CCTV Center has recently received a huge vote of confidence from Panasonic by being appointed Panasonic Systems Network Distributor (PSND). Panasonic has created its new official recognition to ensure that approved distributors offer the very best service to their customers. To become a PSND, CCTV Center had to meet a comprehensive list of criteria that included stocking a comprehensive range of IP products; having certified and trained sales and technical staff; offering pre and post-sales support services and being able to display and demonstrate Panasonic products.
PSND status means that CCTV Center is now able to offer the full European range of Panasonic System Networks Europe products. These not only include CCTV and IP cameras, but also DECT telephone systems, document imaging and electronic point of sale (PoS) solutions, industrial medical cameras and home networking solutions.
CCTV customers will benefit directly from efficient stock management, an outstanding design service and excellent pre and post-sales support.
Andy Coombes, MD of CCTV Center commented, “”We have tried to excel in all areas of service and customer support. It is important to have well-trained staff, efficient stock management and excellent pre- and post-sales support. We are very pleased to be selected as a PSND and feel it is a reflection of the quality of the service we already offer. It supports our position as the UK’s leading IP CCTV and security distributor.”
The PSND status opens up many new opportunities for CCTV Center customers. The company will now be able to offer a greater range of Panasonic IP products and solutions in the audio, imagery, visual and data fields."
Tuesday, November 02, 2010
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Panduit Safeguards Perimeters Remotely with Axis Network Cameras
When Panduit built its new world headquarters just outside of Chicago in 2010 the company decided to utilize its Unified Physical Infrastructure (UPI) approach to converge core business systems – including security, power and communications.
As part of this effort, Panduit wanted to install pan/tilt/zoom (PTZ) cameras at the company’s seven domestic manufacturing and warehousing sites, as well as select facilities around the globe, and manage them all remotely from its world headquarters.
IPVision, a national integrator of intelligent physical security solutions and an Axis (News - Alert) partner, recommended Axis PTZ network cameras because they could easily converge with the company’s other network-based security, safety and environmental control systems.
The PTZ cameras use intelligent video analytics to provide perimeter security for all Panduit global facilities, as well as its lobby exhibit in the new world headquarters.
Combining its security and network operations centers into a single Unified Operations Center (UOC), Panduit archives video locally at each building, while centrally managing the cameras from headquarters’ UOC.
The result is Panduit security staff can view event-based video streamed to world headquarters and controls the Axis PTZ cameras remotely to investigate whether a situation requires intervention.
If an alarm is triggered because a distracted employee holds a door ajar too long, security can observe the situation remotely until it’s resolved instead of putting local personnel on high alert.
Before erecting its new world headquarters in Tinley Park, Ill., each Panduit facility operated its own independent analog surveillance system.
“To update our security system to match our Unified Physical Infrastructure strategy, we needed to deploy the appropriate network technology,” said Jeff Woodward, senior manager of Global EHS and Security for Panduit.
By installing AXIS 233D PTZ Network Cameras in its facilities worldwide, Panduit could leverage its robust wide area network to globally monitor, control and manage those cameras from one central point.
“Instead of sending security staff to physically investigate every alarm, we use the video cameras to remotely monitor the situation and then investigate the triggering event if necessary,” Woodward says.
He estimates a 16-month ROI on the surveillance equipment just from that labor savings alone.
A majority of the Axis network cameras are deployed on building exteriors, overlooking expansive parking lots. With video analytics, they create a virtual trip line around property perimeters.
“If an object of a certain size breaks that perimeter,” explains Ben Green of IPVision, “the Axis PTZ network cameras are strategically placed to alert
security staff, send a video stream to HQ, and also automatically track that object.”
Once the video stream is sent to HQ, security personnel can remotely zoom, pan and tilt the cameras to closely observe the scene.
“Adding intelligence to the video allows us to selectively push video to the Unified Operations Center, which limits how much video we need to aggregate on a regular basis,” says Woodward.
Though AXIS 233D network cameras are designed for exterior use, IPVision turned to Dotworkz Dome enclosures to ensure optimum performance under conditions ranging from harsh Chicago winters to Costa Rica’s tropical humidity. A variety of models with built-in heaters and blowers operate in temperatures ranging from -40ºF to 150ºF.
National Renewable Energy Laboratory Chooses SightLogix Intelligent Video to Protect Its Facilities
Department of Energy's National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) has selected SightLogix® outdoor video surveillance systems for deployment at the South Table Mountain campus in Golden, Colorado as well as at the National Wind Technology Center near Boulder, Colorado. Video intrusion detection systems incorporating SightLogix Thermal SightSensor cameras and SightTracker Pan Tilt Zoom (PTZ) controllers will enhance perimeter security and visual verifications of intrusion for real-time situational awareness at both locations.
The SightLogix video analytics system was chosen for its greater security while also lowering project costs. By significantly reducing the number of poles, trenching and communication requirements, long-range Thermal SightSensors proved to be more accurate and less expensive overall, requiring fewer cameras and greatly reduced infrastructure than competing proposals.
NREL is DOE's primary national laboratory for renewable energy and energy efficiency research and development. The mission of the wind energy research conducted at NREL's National Wind Technology Center (NWTC) is to collaborate with industry to further wind technology and to accelerate its commercialization in the marketplace.
As a solution to protect large facilities, the SightLogix automated outdoor video system accurately detects, provides assessment detail, and locates intrusions over large outdoor areas and perimeters in all weather and geographies. For the NREL security project, the systems utilize long-range Thermal SightSensors to detect intrusions along the perimeter, and GPS-based SightTracker controllers to automatically steer FLIR dual-head PTZ thermal imaging cameras to track and follow detected targets. The result is complete situational awareness and forensic detail over the entire perimeter.
"We are pleased that SightLogix has been selected to protect important U.S. assets such as these facilities at the Department of Energy," said John Romanowich, President and CEO, SightLogix. "Our technology has been specifically designed to address outdoor challenges, including those of wind and solar energy generation facilities, which include high winds and wide operating temperature ranges. As a result, the Department of Energy can benefit from our solutions at these and other locations."
"Our design team spent a considerable amount of time reviewing the objectives and intentions of the customer specification. We looked at a variety of potential solutions and made the final recommendation to use SightLogix based on their product performance, cost and the superior level of customer service we received," said Zack Carlson, Account Manager, VTI Security.
At a press event held at SightLogix' headquarters, Congressman Rush Holt (D-NJ), said, "Innovation drives the economic engine of our nation and brings high tech jobs to our local communities. Having worked with SightLogix for several years, I applaud their ongoing success."
Recognized as a leader in intelligent video surveillance systems that provide a solid return on investment, SightLogix' combination of edge-based video analytics, long and wide area coverage using visible or thermal cameras and geo-spatial target tracking has been deployed around the world to meet the critical security needs of the transportation, energy, utility, chemical, information technology, public safety and defense industries.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Intelligent Video to Drive the Artificial Intelligence Revolution
AUSTIN, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--A world in which machines and devices are visually aware and able to make decisions based upon what they see may not be far away, according to IMS Research whose analysts have been tracking the video analytics market for over seven years.
“The innovative major corporations, such as Intel, IBM, Microsoft and Sony, are already making significant investment in intelligent video. This is encouraging many other companies to join the revolution. I think the momentum has already reached the point that these things will happen, the only question now is how quickly?”
Intelligent video has already been used in the security industry for some years and many new applications are already under development. These include cars that are able to see road conditions and warning signs and react accordingly; consumer devices and game consoles that can be controlled by, and interact with, the user through gestures and facial expressions; medical scans that can be automatically compared to ones taken weeks or months prior, and digital displays that can show different content depending upon who is viewing it and how they react to what they see.
When asked why these ideas are finally becoming a reality, IMS Research’s President, Ian Weightman, stated, “The basis of our prediction is that the key elements of an intelligent video solution, including compute engines capable of processing HD digital video streams in real-time, high capacity solid state storage capabilities, and advanced video analytic algorithms, have finally evolved to the point where performance has increased and costs have fallen sufficiently to enable commercial products to be developed.”
