DHS Taps 2 Startups to Develop Video-Based Threat Detection Platforms

The Department of Homeland Security’s science and technology directorate has awarded two startup companies other transaction contracts to develop systems for monitoring potentially anomalous events in video footage.

Flux Tensor of Kansas and Lauretta AI of Massachusetts respectively secured phase one awards worth $199,833 and $198,000 for the Securing Soft Targets project under the first phase of DHS’ Silicon Valley Innovation Program, according to separate announcements published Thursday on the department website.

Under separate proposals, Flux Tensor will apply persistent flux analysis to create motion detection technology for complex video feeds, while Lauretta AI will employ an artificial intelligence platform to secure soft targets identified in security camera footage. 

DHS intends for these systems to help identify threats in video surveillance from schools, event locations, transportation hubs and other public places.

“Technologies that enhance real-time monitoring in situations where visibility is low due to environmental constraints will improve responders’ ability to maintain security in and around soft target venues,” said Melissa Oh, SVIP managing director.