from Robotic Assistance Devices, for example, can run for as long as 20 hours without needing to be recharged and a single operator working from a central command post could manage up to 25 of them. Robotic Sentries To Address Short-Staffing Having robots patrol certain locations also reduces the likelihood of violent encounters between people and security forces. It’s not uncommon for tensions to boil over in situations where people feel hopeless and they can sometimes lash out at the very people sent to help them. Such a situation occurred following Hurricane Katrina, which devastated New Orleans and other areas of the Gulf Coast in 2005. Just days after the Superdome was converted into a makeshift shelter for evacuees, conditions inside the massive building began to deteriorate and a National Guardsman was assaulted one night inside a locker room. The attack resulted in troops putting up barbed wire fencing in various places around the building for protection from the increasingly agitated crowd. Last but certainly not least, utilizing a robot instead of a human as a sentry in the aftermath of a disaster means that less law enforcement and/or security personnel will have be pulled from surrounding areas, many of which are already short-staffed as it is.Robots are outfitted with surveillance cameras, which provide authorities the ability to constantly monitor an area Law enforcement, firefighters and EMTs from adjacent communities and neighboring states almost immediately pour into the hardest hit areas following a disaster; however, this also leaves their respective agencies somewhat vulnerable themselves should they encounter a devastating event of their own. The use of just 50 robots, because they can work more hours, could mean that roughly 120 first responders could stay put in their own cities, towns and counties. New Possibilities With Artificial Intelligence While drones still largely require a human operator to chart their flight paths and control their movements, the evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the capabilities of machines to work autonomously. Though it may sound like something straight out of a science fiction novel or movie, there are already numerous robotic technologies that leverage some form of AI technology today. Of course, there is still a bit of confusion about what exactly AI is as well as some of the underlying terminology surrounding it. Generally speaking, AI is the ability of a computer to imitate the cognitive thinking and decision-making capabilities of humans. AI is the ability of a computer to imitate the cognitive thinking and decision-making capabilities of humans Some of the terms used in conjunction with AI, such as machine learning, deep learning and neural networks, refer to the ability of software programs to recognize patterns in large amounts of ingested data. Pattern recognition programs such as these, labeled by some as ‘narrow AI’, are essentially the building blocks that make the larger umbrella of general AI possible.Robots used in disaster scenarios could help maintain law and order, assist in search and rescue operations, and provide vital communications capabilities Remote Physical Security Capabilities The physical security industry has recently been inundated with technologies that leverage different components of this narrow AI category. The manned guarding segment, in particular, has seen the introduction of a variety of robot guards over the past several years, which have been deployed in a range of different applications. Aside from serving as a force multiplier, robots with machine learning capabilities give security end users the ability to have an expanded presence in locations or situations characterized as too 'dull, dirty or dangerous' to place a human guard. For example, while it may not be feasible to have a human patrol the outskirts of a vital electric substation located hundreds of miles from the nearest town, having a robot that can easily traverse the harsh terrain and notify the proper authorities when something is amiss would be a viable alternative.Sometimes health and safety concerns make it dangerous to have a human watch the site, such as at toxic waste dumps - robots do not have this issue Technology As Force Multiplier In Disaster Management There are also situations where health and safety concerns simply preclude the ability of having a human watch the site, such as at toxic waste dumps, but this is not the case for a robot. Similar to these situations where having human guards is not desirable or even possible, robots could be used in disaster scenarios where they could help maintain law and order, assist in search and rescue operations, as well as provide vital communications capabilities. Robots and drones that are equipped with artificial intelligence capabilities can offer first responders a look into the aftermath of a natural disaster and serve as a force multiplier in these cases. We’re seeing the rise of the use of this kind of technology, and as the world faces more and more weather-related and man-made disasters in the future, they will become a part of the fabric of emergency response.

