CITADEL   Sensor and Network Monitoring and Threat Assessment for Homeland Security Applications

The CITADEL product integrates data acquisition systems (sensors) with data transmission systems and GIS capabilities in a web based graphical software product which provides a centrally located "monitor and control" system for Homeland Security incident assessment and response. It fuses all relevant data using sophisticated algorithms to eliminate false positives and to get to the actionable root cause event. It incorporates trending and forecasting algorithms to allow for the real time automated threat assessment and detection of atypical or abnormal conditions, which can serve as indicators of potential threats.

CITADEL can be programmed to automatically respond to changes in system and network parameters via the Sentinel Module either by performing automated actions (such as turning on auxiliary ventilation systems and displaying appropriate directions for evacuation on LED panels), or by sending alarms to the appropriate first responders (e.g. cell phone, pager, via email) or interface to other systems.

CITADEL  will collect field information, directly from sensors of various types and manufacturer (including CBRNE) and other monitoring systems as well as fault and performance data from the underlying wireline and wireless networks, and will transfer it back to a central computer where it integrates, analyzes and displays the relevant information to the operator(s). Thereby allowing the operator to monitor and control an entire system (or multiple systems) from a central location in real time. CITADEL can monitor millions of real time processes, equipment, and infrastructure, and can provide quick notification of, or response to, problems or upsets, and will provide the first line of detection for atypical or abnormal conditions.

CITADEL also contains a Data Warehousing module that stores and analyzes information, compares it against known data (pictures, images, sensor data, network and elements statistical data) and issues reports ( hourly, daily, weekly or monthly) to various government branches responsible for security in that specific area.

Currently the CITADEL is in the process of being deployed in the Atlantic City – Brigantine Connection Tunnel in Atlantic City New Jersey under contract with the DHS. The existing systems in place (e.g. security cameras) will be integrated with various new sensors (smoke, temperature, vibration, airflow, and chemical) in order to identify and locate any incidents such as fire, explosion, and chemical spill. The system will alert both the appropriate first responders (e.g. HAZMAT team in case of chemical spill) and will help direct passengers for evacuation with voice and LED panel directions.