Neither rain, nor fog, nor sleet thwarts this searchlight

July 24, 2003
Engineers at San Antonio's Southwest Research Institute are combining real-time image processing and machine vision with traditional surveillance cameras to scan through reams of video data and spot suspicious events.

Machine vision gives security cameras an edge

The top image shows the underside of a car, but there's something extra. In the bottom image, enhanced by machine vision and image processing from Southwest Research Institute, the "something extra" is automatically highlighted, making detection much easier.

 

The system also gives security officers instant replay and other options that simplify monitoring large, complex areas. Previous systems relied on simplistic approaches to detect incidents and were prone to false triggers generated by moving foliage, passing headlights, and cloud shadows.

"Our system uses algorithms with temporal processing and model-based analysis to recognize motions common to particular scenarios, such as moving people and vehicles," says Brent Nowak, manager of automation engineering at the Institute's Automation and Data Systems Div. "It also disregards or overcomes false triggers caused by moving foliage and shadows and can detect stationary objects left at the scene, such as packages and suitcases."

Sponsored Recommendations

How to Build Better Robotics with Integrated Actuators

July 17, 2024
Reese Abouelnasr, a Mechatronics Engineer with Harmonic Drive, answers a few questions about the latest developments in actuators and the design or engineering challenges these...

Crisis averted: How our AI-powered services helped prevent a factory fire

July 10, 2024
Discover how Schneider Electric's services helped a food and beverage manufacturer avoid a factory fire with AI-powered analytics.

Pumps Push the Boundaries of Low Temperature Technology

June 14, 2024
As an integral part of cryotechnology, KNF pumps facilitate scientific advances in cryostats, allowing them to push temperature boundaries and approach absolute zero.

The entire spectrum of drive technology

June 5, 2024
Read exciting stories about all aspects of maxon drive technology in our magazine.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Machine Design, create an account today!