One of the major problems while installing advanced solutions in existing infrastructure is finding a suitable way to retrofit them.
One of the major problems while installing advanced solutions in existing infrastructure is finding a suitable way to retrofit them. This is especially true when it comes to large-scale projects like city surveillance and smart cities. However, here is a security solution that can integrate itself to streetlights.
The product we are talking about is known as Eva, the tactical EVAluator. Manufactured by the San Fransisco-based company Navio, Eva is a smart security device that is constantly sensing its environment. It evaluates threats and instantly broadcasts alerts in response to them. Most significantly Eva can be installed within 30 seconds on top of a streetlight, using its existing power source.
Speaking to asmag.com, Ernest Brown, CEO of Navio explained the hardware and software components that go into this solution.
“Eva has an onboard computer, four cameras for 360 degree views, a chip that handles Wi-Fi, cellular, and Bluetooth connections, as well as a customizable sensor array,” Brown said. “Alerts are transmitted over cellular connection to a cloud-based mobile app. Customers can receive calls, texts, or emails when an alert is triggered. Depending on the threat, emergency responders are also contacted automatically.”
Navio's Eva set up on top of a street lamp
Brown feels that Eva is special because it incorporates streetlights, existing infrastructure, into its security platform. Streetlights have an unlimited power source, high visibility, and use the classic ANSI twist plug. Many cities are refurbishing their streetlight for smart city upgrades. However, this can cost up to US$30,000 per streetlight. Eva can be installed on the existing infrastructure, without the need for refurbishing the entire streetlight, saving municipalities enormous amounts of money. There are over 40 million streetlights in the United States where Eva can stand guard to protect communities.
As for factors that could drive demand for this product, Brown pointed to the ongoing governmental attempts to develop smarter and safer cities.
“Municipalities are engaging in Smart City upgrades and are also concerned about security threats to its citizens,” he said. “Eva addresses both of these concerns. Eva’s easy installation is perfect for special events (concerts, parades, sporting events, etc.) – allowing municipalities to create secure grids with video surveillance and customizable sensors that can provide weather, acoustic, and other data. This unique combination of sensors, cameras, and easy installation will drive demand for our product.”
Speaking of benefits to security systems integrators (SI), Brown added that SIs can seamlessly incorporate Eva in their security protocols with its 30-second installation process.