Looking further ahead, continuing improvements in facial and object recognition coupled with spatial awareness will lead to more advanced intelligence. Before the end of the next decade, there is the very real possibility that many machines and robots will be able to see and interact with their environment, people and other visually intelligent devices.
Will companies be willing to make the huge R&D investment needed to make this happen? According to Weightman, “The innovative major corporations, such as Intel, IBM, Microsoft and Sony, are already making significant investment in intelligent video. This is encouraging many other companies to join the revolution. I think the momentum has already reached the point that these things will happen, the only question now is how quickly?”
In an effort to bring industries together to understand the opportunities and challenges that intelligent video will bring, IMS will be hosting the Intelligent Video 2010: A Revolution in Visually Intelligent Applications Conference in Los Angeles, CA on December 9th.
National Renewable Energy Laboratory Chooses SightLogix Intelligent Video to Protect Its Facilities
Princeton, NJ (October 26, 2010) – The U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) has selected SightLogix® outdoor video surveillance systems for deployment at the South Table Mountain campus in Golden, Colorado as well as at the National Wind Technology Center near Boulder, Colorado. Video intrusion detection systems incorporating SightLogix Thermal SightSensor cameras and SightTracker Pan Tilt Zoom (PTZ) controllers will enhance perimeter security and visual verifications of intrusion for real-time situational awareness at both locations.
The SightLogix video analytics system was chosen for its greater security while also lowering project costs. By significantly reducing the number of poles, trenching and communication requirements, long-range Thermal SightSensors proved to be more accurate and less expensive overall, requiring fewer cameras and greatly reduced infrastructure than competing proposals.
NREL is DOE’s primary national laboratory for renewable energy and energy efficiency research and development. The mission of the wind energy research conducted at NREL's National Wind Technology Center (NWTC) is to collaborate with industry to further wind technology and to accelerate its commercialization in the marketplace.
As a solution to protect large facilities, the SightLogix automated outdoor video system accurately detects, provides assessment detail, and locates intrusions over large outdoor areas and perimeters in all weather and geographies. For the NREL security project, the systems utilize long-range Thermal SightSensors to detect intrusions along the perimeter, and GPS-based SightTracker controllers to automatically steer FLIR dual-head PTZ thermal imaging cameras to track and follow detected targets. The result is complete situational awareness and forensic detail over the entire perimeter.
“We are pleased that SightLogix has been selected to protect important U.S. assets such as these facilities at the Department of Energy,” said John Romanowich, President and CEO, SightLogix. “Our technology has been specifically designed to address outdoor challenges, including those of wind and solar energy generation facilities, which include high winds and wide operating temperature ranges. As a result, the Department of Energy can benefit from our solutions at these and other locations.”
“Our design team spent a considerable amount of time reviewing the objectives and intentions of the customer specification. We looked at a variety of potential solutions and made the final recommendation to use SightLogix’ based on their product performance, cost and the superior level of customer service we received,” said Zack Carlson, Account Manager, VTI Security.
At a press event held at SightLogix’ headquarters, Congressman Rush Holt (D-NJ), said, “Innovation drives the economic engine of our nation and brings high tech jobs to our local communities. Having worked with SightLogix for several years, I applaud their ongoing success.”
Recognized as a leader in intelligent video surveillance systems that provide a solid return on investment, SightLogix' combination of edge-based video analytics, long and wide area coverage using visible or thermal cameras and geo-spatial target tracking has been deployed around the world to meet the critical security needs of the transportation, energy, utility, chemical, information technology, public safety and defense industries.
For more information on SightLogix perimeter security and outdoor surveillance solutions, call (609) 951-0008, email info@sightlogix.com or visit www.sightlogix.com.
About VTI Security
VTI Security is a Minnesota-based technology provider of innovative integrated electronic and IP-based security and video surveillance solutions to Fortune 1000 companies and the public sector for 30 years. VTI offers system design, project management, engineering, installation and technical/customer support services on a local and national basis. VTI is consistently ranked at the top of SDM’s annual list of system integrators. Over 110 employees operate from offices in Minnesota, Colorado, Wyoming, Wisconsin and Texas. For more information visit www.vtisecurity.com.
About SightLogix®, Inc.
SightLogix automated outdoor surveillance systems protect critical infrastructure and key assets of the transportation, energy, utility, chemical, datacenters, public safety, school and religious campuses, and defense industries. The company’s open-architecture, Intelligent Video Surveillance system provides full situational awareness to increase both the effectiveness and efficiency of security manpower. For more information, visit www.sightlogix.com
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Lumenera’s IP cameras embedded with video analytics are the ideal choice for border and perimeter security applications
Lumenera provides 24-hour protection
The traditional role of the camera in border and perimeter security applications is to provide accurate and rapid assessment of alarms through high quality images, both day and night, and in a variety of lighting and weather conditions.
Video content analytics embedded in Lumenera's Li-series cameras improve these conditions by providing specific and timely alerts to the control room based on the images from the cameras.
Video analytics and intelligent cameras
Lumenera's intelligent camera products use ObjectVideo's OnBoard™ embedded video analytics software. Using a simple graphical user interface, one may configure specific rules related to the position and behaviour of persons, vehicles, or objects that can be used to track alarms and/or log them. Basic examples involve the appearance or entry of a person or vehicle, as well as defining tripwire rules that specify the forbidden direction of travel. The same capabilities can be used to count persons or vehicles, or to measure the time or speed of travel.
Video analytics is embedded in the camera operating at the network edge to provide a much more scalable and cost-effective system, with lower latency between real-world events and operator alerts. Accurate rules-based alerts provide low nuisance alarm rates and shorter response times.
Rules can specifically identify the location and behaviour of people, vehicles, or objects relative to defined areas. Easy-to-use filters are available to exclude alarms due to nuisance factors, such as small animals, disruptive weather, or falling leaves.
Video analytics serve as an aid to the security control room personnel by reducing operator fatigue, increasing motivation, improving decision making, and operator response time. By providing an automated display highlighting a potential intrusion alarm, rules-based content analysis embedded in the camera reduces false alarm rates, and provides automated alert display and logging. The presence of a highlighted visual display of a specific alert helps the person on duty take quick and appropriate action.
Lumenera's Li045 cameras
Lumenera's Li045 cameras use the Pixim Orca chip set to provide rapid and effective responses to challenging and ever-changing high-contrast lighting situations. This has a broad applicability to both outdoor and indoor situations that may include bright daylight or spotlights as well as shadows.
The same Pixim image sensor technology allows one to view the interior of vehicles which are always shaded, in a variety of conditions. The level of JPEG compression can be specified by the user or set automatically, depending on image quality, bandwidth and storage requirements.
The traditional role of the camera in border and perimeter security applications is to provide accurate and rapid assessment of alarms through high quality images, both day and night, and in a variety of lighting and weather conditions.
Video content analytics embedded in Lumenera's Li-series cameras improve these conditions by providing specific and timely alerts to the control room based on the images from the cameras.
Video analytics and intelligent cameras
Lumenera's intelligent camera products use ObjectVideo's OnBoard™ embedded video analytics software. Using a simple graphical user interface, one may configure specific rules related to the position and behaviour of persons, vehicles, or objects that can be used to track alarms and/or log them. Basic examples involve the appearance or entry of a person or vehicle, as well as defining tripwire rules that specify the forbidden direction of travel. The same capabilities can be used to count persons or vehicles, or to measure the time or speed of travel.
Video analytics is embedded in the camera operating at the network edge to provide a much more scalable and cost-effective system, with lower latency between real-world events and operator alerts. Accurate rules-based alerts provide low nuisance alarm rates and shorter response times.
Rules can specifically identify the location and behaviour of people, vehicles, or objects relative to defined areas. Easy-to-use filters are available to exclude alarms due to nuisance factors, such as small animals, disruptive weather, or falling leaves.