As a security service provider with a rich history in manguarding, Allied Universal is launching a new technology platform to increase productivity and accountability of security officers and to transform guard service operations from an ‘observe and report’ mission to a ‘detect and respond’ function. Mark Mullison, Allied Universal’s Chief Information Officer (CIO), says the new Heliaus platform also uses artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze data, predict outcomes, and prescribe optimum responses. The platform includes a smart phone app that guides security officers to ensure post orders are followed and provides a ‘virtual’ coach or supervisor to guide security officers throughout the day. “The walls between technology and people need to come down in the future,” says Mullison. “We need an ecosystem in which people and technology can cooperate well and respond to threats and drive outcomes.” Real-Time situational awareness Technology plays an increasing role in security and safety, but it will never replace humans"Heliaus is a step in that direction. It has two components – the mobile app used by security officers; and a cloud-based portal, like a command and control center that compiles information from the app and other inputs and performs AI analysis of data. Heliaus is an add-on for Allied Universal customers and is offered for a per-device subscription fee of $199 per month. A customer company’s managers can also access the portal for data visualization tools and real-time situational awareness, or to input data such as ‘approving’ an incident report or action. “Technology plays an increasing role in security and safety, but it will never replace humans,” says Mullison. “It will augment and enhance the workflow and make people more effective.” “We are focusing on delivering better outcomes for safety and security,” he adds. “The impacts are as broad and diverse as the clients we serve.” Customization of forms enables the system to collect and use any information that was previously collected on paper. Monitoring and Response Center (MaRC) A system is effective only to the extent that it is used, and Allied Universal has engineered the user experience to make the mobile app easy – almost fun – to use, says Mullison. Elements of ‘gamification’ drive greater user adoption. “It is designed to support the work [security officers] do and make information collection a by-product of people doing their jobs.” The system brings together rich data, AI, location-aware workflow automation, and friendly user experience design Effective AI depends on data, and Heliaus pulls data from Allied Universal’s Monitoring and Response Center (MaRC), where a cloud server integrates the company’s managed security services, including access control, video surveillance and video analytics. It also incorporates current weather information and forecasts, and information specific to the industry segment. Additional data is generated as officers enter data through the mobile app. The system brings together rich data, AI, location-aware workflow automation, and friendly user experience design. It provides insight into the drivers of risk, makes recommendations about how to reduce incidents, and, through dynamic workflow automation, ensures that those recommendations are implemented. Location awareness is a combination of the global positioning system (GPS), Bluetooth beacons, and near-field communication (NFC) tags. Improves the accuracy of responses AI understands the data and applies reasoning capabilities to predict an outcome and prescribe a response“Information is organized to facilitate AI analysis. If you have the right knowledge representation then problem-solving is easy,” says Mullison, echoing a common principle of artificial intelligence. AI works to analyze data and make predictions and recommendations to guide responses by security personnel. AI understands the data and applies reasoning capabilities to predict an outcome and prescribe a response. The AI system also learns and improves the accuracy of responses with more data and over time. Responses come much faster than older ‘trial and error’ models of analysis. Another element of Heliaus is a ‘robust workflow engine’ that ensures recommendations are carried out, either by a security professional on site or by the client. Mullison says implementation of the system can result in a 20% reduction of security and safety incidents. Multiple applications of Heliaus Heliaus is already being used by some Allied Universal customers. For example, a major Hollywood production studio is using it to identify and address workplace hazards such as stray electrical cords, dripping water hoses, etc., across a 50-acre area. In the logistics sector, Heliaus is being used to facilitate checking delivery vehicles in and out of a truckyard A manufacturer created a custom compliance application using the platform to track more than 140 unique incident types, such as monitoring elevated temperature in a truck trailer or drivers without proper identification. In the logistics sector, Heliaus is being used to facilitate checking delivery vehicles in and out of a truckyard. The flexibility of the platform can enable expansion to incorporate other technologies in the future, too. For example, sources of data for the system could include robots, drones or various Internet of Things (IoT) sensors; or workflow engines could be used to dispatch a robot or drone to handle a situation (rather than a human).

Deploying security robots at a company is about more than providing and programming the hardware. There is also an element of “change management” involved in smoothing the way for robots to play a security role working side-by-side with human counterparts. Rising Popularity Of Security Robots As security robots increase in popularity, more companies are adapting to such cultural challenges "As security robots increase in popularity, more companies are adapting to such cultural challenges. Many Fortune 100, technology, finance and defense companies have begun using security robots, and some are asking to expand their implementation", says Travis Deyle, CEO and co-founder of Cobalt Robotics. "It is a complex solution that involves merging technology with people." “More people are looking at how they can deploy and test this technology, dipping their toes in the water,” says Deyle. “Financially the risk is low, but culturally it is pretty acute. It is a very visible piece of technology moving through your most sensitive spaces and interacting with employees.” Change Management “Doing change management and addressing the cultural implications inside the company are the biggest challenges we face,” Deyle adds. “We have to make sure that people know what the robot is there for, what it does and how it helps them. There is a social contract between companies and employees about what information is being collected and how is it being used.” The technical onboarding of a robot is the easy part, says Deyle. “The robot goes in, maps out the space; it takes about an hour. The bigger part is the cultural onboarding.” The process involves working closely with the company’s communications team to manage how the use of robots is messaged throughout the company. Deyle suggests doing a Q&A event where employees can touch and feel the robot and get comfortable. “We tailor the interaction to the individual company,” he says. Importance Of Communication Communication with employees, tenants, clients, law enforcement, etc. is very important Communication with employees, tenants, clients, law enforcement, etc. is very important and, if done well, all goes smoothly, agrees William Santana Li, Knightscope Chairman and CEO. “Showing up with a 400-pound, 5-foot-tall autonomous robot, deploying it and not telling anyone what is happening is ill advised!” Knightscope also advises potential end users to identify clearly the areas of improvement needed in a security program to guide the deployment of robots. Beware of “Science Fiction Disease,” whose symptoms include unrealistic expectations or fears emanating from Hollywood depictions of robots over the years. Expectations should be spelled out: Keep ongoing and clear communications between the provider and the client, continuing to make improvements together. Future Of Robotics And AI Users should also think clearly through their source of funding, including the second and future years of an implementation. Communication is key, involving stakeholders from the CSO to facilities, purchasing to human resources, finance to the CEO. The future of robotics in corporate America is more than the development of the technology. Given advances in artificial intelligence (AI), sensors and software, the technology is the easy part. Thinking more broadly about how robotics can excel in the corporate environment – and make companies safer – is the next big obstacle on the path to effectively using the powerful technology.

