Cutting-edge research gives SMEs the opportunity to enjoy commercial success with new products and processes. These companies are particularly flexible and fast when it comes to tapping new markets, especially in new areas of research, where speed is of the essence. Within the framework of the Federal Government's "Research for civil security" programme about 40 percent of the project partners are companies, 60 percent of them are SMEs. 

  

Ongoing joint projects:

3D-PAKtex: 3D functional nonwovens with integrated gas sensor technology for the protective clothing of emergency personnel

Funding codes 13N15201 to 13N15205

During a fire, firefighters are exposed to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), among other chemical compounds. These carcinogenic substances bind to soot particles, which can penetrate clothing and skin, thus entering the bloodstream and accumulating in fatty tissue. The aim of the 3D-PAKtex project is to improve the protection of emergency personnel from soot-borne PAHs. is the main focus of the project are innovative, functionalized nonwovens that eliminate PAHs from fire gases and can be easily integrated into existing protective clothing.

3D-PAKtex project outline (PDF, only available in German)

    

ADAPTSAVE: Adaptively shaped lightweight extinguishing container for increased safety in vehicles

Funding codes 13N15184 to 13N15187

Critical incidents with coaches are often caused by  fires. In many cases it is difficult to quickly find the conventional fire extinguishers of the vehicle and to transport them to the scene of the fire. The ADAPTSAVE project is developing a new type of fire extinguishing system for buses. It is based on containers for the extinguishing agent made of lightweight composite materials, which allows for custom-made shapes. The adaptive shaping makes it possible to carry a sufficient quantity of extinguishing agent using the existing free and hollow spaces of the bus body without restricting the space for people and baggage within the vehicle. The faster and more targeted use of the extinguishing agents increases passenger safety and reduces damage to property.

ADAPTSAVE projekct outline (PDF, only available in German)

    

AgiCSA: Development of a chemical protection suit with increased mobility for more efficient operational concepts through increased autonomy of the emergency services

Funding codes 13N15292 to 13N15296

In hazardous situations caused by the release of chemical, biological or radioactive substances, chemical protective suits (CSA) are often required. Such suits consist of individual parts such as breathing apparatus, head protection, carrying frames and the suit itself. These components are worn on top of each other and significantly restrict mobility. The AgiCSA project will develop a new type of protective suit with increased wearing comfort. It is intended to reduce the physical burden and increase the duration of use, while the protective properties remain unchanged. The new chemical protection suit combines state-of-the-art textile technology, lightweight construction concepts made of fibre composites and integration of electronic components.

AgiCSA project outline (PDF, only available in German)   

              

DeRuSAFE: Innovative solutions for the safety areas of runways

Funding codes 13N15283 to 13N15284

Runway excursions are by far the most common aircraft accidents. To slow down the aircraft in a controlled manner in these cases, the safety areas surrounding a runway are designed to allow for a limited cave in of the aircraft‘s nose wheel. Unfortunately the physical properties of natural ground materials commonly used for the construction of the safety areas are dependent on the weather conditions. The aim of the DeRuSAFE project is to implement a geotechnical composite system for airport safety areas. The properties of this weather-independent structure will be designed to slow down the aircraft  in a controlled manner without serious damage on the one hand. On the other handthe surface of the safety area will be stable enough even for heavy vehicles of the rescue services to access the crashed aircarft at any time.

DeRuSAFE project outline (PDF, only available in German)

   

FALKE: Flight-system-assisted operation control in complex mission situations

Funding codes  13N14769 to 13N14774

Before the persons injured in a multiple-casualty accident (such as a rail accident) are treated, they are assigned to different categories depending on the degree of their injury. A lack of routine, coupled with high stress and emotional strain, makes this categorisation process (known as “triage”) extremely challenging for responders. The FALKE project aims to develop a system for semi-automated casualty searches and triage at the accident site. It will do this by devising a contactless system of vital parameter detection using a combination of video, thermal-image and radar sensors. They will be mounted on an unmanned aerial system, which will enable autonomous detection of casualties before the responders arrive. The categorisation will then be reviewed and, where necessary, revised by an emergency physician via a secure telemedicine link.

