MOBOTIX - Experts & Thought Leaders

Konica Minolta has extended its thermal imaging monitoring portfolio with the new MOBOTIX p71 Thermal ECO camera and the new MOBOTIX Advanced Radiometry App. The thermal imaging monitoring operates in three main areas: early fire detection (or even detecting the risk before flames arise); quality assurance and process optimization; and 24/7 security in object and perimeter protection - all whilst being fully GDPR-compliant. The Thermal ECO technology was already available as a module for the MOBOTIX M73 and S74 multi-lens systems. The new MOBOTIX p71 Thermal ECO camera now offers affordable thermal image monitoring as a single-lens camera for indoor use with an intelligent camera base and app capability. Perimeter protection applications With its wide 105° angle of view, Thermal ECO technology ideally suits object or perimeter protection applications against intruders and burglars. This applies in absolute darkness and for particular data protection-compliant requirements (DSGVO), as it detects intruders but does not show any details for personal identification (protecting privacy). MOBOTIX Advanced Radiometry App extends the possibilities of the thermal radiometry 7-camera series The new MOBOTIX Advanced Radiometry App extends the possibilities of the thermal radiometry 7-camera series (TR) by detecting critical heat or fire sources with up to twenty measurement areas, each of which you can configure individually. This allows users to include several emission values (radiation from surfaces of different materials) or distances in a single camera image, making the application even more precise and flexible. Thermal camera technology Overheating in storage, production, or other facilities can quickly lead to fire and flames that endanger people and property, causing financial loss, operational downtime, reputational damage, and harm to the environment. Sophisticated fire alarms and other security systems are unlikely to warn of heat risks that indicate an impending fire. Thermal cameras on the other hand, can identify fire and overheating risks much sooner than traditional systems — before flames and smoke develop — by detecting hotspots where a fire might start. The proactive heat detection and fire prevention MOBOTIX thermal camera technology is certified by three internationally recognized institutions: VdS (German Loss Prevention Association), EN 54-10 (EU standard), and CNPP (French National Center for Prevention and Protection). Here, MOBOTIX Thermal systems were comprehensively tested and certified concerning their ability to detect fires as early as possible. Critical temperature deviations MOBOTIX thermal cameras automatically detect and report critical temperature deviations of any kind The certificates allow integration into existing fire alarm systems. In addition to comprehensive all-around fire protection, the systems meet insurance companies' requirements and building regulations. Numerous production and processing operations place particular demands on the temperature of raw materials, intermediate products, or the end product. In addition, the smooth operation of machinery is mandatory. Downtimes cost money. Konica Minolta’s MOBOTIX thermal systems enable preventative maintenance and can trigger a variety of different functions and subsequent processes as soon as tolerance limits are exceeded or undershot. This ensures product quality. MOBOTIX thermal cameras automatically detect and report critical temperature deviations of any kind - whether hot, warm, or cold. Greater systems integration Konica Minolta’s comprehensive MOBOTIX Raw Data Support works with all the AI (artificial intelligence) applications of the respective system. The intelligent thermal systems can be connected to industrial systems such as SCADA or MQTT via interfaces (machine-to-machine communication). This integration then allows the merging of central data, the analysis of which can provide essential starting points for making effective decisions and optimizing processes as a basis for savings and revenue increases. Shintaro Inoue, Head of Video Solution Service at Konica Minolta Business Solutions Europe states, "These latest additions to the thermal imaging monitoring portfolio provide important benefits in terms of fire prevention safety, process optimization, and security, to deliver exceptional features, reliability, and tangible ROI. With the march towards ever greater systems integration and digital transformation, this is a solution which will further support businesses in a rapidly evolving world.”

