Maritime surveillance

Gradiant is taking part at XPonential 2018 for the third time. This is the most important international fair for unmanned vehicles. This year, the Colorado Convention Center in Denver is hosting the event from April 30 to May 3 where the most relevant actors are showing the latest advances. Hand in hand with ICEX, inside the Spain Trade and Investment space in booth 1611, Gradiant is showing in the States UAS technologies and their own developments in life detection technologies. As Iago Gómez, head of UAS at Gradiant, explains “taking part in this event one more time is essential to validate and show our innovation and development work with drones, our goal is to give companies the best solutions.” At XPonential 2018, Gradiant is presenting the challenges and applications of intelligent video analysis technologies for UAS Marine Surveillance From UAV “The technologies our team is showing at XPonential been developed and validated by both, national and international companies and prove Gradiant’s innovation skills in such a competitive industry like unmanned aerial vehicles. Being present at such an event for the third consecutive year is an important recognition to the quality of our work, in addition to as well as the confirmation of mature state of our technologies in an exceptional international space,” adds José A. Rodríguez Artolazábal, head of Video Analytics at Gradiant. At XPonential 2018, Gradiant is presenting, in one of the poster sessions, the challenges and applications of intelligent video analysis technologies for UAS. Highlighting marine surveillance from a UAV, as well as search and rescue and other land management applications. Drone Detecting Technologies In this international and specialized scenario, Gradiant is showcasing Counter UAS, a system that comprises a suite of technologies for unmanned vehicles threat detection, classification, tracking and neutralisation. This system, specially designed for critical infrastructure protection and a perfect match for other surveillance scenarios, is modular, scalable and decentralized. Counter-Fi detects and neutralises UAVs using WiFi as communication systems. RF Ear sensor uses signal intelligence techniques to detect drones by using its own communications link. Smart Eye is a module based on passive EO/IR sensors, able to work as both primary or secondary sensor for automatic UAVs detection, tracking and classification on fixed and moving cameras. SJam is an adaptive waveform generator for neutralising drones. Specially designed for alive victims detection, Alivetor is a new tool for first responders that allows them to find survivors in a quick and reliable way Alivetor Tool for Victim Detection Besides, Gradiant is presenting security, defense and victims detections solutions. Alivetor is a drone payload designed for the detection of victims after earthquakes and other catastrophic situations resulting in people trapped under debris. Specially designed for alive victims detection, Alivetor is a new tool for first responders that allows them to find survivors in a quick and reliable way. Designed by Gradiant, Alivetor has been awarded at European Satellite Navigation Contest (ESNC 2017). To end up the US tour, Gradiant is assisting Connect:ID 2018, one of the biggest international conferences focused on biometric technologies, next-generation secure credentials, advanced digital ID solutions, mobile ID and fintech. In this context, the Spanish technology center is showing face, voice and signature biometric authenticators for digital on boarding and KYC processes with mobile devices. Gradiant Signer Biometric Authentication Gradiant Signer, specifically designed for Samsung Galaxy Note, allows accessing and securely signing any document anywhere. The user is authenticated via Samsung Pass to get access to a confidential document and sign it with S-Pen anywhere and anytime in a secure and reliable way, since user’s signature is verified through Gradiant’ DSV technology. faceIDNN verifies user’s identity by comparing the face with the photograph in his/her ID faceIDNN verifies user’s identity by comparing the face with the photograph in his/her ID, driver’s license or passport. Using both images, the verification techniques developed by Gradiant verify in real time if they belong to the same person. selfie&sign Face Biometric Recognition Likewise, selfie&sign is a secure and easy-to-use solution for mobile biometric login. This face biometric recognition solution incorporates an advanced mechanism to avoid spoofing based on the simultaneous verification of the user’s handwritten signature. Gradiant’ experience in facial recognition has allowed developing techniques for anti-spoofing attacks, as well as guaranteeing verification even when there are changes of appearance in front of the photograph of the ID card, or the person has aged. Both, faceIDNN and selfie&sign incorporate these technological innovations, especially in dealing with the customer and digital on boarding services.

