One of the core functions of any government is to provide safety and security for its citizens. While the dangers posed by fires and natural disasters have not changed, the equipment and techniques employed by first responders have evolved significantly over the past few centuries. The advent of smart cities and the changes associated with relevant advances have resulted in a confluence of technologies that — when properly harnessed — empower emergency personnel to better save lives like never before.

RT Stream International Co. Ltd. (RTS) is primarily focused on real-time video and audio streaming. The firm has integrated these technologies into the F01 body-worn camera, which can be combined with its iCommander cloud platform to create a comprehensive 4G mobile surveillance system. The system was developed with the aim of replacing the myriad of equipment carried by firefighters in the field, including walkie-talkies, locators and other life-saving hardware. Such traditional loadouts are inefficient and can be burdensome for firefighters, increasing the difficulty of their already challenging tasks.

RTS sent a market research team to cities across Taiwan to get feedback from first responders and better understand their actual needs. From that research, iCommander was born. The platform helps to deliver real-time information on a crisis to decision makers so that they can better judge the situation and issue more effective orders.

Rugged body-worn camera and intelligent back end change the game in several fields
RTS’ total 4G mobile surveillance solution is at its core a platform for transmitting high-quality video and audio in real time. However, it also has a number of features that make it an ideal solution in a number of fields. For example, it allows for dynamic group communication through monitoring, push-to-talk and broadcast modes; GPS and Wi-Fi positioning ensure accurate tracking of assets; and an emergency mechanism provides automated fall detection and SOS alerts.

It all starts with the F01 on the front lines. The compact body-worn camera features an imaging sensor designed for excellent low-light performance coupled with a powerful image processor, as well as 64 gigabytes of embedded storage. Due to the inherently dangerous nature of fires and natural disasters, the F01 was developed to survive in extreme environments. It can withstand high temperatures, and features extensive waterproofing and dustproofing. While technological limitations remain, RTS mastered challenges like interior heat dissipation and isolation from external sources to create the best possible design available.

On the back end of RTS’ total 4G mobile surveillance solution is the iCommander cloud platform. The cloud platform provides a management interface for all of a user’s devices and allows for the configuration of operational settings. It collects, organizes and displays all of the network’s data, which can be accessed in real time or after-event reports, analysis, research and training.

As iCommander was initially envisioned as a tool for law enforcement, it supports integration with third-party artificial intelligence (AI) platforms, such as facial recognition and license plate reader systems. When using these systems in smart cities, iCommander could help automatically detect vehicles flagged as stolen or of interest to authorities.

RTS’ solution can be adapted and augmented to improve conditions in a number of specialized fields. For example, firefighters can be equipped with sensors to provide superiors with data on their health. Other use cases include police using pinhole cameras to provide an accurate record of events in difficult situations and factory workers with helmet-mounted cameras supplying high-definition footage even in high-risk, poorly lit work environments.

Domestic and international police, emergency services units adopt RTS solution for a myriad of applications
RTS’ system has been adopted by numerous local government units, such as the Hualien County Fire Department in Taiwan, which chose the firm to provide a solution for its stable, high-quality video and audio broadcasts in emergency situations.

Thanks to the system’s low latency, the images and physiological data of patients in ambulances can be transmitted to receiving hospital emergency rooms before arrival. This helps doctors perform preliminary triage remotely, reducing the delay before a patient receives treatment and maximizing the available time to rescue them. This use of technology helps to mitigate the disadvantages of regions where medical resources are sparsely distributed.

The system has also been deployed in Taipei and Taitung County for disaster response drills. After the establishment of a temporary command center, senior staff were able to pick up a commander’s tablet and quickly assess the situation, helping them remain informed. This access to real-time information is coupled with the ability to directly communicate with frontline personnel, ensuring that appropriate orders are issued. As the system also improves communication between rescue workers, it helps them better organize, benefiting the entire organization.

RTS is in talks with police and fire units abroad, as well as overseas systems integrators, on adoption of its total 4G mobile surveillance solution.

Japanese firefighting authorities, and the police forces of Israel and Hong Kong have either made inquiries or are preparing to acquire the system. Many large international manufacturers and other private enterprises have deployed the system within their own fire response units. In addition, as concern over environmental health and safety continues to grow, so too has the number of RTS systems deployed for industrial safety inspections to reduce risks.

SELLING POINTS

• F01 rugged body-worn camera features low-light imaging sensor and processor, as well as 64 gigabytes of embedded storage
• iCommander cloud platform features central management and real-time monitoring of assets
• iCommander designed to integrate with third-party AI platforms, such as facial recognition and license plate reader systems
• Data from 4G mobile monitoring system can be accessed as events unfold, as well as afterwards to help with reports, analysis, research and training
• Comprehensive solution implements dynamic communications system to improve teamwork and efficiency
• Field-carried equipment can be tailored to meet needs of the mission, including physiological sensors and pinhole cameras