Lumenera's Li045 IP cameras use the Pixim Orca chip |
Video analytics serve as an aid to the security control room personnel by reducing operator fatigue, increasing motivation, improving decision making, and operator response time. By providing an automated display highlighting a potential intrusion alarm, rules-based content analysis embedded in the camera reduces false alarm rates, and provides automated alert display and logging. The presence of a highlighted visual display of a specific alert helps the person on duty take quick and appropriate action.
Lumenera's Li045 cameras
Lumenera's Li045 cameras use the Pixim Orca chip set to provide rapid and effective responses to challenging and ever-changing high-contrast lighting situations. This has a broad applicability to both outdoor and indoor situations that may include bright daylight or spotlights as well as shadows.
The same Pixim image sensor technology allows one to view the interior of vehicles which are always shaded, in a variety of conditions. The level of JPEG compression can be specified by the user or set automatically, depending on image quality, bandwidth and storage requirements.
Monday, October 25, 2010
National Museum of Funeral History – Vatican Exhibit – Acuity-vct Video Security Analytics
www.acuity-vct.com The Video Capture System (VCS) is a powerful Next Generation IP system, that replaces antiquated VCR and DVR type systems. The VCS collects video signals from new or existing cameras, converts them to high quality digital images, and stores them on a secure server while making them available for live and historical viewing.
The VCS also allows you to use your existing network efficiently leveraging your current resources while allowing monitoring from local and remote location. A single VCS system can protect an entire museum. Advanced Artifact Protection / Video Analytics Acuity-vct has also developed a camera based motion detection and alarming tool that instantly sounds an alarm when museum defined locations are breached. This feature leverages the VCS’s superior design and analytics to provide a higher level of asset protection than any competitive system.
The VCS “Camera Based Motion Alarming System” was developed specifically for museum applications to protect valuable artifacts while providing curators the flexibility to easily change protected areas as exhibits change and grow. By working in partnership with museum executives, Acuity has developed cost effective security solutions that provide superior surveillance and protection while enhancing the guest experience. This saves our clients money by better utilizing their guard force.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UWhRo0PmAvY&feature=player_embedded
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Agent Vi Announces the Launch of its New Channel Partner Program
Agent Video Intelligence (Agent Vi), global leader in video analytics solutions, has announced the launch of its new Channel Partner Program (CPP), designed to support its growing sales channel network. The CPP will enable Systems Integrators and Distributors to become authorized members of Agent Vi’s sales channel network, and thereby increase their product offering and enjoy a range of benefits extending from product discounts to access to marketing and sales tools, and more.
“In line with our global expansion strategy and the continued increase in the number of our channel partners worldwide, we have structured a channel program that conforms to acceptable industry standards,” said Itsik Kattan, CEO of Agent Vi. "Our pure channel approach dictates that we rely on our channels to be active and effective players when reselling our video analytics products, and our new channel program will empower them to leverage Agent Vi’s solutions, while also supporting their ability to profit from their sales activities.”
The Channel Partner Program requires Systems Integrators to direct their purchasing of Agent Vi's products through Agent Vi's authorized Distributors. In parallel, Systems Integrators enjoy product discounts awarded according to the level of sales that they achieve for Agent Vi's products.
Additionally, Systems Integrators will be required to undergo certification training that authorizes them to resell Agent Vi's products. Such training will provide the Systems Integrators with the knowledge and proficiency to effectively sell, install and support Agent Vi's products.
About Agent Vi:
Agent Video Intelligence (Agent Vi) is a leading provider of open architecture, video analytics software deployed in a variety of security, safety and business intelligence applications worldwide. Agent Vi offers comprehensive video analytics solutions that are fully integrated with a range of third party edge devices and video management systems. Integrating Agent Vi's advanced video analytics capabilities into existing or new surveillance networks enables users to benefit from the true potential of their networks, transforming them into intelligent tools that respond to the practical challenges of the 21st century. For more information, visit www.agentvi.com
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Implementation of PSIA's video analytics specification to be showcased by Synectics at ASIS
Synectic Systems, Inc. (Synectics), a leading supplier of integrated surveillance and security systems for specialised vertical markets, announced that it is participating in the Physical Security Interoperability Alliance's (PSIA) Interoperability Reception at the ASIS International 56th Annual Seminar & Exhibits in Dallas, Texas. Synectics' award winning Synergy™ video management software will host leading manufacturers' PSIA-enabled devices as part of a technology demonstration at the reception. Synectics will showcase the implementation of PSIA's newest specification for Video Analytics. The networking event, open to all industry stakeholders, will take place in Room A122 at the Dallas Convention Centre on Wednesday, October 13, 2010, at 4:00 p.m.
"PSIA's ongoing efforts to create common integration standards between third party systems is the key to the future of our industry as a whole, and is perfectly aligned with Synectics' 25-year open standards philosophy. We will continue to invest in complimentary technologies and look forward to working closely with PSIA to make universal interoperability a practical reality," said John Katnic, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for Synectics' North American division.
"Synectics is a long-time supporter of PSIA and its systems-based approach to the development of IP standards," said David Bunzel, Executive Director, PSIA. "The Synectics Synergy™ platform is an integral component of the first-ever demonstration of the PSIA Video Analytics specification alongside access control and IP video. This presentation marks a very exciting milestone for all PSIA members and industry stakeholders, and we applaud Synectics for its support of the event."
Synectics will utilise its Synergy platform to demonstrate integration between video management systems and a variety of IP devices including access control, video analytics, intrusion detection and IP cameras. The interoperability of these devices is possible through the adoption of PSIA specifications.
This event marks the first public demonstration of the new PSIA Video Analytics specification, which defines a standard way to receive, store and use analytic output. The open interface addresses event output including security, counting and health alerts, and object streaming metadata output. It also addresses foundational analytic output associated with tracked objects as well as classification, bounding box data, velocities and colour. SynergyPro serves as the host that ties together the various elements, acting as the gateway between third-party systems, and managing the notification and workflow associated with system events for operators. SynergyPro's compatibility with PSIA IP media devices also enables the presentation of corresponding video streams for situational awareness.
"PSIA's ongoing efforts to create common integration standards between third party systems is the key to the future of our industry as a whole, and is perfectly aligned with Synectics' 25-year open standards philosophy. We will continue to invest in complimentary technologies and look forward to working closely with PSIA to make universal interoperability a practical reality," said John Katnic, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for Synectics' North American division.
"Synectics is a long-time supporter of PSIA and its systems-based approach to the development of IP standards," said David Bunzel, Executive Director, PSIA. "The Synectics Synergy™ platform is an integral component of the first-ever demonstration of the PSIA Video Analytics specification alongside access control and IP video. This presentation marks a very exciting milestone for all PSIA members and industry stakeholders, and we applaud Synectics for its support of the event."
Synectics will utilise its Synergy platform to demonstrate integration between video management systems and a variety of IP devices including access control, video analytics, intrusion detection and IP cameras. The interoperability of these devices is possible through the adoption of PSIA specifications.
This event marks the first public demonstration of the new PSIA Video Analytics specification, which defines a standard way to receive, store and use analytic output. The open interface addresses event output including security, counting and health alerts, and object streaming metadata output. It also addresses foundational analytic output associated with tracked objects as well as classification, bounding box data, velocities and colour. SynergyPro serves as the host that ties together the various elements, acting as the gateway between third-party systems, and managing the notification and workflow associated with system events for operators. SynergyPro's compatibility with PSIA IP media devices also enables the presentation of corresponding video streams for situational awareness.
Friday, October 01, 2010
Canon eyes IP surveillance market
With the growing IP surveillance market, Canon is readying an aggressive strategy for its IP cameras and is on a look out for partners.
“We plan to focus on video analytics market in particular. Our products cater to that niche. We employ software from partners like IBM and PAL,” said Mohammed Nasir, Senior Manager, Marketing, Consumer System Products Division, Canon India.
The surveillance market in India is pegged at `1,800 crore, of which IP cameras contribute `200 crore.
At present the company has five SI partners, but is planning to recruit more partners with expertise in security solutions. “Our partners need to be solution-centric and should be able to deploy video analytics projects in retail, government, real estate and BFSI—which are the key verticals for us,” offered Nasir.