One of the keys to averting cyber-attacks on critical transportation infrastructure, such as 2016’s ransomware attack on San Francisco’s transit network, lies in industry-wide collaboration, according to security experts working for some of North America’s most well-known transit organizations. Transport Security World canvassed the opinion of executives, all of whom agreed that working together could put the brakes on attacks that can bring transportation to its knees. Among those contacted by Transport Security World include Stephen Covey, chief of police and chief security officer of Canadian National Railway, CN Railway, who said that the success or failure of keeping North America’s critical transportation infrastructure secure largely depended upon “the level of collaboration and shared responsibility of government, industry and the public. All three contributors,” maintained Covey, “are equally important and only by working together can they make a difference.”With rapid digitization, security shouldn’t just be a priority for CISO’s but should also be on the minds of all heads of departments Prioritizing Security Concerning maritime security, David Espie, director of security at Maryland Port Administration, said “Sound maritime security requires local, State and federal assets and cooperation to ensure a strong landside and waterside security defence mechanism.” Echoing this point, Bob Gauvin, director of counter piracy policy at the US Coast Guard, said: “Layered security and coordinated governance in maritime allows for the most effective abilities of states to work in alliance against ever-changing threats.” With rapid digitization, what is clear is that security shouldn’t just be a priority for CISO’s – it should also be on the minds of all heads of departments. Deborah Wheeler, chief information security officer at Delta Airlines, was clear over her employer’s priorities. “Working across Delta as we face the challenges of a highly connected airline and highly connected customers. It’s bigger than one team,” she told Transport Security World. Security Best Practices In addition to aiding collaboration between the transportation industry and government, company, customer and internal departments, here at Transport Security World, we’re also trying to foster partnerships between different transportation verticals. That’s why we’re organizing Transport Security and Safety Expo 2018 in Washington D.C. Taking place on June 11-12, 2018, the event brings together security and safety professionals across aviation, maritime, rail, highway, haulage and industry suppliers to share best practice and improve standards. The packed agenda will offer the opportunity to hear from, and meet, some of the big players in the transportation industry.

Wren enclosures are another important option Arecont Vision customers can now employ with confidence Arecont Vision, a provider of IP-based megapixel camera technology, announced that Wren Solutions, a developer of innovative camera housings and accessories, has joined the Arecont Vision Technology Partner Program. Multiple Arecont Vision cameras are certified with Wren Solution housings. Stainless-Steel Camera Housings “We are excited to further develop our partnership with Arecont Vision,” said Andrew Wren, President of Wren Solutions. “Our business has been built on understanding customer needs and finding unique ways to solve their problems with our innovative products. This partnership will allow Arecont and Wren to work together to bring new solutions to the market—with our stainless-steel housings serving as a great example of both companies working together to serve our customers.” Wren Solutions has a 30-year history of developing products that solve specific problems for a variety of vertical markets, including industrial, transportation, marine, food processing, retail, banking, and education. With in-house design teams and on-site fabrication capabilities, Wren takes market feedback from idea to product in a short time. Multi-Sensor Megapixel Camera Technology Arecont Vision is a provider of single- and multi-sensor megapixel camera technology, designed and manufactured in the USA. Since introducing the industry’s first megapixel cameras in 2004 and first multi-sensor cameras in 2006, Arecont Vision cameras have been customer proven around the world for use day or night and in and outdoors, with high performance and outstanding reliability. Wren enclosures are another important option Arecont Vision customers can now employ with confidence. “We are very pleased to have Wren solutions as part of the Arecont Vision Technology Partner Program,” said Jason Schimpf, Director of Marketing Programs, Arecont Vision. “The Wren stainless steel dome enclosures enable our customers to take full advantage of excellent image quality delivered by Arecont Vision cameras in harsh areas like extreme moisture or corrosive environments. Customers can feel confident in the solution when they pick Arecont Vision cameras that are certified with Wren’s housings.” Arecont Vision Technology Partner Program Through the Arecont Vision Technology Partner Program, sales, development, and support contacts are established between the two companies to better engage with end user customers and integrators, integrate new features and technology, and quickly resolve any customer support issues. A growing number of customers are already benefiting from integrated Arecont Vision and Wren Solutions.