The MOBOTIX M16 VdS Thermal TR solution, consisting of a thermal imaging camera, special firmware, and additional components has been approved by VdS Schadenverhütung GmbH, Europe's largest institute for corporate security, since March 2022. MOBOTIX customers can, therefore, be sure that they will be warned of fire damage, as early and as effectively as possible, and know that, despite the optimum protection, any damage that occurs will be settled quickly and comprehensively, by the insurance company. In addition, a VdS-approved system can, if necessary, provide discounts on insurance premiums or even enable insurance in the first place. VdS-approved fire protection solution The VdS-approved fire protection solution opens up new sales potential for MOBOTIX AG and its partners The VdS-approved fire protection solution opens up new sales potential for MOBOTIX AG and its partners, especially around certified fire alarm systems. While MOBOTIX thermal technology already provided the best early fire detection before, the video systems with their recognition can now also be integrated into existing VdS-certified fire protection systems. Moreover, the renowned seal of quality confirms the high level of MOBOTIX Thermal expertise and pays directly into the positive brand perception on the market. Early and reliable fire detection Detecting fires reliably and as early as possible is the goal of early fire detection that MOBOTIX has been pursuing for a long time with its camera technology - to intervene quickly, prevent damage and protect people. It works like this: Thermal Radiometry (TR) cameras from MOBOTIX with calibrated thermal image sensor measure thermal radiation in the entire image area and trigger a so-called event when limit values are exceeded. This can be an alarm or a network message, or even the direct triggering of a fire extinguishing system. Camera-based MOBOTIX solution The camera-based MOBOTIX solution is impressive because it is quick and inexpensive to install, which is usually much easier and less expensive than, for example, linear heat detectors in the ceiling of a room. In addition, the thermal camera system, which can be installed at a distance of up to 60 meters from the heat source, can also react more quickly. Heat at the start of the fire is detected, even before the heat has risen to the ceiling. Unlike aspirating smoke detectors, the MOBOTIX M16 TR is not dependent on smoke development. Optimum protection for people, systems and goods The MOBOTIX solution, which has already proven itself in practice, has now been confirmed with VdS recognition The MOBOTIX solution, which has already proven itself in practice, has now been confirmed with VdS recognition, as providing optimum protection for people, systems and goods against fire damage through early fire detection. Thomas Lausten, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MOBOTIX AG, said “On the one hand, the VdS recognition confirms our excellent and reliable solution for early fire detection, but above all, it means for MOBOTIX customers optimal investment security in a fire alarm system that guarantees the criteria of the most renowned German institution for corporate security.”  VdS Schadenverhütung GmbH VdS Schadenverhütung GmbH is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the German Insurance Association (GDV). It is one of the world’s most renowned institutions for corporate security with a focus on fire protection, security, natural hazard prevention, and cyber security. Its services include risk assessments, testing of facilities, certification of products, companies and specialists, and a wide range of training courses. The VdS seal of approval enjoys an excellent reputation among experts and decision-makers, is awarded to products and service providers, and has been named an essential purchasing criterion in the security market by the WIK survey. VdS-approved MOBOTIX solution The VdS-approved MOBOTIX solution mandatorily prescribes the system architecture with the M16 Thermal TR camera and three interface boxes, and is already factory-equipped with special, certified software. It is also possible to upgrade a MOBOTIX M16 Thermal TR camera to the VdS level, with a corresponding software update and the integration of the interface boxes as mentioned. MOBOTIX M16 VdS Thermal Camera MOBOTIX offers high-grade and durable industrial quality ‘Made in Germany’ insensitive to dust and dirt MOBOTIX offers high-grade and durable industrial quality ‘Made in Germany’ insensitive to dust and dirt. MOBOTIX outdoor video systems are robust and weatherproof, withstanding ambient temperatures that range from minus 30 to plus 60 degrees Celsius. The maintenance-free housing protects against humidity and corrosion. Reduced power consumption, bandwidth-optimized applications and fail safety are the hallmarks of these flexible systems. Achieves measurable return on investment (ROI) MOBOTIX, thus, achieves measurable return on investment (ROI), for example, through reduced insurance premiums or system downtime, and via insurance benefits in the event of any damage caused to the equipment. Christian Heller, the Vice President of Sales for North and Central Europe at MOBOTIX AG, said “With the VdS recognition, we offer our customers another convincing argument for choosing a MOBOTIX solution that has already proven itself in practice, when it comes to fire protection.” Applications Far Beyond Fire Protection In addition to the reliable monitoring of even large and complex outdoor areas, and warehouses, as well as the comprehensive monitoring of the indoor regions, or even current-sensitive areas, the MOBOTIX M16 VdS thermal solution offers additional applications that go much beyond fire protection. For example, thermal cameras manufactured by MOBOTIX are also ideally suited for monitoring sensitive areas (perimeter protection) during both day and night, even while maintaining privacy (data protection), since intruders can be detected and an alarm can be triggered, without the need for the faces of the persons to be recognizable. System features of MOBOTIX M16 VdS Thermal Solution include: Detected temperature measurement range between 50°C and 200°C. Temperature-related events are triggered when the threshold is exceeded in one pixel. The system must be operated with an approved power supply in accordance with DIN EN 54-4. Three image angle and range variants: 45° x 32° - measuring distance up to 40 m, 25° x 19° - measuring distance up to 50 m, and 17° x 13° - measuring distance up to 60 m. Integrated microphone and speaker. PoE thermal camera with a maximum power consumption of just 8 W The MOBOTIX M16 VdS thermal solution offers additional applications beyond fire protection: For example, thermal cameras are also ideally suited for monitoring sensitive areas (perimeter protection) day and night, while maintaining privacy (data protection), since intruders are detected and an alarm can be triggered without the faces of the persons having to be recognizable.

