Category: Case Study

YMCA Heart of England has upgraded video systems across its busy community facilities in Birmingham, Solihull, Rugby and Coventry with a roll-out of end-toend DirectIP technology from IDIS. Part of the international YMCA movement, YMCA Heart of England supports local people, including vulnerable groups, with services from housing to youth services. Systems integrator Unison Integrated Technology was asked to replace YMCA’s poorly performing mix-and-match systems, incorporating elements from different vendors, with more efficient end-to-end technology from IDIS, Korea’s largest in-country video manufacturer. YMCA selected IDIS because the single-source model offers advantages including assured compatibility and ease of installation, lower up-front costs, ongoing tech support and long term value, all ensuring lower total cost of ownership (TCO). At the YMCA Birmingham centre, for example, the inefficient video has been replaced by an IDIS DirectIP® solution comprising a 32-channel NVR; 19 full-HD vandal-resistant IR domes; and 11 full-HD IR bullet cameras. The IDIS technology was easy to implement thanks to true, plug-and-play design, allowing the project to be completed without interruption to day-to-day activity at the centre. The 2.8mm fixed lens 2MP dome and bullet cameras, equipped with true WDR and IR LED, were set up to capture crisp, clear images of the building exteriors, entrances and internal corridors and communal areas day and night. And the powerful 4K NVR delivers throughput of up to 960ips real-time recording and live monitoring with no visible latency. Unison also opted to replace all the legacy cabling, upgrading to a future-proofed Cat6. This new robust infrastructure will allow YMCA Heart of England to take advantage of increased video resolutions in the future, making it easy for them to adopt powerful yet affordable IDIS deep learning analytics for a range of automated detection functions that trigger highly accurate alarms and notifications. The new solution is simple to use, with the license-free IDIS Center VMS giving staff and authorised volunteers an intuitive interface to manage devices, benefitting from high-performance live monitoring and rapid retrieval of footage, while easily configuring user permissions to provide team members with appropriate role-based access rights. “YMCA Heart of England were so impressed with the results we delivered at their Birmingham centre they then asked us to upgrade all their premises across the whole region,” said Matthew Rodden, Director, Unison Integrated Technology. The entire project was completed in just four weeks. And reducing waste and costs further, a number of third-party legacy cameras were retained to operate seamlessly under the IDIS Center VMS. “We are delighted that IDIS technology has proved to be the best solution for YMCA, with competitive up-front pricing and the low ongoing lifecycle costs,” said Reiss Spear, Sales Manager, IDIS Europe.  

A host of industry-leading fire protection solutions from UK manufacturer, Advanced, have been installed to protect approximately 140,000sqft. of Grade A office space at Westferry House, Canary Wharf. As a cornerstone office building situated at the western gateway to Europe’s largest and most successful business district, Westferry House consists of 11 storeys, complete with its own retail promenade on the ground floor. At the core of the active fire protection for the building are six Advanced MxPro 5 fire alarm control panels installed alongside Apollo Soteria multi-sensors. Responsible for all aspects of the installation, as well as the future maintenance of the system, are Advanced partners, Pacific Security Systems Ltd. The Kent-based fire and security specialists installed the MxPro 5 fire panels alongside Advanced’s remote-control terminal and repeater panel, TouchControl, to provide a discreet and aesthetically pleasing means of viewing the fire system in the building’s recently refurbished reception area. Advanced’s AdSpecials team was also commissioned by Pacific Security Systems to design and manufacture a custom-built annunciator panel to control the pressurisation and extraction fans and dampers on all floors of the building. The annunciator also integrates with the building’s VA/ PA system to provide manual control of messages on all floors. Kirk Short, Director at Pacific Security Systems said, “As long-time installers of Advanced with many successful projects, large and small, under our belts, we know its solutions are both reliable and user friendly. The bespoke equipment we required for the fire system upgrade at Westferry House is of an excellent standard, and we found the AdSpecials team very easy to work with throughout the entire design process.” Advanced’s AdSpecials team works with customers requiring bespoke fire panels to design and manufacture unique fire system solutions, whatever the installation challenge. Amanda Hope, UK Fire Business Development Manager at Advanced said, “Canary Wharf attracts some of the World’s most respected and successful companies, and it was fantastic to learn that our solutions have been installed in such a prestigious commercial office space. Westferry House is just a stone’s throw from the Landmark Pinnacle – the UK’s tallest residential building – another iconic site protected by Advanced’s MxPro 5 panels. “Westferry House is also a fantastic example of where our TouchControl solution comes into its own, providing additional monitoring and control in a sleek and versatile format, that complements the building’s stylish reception space.” TouchControl is the low-profile, high-resolution touchscreen repeater that makes it easy to check fire system status via interactive maps and zone plans, while harmonising with a wide range of interiors. When in standby, it can be used to display branding, advertisements and information, but will instantly revert to fire operation when a fire condition occurs. Advanced, owned by FTSE 100 company Halma PLC, protects a wide range of prestigious and high-profile sites across the globe – from London’s Shard to Abu Dhabi International Airport and the Hong Kong – Zhuhai – Macau Bridge. Advanced is a world leading player in the development and manufacture of fire protection solutions. Advanced’s reputation for performance, quality and ease of use see its products specified in locations around the world, from single-panel installations to large, multi-site networks. Advanced’s products include complete fire detection systems, multiprotocol fire panels, extinguishing control, fire paging, false alarm management and reduction systems as well as emergency lighting.  

