ARC System delivers perimeter security for Rivian in Manchester.

The Challenge
The key challenge was to provide live streaming of surveillance and analytics to the Genetec Platform and the UK-based Monitoring Centre via the local cellular network. Additionally, the solution had to be installed on the perimeter of the site with limited power and data infrastructure and cover the perimeter of a storage facility in Manchester, UK.

Technical challenges included integrating multiple cellular connections to ensure reliable streaming of surveillance feeds, optimising network bandwidth to reduce latency, and improved data transmission speeds. In addition, as the site is in close proximity to other buildings and footpaths, it was essential that integrated smart analytics were deployed to ensure vulnerable positions around the building could be effectively protected.

The Solution
We worked closely with multiple stakeholders in the UK and the US to design a bespoke ARC System, which could be powered using solar, connected to the local cellular network and streamed via the cloud to the UK monitoring centre. In addition, Rivian required the ability to view camera streams in real-time from the US and onboard smart camera analytics utilised to automate the detection of intruders and alert operatives in the UK.  The ARC Systems were optimised to deliver 24/7 HD CCTV surveillance with intrusion detection alerts that can be streamed via a mobile network to any location or device. The system uses industry-standard encryption protocols to protect data, and it includes features such as user authentication and access control to ensure that only authorised personnel can access data. 

We deployed two Autonomous Remote Communications Systems (ARC) in critical and vulnerable locations to provide 360-degree coverage across the external aspects of the site and building. The First ARC System was deployed near the main entrance, which covered all the main access points to the site and the front of the building. The second ARC was deployed near the building, with one camera on the system covering the side of the building.

Two cameras were dismounted from the ARC System and deployed on the side and rear of the building. This delivered complete site wraparound security. The surveillance footage is delivered to the monitoring center in real-time via a high-speed cellular network, and any alerts or positive identification of intruders are relayed to mobile security teams to respond within 15 minutes.

The Results
The bespoke ARC Systems, manufactured by Sunstone, provided a comprehensive, reliable, and cost-effective solution to Rivian's security challenges. The system has been successfully deployed, providing live streaming of surveillance and analytics and now proven to be effective in challenging environments with no fixed power supply or connectivity. This has enabled Rivian to monitor and control their equipment and site with confidence, ensuring the safety and security of their valuable assets.

In the first twelve months of operation, the ARC Systems have delivered over 99.9% uptime and connectivity to the UK cellular network by utilising advanced approaches including sim bonding.  Sim bonding is a technique that combines multiple cellular connections from different carriers into a single, more reliable and faster connection. This technique is particularly useful in areas with limited connectivity, such as remote sites and offers several advantages, including improved network availability, faster data speeds, and reduced latency. One of the main benefits of sim bonding with using the IO System is improved network availability. By combining multiple cellular connections, the sim bonding technology ensures that there is always a strong and reliable connection. This is particularly important in areas where connectivity is limited or unreliable, as it allows solutions to maintain constant connectivity and avoid downtime. By combining multiple cellular connections, sim bonding delivered by the IO System can increase the available bandwidth, allowing for faster data transfer speeds.