Innovations on eRIC addressed current issues

What distinguishes eRIC from many other trade shows is its strong focus on hands-on innovation. Not only products and solutions are presented, but especially how they function in realistic scenarios. Innovations are thus directly placed in the context in which they must ultimately perform: complex, dynamic and often unpredictable incidents.

Robotics and drones
One of the most striking themes during was the rapid rise of robotics and drones within the security sector. A variety of applications were displayed on the show floor and outdoor area, ranging from reconnaissance drones for incident locations to autonomous systems that can be used in search and rescue operations. These technologies make information gathering in high-risk situations faster and safer, without directly exposing personnel to danger. Although regulations are still sometimes a limiting factor, these developments are among the most important innovations today.

Many of the robots and drones are Chinese or American, but PGL Drone Techniek, among others, showed that European companies also have a lot to offer. With their top model with 720x optical zoom and advanced stabilization, one can see what someone is reading from hundreds of meters away. GPS Perimeter Systems showed a drone that can be controlled directly from the control room, eliminating the need for a pilot on location. In addition to flying, there are also swimming drones. Thanks to H20 Drones ' underwater drones, divers no longer have to search for drowning people in icy, dark water.

Data-driven control rooms
Much attention was paid to the further digitization of control rooms. The Control Room Square was a central location where companies and organizations presented their latest solutions. Here it became clear that control rooms are increasingly transforming into data-driven command centers. Innovations in the field of geographic information systems, real-time data processing and integration of various communication systems make it possible to make faster and better informed decisions. Here, artificial intelligence increasingly acts as a digital assistant to filter the growing flow of information, allowing humans to focus on crucial decision-making.

Concrete examples of this AI integration were plentiful. Bunicom presented a system that converts conversations into text, which can then be analyzed with AI. And SafetyCT presented a navigation system that specifically takes into account accessibility for emergency vehicles and helps determine the safest possible route. So not right through a toxic smoke cloud. For the connectivity needed, Grosc showed the Celona system for an independently set up 5G network, with full encryption for secure and robust communication. Argaleo maps the Netherlands 3D and helps emergency services drive to incidents safely and quickly, taking into account how the incident may develop. This reduces the risk of emergency workers becoming victims themselves.

Artificial intelligence
The role of AI was also highlighted in other areas. During eRIC, it became clear that artificial intelligence is increasingly being used to recognize patterns, predict incidents and support operational processes. Think, for example, of systems that detect deviant behavior based on camera images or sensor data. At the same time, it was emphasized that technology must remain supportive of people. The dispatcher, emergency worker or commander remains ultimately the one who makes decisions. The challenge, however, is to make it as easy as possible for these individuals. With Esri Netherlands ' technology, the dispatcher can articulate the problem in natural Dutch, after which the software, like a digital assistant, collects all the necessary data to facilitate the decision-making process. It is even possible to initiate an intervention before an expected incident.

Sustainability
The energy transition was also indispensable at the fair. Where until recently diesel seemed the only real fuel, electric vehicles now dominated the outdoor area. However, this shift also brings new safety challenges. Several vendors showed technologies to mitigate the consequences of self-igniting lithium batteries or solar panels. For example, special fire blankets for electric cars and fire extinguishers that can temporarily extinguish an e-bike's burning battery, allowing the vehicle to be parked somewhere where little damage can occur if the battery reignites.

Realism through simulation
To best prepare professionals for reality, there is plenty of experimentation with new forms of experience and training. A special example of this was a specially developed experience environment in which visitors at Tenstar and XVR, among others, were taken through a 4D simulation into a realistic incident scenario. Such applications make it possible to better prepare professionals for complex situations by letting them literally experience what is at stake. The use of immersive technology, such as virtual and augmented reality, is thus taking an increasingly important place within education and training. It is safer, cheaper and less environmentally damaging that practicing with real fires.

Solutions Against Extreme Violence
The increasing complexity and level of violence in society are creating a rising demand for specialized equipment for police, defense and enforcement. This need translated into a new element at the fair, the "Restricted Area. This restricted area presented the latest developments in (non-)lethal means and ballistic protection. The presence of this zone underscored the need for the security sector to constantly adapt to changing threats and risks.

And beyond
In addition to highly advanced and comprehensive technology, there were also numerous smart solutions to everyday problems on display. Take Tympro's earplugs with speakers. These earplugs immediately close when pressure is increased by a fireworks blast, for example, but communication via walkie-talkie is continuously transmitted. For its part, Stryker showed a CPR robot.

Stretchers are usually only suitable for adults. Escape Mobility and Tulatech therefore developed safety belts for babies and children, which can be connected to adult safety belts. There were also new products for large-scale shelters. With Soku's mobile equipment, comfortable mattresses can be manufactured on site very quickly.

Tangible and relevant
The combination of an extensive exhibition floor, live demonstrations and a substantive program makes eRIC a unique event within the sector. Innovations are not only shown, but made tangible by placing them directly in a realistic context.

At the same time, eRIC showed that innovation in the security sector is always a balance between technology and human action. New systems and solutions can do a lot, but ultimately their effectiveness remains dependent on the people who work with them. Training, cooperation and trust therefore remain at least as important as technological advances.