More information (only available in German)

    

GC-Plasma-TOF: New ionisation sources and fast gas chromatography for integration into a mobile mass spectrometer for the detection of hazardous substances

Funding codes 13N14887 to 13N14890

To analyze hazardous substances on site, emergency services need mobile detection methods that have to be robust and fast. However, these requirements are often accompanied by limited identifiability of certain substances or complex mixtures of substances. The GC-Plasma-TOF project is carrying out research on a highly sensitive measuring system consisting of a gas chromatograph and a mass spectrometer for mobile use in vehicles. The measurement system being developed should enable users such as fire brigades or the federal police to perform rapid on-site analysis in laboratory quality.

GC-Plasma-TOF project outline (PDF, only available in German)

               

HazarDust: Real-time detection of toxic substances in dust particles to identify security-relevant contents from shipments and baggage

Funding codes 13N15567 to 13N15570

In globalized world trade with increasing online shipments and rising mobility, the detection of dangerous substances in goods transport and baggage handling is facing growing challenges. In particular, shipments of so-called "synthetic opioids", which are traded as illegal drugs on black markets, are increasing exponentially. At logistical trans-shipment points, there is a considerable risk, especially for emergency forces of customs and police, as they are often directly exposed to the substances, some of which are highly toxic. The substances are transported as fine powders and are difficult to detect from the outside. As part of the HazarDust project, a reliable and rapid analysis technique is being developed to detect hazardous dusts contaminated with highly toxic substances. The aim is to determine the chemical signatures of narcotics on individual microscopic dust particles in real time.

HazarDust project outline (PDF, only available in German)

    

HITD: Multimodal remote detection of hidden threats in security checks

Funding codes 13N14713 to 13N14715

In the series of attacks in Paris in March 2016, terrorists with explosives strapped to their bodies detonated them at various locations with the aim of killing as many people as possible. To counter the threat posed by these suicide bombers, it must be possible to detect from a distance the explosives that they are carrying. This is not possible using the technology currently available. The aim of the HITD project is to develop an integrated, automated system with which to detect weapons and bombs hidden on a person’s body. The team are looking to combine terahertz wave technology with other optical sensors in an integrated detector. By drawing on legal expertise, the project will ensure that the system does not violate the personal rights of innocent bystanders.

HITD project outline (PDF, only available in German)

  

KaMonSys: Monitoring system for the plant and supply security of cavern storage facilities using satellite and copter data

Funding codes 13N15365 and 13N15366

A considerable part of Germany's natural gas reserves is stored underground. So-called cavern and pore storage facilities are indispensable for gas supply and the operation of distribution networks. The safety of the storage facilities against defects, accidents and sabotage - both above and below ground - must be guaranteed at all times. In particular, leaks must be detected early and reliably to prevent the escape of hazardous substances. As part of the KaMonSys project, a monitoring system is being developed that combines geoscientific analyses with remote reconnaissance methods.

KaMonSys project outline (PDF, only available in German)

  

MICON: Miniaturized, remotely detectable infrared sensor for the detection of toxic gases in containers

Funding codes 13N15730 to 13N15732 

Millions of freight containers reach Germany via international trade routes. To protect the containers’ contents, they are often treated with toxic gases in the countries of origin. Fumigation also prevents the unwanted introduction of foreign flora and fauna and thus protects nature. However, when such containers are opened for the first time for customs inspection or for unloading at their destination, there are often still considerable gas concentrations in the interior, which represent a health hazard. The aim of MICON is to develop a remotely operable module for safe gas detection in sealed cargo containers. By means of a so-called photoacoustic measuring method, highly toxic gases can be detected.