Smiths Detection, a global provider of threat detection and security screening technologies, has recently been selected by Incheon International Airport Corporation (IIAC) to deploy its high-speed explosives detection system (EDS) HI-SCAN 10080 XCT for hold baggage screening at Incheon International Airport (ICN) Terminal 2 as part of its Phase 4 Expansion Construction Project. The contract includes an equipment service agreement. The expansion is projected to increase ICN’s capacity to allow 29 million more passengers and create 60,000 new jobs. This will make Incheon International Airport the third-largest airport globally. “The expansion will help Incheon International Airport maintain its competitiveness as a world class aviation hub while establishing an airport-centered economic zone where major industries converge, boosting areas of the airport industry,” said H. S. Kim, Director, BHS Engineering and Construction Team, IIAC, “A safe and secure airport environment is vital for such growth, IIAC is glad to have the trusted expertise and support of Smiths Detection in meeting our unique needs and future-proofing ICN’s security capabilities and resilience.” The hold baggage screening system, HI-SCAN 10080 XCT features a dual-view dual-energy X-ray line scanner with full 3D volumetric computed tomography (CT) imaging and reconstruction for more accurate analysis, delivering a low false alarm rate. The system offers a high throughput of up to 1,800 bags per hour for a faster and more efficient screening process. Deployed in major airports like Heathrow Airport and Frankfurt Airport, the HI-SCAN 10080 XCT is both ECAC EDS Standard 3 and 3.1 approved and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) certified, the highest defined industry security standards. “As air travel gradually resumes, there is no better time to introduce new security technology,” said Aurelien Guilbert, Managing Director, North Asia, Smiths Detection, “Incheon International Airport’s expansion bodes well for the region and Smiths Detection is proud to support the region’s recovery journey by providing security of the highest standard.” Installation is expected to be completed by October 2024. IIAC is keen on exploring adoption of Smiths Detection’s iCMORE capabilities using artificial intelligence algorithms and advanced material discrimination to automatically detect an ever-expanding list of dangerous goods and lithium batteries to achieve maximum detection performance.  

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

VIVOTEK provided intelligent surveillance cameras to bolster the security system of Thailand’s new MRT Red Line. A total of 570 VIVOTEK MD8563- EH mobile dome network cameras are in the security systems of the MRT Red Line’s four-car type and six-car type trains. The 10 four-car type trains have 180 cameras in total with 18 cameras in each train. The 15 six-car type trains have 390 cameras in total with 26 cameras in each train. VIVOTEK’s MD8563-EH is a compact 2-megapixel network camera with vandal-proof IK10-rated metal housing geared toward transportation applications, including buses and trains. With full EN50155 compliance and IP67-rated rugged design, the camera can withstand shocks, vibration, humidity, dust, and temperature fluctuations to maintain stable and reliable video during vehicle movement. In addition, this model features WDR Pro for unparalleled visibility in high contrast environments, Smart Stream II to optimize bandwidth efficiency, Trend Micro IoT Security and video rotation for corridor scenarios. The new MRT Red Line extends from Bang Sue station north to Rangsit station (26.4km) and west to Taling Chan station (14.6km). Taiwanese company Glory Technology is a subcontractor for planning and design of the railway communications system, including equipment purchasing and supply of Digital Radio System and Train Communications system. Glory Technology selected the VIVOTEK MD 8563-EH as the most premium brand product providing intelligent surveillance capabilities. The new mass rapid transit Red Line, that spans the greater Bangkok Area, began a soft launch with free rides on August 2. Full commercial service will begin in November 2021. During the three-month trial run, the number of passengers in trains and stations are limited to half-capacity to maintain social distance and prevent the spread of COVID-19.  