The MOBOTIX M16 VdS Thermal TR solution consisting of a thermal imaging camera, special firmware, and additional components has been approved by VdS Schadenverhütung GmbH, Europe's largest institute for corporate security, since March 2022. MOBOTIX customers can therefore be sure that they will be warned of fire damage as early and as effectively as possible and know that, despite the optimum protection, any damage that occurs will be settled quickly and comprehensively by the insurance company. In addition, a VdS-approved system can, if offered, provide discounts on insurance premiums or even enable insurance in the first place. VdS-approved fire protection solution The VdS-approved fire protection solution opens up new sales potential for MOBOTIX AG and its partners, especially around certified fire alarm systems. While MOBOTIX thermal technology already provides the best early fire detection, the video systems with their recognition can now also be integrated into existing VdS-certified fire protection systems. Moreover, the renowned seal of quality confirms the high level of MOBOTIX Thermal expertise and underlines the positive brand reputation on the market. Early fire detection TR cameras from MOBOTIX with calibrated thermal image sensors measure thermal radiation Detecting fires reliably and as early as possible is the goal of early fire detection that MOBOTIX has been providing for a long time with its camera technology to intervene quickly, prevent damage and protect people. It works like this: Thermal Radiometry (TR) cameras from MOBOTIX with calibrated thermal image sensors measure thermal radiation in the entire image area and trigger a so-called event when limit values are exceeded. This can be an alarm or a network message, or even the direct triggering of a fire extinguishing system. Camera-based MOBOTIX solution The camera-based MOBOTIX solution is impressive because it is quick and inexpensive to install, which is usually much easier and cheaper than, for example, linear heat detectors in the ceiling of a room. In addition, the thermal camera system, which can be installed at a distance of up to 60 meters from the heat source, can also react more quickly. Heat at the start of the fire is detected even before the heat has risen to the ceiling. Unlike aspirating smoke detectors, the MOBOTIX M16 TR is not dependent on smoke development. VdS recognition The MOBOTIX solution, which has already proven itself in practice, has now been confirmed with VdS recognition as providing optimum protection for people, systems, and goods against fire damage through early fire detection. "On the one hand, the VdS recognition confirms our excellent and reliable solution for early fire detection, but above all, it means for MOBOTIX customers optimal investment security in a fire alarm system that guarantees the criteria of the most renowned German institution for corporate security," explains Thomas Lausten, CEO of MOBOTIX AG. VdS seal The VdS seal of approval enjoys an excellent reputation among experts and decision-makers VdS Schadenverhütung GmbH is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the German Insurance Association (GDV). It is one of the world's most renowned institutions for corporate security with a focus on fire protection, security, natural hazard prevention, and cyber security. Its services include risk assessments, testing of facilities, certification of products, companies, and specialists, and a wide range of training courses. The VdS seal of approval enjoys an excellent reputation among experts and decision-makers, is awarded to products and service providers, and has been named an essential purchasing criterion in the security market by the WIK survey. Upgrading MOBOTIX M16 Thermal TR camera The VdS-approved MOBOTIX solution mandatorily prescribes the system architecture with the M16 Thermal TR camera and three interface boxes and is already factory-equipped with special, certified software. It is also possible to upgrade a MOBOTIX M16 Thermal TR camera to the VdS level with a corresponding software update and the integration of the interface boxes. Applications far beyond fire protection MOBOTIX offers high-grade and durable industrial quality "Made in Germany" resistant to dust and dirt. MOBOTIX outdoor video systems are robust and weatherproof, withstanding ambient temperatures ranging from minus 30 to plus 60 degrees Celsius. The maintenance-free housing protects against humidity and corrosion. Reduced power consumption, bandwidth-optimized applications, and fail-safety are the hallmarks of these flexible systems. Fire protection MOBOTIX achieves measurable return on investment through reduced insurance premiums or system downtime MOBOTIX thus achieves measurable return on investment, for example, through reduced insurance premiums or system downtime and insurance benefits in the event of damage. "With the VdS recognition, we offer our customers another convincing argument for choosing a MOBOTIX solution that has already proven itself in practice when it comes to fire protection," emphasizes Christian Heller, Vice President of Sales North and Central Europe at MOBOTIX AG. Additional applications In addition to the reliable monitoring of large and complex outdoor areas and warehouses, as well as the comprehensive monitoring of indoor regions or even sensitive areas, the MOBOTIX M16 VdS thermal solution offers additional applications beyond fire protection. For example, thermal cameras are also ideally suited for monitoring sensitive areas (perimeter protection) day and night, even while maintaining privacy (data protection), since intruders can be detected and an alarm can be triggered without the faces of the persons having to be recognizable. System features and architecture Detected temperature measurement range between 50°C and 200°C. Temperature-related events are triggered when the threshold is exceeded in one pixel. The system must be operated with an approved power supply by DIN EN 54-4. Three image angle and range variants: 45° x 32°, measuring distance up to 40 m. 25° x 19°, measuring distance up to 50 m. 17° x 13°, measuring distances up to 60 m. Integrated microphone and speaker. PoE thermal camera with a maximum power consumption of just 8 W The MOBOTIX M16 VdS thermal solution offers additional applications beyond fire protection: For example, thermal cameras are also ideally suited for monitoring sensitive areas (perimeter protection) day and night, while maintaining privacy (data protection), since intruders are detected and an alarm can be triggered without the faces of the persons having to be recognizable.