MICON project outline (PDF, only available in German)

  

rNET-Notstrom: Resilient energy distribution networks with integral technology for emergency power supply

Funding codes 13N14938 to 13N14941

Energy networks are becoming more and more complex due to the increasing spread of decentralised power generators such as solar and wind power plants. In the event of a power failure, these decentralised power generators cannot yet be used to restore the power supply for technical reasons. The project rNET-Notstrom deals with the restoration of power supply after a power failure. A technology that can be retrofitted into the existing infrastructure is being developed, which allows variable integration of emergency power generators. This will enable the integration of decentralised power generators and use their potential for a more extensive and faster restart. In addition, a comprehensive intervention management system will be developed which, by optimising grid interventions, will further reduce the duration of outages.

rNET-Notstrom project outline (PDF, only available in German) 

            

Completed joint projects

ADEPT: Development and testing of security strategies and systems for secure parking processes

Funding codes  13N12882 to 13N12885

Each year, the European economy loses more than 8 billion euros due to lorries and trucks (“HGVs”) being raided while on the road and the loads being stolen from parked HGVs. At the moment, HGVs on the road are only protected if they are carrying expensive goods, as in the case of valuable metals, because the costs involved are very high. The ADEPT project is working on a comprehensive security strategy for HGV transportation, focusing particularly on parked HGVs. The aim is to be able to detect unauthorised access to the cargo area by automated means. The strategy will be designed for wide-scale use so that a network of secure transport routes and parking areas can be set up.

More information (only available in German)

     

AKTOR: Simulation-based training to accelerate the crisis management process Awareness training for organisations for the purpose of crisis prevention and management

Funding codes  13N12375 to 13N12376

Critical infrastructure sites are the lifeline of modern society. The AKTOR project developed a crisis simulation system to provide training for people who work at critical infrastructure sites to raise their awareness of and help them deal with unexpected events. The aim was to enable them to identify potential risks early on and to respond flexibly and appropriately in a crisis.

More information (only available in German)

   

AnALyT: Automated on-site pathogen analysis for food and drinking water

Funding codes 13N11378 to 13N11380

The AnALyT project focused on developing a device for fast, automated and cost-efficient on-site monitoring of foods to detect pathogens. The list of pathogens to be checked for was compiled in such a ways as to be able to detect both wilful introduction of viruses or bacteria and microbiological contamination (due to accidents or incorrect handling, for instance). The device can examine both liquid samples, such as milk, water or fizzy drinks, and solid food samples, such as minced meat..

More information (only available in German)

     

ATHMOS: Atmospheric detection of hazardous substances by means of mobile infrared spectroscopy

Funding codes 13N14759 to 13N14763

If a major fire or chemical accident causes large amounts of harmful substances to be released into the atmosphere, it is especially important for the emergency services’ reconnaissance and planning activities to obtain information about the type of substance that has been emitted and its dispersion. Current systems used for remote sensing of pollution clouds do not provide information on distances. The measurements are time-consuming and the built-up nature of cities restricts the systems’ ability to determine the level of dispersion. The partners on the ATHMOS project have been seeking to counter these deficits by using an infrared spectrometer designed for use on an unmanned aerial vehicle. The intention was that the system generates a 3D image of the cloud, visualise its dispersion in almost real-time and identify the hazardous substance it contains.

ATHMOS project outline (PDF, only available in German)

                  

AUTUKAR: Highly automated tunnel monitoring for disaster management and day-to-day operation

Funding codes  13N13874 to 13N13876

Germany has more than 250 tunnels on its trunk roads alone – a road network that is of immense importance to industry and the public. The aim of the AUTUKAR project is to create a support system for tunnel traffic management centres to give staff a better overview of the traffic situation in the tunnel. The key concept in this new system is a high-quality visualisation of the current traffic situation throughout the entire tunnel. This is achieved by electronically evaluating the images from all the video cameras and producing a virtual, three-dimensional view of the tunnel, including all the vehicles inside it.

