IBM Partners With Axis, Genetec To Provide Intelligent Networked Video System At Chicago’s Navy Pier

  • Jun 29, 2009

IBM recently announced the creation of one of the world's most advanced, integrated network video monitoring systems for Chicago's Navy Pier. The project increases video security capabilities at Navy Pier and integrates new and existing safety resources to safeguard people and property.

In collaboration with the Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority -- owner and operator of Navy Pier -- IBM designed, built and implemented the project, which utilizes new high-resolution cameras with far- and wide-range viewing capabilities to add situational awareness throughout the Pier and operational assistance during an incident.

At the heart of the solution is a state-of-the-art network of cameras from IBM business partner Axis Communications, and advanced Internet Protocol (IP)-based video recording and monitoring system called, Omnicast from business partner Genetec. The project is a result of a Port Grant from the Department of Homeland Security to protect the Navy Pier complex, the top-visited leisure and tourist destination in the Midwest, which hosts more than 8 million guests per year.

"We consider this to be one of the finest security command centers of its kind in the country," said Juan Ochoa, CEO of MPEA., "IBM's video monitoring system allows us to better serve and protect a facility that is both a vital economic engine for the City of Chicago and a beloved family destination."

The first phase of the project integrates cameras, alarms, sensors, audio and analytics to protect the Pier's visitors. The camera coverage extends visibility along the perimeter of the Pier and its entrance and departure points. Strategically placed emergency call buttons are integrated with the video system and when activated will stream video and audio content to the Pier's new command center.

IBM's Smart Surveillance Solution (SSS) technology developed by IBM Research allows video analytics to monitor the waterway and alert security personnel when unauthorized boats approach restricted areas. In addition to local monitoring from the Pier's command center, the complete monitoring environment is also accessible by the Chicago Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC), the City's 911 and incident management center -- where IBM has already deployed one of the world's most advanced city-wide intelligent security systems -- and by the Chicago Police Department (CPD) Marine Unit, the City's first responders for water-related incidents. The video will stream continuously for live viewing by security professionals and will also be recorded and archived for post-event review and analysis.

Upon completion of the second phase of the project, Navy Pier will boast the greatest lakefront security coverage in the world. The design includes the use of high-end laser infrared with long range capabilities. The new cameras will extend coverage around landmark venues such as McCormick Place, one of the country's premier convention centers and Soldier Field, the City's historic football stadium, and through waterways and walkways, including miles of beaches and harbors. As with the first phase, coverage will be viewable at the OEMC and CPD Marine Units ensuring an integrated approach to tackling real-time threats.

"Chicago is one of the first and most ambitious adopters of the smart city concept. As evidenced by this most recent project with Navy Pier, the City of Chicago is committed to infusing intelligence into its systems, processes and infrastructure to provide better quality of life for citizens and visitors," said Roger Rehayem, principal of emerging technologies for IBM Global Technology Services. "IBM is proud of its continued partnership with the City of Chicago, as the City once again sets the standard for homeland security."

"We are proud to be part of this important project," said Fredrik Nilsson, general manager of Axis Communications. "Partners like IBM appreciate our deep experience and broad product range as well as the high image and product quality of our network cameras."

"Partnering with IBM and Axis to offer Navy Pier one of the world's most cutting-edge intelligent solutions has a very positive experience," said Stephan Kaiser, director of sales, USA at Genetec. "We're glad to see the Navy Pier leverage Omnicast's unique capabilities, including Federation, to link this new system with the system installed at Chicago's OEMC -- this ensures advanced monitoring and management as well as coordinated response."

Featured

  • Trends Keeping an Eye on Business Decisions

    Today, AI continues to transform the way data is used to make important business decisions. AI and the cloud together are redefining how video surveillance systems are being used to simulate human intelligence by combining data analysis, prediction, and process automation with minimal human intervention. Many organizations are upgrading their surveillance systems to reap the benefits of technologies like AI and cloud applications. Read Now

  • The Future is Happening Outside the Cloud

    For years, the cloud has captivated the physical security industry. And for good reason. Remote access, elastic scalability and simplified maintenance reshaped how we think about deploying and managing systems. But as the number of cameras grows and resolutions push from HD to 4K and beyond, the cloud’s limits are becoming unavoidable. Bandwidth bottlenecks. Latency lags. Rising storage costs. These are not abstract concerns. Read Now

  • The Impact of Convergence Between IT and Physical Security

    For years, the worlds of physical security and information technology (IT) remained separate. While they shared common goals and interests, they often worked in silos. Read Now

  • Unlocking Trustworthy AI: Building Transparency in Security Governance

    In situations where AI supports important security tasks like leading investigations and detecting threats and anomalies, transparency is essential. When an incident occurs, investigators must trace the logic behind each automated response to confirm its validity or spot errors. Demanding interpretable AI turns opaque “black boxes” into accountable partners that enhance, rather than compromise, organizational defense. Read Now

  • Seeking Innovative Solutions

    Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression and Acceptance. You may recognize these terms as the “5 Phases” of a grieving process, but they could easily describe the phases one goes through before adopting any new or emerging innovation or technology, especially in a highly risk-averse industry like security. However, the desire for convenience in all aspects of modern life is finally beginning to turn the tide from old school hardware as the go-to towards more user-friendly, yet still secure, door solutions. Read Now

Most   Popular

New Products

  • PE80 Series

    PE80 Series by SARGENT / ED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin

    ASSA ABLOY, a global leader in access solutions, has announced the launch of two next generation exit devices from long-standing leaders in the premium exit device market: the PE80 Series by SARGENT and the PED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin. These new exit devices boast industry-first features that are specifically designed to provide enhanced safety, security and convenience, setting new standards for exit solutions. The SARGENT PE80 and Corbin Russwin PED4000/PED5000 Series exit devices are engineered to meet the ever-evolving needs of modern buildings. Featuring the high strength, security and durability that ASSA ABLOY is known for, the new exit devices deliver several innovative, industry-first features in addition to elegant design finishes for every opening.

  • AC Nio

    AC Nio

    Aiphone, a leading international manufacturer of intercom, access control, and emergency communication products, has introduced the AC Nio, its access control management software, an important addition to its new line of access control solutions.

  • QCS7230 System-on-Chip (SoC)

    QCS7230 System-on-Chip (SoC)

    The latest Qualcomm® Vision Intelligence Platform offers next-generation smart camera IoT solutions to improve safety and security across enterprises, cities and spaces. The Vision Intelligence Platform was expanded in March 2022 with the introduction of the QCS7230 System-on-Chip (SoC), which delivers superior artificial intelligence (AI) inferencing at the edge.