Intelligent surveillance with video analytics

1 April 2017 Surveillance

There has been much discussion recently about the differences between (and resulting advantages of) thermal cameras and traditional visual cameras for surveillance purposes. Visual cameras use light to create images, while thermal cameras rely on heat to translate an image into a visual picture.

Laurence Smith, Executive at Graphic Image Technologies.
Laurence Smith, Executive at Graphic Image Technologies.

Due to the dependence on light to create images, visual cameras have an innate shortcoming. Much like the human eye, if the weather or lighting conditions are bad, the visual camera’s imaging will be adversely affected while thermal camera’s will present a consistent image regardless of weather and lighting. It is this major disparity between visual and thermal cameras that makes them suited to different tasks, which means that when planning a security surveillance system, it is not an either-or decision. It is not a case of choosing between visual or thermal cameras, as both have their strengths, and all that is required to maximise on these strengths is strategic planning and the correct application of video analytics software.

Match the camera to the task

Thermal cameras are designed for placement where lighting is an issue. Since the sensor picks up a heat signal rather than a visual one, it will work regardless of weather conditions, presenting a consistent image. On the other hand, visual cameras are affected by the absence of light, which has an impact on the range of the camera.

A range of 300 metres during the day, for example, is reduced to 50 metres at night in the absence of decent floodlighting. While in theory, thermal and visual cameras should be able to achieve similar ranges, provided that the appropriate lenses are in place, in reality visual cameras simply do not have the same reach as thermal.

This weakness, however, is offset by the ability to achieve ultra-high definition resolutions using 4K cameras – such cameras deliver an exceptional picture that it is possible to visually verify physical details, like hair colour, facial features, vehicle registration plates and the like. Such detailed visual imagery is simply not possible with thermal cameras.

As a result of their specific strengths and weaknesses, thermal cameras are best suited to the protection of large perimeters, performing an intrusion prevention task. Visual cameras are suited to applications where detail is necessary such as entry and exit points as well as the interior of buildings and warehouses. This means it is essential to have a combination of both in a surveillance system.

Smart video analytics

The key to maximising the effectiveness of both thermal and visual cameras is the video analytics component. It is now possible to use a computer or analytics engine to do a lot of the work that a human would have had to do in the past. By setting up rules within the video analytics system, it is possible to set up alerts for certain scenarios, to trigger an appropriate security response ensuring personnel can quickly identify potential threats and incidents and execute on these, without delay. Video analytics enables what is essentially “blank screen monitoring”, in that the system will give notifications of risks according to specific rules set up, and guards are not required to constantly have their eyes on the camera feeds.

Using sophisticated algorithms and pixel-by-pixel analysis, video analytics can pick up on the smallest of details provided by visual and thermal cameras, while thermal cameras catch everything that visual cameras might miss, given their vulnerability to being blinded by bright light, lack of light and adverse weather conditions. In short, video analytics removes the scope for human error and drastically improves monitoring efficiency. By automating many of the functions previously performed by humans, technology makes the surveillance element of security far more reliable. The right combination of modern 4K cameras, with thermal cameras on perimeters, combined with video analytics software in the CCTV setup, can ensure that the strengths of both cameras work to negate their respective weaknesses.

Without a doubt, thermal cameras are the best 24-hour imaging option, while 4K cameras simply can’t be beat when it comes to taking note of the details. It is thus practical for businesses to stop debating the differences between thermal and visual cameras and instead, to implement a well-planned surveillance system that is equipped with both types of cameras, fuelled by the power of smart video analytics software.

For more information contact Graphic Image Technologies, +27 (0)11 483 0333, <a href=mailto: laurence@git.co.za> laurence@git.co.za</a>, www.git.co.za



Credit(s)




Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page



Further reading:

Pentagon appointed as Milestone distributor
Elvey Security Technologies News & Events Surveillance
Milestone Systems appointed Pentagon Distribution (an Elvey Group company within the Hudaco Group of Companies) as a distributor. XProtect’s open architecture means no lock-in and the ability to customise the connected video solution that will accomplish the job.

Read more...
Empowering cities with intelligent security solutions
Secutel Technologies Surveillance IoT & Automation
By leveraging advanced AI analytics, real-time data collection, and seamless integration capabilities, cities can address pressing security challenges and create a safer environment for residents.

Read more...
Re-imagining business operations with the power of AI
AI & Data Analytics Surveillance
inq., a Convergence Partners company, has introduced a range of artificial intelligence (AI) solutions to assist organisations across industry verticals in optimising business operations and improving internal efficiencies.

Read more...
Eight MP dome for harsh environments
Axis Communications SA Surveillance Products & Solutions
Axis Communications announced a marine-grade stainless steel camera that offers performance in harsh environments. Enclosed in an electropolished stainless steel casing, it can withstand the corrosive effects of seawater and cleaning chemicals.

Read more...
Enhance control rooms with surveillance and intelligence
Leaderware Editor's Choice Surveillance Mining (Industry)
Dr Craig Donald advocates the use of intelligence and smart surveillance to assist control rooms in dealing with the challenges of the size and dispersed nature common in all mining environments.

Read more...
Advanced security solution for high-risk areas
Secutel Technologies Surveillance Integrated Solutions
The need for a sophisticated intrusion detection system is paramount when faced with persistent security challenges, particularly in isolated battery rooms or high-risk areas prone to vandalism, cable theft, and battery theft.

Read more...
Hikvision’s top seven trends for the security industry in 2024
Hikvision South Africa News & Events Surveillance AI & Data Analytics
As we embrace technological innovation, and adapt to evolving societal needs, we are witnessing the convergence of advanced technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and big data.

Read more...
inq. SA unveils AI, IoT solutions for the digital age
AI & Data Analytics Surveillance
inq. has announced the launch of an extensive Edge Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and the Edgedock data insights value proposition to transform business operations across various sectors.

Read more...
ONVIF releases first add-on for secure communications
Surveillance Training & Education
ONVIF has released the final version of the TLS Configuration add-on to increase the security of communications between devices and software clients within a physical security system.

Read more...
2024 Trends in Video Surveillance report
Surveillance AI & Data Analytics
AI in video surveillance tops Eagle Eye Networks 2024 trends report; this year’s list also includes affordable professional video monitoring, workplace security upgrades, licence-plate recognition for HOAs, and sustainable security.

Read more...