AUTUKAR project outline (PDF, only available in German)

   

B-Pathogen-Panel: Development of real-time PCR-based test kits for point-of-care diagnosis of security-relevant pathogens

Funding codes 13N11324 to 13N11328

If there are suspected cases of people being infected with a dangerous pathogen in an attack, swift and precise identification of the pathogen plays an essential role in improving their chances of recovery. Present identification tests are extremely time-consuming and are usually only possible in special laboratories. The B-Pathogen-Panel project developed a miniaturised system for rapid, unique identification of pathogens in suspected cases of infection, following a terrorist attack, for example. The convenient-to-use, inexpensive device is designed to significantly cut analysis times using an electrochemical identification method.

More information (only available in German)

   

Brandi: New detector to improve safety by means of early fire detection

Förderkennzeichen 13N12818 to 13N12820

Fires caused by carelessness or technical defects are a common occurrence. In heavily frequented places, such as airports, stations, stadiums or mass transportation systems, even a small fire can have disastrous consequences and result in significant injuries and damage. The Brandi project developed a highly sensitive measuring system that facilitates early detection of fires and detection of hazardous substances, enabling fires to be detected earlier than is possible with conventional technology.

More infromation (only available in German)  

   

DEFUSE:  Radio-controlled deactivation of improvised explosive and incendiary devices

Funding codes 13N14378 to 13N14379

Terrorists often use improvised explosive and incendiary devices in their attacks. Since such devices can be detonated remotely by radio control, they pose a major challenge for disposal squads. The goal of the DEFUSE project is to develop easy-to-use tools with which disposal personnel can gain control of the wireless interfaces of improvised devices.  The next step will seek to develop components with which to prevent remote-controlled explosive and incendiary devices being detonated.

DEFUSE project outline (PDF, only available in German)

          

Denaid: Mobile platform for efficient detection of explosives

Funding codes 13N11772 to 13N11776

The risk of terrorist attack can be reduced by detecting and identifying explosives concealed about people’s bodies or minor residues on clothing or luggage before they can do harm. The Denaid joint project developed a transportable detection platform that combines three complementary measurement techniques to be able to detect a variety of explosives automatically. A software-based infrastructure was also created for the detection platform in order to facilitate rapid responses to threats posed by new explosives. Once the project is finished, the plan is to come up with a version that can be marketed to authorities with a security role, such as the police, customs offices and Germany’s Federal Criminal Police (Bundeskriminalamt).

More information (only available in German)

   

DETORBA: Method for analysing detonation effects in urban areas

Funding codes 13N12663 to 13N12665

Bomb finds from World War 2 and threats of terrorist attack present a challenge for emergency service personnel and town planners alike. The DETORBA project aimed to help by developing a method with which the effects of explosions in urban areas can be simulated. The technique is intended to facilitate analysis of the structural protection at infrastructure sites and to help optimise any necessary evacuation measures.

More information (only available in German)

   

DiregKomp: Service and models for joint organisation of security services

Funding codes 13N11322 and 13N11323

Water supply is an essential part of our infrastructure and, as such, it must be protected against natural risks, human error, technical failure and criminal or terrorist interference. To ensure optimum preparation for incidents and critical emergencies, all supply infrastructure operators need to have special measures and strategies in place. The goal of the DiregKomp project was to provide systematic support, particularly for small and medium-sized water companies, for efforts to optimise security-relevant tasks. The aim was to achieve this by identifying any security-relevant tasks that did not have to be performed by each and every operator and evolving them into services that could be offered by a joint centre of excellence.

More information (only available in German)

    

    

    

DIVE: Rapid, on-site system for detecting security-relevant substances using an ion mobility spectrometer with a VUV multipass cell for single-photon ionisation

Funding codes 13N11373 to 13M11377

The DIVE project developed a mobile system for on-site detection of chemical substances. It is thought that the system could be used by the fire brigade, for analysing gases in chemical accidents, for instance; by the police for forensic purposes; or by customers officers when screening shipping containers. Precise identification is instrumental in ensuring the correct action is taken to tackle incidents and thus protect the lives of emergency service personnel and the public.

