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

The Digital Thread: End-to-End Data-Driven Manufacturing

May 1, 2024
Creating a Digital Thread by harnessing end-to-end manufacturing data is providing unprecedented opportunities to create efficiencies in the world of manufacturing.

Medical Device Manufacturing and Biocompatible Materials

May 1, 2024
Learn about the critical importance of biocompatible materials in medical device manufacturing, emphasizing the stringent regulations and complex considerations involved in ensuring...

VICIS Case Study

May 1, 2024
The team at VICIS turned to SyBridge and Carbon in order to design and manufacture protective helmet pads, leveraging the digitization and customization expertise of Toolkit3D...

What's Next for Additive Manufacturing?

May 1, 2024
From larger, faster 3D printers to more sustainable materials, discover several of the top additive manufacturing trends for 2023 and beyond.

Voice your opinion!

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