Recycling and waste sites are places prone to huge fire hazards due to some potentially flammable materials, inherent risks during disposal process as well as other environmental factors. In particular, battery-related waste fires have become a growing challenge facing the global recycling and waste management sector today. A new report jointly produced by Eunomia and the Environmental Services Association (ESA) estimates that of all the average 300 waste fires in UK each year, approximately 48% are believed to have been caused by Lithium-ion batteries, with a total annual cost of about £158 million. Considering the destructive consequences of waste fires on both the environment and society, an early detection solution is crucial for fire prevention and early fire control. However, traditional detection technologies and devices such as smoke detectors (video, laser etc.) often detect the fire source only after it has already developed, making it difficult to control and extinguish the fire in time. Therefore, a new technology is needed to realize early detection of fire source. As a world-leading video-centric smart IoT solution and service provider, Dahua Technology adopts the latest thermal technology to empower its economical Eureka Series – Thermal Mini Hybrid Camera with early fire source detection function. Together with on-site alarm linkage, overheating detection, smoking behavior detection, equipment condition monitoring and other intelligent features, this series provides a proactive entry-level fire prevention solution for waste operators and plant owners. Early Heat Source Detection Equipped with a ‘thermal eye,’ the Dahua Eureka Series can find what traditional surveillance cameras can’t see – heat source. Based on temperature measurement, this high-performance thermal camera can detect a potential fire hazard such as sudden temperature rise or abnormal temperature exceeding a given threshold (e.g., 80°C). By giving early warning signals, it can help prevent occurrence of fire and allow timely response before a fire develops and spreads. Real-time Fire Signature Alert The Dahua Eureka series activates the alarm as soon as an abnormal temperature is detected. It is significantly earlier and faster than a regular smoke detector alarm, especially in a relatively large space where the smoke takes a long time to reach the top. Combined with the built-in active deterrence system of the camera, the on-site personnel will also be notified in time through white light and audible alarm. Visual Fire Source Location By utilizing the powerful penetration ability of thermal technology, the Dahua Eureka series can accurately spot the location of the fire source even when surrounded by smoke. It can clearly capture images showing the temperature distribution and hot spots in the monitored scene. These thermal images guide on-site personnel in efficiently extinguishing the fire source before it spreads out of control. Smoking Behavior Detection For smoking behavior inside waste transfer stations, traditional cameras and detectors are unlikely to detect cigarette smoking and warn the smoker in time because the smoke is too small. The Dahua Eureka Series thermal camera adopts deep-learning algorithm that can identify suspicious smoking behavior by analyzing human postures and cigarette temperature. In addition, the camera uses white light and audible alarms as active deterrents to directly warn the detected smoker. Machinery Overheating Detection The Dahua Eureka series is also suitable for continuously tracking and monitoring the heat and temperature of conveyor, bearing, motor as well as other equipment to ensure the safe operation of waste stations and factories. When machinery overheating is detected, an alarm will be activated and sent to relevant personnel to inform them of any possible malfunction and fire risk. All-weather 24/7 Monitoring Featuring perimeter protection, the Dahua Eureka series can automatically detect and locate intrusion and other possible threats in a variety of harsh environments in real time, and can capture clear images even in total darkness. It provides 24/7 uninterrupted monitoring for waste facilities and factories generally located in remote areas with poor surrounding light condition, which fully improves the overall security level in the area. As an entry-level product of the Dahua thermal family, the Eureka Series serves as a cost-effective early detection system for fire risks. Its long-distance detection capability enables it to measure temperatures ranging from 1-15 meters, which is ideal for large and spacious indoor facilities such as waste transfer stations, warehouses and plants. In addition to fire prevention, it can also be used to detect vessels and people in bodies of water, cell phone usage at gas stations as well as a wide range of small and medium-sized business applications.  