So far, Canon has managed to do a business of 350 IP cameras. By the end of the current fiscal, the vendor hopes to clock in `5 crore from this business.
In another two years time, Canon expects to sell about 1,000 units. The vendor is hopeful that it will capture five percent of the IP surveillance camera business, and add at least `10 crore to the topline.
Canon’s surveillance cameras are priced between `45,000 to `1.5 lakh. “The higher pricing ensures that our products are not placed in the much cluttered entry-level market. We are focused only on large deployments,” Nasir added.
Though a recent entrant into this space in India, Canon is already boasting of big customer wins including Karnataka Police, Pune Police and DLF. Executed by Bengaluru-based Cascade Systems and communications, the `12-crore traffic surveillance system for Karnataka Police employed Canon’s 40x zoom camera, VB60. The company is also in talks with ISRO.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
At the edge or system embedded?
The evolution of video surveillance has had a great impact on video analytics. In the transition from analog to IP, and then from low to high resolution, data has grown at an overwhelming rate. This in turn has created the need for video analytics to be able to most effectively use and analyze all this unfiltered information. As video standards continue to become more robust, the need for more intelligent analytics also increases.
One of the key issues has become how to use video analytics not just as an effective, forensic tool to analyze relevant data related to a crime that has already taken place, but as a prevention tool as well. Truly intelligent video analytics involves a decision and reaction support system that uses and analyzes data from various processes, applications, sensors and imaging devices. In a bottom line way, this means that a criminal or a terrorist may leave certain clues before an incident, such as a car parked too long in a prohibited area, unattended objects or stolen license plates. Systems that relay information to authorities in real-time can possibly help stop a crime in progress or even before it takes place.
However, as the demand for video analytics increases, so too do questions about specific applications and how best to implement this technology. One of the recurring questions is: 'where is the best place for video analytics: at the edge in the camera, or as software embedded in the servers?' There are also questions about what qualifies as truly intelligent video analytics and open architecture and what makes the most sense in the adoption process-to purchase a system with analytics built in, or to have it added later on as the need arises.
At the edge and embedded in the system
In regards to whether the system should have the analytics at the edge or embedded, integrators need to look at the purpose of the application. For instance, in a situation in which the user needs video analytics to know if a person has trespassed onto the rooftop of a high-security building, it will generally suffice to have a system that can distinguish between a human form and something else, like a bird. If the only need is to know whether it's a person or a bird (or some other kind of animal) on the roof, then having the analytics built in at the edge, right into the cameras, will suffice because there is not a need to cross reference a database to make any sort of identification.
However, extending this same situation a bit, what if security spots a person in the parking garage at an unusually late hour and wants to try to identify the individual via facial recognition? To do so, security personnel may have to cross reference various databases, in which case having a system where the analytics are built into the software of the system will be most beneficial. Other situations where that also makes sense involve container recognition, traffic monitoring and license plate recognition (LPR). In all these applications, the need to share and cross reference information is crucial, so that merely having the analytics at the edge is not sufficient.
The adoption process
There are often questions as well about the adoption process related to video analytics. In some cases, a user may not have a pressing need for video analytics and simply deals with their immediate security requirements, with the idea that down the line if they need analytics they can always bring in another vendor who specializes in that. The problem that many end-users have found out from hard experience is that analytics is not a simple add on and that dealing with a different vendor for that can be hugely disruptive to their whole video surveillance system.
Security professionals are all too familiar with the sort of Murphy's Law that comes into play when adding new software programs to a system; if something can go wrong, it does often enough. As a point of comparison, changing to a new video management system is as challenging in its own way as changing one's whole system from Windows to Mac or Linux. The learning curve for the operators and administrators, including intensive, costly trainings and system downtime can quickly become overwhelming. The decision for the video management and analytics platform has to be carefully evaluated. Users should consider systems that utilize intelligence at the edge but also have the built-in capabilities of all other analytics. That way, modules can be switched on as they are needed while the staff has the convenience of the same well-known management platform.
True intelligence and true open architecture
Regarding the issue of intelligent video analytics, integrators need to look at some key criteria, namely that a truly intelligent system will be able to analyze an event in-depth and make or propose a decision regarding that. For instance, the ability to detect motion does not by itself make a system truly intelligent. As with our earlier example, the ability to distinguish between a human form and a bird, or to send an alert if a car is broken down on the highway, or to spot a package that has been left on a subway platform and notify relevant personnel, are characteristic of a system with real intelligence. To that extent, end-users need to question security professionals about the criteria they use to define truly intelligent video analytics.
In regards to architecture, it is not enough that a system provides video analytics, but interfaces need to be in place so that it communicates with other security applications like fire and burglar alarms and access control. This makes it possible to cross-verify information or provide video information for each system where an alert has been triggered. For example, in the event that a back door alarm sounds, security personnel should be able to not only view who triggered the alarm but know if it is someone who has a history of such activity. To that end, the alarm must interface with a facial recognition or face capture system that can provide the information. An access control system that employs card swipe should have that same capability. If, for instance, an employee is swiping in after hours, the system should be able to provide video immediately so that the system can verify that it is the employee in question using the card (and not someone else or perhaps a case of forced entry). Such interfaces ensure making optimal use of video analytics in relation to the whole security system.
Both the public and private sector have an increasing need for video analytics solutions. This includes banks, retail, property and building management firms, government agencies, law enforcement and counterterrorism units. However, it is only with the smart combination of all involved security processes, including non-video related information sources (such as access control and asset management) that the user can reap optimal benefits. Video analytics supports the decision process, but only the cross verification of events with other devices and databases creates a truly smart system.
For cash-strapped law enforcement agencies, such a system can reduce the need for more personnel as well as be an important crime fighting partner and an aid in traffic safety and generating revenue by spotting more offenders (whether it be running red lights, illegal turns, etc.). Counterterrorism units simply demand the latest technical innovations available, including video analytics, to more effectively spot and reduce potential threats. As the role of video analytics increases, security sales forces and integration specialists must be knowledgeable experts prepared to custom fit solutions for their customers. This is one area in which one size definitely does not fit all.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
DIGIOP Deploys Its ObjectVideo-enabled Counting Solution for Leading Fashion Retailer, The Limited
Indianapolis, Indiana and Reston, Virginia, USA (September 17, 2009) - DIGIOP Technologies, with technology provider ObjectVideo, has successfully completed a nationwide deployment of its video management systems for Limited Stores, LLC, (dba The Limited) an affiliate of Sun Capital and a retailer of upscale women’s apparel with 220 stores.
The project consisted of the installation of DIGIOP’s digital video recorders with intelligent analytics capabilities from ObjectVideo® and cameras in stores across the United States.
Although primarily known as a leading manufacturer of video management systems for physical security and surveillance applications, DIGIOP was approached by The Limited with a need for a more accurate customer counting option than what was then being used in stores.
DIGIOP’s digital video recorders, which include industry-leading video analytics capabilities from ObjectVideo®, enable store managers and executives of The Limited to more accurately track the number of customers who visit their stores. ObjectVideo technology delivers full functionality for the detection, classification and tracking of objects, and the outputting of relevant events for a growing number of security, safety and business intelligence applications.
Roger Coville, Chief Information Officer for The Limited said, “DIGIOP’s retail solution has provided us a reliable way to measure and monitor the traffic in our stores. We are now able to use this tool to improve our service levels to our customers, reward our associates for their store’s success, and appropriately staff to accommodate our peak shopping times. These enhancements enable The Limited to be more effective, more competitive and ultimately, more profitable.”
In the initial pilot test prior to deployment, The Limited compared the performance of thermal imaging customer counting capability with DIGIOP’s ObjectVideo-based video analytics option. DIGIOP’s solution provided substantially more accurate counts when compared to the thermal imaging counts.
This more accurate customer counting method enables decision makers at The Limited to:
The project consisted of the installation of DIGIOP’s digital video recorders with intelligent analytics capabilities from ObjectVideo® and cameras in stores across the United States.