At ASIS 2016, Pelco will discuss its focus on delivering technologies based on open standards and their integration Pelco by Schneider Electric, a provider of intelligent video surveillance and security management platforms, will highlight its full suite of advanced solutions designed to solve the safety and business challenges of today’s enterprise organizations during next month’s ASIS International Seminar and Exhibits, being held on September 12-15, in Orlando, Florida, at Booth #2300.Trusted by a wide variety of airports, seaports, critical infrastructure sites, casinos, and cities across the globe, Pelco technologies assist users in achieving more robust security levels through multi-departmental and agency cooperation. The company’s Sarix Enhanced Next Generation Camera delivers the best possible image in difficult lighting conditions such as a combination of bright areas, shaded areas, and intense light, while the new ExSite Explosion-Proof Camera enables the capture of high-quality video in a variety of challenging and volatile environments, such as oil and gas production sites, marine applications, and hazardous materials plants, to allow more informed, efficient incident response. These powerful video cameras can also be a powerful tool to monitor operational issues in remote locations.VideoXpert Security Management PlatformAdvanced security management platforms, such as VideoXpert, help users identify the most relevant security data to elevate the effectiveness of video monitoring and reporting. When combined, Pelco solutions streamline usability and let operators focus on the most critical incoming information to efficiently and proactively address a wide variety of security situations. "Our team is focused onhelping end customersmitigate risk, ensure robustsecurity and safety levelsare maximized" “As a growing airport, we constantly examine the solutions we have in place and look at ways to improve how we conduct investigations, provide operators with a greater amount of situational awareness, and streamline business operations,” said Joe Maskovich, City of Fresno Airports Chief of Public Safety. “Our systems are a work in progress, and we’re glad to have a partner like Pelco that will help us be successful.” Open Standards And Integrated TechnologiesAt ASIS, Pelco will also discuss its focus on delivering technologies based on open standards and to easily integrate with other surveillance devices, analytics, and various third-party tools that contribute to a cohesive security posture. Open platforms are critical to today’s modern organizations and have the ability to support other systems outside of security (i.e. radar systems, IT network access and building management), which ensures technology investments will continue to be highly valuable in the future.“Pelco solutions enable more intelligent and informed decisions for enterprises across the globe,” said Sharad Shekhar, CEO, Pelco. “Our team is focused on helping end customers mitigate risk, ensure robust security and safety levels are maximized and propel collaboration that drives new value across organizations.”New Technology OfferingsPelco technical leaders will provide interactive demonstrations of its full suite of solutions, including VideoXpert Video Management System (VMS), the Sarix Enhanced Next Generation Camera Range, Optera Panoramic Cameras, and a preview of the ExSite Explosion-Proof Camera Line.VideoXpert continues to offer end users the power to gather and analyze critical security, video, and operational data for quick decision-making in the event of an emergency. The open platform offers users the flexibility to integrate with third-party systems, or seamlessly add Pelco technology, such as the Optera Panoramic cameras to achieve new levels of situational awareness or the Sarix Enhanced Next Generation Camera Range to experience high-quality images in low-light conditions.Available in early 2017, the ExSite Explosion-Proof Camera Line will be previewed to allow end users in the petrochemical, marine, port, and hazardous materials environments the ability to view its advanced IR illumination, high-quality images and see for themselves its tough form factor in person. Save Save

Boson offers the widest range of features and lens choices for FLIR's OEM customers FLIR Systems, Inc. announced Boson, its smallest, lightest, and least power-consuming, high-performance uncooled thermal camera for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). Sized between FLIR's Tau and Lepton camera cores, Boson is the first thermal camera core to incorporate a sophisticated, low-power multi-core vision processor running FLIR XIR expandable infrared video processing architecture.High-Resolution Thermal ImagingBoson features a high sensitivity 12-micron pixel pitch detector that provides high-resolution thermal imaging in a small, low power, lightweight, turnkey package. It also offers several levels of video processing with inputs and processing for other sensors including visible CMOS imaging sensors, global positioning systems (GPSs), and inertial measurement units (IMUs). Additionally, FLIR XIR provides