IDIS end-to-end video is protecting a new, purpose-built visitor centre at Canterbury Cathedral, part of a £25 million renovation project transforming one of the UK’s most important UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The seven-year programme, preserving and safeguarding the fifteen-centuries-old masterpiece of English Gothic architecture – and mother church of the worldwide Anglican communion – includes the addition of a new, purpose-built welcome centre for visitors. The centre, housing retail facilities, a viewing gallery and community studio exhibition space, is protected with a best-in-class video solution which combines discreet monitoring with high-performance image capture.   Specialist systems integrator Hall & Kay Security Engineering was tasked with delivering a solution that would be affordable, easy-to-use and allow for comprehensive real-time monitoring, while ensuring reliable recording without data loss. And because this was part of a much wider project, the video technology also had to be fast and easy to install – essential for avoiding project overruns in this complex, multidisciplinary construction environment, and preventing any delays to the new welcome centre’s opening. “The system is now protecting property, enhancing safety for visitors and staff, and providing a complete record of events at one of the UK’s busiest and most important heritage sites. The IDIS end-to-end solution allowed us to present this important customer with a compelling business case, including no up-front or ongoing licensing fees, inherent failover, and extended warranties that combined to demonstrate a low total cost of ownership. Importantly, the solution is also highly flexible and scalable, thanks to long-term hardware support and forward- and backward-compatibility, which future-proofs the cathedral’s investment” David Stokes Divisional Director Hall & Kay Security Engineering Based on previous experience, Hall & Kay had no hesitation recommending IDIS end-to-end tech, incorporating cameras, recorders, VMS, and essential peripherals. This IDIS Korean-made tech also gives Canterbury Cathedral the assurance of trusted manufacturing origin and high-level cybersecurity protection, with its inherent, multi-layered encryptions and proprietary protocols to safeguard sensitive video data. To give high-definition video coverage of the welcome centre’s entrances, retail area and exhibition spaces, Hall & Kay installed IDIS full HD DC4223WRX IR dome cameras. These vandal-resistant models come equipped with varifocal lenses, true WDR and IR LED to deliver crisp, clear images even in challenging and variable lighting conditions. They connect to three 16-channel DD-1216 NVRs to handle recording and deliver 480ips live view with no visible latency. Easy plug-and-play installation allowed for seamless and rapid connectivity and mutual two-factor authentication of devices streamlined cybersecurity measures, the cornerstone of IDIS DirectIP® solutions. The licence-free IDIS Centre VMS gives the cathedral’s constable and his security team complete visual awareness and easy control tools for efficient management, plus the ability to configure specific user permissions to give senior staff and system administrators timely access to video footage. The IDIS cameras and NVRs discreetly blend with the centre’s architecture without detracting from the visitor experience, while providing effective real-time monitoring and enabling a rapid incident response capability. “The choice of IDIS video for this most sensitive of sites is testament to the reliability, quality and cybersecurity of our Korean-made tech,” adds Jamie Barnfield, Senior Sales Director, IDIS Europe, “This is just one of many projects we are working on with Hall & Kay in line with the IDIS philosophy of building sustainable strategic partnerships with integrators and end user customers.”  

