Until recently, few options were available to help operators use their time more effectively. Security systems based on analogue CCTV installations put all the onus on the operator to spot threats.
That is now changing with the arrival of intelligent security. Using intelligent IP-based cameras and software, these advanced new systems can take over the tiresome job of monitoring an area and identifying potential problems.
Rather than just capturing pictures, intelligent cameras can assist in the detection process by identifying relevant security data and alerting security staff via intelligent software. The guard can then stop the threat in its tracks.
Intelligent security automates the workflow, freeing up security staff from the mundane job of analysing data to the more proactive role of applying judgement and experience to deal effectively with threat .
Intelligent camera at the heart
At the heart of Sony’s intelligent security system is the intelligent camera. The camera features advanced object and motion detection technology that allows it to spot unusual objects or movement. It can filter out environmental noise such as trees moving in strong wind or splashing fountains and highlight only those incidents that could be potential threats such as a shape scaling a perimeter fence or running across a warehouse.
Once an object has been detected, it would be normal practice to immediately deliver or stream the full video content to the recording device. But using bandwidth and storing full footage of potential false alarms is a costly business.
Constant stream of code
Rather than sending large amounts of video to the recording device unnecessarily, these intelligent cameras send object information or metadata to the recording device. This constant stream of binary code is about a tenth of the size of the video stream at best.
In this “alarm triggered” mode, the recipient device or software analyses the metadata stream through a selection of filters.
If a potential threat is detected following analysis, the software then requests and records the video content and proactively directs security personnel to the threat within a frame of video.
Security staff can then take immediate action, often in time to prevent the crime occurring.
RealShot Manager 4.0 is the security software used in the Sony system. It is designed with the every day practicalities of security work in mind and is easy for staff to use. An on-screen highlight box locates a threat and captures the attention of the security guard.
If the threat is ignored, RealShot Manager can trigger an alarm to make sure operatives take immediate control of the situation.
Post-processing filters enable the software to identify and highlight potential problems. When objects appear in an area under surveillance, disappear from the area or stay in the area beyond a specified period of time, an alarm is created.
Archives filtered
When an object passes a virtual line drawn across the area or a large number of objects appear in the area which exceeds a specified capacity limit, the software will also create an alarm. Finally, when objects are left in an area or removed from it, it will alert security staff.
Filters can be adjusted, removed or applied to the archived recordings, adding intelligent search functionality. Running through and highlighting potential new alarms on 24 hours of recording can take just 240 seconds.
This automated process is brought together by a technology platform called DEPA (Distributed Enhanced Processing Architecture) at Sony. DEPA works in the camera by distinguishing moving or stationary objects and converting that information into metadata for transfer over the network. It is also present in the recording device or software, filtering and analysing the metadata, isolating threats, displaying information and creating alarms. Two important features are Intelligent Motion Detection and Intelligent Object Detection.
The main challenge of any motion detection system is to eliminate false alarms caused by environmental conditions. Sony intelligent cameras do this by analysing up to fifteen continuous frames to separate suspect movement from the usual movement caused by wind and weather.
They can also detect stationary objects that appear or disappear in the camera frame – left baggage in an airport for example that wasn’t there a moment ago. By continuously analysing scenes, latest intelligent security systems can spot minute alterations that could be high security risks.