OEM customers with a suite of advanced image processing features including, super resolution algorithms, sophisticated noise reduction filters, local area contrast enhancement, and image blending.Offered in 320 x 256 and 640 x 512 formats with 15 field-of-view options, Boson offers the widest range of features and lens choices for FLIR's OEM customers. Boson also supports common interfaces for displays, storage devices, and data communication. OEMs can also leverage FLIR's Solution Accelerator to develop product solutions for key market verticals including firefighting, automotive, maritime, hunting, UAS, and military.High Performance Sensing"Boson represents a significant advancement in size, weight, power, and cost for small high-performance microbolometer-based cameras," said Andy Teich, President and CEO of FLIR. "As the market demand for affordable and smaller sized camera cores strengthens, we continue to drive technical breakthroughs that enable high performance sensing at lower costs to produce. We're excited to introduce Boson into our family of cores and to offer a broader range of configuration options to OEMs that will help them expedite development and lower their cost-to-market."FLIR will first showcase Boson at the SPIE Defense and Commercial Sensing Conference in Baltimore, Maryland in booth 822. Save

Replacing interim CFO Dave Muessle, Mr. Singhi will oversee FLIR's global finance organization FLIR Systems, Inc. announced that Amit Singhi has joined the Company as Senior Vice President, Finance, and Chief Financial Officer, replacing interim CFO Dave Muessle, who will remain Vice President, Corporate Controller and Principal Accounting Officer. Reporting to CEO Andy Teich, Mr. Singhi will oversee FLIR's global finance organization, with responsibility over financial management, reporting, controls, planning, and strategy. Past Achievements Mr. Singhi most recently led the finance organization of Ford Motor Company's Global Customer Service Division. Previously, Mr. Singhi was CFO of Ford South America which was preceded by several global finance, operational, and R&D positions at Ford and General Motors. He holds an M.B.A. and an M.S. in Electrical Engineering Systems from the University of Michigan, and a Bachelors of Technology in Electrical Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology. "We are very excited that Amit is joining our team. He is a proven executive with strong skills in financial operations, organizational leadership, international business, and tactical execution for a global industry leader," said Andy Teich, President and CEO of FLIR. "I am confident Amit will make meaningful contributions to FLIR's performance and results while being a key partner in further developing our financial, operational, and product strategies. I also want to thank Dave Muessle for his commitment to the business and his financial leadership during our search for a new CFO."

The term ‘marine’ comes from the Latin mare, meaning sea or ocean, and marine habitats can be divided into two categories: coastal and open ocean. Video surveillance (VS) applications can cover both types of marine environment with system for ships, maritime ports, onshore and offshore installations, etc. We should want to further analyze VS for ships and try to explain the types of ships on which it can be used, the ways in which VS can be used on ships, the typical certifications in use and what features a camera station must have to be installed on a ship. Starting with ships that have a minimum tonnage, around the world we have: liquefied natural gas (LNG) tankers, passengers ships, chemical tankers, crude oil tankers, container ships, general cargo ships and bulk carriers.As the LNG market grows rapidly, the fleet of LNG carriers continues to experience tremendous growth, offering more opportunities for VS Video surveillance for all marine vessels An LNG carrier is a tank ship designed for transporting liquefied natural gas. As the LNG market grows rapidly, the fleet of LNG carriers continues to experience tremendous growth. A passenger ship is a merchant ship whose primary function is to carry passengers by sea. This category does not include cargo vessels which have accommodation for a limited number of passengers, but rather includes the likes of ferries, yachts, ocean liners and cruise ships. A chemical tanker is a type of tank ship designed to transport chemicals in bulk. These ships can also carry other types of sensitive cargo which require a high standard of tank cleaning, such as palm oil, vegetable oils, tallow, caustic soda and methanol. An oil tanker, also known as a petroleum tanker, is a merchant ship designed for the bulk transport of oil. There are two basic types of oil tankers: crude tankers and product tankers. Crude tankers move large quantities of unrefined crude oil from its point of extraction to refineries. Product tankers, generally much smaller, are designed to move refined products from refineries to points near consuming markets. Container ships are cargo ships that carry their entire load in truck-size intermodal containers: a technique called