Smiths Detection, a global leader in threat detection and security inspection technologies, recently announced the commissioning of an HCVM scanner by the Lebanese Customs at the Port of Beirut as part of a collaboration with the Embassy of France in Lebanon, the French Ministry of Economy and Finance, Expertise France and the CMA CGM Group, a world leader in shipping and logistics. This mobile X-ray inspection system will increase the security of the port by providing it with improved detection of hazardous materials and illicit substances. This equipment, financed by the General Directorate of the Treasury, will play a critical role in the fight against smuggling. It also includes two years of maintenance of this scanner provided weekly by Smiths Detection, technical assistance for its installation and training of Lebanese Customs officers in charge of its operation. Transport of the scanner, from Vitry, France to Beirut, was carried out with the support of Smiths Detection’s partner, CMA CGM, as part of its continued support in Lebanon since the devastating explosion of 4 August 2020. The HCVM was welcomed at the port on Friday, 23 July by Anne Grillo, Ambassador of France to Lebanon, who said, “This new scanner [HCVM] will improve the detection of dangerous goods and the fight against smuggling. It will thus contribute to Lebanon’s economic recovery by restoring to Lebanese Customs its full capacity to act.” The HCVM, which can be easily moved from one location to another, will be the only scanner in the city capable of inspecting both containers and trucks, with a throughput of up to 25 trucks per hour. The HCVM scanner, previously used by the French Douanes, underwent a software update and a complete refurbishment before its shipment to the port of Beirut. Jerôme de Chassey, Vice President Commercial of Smiths Detection, said, “We are proud to be able to help Lebanon improve its security. The impact of the tragic explosion that devastated Beirut last year continues to be felt, and smuggling has continued since that disaster. This system, which will be vital to protect people and property, has been designed to be easy to use in order to facilitate the work of Lebanese Customs. This donation would not have been possible without the cooperation of our partners, first and foremost the French Government and the CMA CGM group, to whom we are immensely grateful.”  

Aiphone, the leading international manufacturer of intercom and security communication products, has installed its IX Series intercom system, complete with a custom door station, at MarinHealth Medical Center, a state-of-the-art medical facility in Northern California. The 327-bed, independent medical facility serving the North Bay community, opened Oak Pavilion, a 260,000-square-foot, four-story cutting-edge facility focused on patient-centric care and sustainable building design. An integral part of the $535 million expansion included the addition of intercom systems through its medical and surgical rooms, waiting rooms, Intensive Care Units (ICU), and newborn intensive care units (NICU). In addition, the facility installed customized door stations for 30 anterooms – an area that act as containment barriers, separating patient rooms from visitor walkways. “We ended up choosing Aiphone’s IX Series, as we felt it was the best option to meet our needs,” said Nick Tournis, who was IT operations consultant at MarinHealth Medical Center during this installation, “It’s future-focused, networked and features an IP-based system, all of which are ideal for a state-ofthe-art medical facility.” Tournis said Aiphone worked to identify the best solution for meeting the hospital’s needs and the IX Series encompasses all the different communication needs required by the facility, as well as providing flexibility for future expansion. Aiphone system solves a number of major pain points for the hospital, especially in improving visitor and patient experience. In addition, each of the units in the new pavilion – including the emergency department, intensive care unit, maternity ward, surgical center and neonatal intensive care units – required a system allowing doctors, nurses and other staff to travel freely between patient areas and waiting areas. The intercom stations in these areas also provide video, which allows for additional monitoring in cases of suspicious activity, and the ability to make duress calls in the event of an emergency.  

Rekor Systems, Inc., a provider of real-time roadway, customer and public safety intelligence to enable AI-driven decisions, recently announced that Wisconsin’s Waukesha County has selected the Rekor One™ vehicle recognition system for implementation at eight of its public park entrances. The solution was selected after a competitive bid process in early 2021, to help maintain the security of each location and to ensure entrance fee compliance. Waukesha County Parks utilizes a fee-based system to offset the cost of maintaining their 9,000 acres of parkland and greenway. Rekor’s software and hardware solutions will replace a time-consuming parking enforcement process and support the integration of various entrance fee payment options into one online payment method, better serving both the public and the county. Rekor One™ is a holistic, real-time view of the roadway along with aggregated AI powered data solutions that can help improve the lives, safety, and well-being of people. Results are visible via an online dashboard making it ideal for a dispersed team environment like that of the Waukesha County Parks system. “We’re proud of our efforts to not only increase the safety and security of park facilities across the U.S. but also modernize parking compliance, saving municipalities – and their citizens – time and money,” said Robert A. Berman, CEO of Rekor Systems. North Dakota’s Parks and Recreation Department (NDPRD) also recently purchased Rekor’s solution in hopes of better understanding their parks’ usage patterns and to plan for future needs. By utilizing Rekor’s solution, NDPRD transitioned from an antiquated manual data collection system to a web-based interface for hosting captured, anonymized data. The NDPRD originally planned to pilot three locations, but following early success, contracted with Rekor to install systems at 11 park locations across the state. Rekor One™ is expected to be fully installed in all of the Waukesha Parks locations in the near future.