Knightscope’s long-term mission is to “make America the safest country in the world,” says William Santana Li, Chairman and CEO. “The company was started six years ago as we had grown tired and horrified by the ongoing violence in our country and decided to do something about it.” But are security robots the solution to crime and violence in the United States? “There are 2+ million law enforcement and security professionals trying to secure 328+ million people across the 50 states,” Mr. Li says. “The math just doesn’t work, which is why our country pays $1+ trillion in negative economic impact annually – a hidden tax we all pay in blood, tears and treasure.”  Robots provide professionals with new tools. “We make really smart eyes and ears that operate 24/7/365 for an affordable price,” says Mr. Li. “We have actually operated more than 700,000 hours in the real world, both outdoors and indoors, across 15 states and are now operating across five time zones – fully autonomous without any human intervention.” Utilizing Robotics And AI AI helps Knightscope robots interact better with humans and perform activities like identifying peopleKnightscope is a security technology company that utilizes self-driving technology, robotics and artificial intelligence to provide security professionals additional eyes and ears to do their jobs much more effectively – as well as provide a consistent around-the-clock physical deterrence to help minimize negative behavior. Knightscope says its K1, K3 and K5 security robots, and accompanying user interface, the Knightscope Security Operations Center (KSOC), continue to make significant contributions to the safety of its client base. Artificial intelligence helps Knightscope robots interact better with humans and perform activities like identifying people, looking up license plates, detecting rogue wireless devices, having a machine-to-human dialog and, in the future, detecting dangerous objects in a scene automatically. “Our long-term plan is to have the machines be able to see, feel, hear and smell, so advances in sensor capabilities, efforts in sensor fusion, and the future with 5G capabilities will make for profound advances,” says Mr. Li. Facial Recognition Software At ISC West 2019 was Knightscope’s fourth time exhibiting at ISC West, and they have also exhibited at GSX/ASIS, ISC East, numerous other trade shows, and have hosted some of their own. Mr. Li has seen the reaction to security robots evolve over the years. People are realizing that the technology is not science fiction but science fact and looking to see how it can be an integral part of their respective security programs “At first, it was typically ‘what is that?’ or ‘what does it do?’ But the last 12 to 18 months have been very different. There has been much more meaningful, implementation-focused dialog, feedback, requests for new features, etc. Now folks are realizing that our technology is not science fiction but science fact and looking to see how it can be an integral part of their respective security programs.” Their ISC West presence this year highlighted facial recognition software that utilizes deep learning to detect, analyze and compare faces. Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula, Calif., an existing Knightscope customer, is using the beta format on its K1 security robot platform. Additional Benefits Of Using Robots Knightscope has raised over $40 million to develop and deploy its technology and is backed by more than 6,000 family offices, accelerators, funds, private investors and four major corporations, says Mr. Li. As the machines get smarter and more capable over time – the number of applications will become endless" Robots also provide additional benefits beyond security, says Mr. Li, such as branding, community relations and public relations opportunities for clients. “In some cases, our clients have utilized our Concierge feature to allow for human-to-machine customer service interactions,” he says. “We have also been able to showcase and inspire STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) students with practical applications of technology for the good of society. And robot selfies have certainly become a thing.” Endless Number Of Applications In terms of vertical markets, in the near term, Knightscope has seen positive scaling and growth on corporate campuses and at logistics facilities, manufacturing plants, hospitals, casinos, commercial real estate and malls. “As the machines get smarter and more capable over time – the number of applications will become endless,” says Mr. Li. They currently drop new software code every two weeks and new hardware typically a couple of times a year. “In my opinion, it is ill advised for early stage technology companies to utilize B2G (business-to-government) sales as the initial go-to-market strategy,” says Mr. Li. “For Knightscope we have been primarily focused on B2B (business-to-business) sales and actually until 2017 were geographically constrained to California only. What we are doing is technologically extremely difficult as these are effectively self-driving cars. Additionally, despite the never-ending international interest, we are laser focused on the United States.”