Although primarily known as a leading manufacturer of video management systems for physical security and surveillance applications, DIGIOP was approached by The Limited with a need for a more accurate customer counting option than what was then being used in stores.
DIGIOP’s digital video recorders, which include industry-leading video analytics capabilities from ObjectVideo®, enable store managers and executives of The Limited to more accurately track the number of customers who visit their stores. ObjectVideo technology delivers full functionality for the detection, classification and tracking of objects, and the outputting of relevant events for a growing number of security, safety and business intelligence applications.
Roger Coville, Chief Information Officer for The Limited said, “DIGIOP’s retail solution has provided us a reliable way to measure and monitor the traffic in our stores. We are now able to use this tool to improve our service levels to our customers, reward our associates for their store’s success, and appropriately staff to accommodate our peak shopping times. These enhancements enable The Limited to be more effective, more competitive and ultimately, more profitable.”
In the initial pilot test prior to deployment, The Limited compared the performance of thermal imaging customer counting capability with DIGIOP’s ObjectVideo-based video analytics option. DIGIOP’s solution provided substantially more accurate counts when compared to the thermal imaging counts.
This more accurate customer counting method enables decision makers at The Limited to:
- Track individual store occupancy data remotely
- Measure conversions rates to determine if store associates are effectively assisting customers
- Improve customer service by tailoring staffing levels for hours when customer traffic is greatest
- Evaluate effectiveness of advertising and marketing programs that are intended to drive traffics to stores
Because the DIGIOP digital video management systems provide both traditional surveillance features of loss prevention and physical security as well as powerful video analytics capabilities from ObjectVideo, The Limited benefits from a more cost-effective solution and a quicker return on their investment.
“With the DIGIOP solution, The Limited now has a powerful set of visual tools to enhance their ability to serve customers, refine merchandising effectiveness, and improve the security and safety of their stores,” said Rich Mellott, President of DIGIOP Technologies.
DIGIOP Retail Solutions are also able to integrate with a wide array of point of sale systems to provide video enhanced business intelligence and can generate queue management data that can alert managers when customer service parameters are exceeded.
About The Limited
The Limited is a retailer of upscale women’s apparel with 220 stores in 40 states. Its stores are located in regional shopping centers or malls in the United States. The company was founded in 1963 and is headquartered in Columbus, Ohio. The Limited is a former subsidiary of Limited Brands, Inc. For more details, please visit the company website at: www.thelimited.com.
About Sun Capital Partners, Inc.
Sun Capital Partners, Inc. is a leading private investment firm focused on leveraged buyouts, equity, debt, and other investments in market-leading companies that can benefit from its in-house operating professionals and experience. Sun Capital affiliates have invested in and managed 205 companies worldwide with combined sales in excess of $40.0 billion since Sun Capital's inception in 1995. Sun Capital has offices in Boca Raton, Los Angeles, and New York, as well as affiliates with offices in London, Paris, Frankfurt, Tokyo, Shanghai and Shenzhen. For more information, please visit: www.SunCapPart.com.
About DIGIOP Technologies
DIGIOP Technologies is an agile software company that provides intelligent visual integration to your business systems by focusing on new ways to utilize video as data. A Microsoft Certified Partner, DIGIOP is a privately held company headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana.
By combining the power of video with information from back-office systems, DIGIOP extends the value of video beyond traditional surveillance benefits of loss prevention, risk management, and security. DIGIOP solutions provide real-time and recorded, video-enhanced business intelligence for operations, marketing, merchandising, and information technology groups.
With successes in the retail and financial industries, DIGIOP continues to expand its portfolio of solutions that can provide greater operational efficiencies, improved customer service, increased profitability, and quicker return on investment in other industries including healthcare, education, government, transportation, ports, commercial real estate, and gaming.
For additional information, contact: Andrew Weixler aweixler@digiop.com 317-324-8004 direct
About ObjectVideo
With more than 800,000 channels of video analytics sold worldwide, ObjectVideo® is the leading provider of intelligent video software. The company's innovative products convert video to data in real-time through the detection, classification and tracking of relevant activities. ObjectVideo intelligent analytics are available to the market through original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) that embed ObjectVideo® OnBoard® processor-based technology into a wide variety of devices throughout the surveillance system. ObjectVideo's partner network includes more than 60 manufacturers and technology providers. For more information, please visit www.objectvideo.com
Wednesday, July 01, 2009
MATE Intelligent Video partners with Tubular Intelligent Solutions to provide video content analysis in South Africa
MATE-Intelligent Video, the technology leader in intelligent video surveillance systems and video analytics announces a new partnership with Tubular Intelligent Solutions - a major security, IT and network systems integrator in South Africa to market, sell and deploy MATE's intelligent video products for pro active video surveillance, behaviour recognition, people and vehicle counting.
"There is a real need for intelligent video technology in South Africa. We were impressed with MATE's product offerings and are confident that their solutions will help respond to the security challenges we face," says Dieter Venter, sales director at Tubular Intelligent Solutions. "Here the situation is different from the US or Israel. In South Africa, we fight crime rather than terror."
A recent study from the South African Police Service reported the country to have the sixth highest murder rate in the world. Because of increasing crimes, many middle-class South Africans have moved into gated communities abandoning the central business districts.
Security companies with armed guards are becoming very popular for businesses and many households who seek security from the private sector.
MATE's intelligent video solutions provide powerful real-time video content analysis that can detect suspicious events such as: loitering, perimeter intrusion or stolen objects. By automating video monitoring with different behavior recognition rules, MATE's solutions help prevent crime and help officials achieve faster response times in case of an incident.
"We are thrilled to partner and support a well renowned integrator and are looking into new creative ways to deploy our technology to secure cities, schools and businesses," says Aviram Segal, VP of Sales & Marketing at MATE
"There is a real need for intelligent video technology in South Africa. We were impressed with MATE's product offerings and are confident that their solutions will help respond to the security challenges we face," says Dieter Venter, sales director at Tubular Intelligent Solutions. "Here the situation is different from the US or Israel. In South Africa, we fight crime rather than terror."
A recent study from the South African Police Service reported the country to have the sixth highest murder rate in the world. Because of increasing crimes, many middle-class South Africans have moved into gated communities abandoning the central business districts.
Security companies with armed guards are becoming very popular for businesses and many households who seek security from the private sector.
MATE's intelligent video solutions provide powerful real-time video content analysis that can detect suspicious events such as: loitering, perimeter intrusion or stolen objects. By automating video monitoring with different behavior recognition rules, MATE's solutions help prevent crime and help officials achieve faster response times in case of an incident.
"We are thrilled to partner and support a well renowned integrator and are looking into new creative ways to deploy our technology to secure cities, schools and businesses," says Aviram Segal, VP of Sales & Marketing at MATE
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Video analytics technology improves efficiency and reduces response time to major events
CCTV monitoring systems are manually monitored, with typical CCTV control rooms having many screens monitored visually by a team of operators typically working around the clock.
Events can often be missed due to operator fatigue and sheer volume of visual information. BT research is studying how video analytics technology can be deployed as part of an information network to provide automated monitoring and decisions to dramatically improve the efficiency and reduce response time to major events.
A key development so far is pioneering new software that leaves the era of IP-CCTV infrastructure behind and moves towards intelligent IP-based video monitoring and surveillance. The new solution enables incident/events detection and intelligence extraction from a distributed network of cameras in real-time.
Whilst the potential applications are endless, it is particularly useful for analysing crowd movement, behaviour information and accurate counting of moving objects in mixed traffic. For example, when dealing with large crowds, the real-time analytics software can provide a continuous measurement of congestion within a defined area, such as a town centre or railway platform.
Railway platform deployment
The analytics software can be deployed on almost any camera with a view of the platform, irrespective of whether the chosen view results in occlusion between individuals. The presence of trains can be accurately detected, and the system can compensate for perspective distortions and variable lighting conditions induced by train headlights or traffic signal lights, for example. The software has been proven in a live trial in underground platforms during which it operated continuously for over 6 months.