How can a building’s fire systems be integrated with access control and other security systems to ensure effective function of both? It can be a challenging and delicate endeavor. Integration of fire and security systems provides multiple benefits and some challenges to be addressed. It is useful to consider fire and security systems as part of the same overall mission to keep a building and its occupants safe, while also being attentive to the differing roles of the systems and how they can complement each other. integrating security and fire systems Integrating security and fire systems is becoming paramount to create improved efficiency “There’s a conflict between life safety and security systems,” says Karen Trigg, Business Development Manager, South East, for lock company Allegion (UK) Ltd. “We must secure buildings without impeding the flow of movement and hindering immediate escape should a fire incident occur. To do this, we must have a greater understanding of building requirements.” In today’s world, integrating security and fire systems is becoming paramount to create improved efficiency and effectiveness of a building’s safety technology — and this integration can provide monumental benefits, says Eric Widlitz, Vice President of Sales for North America for access control company Vanderbilt Industries. video management systems For example, in the event of a fire, an alarm from a fire system can trigger an access control system to release locks on fire escape doors, as well as generate muster reports to provide information on who is inside the building, says Widlitz. “Additionally, video management systems have the ability to provide access to real-time, remote video footage of the fire’s actual location, helping firefighters and other emergency personnel to assess the situation and respond with greater accuracy.” Many challenges and opportunities that facilities face when integrating systems relate to whether a building’s infrastructure is designed well enough to connect security and fire systems, says Julie Brown, Institutional Market Leader for Johnson Controls. By conducting a site assessment first, owners and managers can better determine where physical building updates may be needed. Integration Of Video Surveillance And Fire Alarms Adjusting design in this case can eventually help make the integration of video surveillance and fire alarms easier" For example, if video surveillance is obstructed in certain areas, owners need to identify if the cameras can be moved to a better location or if physical alterations to the building are needed. “Adjusting design in this case can eventually help make the integration of video surveillance and fire alarms easier,” says Brown. “In the event that a fire alarm sounds, owners can have peace of mind that their cameras have an unobstructed view and that they can be automatically alerted to provide visibility into the area affected and potential cause of the alarm. It is critical to occupant safety that building owners address any design hurdles. Budget is often an issue,” says Trigg. “Although a challenge, understanding budgets – not only for the system in place but also ongoing maintenance and upgrades – helps uncover the correct solution, showing that the ‘cheaper option’ may cost more in the long run for some.” thermal imaging cameras Joe Byron, Vice President for the Americas for MOBOTIX Corp, says integrating fire and security opens the door to a world of possibilities. “When specifically looking at industrial applications, these systems require an added layer of reliability in order to guarantee workplace safety and operational efficiency,” he says. This technology is tied into the fire-suppression system and can monitor the temperature of specified machines" Byron points to a specific deployment as an example: MOBOTIX’s work with KUHN RIKON, a world-renowned cookware manufacturer. In 2015, during mechanical pot polishing, an abrasive component spontaneously combusted causing a large-scale fire, leading to a dust explosion, says Byron. “While an unfortunate tragedy, this led to an opportunity to outfit the plant with thermal imaging cameras,” he adds. “This technology is tied into the fire-suppression system and can monitor the temperature of specified machines. With built-in logic, the cameras can alert technicians to heat warnings and, if not acted upon, can automatically shut-down the machinery and queue fire systems if required.” Fire And Security Systems A well-designed and integrated control room can help to organize, automate and streamline critical sensors by implementing workstations that transmit only the most critical information at any given time. “Additionally, operators are better equipped to make more educated and timely decision by leveraging audible alarms, visual LED indicators and video displays with built-in intelligence to change content based on triggers from third-party systems such as fire, building automation and access control,” says Dan Gundry, Director of National Control Room Sales for Vistacom. At the end of the day, fire and security systems are two elements of the same mission: To keep buildings and their occupants safe. However, the two systems often operate independently and may not be integrated. More integration offers benefits, but there are pitfalls to be avoided.