Real-time CCTV system operates around the clock to provide vehicle ID using ANPR and IVI at UK Ports
Tyco Traffic and Transportation of Cambridge, part of Tyco Fire & Integrated Solutions, were the main system integrators and prime contractors for the Bluebird Phase 1 project ,which is a vital component in the success of both the regional and national approach to controlling the UK's Borders. This CCTV project is recognized nationally as a lead Benchmark standard for Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) & Integrated Vehicle Intelligence (IVI) at ports. It provides the police, H.M. Immigration Service and H.M. Customs & Excise at UK ports with a valuable tool to improve their efficiency and effectiveness in a fast moving real-time environment.
The Tyco Border Control & Integrated Vehicle Intelligence System has been designed to regulate border crossings by utilising both ANPR and DVR systems. It can observe, identify and record vehicles in multiple traffic lanes using ANPR cameras in various locations. When a particular target vehicle is identified from a database, alerts can be transmitted via pagers, audible alarms and large screen displays for a fast response by enforcement staff.
The Bluebird Integrated Vehicle Intelligence System greatly enhances the ability of the police and the border control agencies to take an intelligence led approach to border/frontier protective security both for serious and organized crime and national security, as well as, wider public safety and co-operation with the ports industry.
The contract was awarded to Tyco by Kent Police for the development of this advanced CCTV-based system after competitive tender. Capita Symonds was the project consultant. The partnering approach to delivery of the project was a key factor in the success. Previous experience in delivering similar systems ensured a system delivery that met the client's expectations on time.
"To the user, the functionality of the Bluebird design is both an elegant and effective solution and is demonstrating excellent results in working with our partners on delivering Frontier Security," said Phill Ford, MD of Tyco Traffic & Transportation in Cambridge.
The integrated vehicle intelligence system uses an advanced database storage system enabling users to quickly obtain information and a past history of events. It is configured to test the captured number plates against the Police National Computer and other databases. The GUI systems offer the client efficient browsing and data retrieval, as well as image exporting to CD or DVD. A high-speed network has been incorporated to provide the client with fast real-time response rates for alerts.
The system operates on the basis of events, each triggered by a passing vehicle at the border control point. The system stores each event. The Border Control Integrated Vehicle Intelligence System is fully operational 24 hours a day and in all weather conditions, utilising IR or visible light emitter for low light levels and adverse weather conditions.
