Mobile sensor networks based on autonomous platforms for homeland security

The development of intelligent surveillance systems is an active research area of increasing interest. In recent years, autonomous or semi-autonomous mobile robots have been adopted as useful means to reduce fixed installations and number of devices needed for surveillance of a given area. In this context SELEX Sistemi Integrati is investigating the possibility to use robots-sensors systems to improve the monitoring of large and populated indoor areas. In particular, the joint use of the Swarm Logic and heterogeneous sensors, some installed at strategic points of the infrastructure and other installed on mobile robots, allows the creation of a very dynamic network of cooperating sensors, that is able to ensure a high level of protection and a fast reaction to threats. In this paper an integrated intelligent system based on swarm logic to improve monitoring performance of large critical infrastructures such as airport terminals, warehouses, railway stations, production facilities is presented. The adopted system architecture, consisting of two hierarchical levels, is introduced and discussed. In each of these levels novel aspects, developed by the team, are present.