Issue link: http://digital.canadawide.com/i/1078623
34 | FEBRUA RY 2019 Security & Life Safety Systems the costs and complexity to deploy new hardware and provide more value to the users of the technology. Increasingly, this includes artificial intelligence, too. "Specifically, machine learning and neural networks are starting to improve the capabilities and accuracy of our analytic applications such as biometric facial identification," says Sime. "This application of 'narrow' AI is advancing security systems' capabilities, however it is still limited to specific use cases that the algorithm has been heavily trained on prior to real-world deployments." "Everything is IP based now," says Conner. "Maybe eight years ago, the world experimented with VOIP and now almost everything is VOIP. Even intercoms are all IP-based." No product is perfect, but it's hard to argue with the ease of installation, wiring, and replacement that comes with running these systems off of internet cables. The surprising thing is that this hyper-connectivity can itself potentially be a security risk, if spyware is installed in a camera or if hackers can get access to an unencrypted stream. "It's a bit of a catch-22," Conner says. "The very products that are supposed to keep you secure can actually cause a breech." Of course, reputable companies will provide some serious encryption to prevent that from happening, but it is something to keep in mind. This diversification of services has lead to a diversification of staff. Assa Abloy's team now includes employees with backgrounds in cloud security solutions, app development, and online identity protection. With this cohort, the company has enjoyed some bold security developments over the past year, like the high-security Cardkey system that's shifting people away from traditional keys. B E Y O N D C O S T S AV I N G S Along with prices going down, so has energy usage. "There are a few major advancements in security systems that impact energy efficiency," says Sime. "By utilizing low-power sensors and IOT devices, the ability to aggregate data throughout facilities over low-power wireless signals has reduced energy con- sumption per data point, and reduced the energy expended during installation." Improvements in video compression algorithms have reduced data throughput and storage requirements, reducing the number of servers and disks required to archive the same quality and length of video, therefore reducing overall energy consumption by the system. Comings and goings are always a major point of weakness for any building, so an effective monitoring and automated door control system is key for defense, and if it's easy to use, all the better. Dormakaba's new Keyscan Luna provides a cost-effective access program suitable for installations of up to six doors: the soft- ware manages users' credentials, configures and operates multiple SDAC control units, and provides transaction reports. The encrypted database and software can be run from a simple USB thumb drive, with no licensing fees. F L A M E WA R Of course, there are risks for buildings (and the people in it) beyond intruders or thieves or data-mining. Fire safety is a huge concern for any architect or engineer as they develop their projects. Fire prevention, however, is easier than ever thanks to the ongoing research into new materials. Aluflam is one of the best in the business for fire-resistant products: in fact, they've achieved what might have once been considered impossible with their use of aluminum frames for fire-rated glazing applications. Thermally broken narrow aluminum extrusions are filled with a proprietary fire blocking material to create Aluflam's signature products: the company's patented technology combines laminated glass and insulated aluminum framing to create fire-rated doors and windows, as well as glazing. The bonus is that these frames are available in a range of anodized colours, with both extruded and filled aluminum profiles. Featuring 20-, 45-, 60- or 90-minute ratings for interior and exterior installations, these door systems are fully tested and provide excellent clarity and sound reduction in addition to meeting a variety of regulatory stan- dards. They're delivered as complete units too, factory finished and install-ready. While owners are typically looking for systems and features that easily integrate with, and enhance smart home solutions – such as locking doors, sounding alarms, or adjust lights in concert with their home security – architects are on the hunt for technology that is clean, simple, provides a high ROI, and integrates easily with other building technologies. With foresight, though, all involved parties can be happy, says Sime. "By providing the building owners with systems that will evolve over time and interoperate with building controls, elevators and intelligence platforms, energy efficiency, and operational effectiveness can continually be maximized." A Vipond.indd 1 17-01-20 4:03 PM MQ.indd