More information (only available in German)

    

DriEM²: End-to-end reliability in mobile manipulator applications

Funding codes 13N11814 to 13N11817

When faced with a hazardous situation brought on by, for example, leaked biological, chemical or radioactive substances, emergency service personnel must be able to assess it quickly and correctly so that they can take the right steps to counter it. Samples of the substances, of the type taken by remote-controlled robots (or “mobile manipulators”) for instance, can be useful in this process. The DriEM² project investigated mobile robot systems for handling suspicious items or measuring the properties of samples.

More information (only available in German)

   

EffFeu: Efficient operation of unmanned aerial vehicles for industrial fire fighters

Funding codes  13N14092 to 13N14094

Large industrial facilities usually have IT-supported fire and safety management systems in place for firefighting purposes. In the event of an alarm, it is practically impossible to assess the overall situation, especially on large sites, due to factors such as cameras not being installed throughout the site. The EffFeu project aims to develop a system that will use unmanned aerial vehicles fitted with cameras or chemical sensors to locate potential hazards in large areas, collect relevant information and forward it to the response team.

EffFeu project outline (PDF, only available in German)

  

ePID: A new type of multi-sensor for firefighters’ personal protective equipment

Founding codes 13N12411 and 13N12412

Reliable systems for detecting and identifying hazardous substances in ambient air can both support and protect firefighters and civil protection officers in their civil security activities. The objective behind the ePID project was to come up with a sensor principle that identifies airborne toxic substances very selectively and detects even tiny quantities of them. The research incorporated user requirements and lessons learned in tests under real-life conditions.

More information (only available in German)

  

GRIPS: GIS-based risk assessment and incident preparation system

Founding codes 13N11381 to 13N11383

Simulating natural disasters or major accidents, such as a storm surge in Hamburg or an industrial accident in Essen, makes it easier to understand the complexity of what happens during a major incident. The GRIPS joint project used the results of such simulation to develop software to supply information on the usability of infrastructure that might have been affected by the incident. The intention was to enable authorities and organisations that perform security tasks to respond to changed circumstances, such as flooded evacuation routes. An additional aim was to use the data for dynamic evacuation route management and communicate it to the public by way of, for example, public announcement systems or mobile telephones in order to optimise evacuation.

More information (only available in German)

   

HAPLUS: Hierarchical early warning and alert system for sudden storm surges following heavy rain

Funding codes 13N14481 to 13N14483

Climate change has brought with it a significant rise in cases of extreme rainfall and flooding. Forecasting of storms and flooding at the nationwide level has been well-established for some years now thanks to continuous monitoring of the levels of major rivers. But forecasts are difficult in smaller, particularly rural, areas. The HAPLUS project is working on a new warning and alert system, specifically adapted to local conditions. The system will be based on a precise profile of the terrain in a risk area, which will be used to produce an exact surface runoff model. As a result, monitoring of water levels and flow rates at a few, particularly vulnerable points will be enough to reliably trigger a multi-level alert process in the event of danger.

More information (only available in German) 

                

HiP-MS: Small-scale high-pressure mass spectrometer for rapid and secure detection of explosive and hazardous substances

Funding codes 13N14469 bis 13N1470

Since both toxic industrial chemicals and explosives pose a considerable civil security risk for the general public, portable measuring devices for detecting these hazardous substances quickly and reliably are an essential tool for security and emergency services. However, the systems currently available are either not able to detect many of these substances or have difficulty doing so. HiP-MS is intended to explore options for a new measuring method that will enable minute doses of hazardous substances to be detected without any false alarms as well as meeting all of the requirements for mobile use. The core element is a small-scale mass spectrometer that can operate under relatively high pressure.