Town centre/Open space deployment
The analytics software has an advanced counting application that can classify moving vehicles, pedestrians and bicycles and provide a real-time count of multiple flows within a pre-defined area. Several unique approaches have been perfected (such as multi-tripwire and semi-appearance modelling) to enable accurate counting from sub-optimal camera positions, as might be expected where analytics are required to use images from legacy CCTV equipment.
The particular advantages lie in the ability to deal with streams of loose pedestrian clusters and slow moving and waiting vehicle queues. The current testbed only requires a standard PC for real-time counting of three inward and three outward traffic flows with a very low error rate. It is also robust to an external environment, including changes in lighting levels, shadows, reflections and moving background objects such as trees and has been proven in a live trial at two busy industrial site entrances throughout four seasons.
Events can often be missed due to operator fatigue and sheer volume of visual information. BT research is studying how video analytics technology can be deployed as part of an information network to provide automated monitoring and decisions to dramatically improve the efficiency and reduce response time to major events.
A key development so far is pioneering new software that leaves the era of IP-CCTV infrastructure behind and moves towards intelligent IP-based video monitoring and surveillance. The new solution enables incident/events detection and intelligence extraction from a distributed network of cameras in real-time.
Whilst the potential applications are endless, it is particularly useful for analysing crowd movement, behaviour information and accurate counting of moving objects in mixed traffic. For example, when dealing with large crowds, the real-time analytics software can provide a continuous measurement of congestion within a defined area, such as a town centre or railway platform.
Railway platform deployment
The analytics software can be deployed on almost any camera with a view of the platform, irrespective of whether the chosen view results in occlusion between individuals. The presence of trains can be accurately detected, and the system can compensate for perspective distortions and variable lighting conditions induced by train headlights or traffic signal lights, for example. The software has been proven in a live trial in underground platforms during which it operated continuously for over 6 months.
Town centre/Open space deployment
The analytics software has an advanced counting application that can classify moving vehicles, pedestrians and bicycles and provide a real-time count of multiple flows within a pre-defined area. Several unique approaches have been perfected (such as multi-tripwire and semi-appearance modelling) to enable accurate counting from sub-optimal camera positions, as might be expected where analytics are required to use images from legacy CCTV equipment.
The particular advantages lie in the ability to deal with streams of loose pedestrian clusters and slow moving and waiting vehicle queues. The current testbed only requires a standard PC for real-time counting of three inward and three outward traffic flows with a very low error rate. It is also robust to an external environment, including changes in lighting levels, shadows, reflections and moving background objects such as trees and has been proven in a live trial at two busy industrial site entrances throughout four seasons.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
ioimage Video Analytics Protects $200M South African Eco-Park Residential Estate
Herzliya, Israel December 16th, 2008 – ioimage, the pioneer of intelligent video appliances designed for simplicity, announced that its video analytics solution was successfully implemented to protect South Africa’s Xanadu Eco-Park from intruders and theft.
Located outside Pretoria at the foot of the Magaliesberg Mountains, Xanadu is a $200M Eco-Park with a perimeter of eight kilometers. Its previous security system, which included electric fencing and CCD speed dome cameras, had proven inadequate, failing to detect perimeter breaches. The estate was looking for an impenetrable and robust perimeter security system that would function equally well day and night without disturbing the estate’s ecological balance.
The security solution adopted by Xanadu was a combination of thermal imaging cameras and ioimage intelligent video devices. The system enables instant visual verification of every alarm, even in pitch darkness, and requires no floodlights, thus maintaining the estate’s eco-friendly nature.
“The ioimage solution has proven itself time and again and we’ve already seen a significant return on investment,” said Nick Grange of C3 Shared Services, who installed the system. “Now when an alarm sounds, control room operators can quickly dispatch a response team to the area where the intrusion was detected. False alarms have been drastically reduced since ioimage intelligent video filters out extraneous activity caused by small animals, swaying branches and flying debris.”
“The estate’s security has been vastly improved and we are now confident regarding the safety of our residents and their belongings,” said Thys de Wet of Clarence De Wet Incorporated, Project Manager for Xanadu. “With numerous thefts already prevented, the ioimage system has more than paid for itself. We are currently extending the solution to a second phase of perimeter protection.”
“This is a great example of how residential properties can be seamlessly retrofitted with ioimage video analytics to increase security and safety, as well as prevent theft,” said Dvir Doron, Vice President of Marketing for ioimage. “Its extreme reliability and rapid return on investment make it the solution of choice to protect estates of all sizes.”
About ioimage
ioimage, the pioneer of intelligent video appliances, provides high-performance video encoders and cameras with built-in self-sustained video analytics, designed and packaged for simplicity. ioimage offers a new approach to video security by transforming surveillance into a proactive, event-driven process. Founded in 2000, ioimage uses edge and centralized DSP-based devices for real-time detection, alert and tracking of intruders, vehicles and other threats, leading to enhanced safety and security for government, public and commercial organizations. Recognized as the world’s market leader for intelligent cameras and encoders since 2005 with over 37 percent of the market, ioimage operates in 35 countries through a network of more than 100 partners.
For further information, visit www.ioimage.com.
About C3 Shared Services (Pty) Ltd
C3 Shared Services (Pty) Ltd is the only applied business partner for ioimage in Sub Saharan Africa and specializes in the design and implementation of high-end perimeter security solutions and military grade intrusion detection systems. C3 Shared Services' directors have been involved in providing integrated electronic solutions for more than a decade; and as a result bring both a comprehensive and extensive wealth of knowledge in providing effective and working perimeter security solutions for high risk and high value areas. To date, C3 Shared Services (Pty) Ltd has had enormous success with numerous installations of ioimage’s intelligent video analytics on various sites in South Africa such as residential estates, refineries, correctional facilities and car showrooms.
For further information visit http://www.c3ss.com
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
City gets 'crime-detecting' CCTV
By Dan Whitworth Newsbeat technology reporter
Anti-social behaviour has become a familiar site in some towns and cities across the country.
Now there's a new weapon in the fight against it called Smart CCTV.
Now there's a new weapon in the fight against it called Smart CCTV.
Portsmouth City Council is the first, and so far only, local authority in the UK to try out the new system.
It's a computer programme that has been integrated into the city's existing network of 152 cameras and has been programmed to spot unusual behaviour in places and at times when it's not expected.
For example, a speeding car being driven around an empty car park could be a joy rider or someone running through a deserted shopping precinct late at night might be a vandal.
When those and similar scenarios are 'spotted' by the software, using special parameters from programmers, an alarm is sounded which alerts CCTV operators to that particular camera.
Ray says Smart CCTV takes some of the strain off human operatorsThey then make a decision about whether or not to call the police.
Ray Stead runs the CCTV operation for Portsmouth City Council.
He said: "With the total number of CCTV cameras that we have, 152, the operators cannot see all of those cameras or monitor them live.
So this software programme will actually help the operators become more effective."
It's already been used in parts of seven cities across America, in places like New York and Washington DC, where the feedback has been positive.
Nick Hewitson helped design the version Portsmouth City Council is using.He said: "It filters out all the rubbish video that you don't want and lets you see the stuff that you do want.
"So you're using human beings for doing what they do well, making subjective decisions on incomplete data.
"And using computers to do what they do well, process tonnes and tonnes of boring data."
But not everyone in Portsmouth is as convinced by the new system as Ray Stead and Nick Hewitson.
Similia thinks the system is too much of an invasion of privacySamilia Narcho, 19, told Newsbeat: "They are lurking a bit too much into people's business. It's a bit unfair on people who aren't doing anything wrong.
"It's a bit too much invasion of privacy. Big Brother going a bit too far."
But 18-year-old Chris isn't worried about being watched. He said: "It doesn't really bother me because I'm not doing anything wrong, so I've got nothing to worry about."
Berry, who's 24, and 21-year-old Becky Pearson have different opinions on the new CCTV system.
Berry said: "I think it's pretty good because there are a lot of idiots in Portsmouth and they need to be kept under wraps."
Becky added: "I can see why people think it's a bit too much, with people being too watched."
