University of Wisconsin to Test AI-Powered Security System

Liberty Defense Holdings Ltd. recently announced that it has signed an agreement with the University of Wisconsin Police Department (UWPD) to test a new security detection walkthrough portal on campus. Liberty, a provider of technology for concealed weapons and threat detection solutions, is in the process of beta testing its new HEXWAVE security system, which uses a combination of low-power radar imaging and artificial intelligence to detect concealed weapons.

According to a news release, HEXWAVE can test for both metallic and nonmetallic weapons (like 3D-printed guns). It also facilitates an easy throughput, as all students and faculty have to do is walk through its panels to keep traffic flow and social distance in mind. The technology is touchless, and it can be used both indoors and outdoors.

UW-Madison is the oldest and largest public university in Wisconsin. The university police department has said it is always looking for ways to enhance campus safety and security without compromising on a positive student experience.

“The security of our campus is, of course, a top priority,” said Kristen Roman, Chief of Police at UW-Madison. “We are excited to have the opportunity to be the first campus to test this new technology. We understand how important it is for organizations to keep innovating when it comes to security, and we look forward to kicking off the testing in 2022.”

The product’s beta testing is set to begin in the second quarter of 2022 and continue into the third quarter. Liberty Defense has also signed a collaboration agreement with the Maryland Stadium Authority’s Camden Yards complex to test the HEXWAVE solution there, as well.

“It is a privilege to work with the University of Wisconsin and its police department, such a well-established and respected educational institution that is looking for innovative ways to keep the campus community safe,” said Bill Frain, CEO of Liberty Defense.

About the Author

Matt Jones is senior editor of Spaces4Learning and Campus Security and Life Safety. He can be reached at [email protected]

Featured

  • Texas K–12 District to Build New Elementary, High Schools

    The High Island Independent School District on the Bolivar Peninsula in Southeast Texas recently announced that construction on a new elementary school and a new high school will begin in January 2026, according to local news. Funding will come from a $27.9-million bond passed in May 2025.

  • Springfield Breaks Ground on $53.7M Pipkin Middle School Rebuild

    Construction is underway on a new, state-of-the-art Pipkin Middle School in Springfield, Mo., a major step in Springfield Public Schools’ (SPS) long-term facility improvement plan, according to local news. The $53.7-million project officially broke ground in early June, following years of planning and community input aimed at modernizing aging infrastructure and addressing student capacity concerns.

  • Enjoy Tax and Energy Savings with the Right Ceiling Solutions

    Thanks to recent innovations pairing mineral fiber ceiling panels with phase change material technology (PCM), architects, designers, facility managers, and other key players in construction and renovation projects are re-thinking the role ceilings play in supporting environmental objectives—especially energy savings.

  • Designing Learning Spaces that Support Student Mental Health and Wellness

    In today’s education landscape, schools are more than just centers for learning; they are integral to the holistic development and well-being of students. The global pandemic underscored the importance of addressing mental health in schools, as productivity dropped, stress levels rose and students faced challenges managing emotions.

Digital Edition