HiP-MS project outline (PDF, only available in German)

                

iBePol: Intelligent clothing for police and security operations

Förderkennzeichen 13N11410 to 13N11414 and 13N11577

Based on the maxim that people who protect the public should have the best possible protection themselves, the iBePol project sought to develop an intelligent clothing system that will increase safety for emergency service personnel during operations by measuring and transmitting vital and environmental parameters. The challenge was to integrate all of the technology into the garments whilst also ensuring a high level of comfort for wearers. This solution would do away with the need to carry additional measurement and detection systems that might otherwise get in the way during operations. The results of this project were used to evolve innovative clothing designs for various police user groups.

More information (only available in German)

   

INTEGER: Visual decision support for evaluation of data from social networks

Funding codes  13N14338 to 13N14340

With postings containing information relating to extremist or terrorist threats a daily occurrence on social networks, security authorities face an unprecedented challenge to detect such tendencies before harm can be done. Automated evaluation and visualisation of data could significantly reduce the effort involved in assessing hazards and situations. Since technical solutions of the standard required by security authorities for data evaluation are not yet available on the market, the INTEGER project is carrying out basic research on the definition of ethical and legal requirements for automated analysis of data from social networks. Its findings can then be incorporated into the technical development of a software platform with which to support security authorities.

INTEGER project outline (PDF, only available in German)

  

IRiS: Intelligent rescue in smart homes

Funding codes  13N14403 to 13N14405

Resuscitation of a person who has been exposed to fire smoke must start within around 15 minutes, which means that rescue services have to work quickly. With this in mind, the IRiS project is developing a system that will enable firefighters to utilise the information provided by a smart home to speed up rescue operations. The team will first explore which of the data generated by networked devices, e.g. smoke alarms and motion detectors, could have a positive effect on current rescue tactics. The findings will be used to develop an integrated approach to collate that data and supply it both to the command centre and the firefighters at the scene.

IRiS project outline (PDF, only available in German)

    

KOORDINATOR: Ubiquitous sensor and information system for firefighters

Funding codes 13N11752 to 13N11755

Firefighters are often faced with fire incidents in which they have to search unfamiliar buildings quickly for people trapped there – an immensely strenuous task. Collecting information on such complex and constantly changing response situations poses a major challenge for firefighters wearing respiratory protection. However, the ability for firefighters making their way through buildings and incident commanders to share information is crucial to ensuring an adequate picture of the situation. The goal of the KOORDINATOR project was to improve the communication and cooperation processes between firefighters wearing respiratory protection and incident commanders, using new technology. The pilot system combines units for receiving and transmitting status reports, telemetrics data, situation information and emergency service activity patterns.

More information (only available in German)

   

MAusKat: Measuring system for the determination of the dispersal of hazardous materials in critical infrastructures and complex buildings for the prevention of civil disasters

Funding codes 13N11673 to 13N11678

The partners on the MAusKat joint project developed  a measuring and analysis system for tracking the spread of gaseous hazardous substances in complex buildings such as airports, department stores or underground networks. The measurements are used for simulations to identify hazard zones and plan new escape and evacuation strategies.

More information (only available in German)

   

MIREX: Miniaturised IR spectrometer for swift detection of explosive gases in scenarios in which the hazard situation is unknown

Funding codes  13N14035 to 13N14037

Explosive and combustible gases pose a difficult-to-estimate risk for firefighters and other emergency services. However, they can only take appropriate action if they have a reliable assessment of the situation. The MIREX project was developing a portable, economy-priced device that detects explosive and combustible gases reliably and rapidly and warns the emergency services accordingly. The idea was that it will be worn on the emergency service personnel’s clothing and automatically emit an acoustic signal when a hazardous situation is detected.

MIREX project outline (PDF, only available in German)

  

MOBI DIG: Monitoring biological hazards in the digital society

Funding codes 13N11970 and 13N11671

Social media users are constantly discussing current issues. In the event of a biological hazard, caused by a pathogen for instance, social media can give an indication of important questions on the minds of the public. For the authorities in charge, providing information about necessary measures such as vaccination or quarantine is just as crucial to successful crisis response as the public reaction to the. The MOBI DIG project produced a monitoring system that scans social media for questions asked by the public. The system is intended to indicate what information the public requires, thus supporting authorities’ crisis communication activities. This also makes post-crisis analysis possible, enabling even better handling of future crises.