The Smart CCTV technology is on trial in Portsmouth but if it proves successful, other UK cities could set up similar systems.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/newsbeat/hi/technology/newsid_7775000/7775188.stm
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Portsmouth leads UK by installing video analytics for city centre security
A market-leading CCTV system, based on behaviour-recognition software and state-of-the-art intelligent cameras, has been installed by Portsmouth City Council, to increase the effectiveness of the camera monitoring.
Perceptrak™, supplied by Smart CCTV Ltd of Havant, has been set up to watch quiet areas such as car parks, stairwells or corridors in buildings and streets at nighttime. Perceptrak™ uses the latest software to analyse images using up to 18 pre-defined criteria such as ‘converging people’, ‘fast car’ and so on. When it sees something untoward happening, the system sends an alert to the control room. This allows the security officer to make a human decision on whether to monitor the scene and make an appropriate response. It also ensures that many more scenes are being watched than is normally possible, hence helping to make Portsmouth city a safer and more trouble-free zone.
Ray Stead, CCTV manager at Portsmouth City Council, who decided to install Perceptrak™ for the City, said: “Following a successful trial period in 2006, we decided to install the system on a more permanent basis to prove proof of concept after improvements had been made to the software and because of the quantifiable benefits to the control room outcomes.”
Nick Hewitson, managing director of Smart CCTV, added: "We believe that this is the first fully installed example of video analytics being used in a city centre control room in the UK. As a local company we are very pleased to be working with Portsmouth City by providing leading edge technology to make their CCTV control room one of the most effective in the UK."
In the area covered by the Portsmouth City Council control rooms, there are 142 cameras with live monitoring, and the CCTV operators watch over 24 monitors simultaneously. Perceptrak™ is run in the background looking at some of those cameras that are not displayed to the operators until an alarm sounds.
Perceptrak™, supplied by Smart CCTV Ltd of Havant, has been set up to watch quiet areas such as car parks, stairwells or corridors in buildings and streets at nighttime. Perceptrak™ uses the latest software to analyse images using up to 18 pre-defined criteria such as ‘converging people’, ‘fast car’ and so on. When it sees something untoward happening, the system sends an alert to the control room. This allows the security officer to make a human decision on whether to monitor the scene and make an appropriate response. It also ensures that many more scenes are being watched than is normally possible, hence helping to make Portsmouth city a safer and more trouble-free zone.
Ray Stead, CCTV manager at Portsmouth City Council, who decided to install Perceptrak™ for the City, said: “Following a successful trial period in 2006, we decided to install the system on a more permanent basis to prove proof of concept after improvements had been made to the software and because of the quantifiable benefits to the control room outcomes.”
Nick Hewitson, managing director of Smart CCTV, added: "We believe that this is the first fully installed example of video analytics being used in a city centre control room in the UK. As a local company we are very pleased to be working with Portsmouth City by providing leading edge technology to make their CCTV control room one of the most effective in the UK."
In the area covered by the Portsmouth City Council control rooms, there are 142 cameras with live monitoring, and the CCTV operators watch over 24 monitors simultaneously. Perceptrak™ is run in the background looking at some of those cameras that are not displayed to the operators until an alarm sounds.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
ioimage Video Analytics Installed to Protect the Vatican
HERZLIYA, Israel November 18th, 2008 – ioimage, the pioneer of intelligent video appliances designed for simplicity, announced today that it has been selected to protect sensitive areas of the Vatican.
ioimage intelligent video appliances, monitored by an ioiware Command Center, are being used to detect intruders along a 60-kilometer perimeter of sensitive areas, entry and exit gates and the wall surrounding the Vatican.
ioimage was selected from several other video analytics suppliers for this major contract. The first unit was installed in 2005 following a year of intensive testing which demonstrated the system’s superior ease of installation, stability and reliability. Since then, it has proven itself as an effective deterrent against intruders and has optimized the daily tasks of those responsible for surveillance.
Additional ioimage units are currently being installed. These units ─ composed of ioimage’s IP camera with built-in self-sustained video analytics, the ioicam wdc100dn and ioibox video encoders using autonomous PTZ (Pan Tilt Zoom) tracking ─ will be centrally monitored and managed by the “Corpo della Gendarmeria”, the Vatican’s security force from their control room.
Millions of people visit the Vatican’s public areas every year. Its library and museum collections, which belong to the extra territorial part of the Vatican state, are of the highest cultural significance, while buildings such as St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel house some of the world’s most famous art, including works by Bernini, Botticelli, Michelangelo and Raphael.
“As one of the world’s most important sites, the Vatican presented unique challenges,” said Boaz Harpaz, CEO of Picksec International Group, the system integrator. “The security system had to be extremely reliable 24/7 in very crowded, surroundings and under varying weather conditions. It also had to be capable of automatically adjusting to frequent changes in public access schedules while ensuring a low incidence of false alarms. Last but not least, it needed to be easy to install and maintain. After extensive testing of a number of different video analytics products, we found that ioimage offered the optimal solution for this critical site.”
“This project represents a milestone for ioimage and underscores our position as the pioneer and leader in the field of intelligent video,” said Zeev Farkash, VP Sales and Customer Support. “Our solution was rigorously tested by the Corpo della Gendarmeria’s technical personnel before being selected over those of several competitors to monitor this world-famous site.”
About ioimage
ioimage, the pioneer of intelligent video appliances, provides high-performance video encoders and cameras with built-in self sustained video analytics, designed and packaged for simplicity. ioimage offers a new approach to video security by transforming surveillance into a proactive, event-driven process. Founded in 2000, ioimage uses edge and centralized DSP-based devices for real-time detection, alert and tracking of intruders, vehicles and other threats, leading to enhanced safety and security for government, public and commercial organizations. Recognized as the world’s market leader for intelligent cameras and encoders since 2005 with over 37 percent of the market, ioimage operates in 35 countries through a network of more than 100 partners. For further information, visit www.ioimage.com.
To receive regular updates on ioimage, sign up for the ioimage newsletter at http://www.ioimage.com/newsletter.html
For international media inquiries:
Fiona Ungar
Marketing Communications Manager
Tel: +972-9-954-6003
fiona@ioimage.com
For US media inquiries:
Chelsie Woodsioimage
Public Relations
Tel: +1-207-510-0029
cwoods@eclipsemediagroup.net
ioimage intelligent video appliances, monitored by an ioiware Command Center, are being used to detect intruders along a 60-kilometer perimeter of sensitive areas, entry and exit gates and the wall surrounding the Vatican.
ioimage was selected from several other video analytics suppliers for this major contract. The first unit was installed in 2005 following a year of intensive testing which demonstrated the system’s superior ease of installation, stability and reliability. Since then, it has proven itself as an effective deterrent against intruders and has optimized the daily tasks of those responsible for surveillance.
Additional ioimage units are currently being installed. These units ─ composed of ioimage’s IP camera with built-in self-sustained video analytics, the ioicam wdc100dn and ioibox video encoders using autonomous PTZ (Pan Tilt Zoom) tracking ─ will be centrally monitored and managed by the “Corpo della Gendarmeria”, the Vatican’s security force from their control room.
Millions of people visit the Vatican’s public areas every year. Its library and museum collections, which belong to the extra territorial part of the Vatican state, are of the highest cultural significance, while buildings such as St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel house some of the world’s most famous art, including works by Bernini, Botticelli, Michelangelo and Raphael.
“As one of the world’s most important sites, the Vatican presented unique challenges,” said Boaz Harpaz, CEO of Picksec International Group, the system integrator. “The security system had to be extremely reliable 24/7 in very crowded, surroundings and under varying weather conditions. It also had to be capable of automatically adjusting to frequent changes in public access schedules while ensuring a low incidence of false alarms. Last but not least, it needed to be easy to install and maintain. After extensive testing of a number of different video analytics products, we found that ioimage offered the optimal solution for this critical site.”
“This project represents a milestone for ioimage and underscores our position as the pioneer and leader in the field of intelligent video,” said Zeev Farkash, VP Sales and Customer Support. “Our solution was rigorously tested by the Corpo della Gendarmeria’s technical personnel before being selected over those of several competitors to monitor this world-famous site.”