Knightscope, Inc., a developer of advanced physical security technologies focused on enhancing U.S. security operations, announced that it is has taken a major step in its commitment to help better secure schools across the country by selecting Clovis Unified School District in California as its beta testing location for a suite of new technologies under development. The Company had prior announced this effort earlier this year when it solicited students to get involved and submit essays on how Knightscope’s fully autonomous security robots could help in a school setting. Security Robots To Monitor School Safety “With over 100,000 schools in the country, we need to develop a new set of tools and technologies as a critical part of our long-term mission to better secure the United States of America,” said William Santana Li, chairman and chief executive officer, Knightscope, Inc. Knightscope’s robots will provide the authoritative presence needed on a school campus and provide actual intelligence by filling in the blind spots" “Being able to utilize a real-world environment to test, sample, and iterate on new capabilities while inspiring students to pursue STEM careers is certainly a winning combination,” continued Li. “As a teacher of thirty years, my philosophy has always been to be proactive instead of reactive, and the idea of security robots monitoring a school is definitely a proactive approach to school safety. Knightscope’s robots will provide the authoritative presence needed on a school campus and provide actual intelligence by filling in the blind spots with their ‘eyes and ears,’” said Clifford A. Nitschke, Jr., AP United States Government and Politics Instructor, Clovis North High School. Trialling A New Technology In School Safety Mr. Nitschke’s class submitted the winning proposal to Knightscope. “We are honored to be chosen by Knightscope and to be given the opportunity to pilot a new and exciting technology in the field of school safety.” The Clovis United Unified School District Governing Board is scheduled to meet on January 16, 2019 to formally accept the beta testing program by Knightscope. The meeting is planned to occur at 6:30pm at the Clovis Unified Professional Development Building, 1680 David E Cook Way, Clovis, CA 93611. Assuming an approval by the Board, the parties will determine implementation timing thereafter.

Hikvision USA Inc., a provider of artificial intelligence, machine learning, robotics and other emerging technologies, and the supplier of video surveillance products and solutions, provided a new, high-resolution IP security system installed by Hikvision integrator ADT/Protection 1, to upgrade security for the Battleship North Carolina, a national historic landmark in Wilmington, N.C. A stationary nine-level ship and museum, the Battleship North Carolina is a memorial honoring the 11,000 North Carolina service members who perished in World War II, along with all veterans. Visitor attractions include mess halls, the engine room, the bridge, and the Combat Information Center. Hikvision integrator partner ADT/Protection 1 upgraded the system and installed 45 new Hikvision cameras Replacing Analog Surveillance “The combination of Hikvision camera models and thoughtful camera placement has produced a broad surveillance umbrella for the Battleship North Carolina landmark, and also has some amazing views,” said Jason Summers, commercial sales at ADT/Protection 1. The ship’s cabling posed the biggest challenge, Summers said. “The USS North Carolina had a team of volunteers that handled cabling onboard the ship. Once the old coax cabling was removed, connecting the cameras and network was relatively easy.” After completing a major network upgrade last fall, it was an ideal time to replace the battleship's aging analog surveillance system. Hikvision integrator partner ADT/Protection 1 upgraded the system and installed 45 new Hikvision cameras. Hikvision 3 MP dome cameras, 2 MP 30x optical zoom PTZ cameras, 2 MP motorized zoom bullet cameras, and 2 MP turret cameras were placed throughout the main ship and the gift shop Recording Capacity Up To 40 Days A mix of Hikvision 3 MP dome cameras, 2 MP 30x optical zoom PTZ cameras, 2 MP motorized zoom bullet cameras, and 2 MP turret cameras were placed throughout the main ship and the gift shop. Two Hikvision 32-channel NVRs with 6 TB of storage provide recorded footage up to 40 days. “Hikvision contributes to the communities where we live and work,” said Alex Asnovich, Head of Marketing, Hikvision North America. “With our integrators as partners, we are able to support the community and give back to memorials like the Battleship North Carolina.”

