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

  • UNT Dallas Holds Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony for $100M STEM Building

    The University of North Texas at Dallas in Dallas, Texas, recently celebrated the opening of its new, $100-million STEM Building, according to local news. The ceremony on Dec. 2 preceded the first day of classes in the facility on Jan. 12, 2026.

  • Niles West High School Natatorium Renovation

    Natatoriums are highly specialized spaces, and luminaires in this setting face several unique challenges. Perhaps the most significant is corrosion, which is exacerbated by high indoor humidity, condensation, and pool chemicals, often resulting in material degradation in luminaires not certified to perform in corrosive environments.

  • Upcoming University of Alabama Performing Arts Center Hits Construction Milestone

    The University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, Ala., recently celebrated the topping out of its new Smith Family Center for Performing Arts, according to a news release. The university is partnering with HPM for program and project management on the facility, which broke ground in 2023 and is scheduled for completion in November 2026.

  • Abstract tech network data connections with orange, blue glowing dots, lines

    3 Trends for Higher Education to Stay Ahead of in 2026

    As universities enter the new year, the question is no longer whether digital transformation is necessary, but how quickly institutions can convert technological potential into strategic advantage.

Digital Edition