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

  • Rhode Island Boarding School Completes Student Dorm Renovations

    St. George’s School in Middletown, R.I., recently announced the completion of a $26-million renovation project on Arden-Diman-Eccles Dormitory, according to a news release. The school partnered with Voith & Mactavish Architects (VMA) on the new space, which places a new focus on collaborative community spaces open to both boarding students and day students.

  • California K–12 District Finishes Renovations on Multi-Sport Stadium

    The Alameda Unified School District (AUSD) in Alameda, Calif., recently announced the completion of a renovation project on the Encinal Jr. & Sr. High School stadium, according to a news release. The district partnered with Quattrocchi Kwok Architects (QKA) and Bothman Construction on the facility, and funding came from Bond Measure B.

  • University of Arizona Approves New Residence Hall

    The Arizona Board of Regents recently approved plans for a new residence hall at the University of Arizona in Tucson, Ariz., according to a news release. The new facility is scheduled to open in fall 2028 and have the capacity for more than 1,200 students, enforcing a new university expectation that all first-year students live on campus.

  • Illinois District Boosts Security at High-School Stadium

    Richmond-Burton Community High School in Richmond, Ill., recently announced that it has completed the redesigned entrance to its high school stadium with a new focus on school security and community engagement, according to a news release. The district partnered with Wold Architects and Engineers on the project as part of District #157’s year-long facilities master plan.