More information (only available in German)

  

    

    

MoPlasDekon: Mobile plasma technology for protection against biological hazards in epidemic-stricken areas

Funding codes  13N14127 to 13N14129

In crisis zones hit by an epidemic, emergency service personnel need to wear special protective suits. After use, the suits are treated with harmful chemicals before being removed. This is done to kill any pathogens that have become attached to the suits and thus to eliminate the risk for the wearer. The aim of the MoPlasDekon project was to develop a novel mobile plasma system for rapid, non-chemical decontamination of contaminated items.

MoPlasDekon project outline (PDF, only available in German)

  

ORIMA: Orientation support in the event of an alarm

Funding codes 13N11852 to 13N11854

Real or threatened shootings at schools are a serious, increasingly common form of violence. The ORIMA project developed a technical solution that combines an alarm, communication and messaging system to improve the handling of acute violent situations, including shootings, on school grounds. The intention was that the overall system will inform pupils and teachers, in particular, plus police and emergency services quickly, comprehensively and reliably and forward instructions for any action to be taken.

More information (only available in German)

   

PROMPT: Programmatic selection of immediate response measures in major incidents

Funding codes  13N14138 and 13N14139

In major incidents, reconnaissance is a lengthy, complex process and it often takes quite some time before sufficient information about the situation is available and an effective response strategy can be drawn up. The objective behind the PROMPT project was to shorten the time it takes to initiate targeted rescue measures. This was to be done by means of automated collection and aggregation of information about the situation from a variety of sources, making it possible to generate a comprehensive overview of the situation very quickly and to evaluate that overview automatically to determine the extent of the damage.

PROMPT project outline (PDF, only available in German)

  

ReKom-S: (Re-)assigning responsibility for non-police security services to local authorities

Funding codes  13N14323 to 13N14326

Ensuring crisis and disaster preparedness and public services are important parts of local authorities’ work. Since a number of companies whose business is relevant to security, such as infrastructure operators, are increasingly outsourcing security services, the question of whether local authorities can perform certain services needs to be addressed. This applies, in particular, to tasks that local authorities already perform anyway as part of their existing remit, such as fire protection or technical assistance. The aim of the ReKom-S project is to examine case studies to identify possibilities for local authorities to perform security services while also adhering to current legislation. The researchers will also be exploring how the two sides in this form of cooperation can collaborate in a way that is mutually beneficial.

ReKom-S project outline (PDF, only available in German) 

   

RescueLab: IT-supported drill environment for civil protection and emergency service personnel

Funding codes 13N12564 to 13N12565

During operations, emergency service personnel can be confronted with sudden critical situations at any time. So decisions have to be thought through extremely quickly and soundly. Consequently, emergency service personnel need excellent skills, which they gain through experience and drills. The RescueLab joint project devised an IT system to improve documentation and thus play a key role in ensuring personnel have solid skills. The aim was to make both the drills and the post-drill debriefings even more systematic.

More information (only available in German)

    

SOLIDE: Voice-controlled, contextual situation information for civil protection command units and officers

Funding codes  13N14453 bis 13N14456

In the event of an incident (major or otherwise), crisis, disaster or emergency, the responding personnel are confronted with a mass of information from a variety of sources. That information has to be analysed, translated into a situation assessment and supplied in a user-specific format without distracting the responders from the task at hand. The SOLIDE project will set out to develop a new approach for efficient access to an integrated situation assessment. The focus will be on using a voice-based control system and innovative data integration techniques. Since relevant information can be provided quickly by means of spoken input and output, it can facilitate efficient support for all personnel involved in ensuring security. The aim is a system that can be integrated into existing command and control systems to ensure optimum use of existing situation assessment tools.