A surveillance system provided by Hikvision Canada Inc., a top provider of artificial intelligence, machine learning, robotics and other emerging technologies, and the supplier of video surveillance products and solutions, was installed by Hikvision integrator Off Grid Surveillance Platforms (OGSP) to secure a building during the remodeling process for Ajax Hyundai in Ontario, Canada. Hikvision posted a case study about the project on its website. OGSP specializes in surveillance systems that operate off the electrical grid, harnessing the sun to power video surveillance and live monitoring equipment. The installation provided 360-degree, panoramic surveillance that doubled as a theft deterrent, while giving the dealership the flexibility to zoom in for further detail Dome Cameras And NVR Installation OGSP installed four Hikvision DS-2CE4A220IW-AE 2MP Network PTZ Dome cameras atop a 24-foot base, and a Hikvision Embedded Plug & Play NVR (3 TB capacity) in a trailer on the site. The installation provided 360-degree, panoramic surveillance that doubled as a theft deterrent, while giving the dealership the flexibility to zoom in for further detail, scan recorded video for footage, and check in remotely from Hikvision’s iVMS app via a smartphone or tablet. Hikvision’s weatherproof cameras function in temperatures down to -30 degrees Celsius. The system can also be live monitored by central stations 24/7, where trespassers can be requested to leave through active bullhorns, and police can be immediately dispatched. Hikvision technology offers cost effective solutions that deliver the best image and video quality on the market" Cost-Effective Real-ime Monitoring Solutions Cable theft at construction sites and hydro installations is a significant problem in Canada, and people can be harmed by live wires. "To counter this problem, prevent injuries and even death, and reduce construction site theft, we devised a more diverse system providing greater power with reliable, real-time monitoring, via third parties and superior area coverage," said Jeff Mcilveen, owner of OGSP.  Sean Harris, general manager for Ajax Hyundai, said, "Hikvision technology offers cost effective solutions that deliver the best image and video quality on the market. The diverse features and quality of the cameras is unmatched." Jeffrey He, president of Hikvision USA Inc. and Hikvision Canada Inc., said the project highlights "our deep focus on partnering with our customers and helping them keep their customers’ assets and property safe and secure."

Hikvision USA Inc., a global provider of artificial intelligence, machine learning, robotics and other emerging technologies, along with video surveillance products and solutions, worked with Hikvision integrator TAS Electronics in New York to furnish a full-scale surveillance system for 'The Armadillo', a repurposed armored truck the Utica Police Department (UPD) uses to deter crime in the community. “When the decision was made to upgrade the Armadillo, the immediate concern was the camera system, because it is the lifeblood of any high quality digital video recording network. Knowing this, we demanded the best equipment available,” said Edward Noonan, deputy chief of police for the UPD. “Hikvision and TAS Electronics provided us with high resolution cameras that have the ability to see in the dark, and we can control these cameras remotely through an app on our smartphones with remarkably high resolution.”The Armadillo is a great example of our integrators collaborating with a local police department to deliver improved safety and security to their community" Improved Community Security Six Hikvision turret cameras and two Hikvision PTZ dome cameras were installed on the vehicle for comprehensive panoramic surveillance. To provide 65 days of video storage and recovery, TAS installed a 32-channel Hikvision Pro-Series DS-9616NI-I8 NVR with 12 TB of storage. Hikvision’s technology, combined with TAS’ expertise, resulted in a resource that improves crime monitoring and deterrence, making the streets safer for the citizens of Utica. “The Armadillo is a great example of our integrators collaborating with a local police department to deliver improved safety and security to their community,” said Alex Asnovich, Head of Marketing, Hikvision North America.

The new year 2019 is brimming with possibilities for the physical security industry, but will those possibilities prove to be good news or bad news for our market? Inevitably, it will be a combination of good and bad, but how much good and how bad? We wanted to check the temperature of the industry as it relates to expectations for the new year, so we asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: How optimistic is your outlook for the physical security industry in 2019? Why?

The reviews are in, and ISC West was another hit. Brisk attendance and a comprehensive lineup of the industry’s top companies and products contributed to another successful show for Reed Exhibitions. Our Expert Panel Roundtable, who have attended many such events, added their own reflections to the industry’s post-ISC glow. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: How successful was ISC West 2018 for security industry exhibitors and visitors?

A big trade show, such as the upcoming ISC West, has a lot to offer for attendees. How can attendees maximize the value they get out of ISC West? For advice, we go to our Expert Panel Roundtable, all seasoned veterans of many big trade shows. Specifically, we asked the panel: How can attendees get the most out of a big trade show like ISC West?