Security Essen: The Global Highlight of 2024

Security Messe Essen, the global hub of the security industry, highlighted its importance as a platform for innovation and expertise exchange in 2024. Celebrating its 50th anniversary, the event attracted more than 500 exhibitors from 36 countries. Additionally, over 20,000 trade visitors from 86 nations attended, marking a 17% increase compared to 2022. This growth underlines the renewed value of face-to-face interactions in the post-pandemic era.

Leading companies such as Hekatron, Bosch, Telenot, Barox, Dahua, Hikvision, Salto, and Abus participated. Furthermore, renowned associations like the Federal Association of the Security Industry (BDSW), the Federal Association “Alliance for Security in the Economy e.V.” (AWS), the BHE – Federal Association for Security Technology, and the BSKI – Federal Association for the Protection of Critical Infrastructures e.V. were also present. Their involvement demonstrated the event’s diversity and relevance.

The increasing demand for security solutions was evident in the themed exhibition halls. System integration and artificial intelligence (AI) took center stage. Smart systems for monitoring, access control, and hazard prevention were prominently displayed, showcasing the industry’s future direction.

Moreover, the trade fair offered an ideal platform for the Security Robotics team to explore state-of-the-art technologies like AI and robotics. It provided a unique opportunity to network and interact with the key players of the security sector, gaining valuable insights.

Press Conference Success

During the press conference on September 11, we introduced our vision, team, and the topic of networked security robotics. One of the highlights was Mr. Henke’s presentation of the Go2 system, ‘Paul.’ His humorous robot demonstration entertained the audience and attracted significant media attention. This engaging moment quickly became a standout highlight of the event.

Engagement at the Security Experts Forum

Our CEO, Aleksej Tokarev, delivered a presentation titled “Adaptability – The Power of Evolution,” exploring how autonomous robots adapt to diverse security needs. His discussion, complemented by a live demonstration of the walking robot Spot, resonated with attendees. The interactive session led to fruitful conversations about practical applications and future innovations.

Our Trade Fair: From Press Conference to Drone Show

On Monday, we set up our systems, including a drone system and G-Fence sensors, in the outdoor area. Thanks to meticulous planning, the installation ran smoothly, ensuring we were ready for the event’s opening day.

Over the next four days, we engaged in numerous discussions, professional dialogues, and project meetings. Experts from sectors like automotive, logistics, production, and emergency services highlighted the urgency of modern security technologies. Our partnerships with Agility One, Geutebrück, Dussmann and Sorhea. 

Special thanks go to BAFA for sponsoring the “Young Innovators” program and the Messe Essen team for their exceptional support.

Live drone presentations at the European Drone Congress

A special highlight of the event was the European Drone Congress, held alongside the trade fair. Over two days, the forum offered a diverse programme of presentations and discussion panels. Numerous companies showcased their drone solutions, particularly in Hall 5.

Rather than relying on passive product placement, we actively demonstrated the Beehive autonomous drone system from Sunflower Labs. Each day, we organised live flight shows in the outdoor area FG2. These demonstrations showcased how drones, in combination with networked fence sensors, can enable intelligent perimeter surveillance.

The cooperation between drones and sensor technology represents a significant step forward in efficiently and securely monitoring large areas. Trade visitors experienced live how drones navigated the site, verified alarms, and forwarded data to monitoring centres in real time. This innovative technology was especially appealing to project managers overseeing large properties and extensive production facilities.

Robotics at Security 2024: Our solutions up close and personal

At our stand, visitors experienced our robotic systems firsthand:

• ARGUS (SMP Robotics): Designed for long-range patrols, it showcased its autonomous charging station and operational success across various locations.
• Beehive (Sunflower Labs): Demonstrations combined mobile surveillance with ACUDA system integration.
• Spot (Boston Dynamics): This versatile robot impressed with its smooth movements and adaptability in difficult terrains.
• Go-Series: Agile and reliable, it demonstrated rapid deployments and sensor payload capabilities.
• B2 (Unitree Robotics): Robust and weatherproof, it proved ideal for heavy equipment in complex environments.
• Promobot (RDI Robots): The communication robot entertained and informed visitors, showcasing its role in digital event reception.

Networking is the key – ACUDA as a platform

A central theme of our participation was the ACUDA platform, which integrates robotics, sensors, and alarm management systems. Live demonstrations with Geutebrück highlighted seamless data integration, offering comprehensive security solutions.

Autonomous inspections and maintenance: efficiency through specialised payloads

Specialised and configurable payloads have greatly expanded the possibilities for autonomous inspections and preventive maintenance using walking and wheeled robots. These systems can be equipped with sensors for thermal analyses, radiation detection, and gas measurements. This allows them to perform tasks such as preventive fire protection, audiovisual monitoring, and the detection of even the smallest environmental changes.

A key advantage of these robots is their ability to conduct inspection tasks while simultaneously handling safety-related activities, such as routine patrols. This dual functionality has already generated significant interest in practical applications, particularly in the manufacturing and automotive industries. By combining these tasks, the systems improve both efficiency and overall operational safety.

Media attention and trade press on site

The media response to our trade fair appearance was overwhelming. We welcomed teams from WDR (media centre link, report from minute 73), NTV, SAT.1 and regional radio stations to our stand, to whom we gave interviews and statements on the technologies we presented. The presentations on robotics and drone systems were a particular focus. With several interviews and reports in the trade press, including Protector, GIT Sicherheit and security blogs, we were able to emphasise the importance of AI and robotics as key technologies of the future.

Trainee day and promotion of young talent

Once again this year, the Training and Further Education Day was a central component of the trade fair. In co-operation with the BDSW – Federal Association of the Security Industry, over 400 pupils, students and trainees were invited to visit the trade fair free of charge and make valuable contacts. Promoting young talent in the security industry is a key concern for us, which is why we were particularly proud to present the main prize, a Go2 robot from Unitree Robotics, to the winner of the trainee day quiz. There was also a training voucher for the Security Robotics Academy to introduce the next generation directly to the world of robotics.
Congratulations to Adrian Huber, 1st year trainee security and safety specialist at Garandus Sicherheitsdienste.

The Future is Networked + Hybrid Security

Security Essen 2024 reaffirmed the growing importance of networked and hybrid security solutions. Robotics and AI are essential to meet rising security demands and address workforce shortages. Together with our partners, including Agility One, Geutebrück, Sorhea, Dussmann, and Sunflower Labs, we aim to lead the development of intelligent security solutions that combine people, technology, and automation.