containerization. They are a common means of commercial intermodal freight transport and now carry most seagoing non-bulk cargo. Today, about 90% of non-bulk cargo worldwide is transported by container. A cargo ship or freighter ship is any sort of ship or vessel that carries cargo, goods and materials from one port to another. Cargo ships are specially designed for the task, often being equipped with cranes and other mechanisms to load and unload, and come in all sizes. Bulk carriers make up 15%–17% of the world's merchant ships and they are specially designed to transport unpackaged bulk cargo such as grains, coal, ore and cement in its cargo holds. For all these ships the protection of vessels, cargo and crew is a priority, that’s why the adoption of VS technology plays a key part in terms of security and safety. Human error is regularly named as a major factor in ship accidents, and one way to avoid it is to aid seafarers by providing them with technology and equipment that is reliable and easy to use in all weather and sea conditions. Marine VS encompasses liquefied natural gas (LNG) tankers, passengers ships, chemical tankers, crude oil tankers, container ships, general cargo ships and bulk carriers Emergency security solutions on ship One of the most important applications for camera stations is during “docking”. Mooring is the securing or confining of a vessel in a particular location with a fixed or a floating object (jetty, pier, ship, barge, buoy, etc.) as various cargo operations are carried out. Docking is the final stage of mooring operations when the ship docks to the jetty. This is a very delicate operation and cameras are very helpful in making sure docking is done without accidents.'Man overboard’ is an emergency in which a person has fallen off a boat or ship into the water, and can happen at any time during the day or night Another important application for camera stations is the Man Overboard detection system (MOB). ‘Man overboard’ is an emergency in which a person has fallen off a boat or ship into the water. Man overboard events can happen at any time during the day or night, in all types of weather and sea conditions, and from almost any location on the ship, ranging from a few tens of feet above the water, to over 180 feet.  When these events occur, the immediate availability of important data is crucial. Accurate confirmation of the event including time of occurrence, location on the ship and location in the sea is critical. A proactive detection system must immediately and accurately detect man overboard events and provide prompt, actionable data to response personnel. A typical man overboard detection system can report a MOB event in under 1 second. VS on a vessel can also monitor the engine room at all times and provide a good view of people working on dock, machinery and stowed equipment. But what are the most important features that a camera station must have to work in one of the most aggressive environments in nature? Ruggedized reliability in surveillance First of all, and perhaps it’s obvious, but it’s extremely important to have camera stations with amazing reliability. Housing units manufactured from AISI 316L stainless steel, passivated and electropolished, makes the cameras completely impervious to air, water, rusting and corrosion, therefore offering excellent weather protection and increased reliability.Housing units manufactured from AISI 316L stainless steel, passivated and electropolished, makes the cameras completely impervious to air, water, rusting and corrosion Sometimes ships also use cameras constructed entirely from technopolymer, which guarantees high impact resistance and superior protection from external weather agents. Keeping the camera glass clean at all times is another essential feature, and it can be done via a wiper/wash system that greatly reduces the need for maintenance. In the case of PTZ cameras, the best option would be a great pan and tilt speed (up to 100°/s). What is the operative temperature range for the cameras? Sea is everywhere and therefore ships go everywhere, from the Arctic Ocean to the Mediterranean, so we need cameras that have to be fully operational across a wide temperature range.  -40°C to +65°C covers almost all areas. Analog or IP Cameras? Actually, both options can be used, especially for applications like docking where it’s important to avoid image delay (as can happen with IP cameras due to the natural latency of data communication over a network). Marine certifications Last but not least, the certifications: Certifications guarantee the quality and reliability of camera stations. There is no compromise! One important certification is the Lloyd’s Register Type Approval which subjects cameras to rigorous testing for performance, vibration (critical on ships), humidity, etc. The application field of the LR Type Approval is VS in public places (e.g. passenger ships), open decks, enclosed spaces that are subjected to heat generated from other equipment, and technical premises. Often, VS cameras used in specific areas of ships, such as hazardous areas, are required to have ATEX and IECEX certifications.