About ioimage
ioimage, the pioneer of intelligent video appliances, provides high-performance video encoders and cameras with built-in self sustained video analytics, designed and packaged for simplicity. ioimage offers a new approach to video security by transforming surveillance into a proactive, event-driven process. Founded in 2000, ioimage uses edge and centralized DSP-based devices for real-time detection, alert and tracking of intruders, vehicles and other threats, leading to enhanced safety and security for government, public and commercial organizations. Recognized as the world’s market leader for intelligent cameras and encoders since 2005 with over 37 percent of the market, ioimage operates in 35 countries through a network of more than 100 partners. For further information, visit www.ioimage.com.
To receive regular updates on ioimage, sign up for the ioimage newsletter at http://www.ioimage.com/newsletter.html
For international media inquiries:
Fiona Ungar
Marketing Communications Manager
Tel: +972-9-954-6003
fiona@ioimage.com
For US media inquiries:
Chelsie Woodsioimage
Public Relations
Tel: +1-207-510-0029
cwoods@eclipsemediagroup.net
Next Generation CCTV: Video analytics
By Anthony Hildebrand
http://www.info4security.com/story.asp?sectioncode=9&storycode=4120956&c=1
Video analytics is the most important breakthrough in the application of CCTV. This was the message from Patrick Meaney at last week’s Next Generation CCTV conference.
Meaney, founder of website www.videoanalytics.info, gave his presentation at the event in London, and said that CCTV had been initially installed as a crime prevention measure, but hadn’t delivered the goods in this respect – which is where video analytics comes in.
He said video analytics had the potential to become “the third forensic science, in addition to fingerprinting and DNA”.
Operator assistance
He quoted figures on control room operator fatigue and concentration loss, and said the review of recorded video could be equally as impaired.
Meaney said the advantage of video analytics for monitoring live video is in being able to automatically draw the operator’s attention to relevant events, while for recorded video it can automate the analysis of the footage, extracting only events or incidents of interest.
But, he said, the analytics industry had been damaged by the performance of the earliest systems to hit the market. These were oversold, and failed to deliver on exaggerated claims, Meaney said. He said he had seen one major control room where staff routinely switched off the analytics system due to the constant alarms it triggered.
“The technology is still being oversold,” Meaney said. “The customer has got to be absolutely clear about what they want, and not take things at face value.” He said the technology is till being oversold, and that customers need to be educated about “the art of the possible”.
For instance, he said: “To make it work to its ideal level you do really need real-time video.” He said that for the first time, “scene depth” can be considered when using real-time, high definition video.
Changing conditions
Meaney went into the differences between simple motion detection – which is still sometimes described as ‘analytics’ or ‘intelligent video’ – and the more discriminatory video analytics.
To cope with changing environmental conditions, he said you need a video analytics system with adaptive algorithms specifically designed to take these factors into account.
He said there were a number of factors to be considered when implementing a system: Does it do what you need it do? Is it configured for the application and environment?
Training criticism
He also had some criticism for the levels of education and training being provided to operators, both from suppliers and the end-user management.
“It staggers me,” he said. “Usually the operator training is pretty lamentable in terms of operators understanding and knowing what they’re working with.”
Meaney also stressed the cost benefits of using video analytics systems.
“In the current economic environment, technology is perceived to be adding real value into the mix,” he said. “For the first time we can talk about security in terms of a return on investment, and not a grudge purchase.”
This was able to be demonstrated through time savings in reviewing footage and in following up incidents.
http://www.info4security.com/story.asp?sectioncode=9&storycode=4120956&c=1
Video analytics is the most important breakthrough in the application of CCTV. This was the message from Patrick Meaney at last week’s Next Generation CCTV conference.
Meaney, founder of website www.videoanalytics.info, gave his presentation at the event in London, and said that CCTV had been initially installed as a crime prevention measure, but hadn’t delivered the goods in this respect – which is where video analytics comes in.
He said video analytics had the potential to become “the third forensic science, in addition to fingerprinting and DNA”.
Operator assistance
He quoted figures on control room operator fatigue and concentration loss, and said the review of recorded video could be equally as impaired.
Meaney said the advantage of video analytics for monitoring live video is in being able to automatically draw the operator’s attention to relevant events, while for recorded video it can automate the analysis of the footage, extracting only events or incidents of interest.
But, he said, the analytics industry had been damaged by the performance of the earliest systems to hit the market. These were oversold, and failed to deliver on exaggerated claims, Meaney said. He said he had seen one major control room where staff routinely switched off the analytics system due to the constant alarms it triggered.
“The technology is still being oversold,” Meaney said. “The customer has got to be absolutely clear about what they want, and not take things at face value.” He said the technology is till being oversold, and that customers need to be educated about “the art of the possible”.
For instance, he said: “To make it work to its ideal level you do really need real-time video.” He said that for the first time, “scene depth” can be considered when using real-time, high definition video.
Changing conditions
Meaney went into the differences between simple motion detection – which is still sometimes described as ‘analytics’ or ‘intelligent video’ – and the more discriminatory video analytics.
To cope with changing environmental conditions, he said you need a video analytics system with adaptive algorithms specifically designed to take these factors into account.
He said there were a number of factors to be considered when implementing a system: Does it do what you need it do? Is it configured for the application and environment?
Training criticism
He also had some criticism for the levels of education and training being provided to operators, both from suppliers and the end-user management.
“It staggers me,” he said. “Usually the operator training is pretty lamentable in terms of operators understanding and knowing what they’re working with.”
Meaney also stressed the cost benefits of using video analytics systems.
“In the current economic environment, technology is perceived to be adding real value into the mix,” he said. “For the first time we can talk about security in terms of a return on investment, and not a grudge purchase.”
This was able to be demonstrated through time savings in reviewing footage and in following up incidents.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
ioimage video analytics secures shipments moving through DHL major European hubs
DHL Express is the leading global provider of international road, air and rail-based courier and express services. In a project spanning the past three years, the company has been upgrading its security systems in Europe in order to enhance the security of its facilities and comply with EU regulations.
A key component in the upgrade is the incorporation of video analytics, serving to detect intruders and perimeter breaches, protect against theft and identify suspicious activity around the aircraft and in the facilities. These applications are crucial to secure DHL’s ground operation and airport sorting hubs, where thousands of packages are delivered every hour. Furthermore, once the cargo has been screened, EU security regulations stipulate it must be constantly monitored until take-off.
All of the sites presented unique security challenges with regards to size and structural and operational complexity. For example, the new aviation hub at Leipzig/Halle Airport, DHL’s main distribution hub measuring 48,000 sqm, entails surveillance of up to 1,500 tons of freight and up to 60 aircraft daily.
ioimage's video analytics solution has been implemented at several DHL Express sites throughout Europe, including Heathrow Airport in the UK and Leipzig Airport in Germany, as well as ground hubs, terminals and other facilities in Bonn, Germany, Genk, Belgium, and Budapest, Hungary. DHL locations in Spain and Italy are also currently being equipped with ioimage intelligent video while similar projects are in the pipeline in a number of other European countries.
Pinpointing only relevant incidents out of thousands of activities monitored by immense CCTV array, ioimage's video analytics enables DHL to conduct practical and effective surveillance.
After rigorously testing head to head several analytics vendors and sensor products, DHL selected ioimage intelligent video to monitor these critical sites. ioimage’s solution proved to be the most effective and the most efficient in dealing with environmental challenges and overcoming the problem of multiple false alarms, significantly reducing the number of human guards required to perform security tasks. ioimage’s intelligent video appliances were also able to seamlessly integrate with existing DHL security system components.
DHL European security management works closely with ioimage in developing security solutions, expressed with uncompromising support from ioimage in finding pragmatic and cost effective solutions in demanding field conditions.
“ioimage is pleased to have been selected to help secure the shipments moving through some of DHL’s major European hubs,” said Zeev Farkash, ioimage VP Sales & Customer Services. “Our video analytics solutions are proving to deliver the highest measurable Return on Investment for complex installations such as these.”
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