SOLIDE project outline (PDF, only available in German)

         

SoNDEx: Neutron-based detection of explosive substances

Funding codes  13N14827 to 13N14829

Every year, some 5,500 unexploded Second World War bombs are defused in Germany, particularly in industrial conurbations such as the Ruhr District. When industrial areas have to be searched and evacuated due to a suspected unexploded device, the challenges for the bomb disposal squad are tremendous. The customary method of geomagnetic detection by means of a borehole is not a satisfactory solution in such sensitive areas because it is virtually impossible to distinguish between unexploded devices and old pipes or similar industrial infrastructure. The goal behind SoNDEx is to develop and validate an innovative measuring method that uses neutron radiation to detect not only the metal shell of the bomb but also, in particular, the explosive substance in the ground.

SoNDEx project outline (PDF, only available in German) 

         

TAMMOS: Partially autonomous machinery and logistics for mobile flood control

Funding codes  13N14090 and 13N14091

Flooding incidents in recent years have demonstrated that existing protective measures are not always sufficient to withstand extreme rises in water levels. Despite the large numbers of personnel deployed, it was not always possible to prevent the flooding. The TAMMOS project aimed to develop a new flood control system, which will fill fabric tubes with sand so that they can be used to build or repair flood defence barriers. The partial automation of the system, including the supply of the necessary building materials, was intended to enable damaged barriers to be mended as well, without causing unnecessary risk for the emergency service personnel. 

More information (only available in German)

    

TeD: Fabric-based solution for securing flood barriers

Funding codes  13N13887 and 13N13888

Flood response measures usually involve a large number of sandbags being used to secure flood defence barriers. However, this technique has its limitations if the flooding is extensive. In the state of Saxony alone, there were 40 barrier ruptures during the flooding in June 2013 – despite 10 million sandbags and 72,000 m² of protective film. The aim of the TeD research project was to design a fabric-based modular system for active protection of flood barriers that are already in place but are at risk of collapsing.

TeD project outline (PDF, only available in German)

                  

TOXRADEV: Monitoring public spaces for toxic fire smoke: Detector with lower false alarm rate for evacuations

Funding codes  13N14492 and 13N14493

Fire in road tunnels and underground stations poses a high risk both for users and emergency services. To minimise that risk, fires need to be reliably detected at the smouldering stage. However, this is difficult in real ambient conditions in tunnels as spray and dust can trigger false alarms in conventional fire alarms and heat sensors are only activated when the temperature is high. The technical objective of the TOXRADEV project is to develop an optical detector that can reliably distinguish between hazardous smoke and harmless vapour or dust. The idea is that the smoke would be detected in the smouldering phase, when it is only present in small concentrations, and the system would significantly reduce the number of false alarms.

TOXRADEV project outline (PDF, only available in German)

            

VibroMag: Sensor cable for monitoring airport fences

Funding codes 13N12865 to 13N12868

Infrastructure sites such as airports and power stations need to be protected against unauthorised access but large sites are difficult to secure effectively using perimeter fencing. The VibroMag project is therefore working on a sensor system that could be retrofitted into existing fencing. This would make it easier to secure sites and make them considerably less prone to false alarms.

More information (only available in German)

      

Videobahn: Video sled for runway inspection and ground radar

Funding codes  13N11857 and 13N11858

Flawless runways are essential for safe aviation. The Videobahn project examined how manual runway inspection can be supported, and perhaps even replaced, by innovative technology. The team planned to mount various high-resolution cameras on a sled system, which will be able to inspect the runways and various areas of the manoeuvring area independently and rapidly even when aircraft are in operation.

More information (only available in German)

   

VIROSENS: Rapid detection of virus infections using optical biosensor technology

Funding codes 13N12559 and 13N12560

Socioeconomic and climatic changes, increased mobility and population growth have brought a bigger risk of new, rapidly spreading viral illnesses. For patients to receive the right treatment, it is vital that these illnesses be diagnosed early. The aim of the VIROSENS project was to develop a portable biosensor platform for fast detection of viruses and virus-specific antibodies, from sources such as blood, serum or plasma.

More information (only available in German)