As the technology in omnidirectional cameras continues to improve, they are becoming increasingly more affordable to a wider segment of the video surveillance market Just a few years ago, omnidirectional cameras were a novelty. Today, however, this technology has taken the leap to the mainstream. Think about how ubiquitous Google’s Street View is, and you can gain a better idea of the power of omnidirectional cameras. Even consumers are starting to see many forms of omnidirectional cameras, from 360-degree lenses on SLRs to 360-degree video from action cameras. To that end, 360-degree cameras represent one of the strongest areas of growth in surveillance technology, with global unit shipments forecasted by IHS to increase by more than 60 percent year-on-year. Omnidirectional Vs. Traditional Cameras  Both 360- and 180-degree surveillance cameras offer panoramic views, helping reduce the number of traditional narrow field-of-view cameras needed in a single installation. Omnidirectional cameras can also be used in concert with PTZ cameras, or replace them entirely depending on the application. Not only does this help increase situational awareness, it decreases the overall cost of the cameras, installation and maintenance. Compared to PTZ cameras, omnidirectional cameras have the advantage of being able to pan, tilt and zoom around in both live, as well as stored video, which means operators can pinpoint problems in real-time, ensuring incidents can be resolved quickly and efficiently, and at the same time, go back to stored 360-degree video to conduct investigations. The option for 180- and 360-degree coverage from a single camera is delivered via a specialized lens on one sensor or a camera that integrates with multiple sensors with conventional lenses aligned to provide an ultra-wide-angle coverage. Single-lens or “fisheye” cameras use a specialized lens called a fisheye lens, which, when compared to a conventional lens, employs different optical design techniques that can lead to the distortion of the captured image when viewing beyond a 90-degree horizontal field-of-view. With this, “barrel distortion” can occur, where a circular image is created and a straight line within the captured image appears curved. ‘Dewarping’ software has to be used to correct this optical illusion. As a consequence of lens design idiosyncrasies in 180- and 360-degree fisheye cameras, either an oval or circular shaped imaged is created. Since image sensors used in surveillance cameras are square or rectangular, some parts of the sensor are not used. Increasingly Affordable Solutions As the technology in these types of cameras continues to improve, they are becoming increasingly more affordable to a wider segment of the video surveillance market. Similarly, higher resolutions and more affordable storage for video data make it more affordable to get increased amounts of coverage and detail at the same time. As mentioned previously, cost savings can also be realised when a single 360-degree camera replaces three to four fixed cameras, a result that can be recreated in other areas or departments within an organization to help realize additional cost savings. Fisheye Vs. Multi-Sensor Fisheye and multi-sensor cameras both create panoramic images, but do so in very different ways. Fisheye cameras capture the whole scene in a single view without having to stitch images, so the full view of the captured video footage has consistent brightness, sharpness and contrast across the entire scene. Fisheye cameras also offer a number of other benefits: higher reliability as a result of a single sensor, camera and lens arrangement; no blind spots; fixed focus, making installation quicker; lower cost; and a smaller, less obtrusive form factor. Additionally, the dewarping of the image is carried out in the video management system or network video recorder, allowing for higher frame rates at any given bandwidth.   Omnidirectional cameras can pan, tilt and zoom around in both live and stored video, which means operators can pinpoint problems in real-time  However, fisheye cameras may have fewer pixels per foot, depending on the total resolution, and these types of cameras require client-side dewarping to gain the full benefits of retrospective image adjustment – that is, dewarping of stored video for investigations. Multi-sensor cameras, on the other hand, may offer a higher total resolution depending on the individual resolution of each of the sensors within the camera. Here, dewarping is not required since each sensor is, in essence, a narrow field-of-view camera. Multi-sensor cameras, however, have more than one sensor, which can lead to an overall higher maintenance costs, and with four or more cameras needed to cover a specific area, there is an increased risk that one or more of the sensors can malfunction — in essence, lower reliability. Installation of multi-sensor cameras is also more complicated and more time-intensive. Additionally, the units themselves can be large and bulky, and complex to operator and manage — each view has to be stitched together, which means captured images have to be carefully calibrated with the correct brightness, color, contrast and sharpness for the image to be as clear and seamless as it needs to be for viewing and evidentiary purposes. Other possible considerations include: additional licensing fees for each camera connected to an NVR or VMS, total frame rate is generally lower and bandwidth usage will be high. Also, storage costs are higher. As businesses look to increase situational awareness by investing in omnidirectional cameras, it’s important to carefully evaluate the technology being implemented and various options before moving forward with an implementation Dewarping Images If a camera sends a 360-degree image, the VMS software has to dewarp the image so that users can get normal views while electronically PTZ’ing around in the image. This is called “client-side” dewarping. With client-side dewarping, images can be dewarped retrospectively — that is, stored video can be dewarped, enabling users to forensically analyze a scene after the fact. The result is that investigations can be carried on as if the video were being watched in real time, making the data indispensable to investigators examining the details of a crime or security breach. Not only does this approach deliver new levels of situational awareness, but it also allows officials to use the data to examine additional areas of interest. The virtual PTZ function can only be experienced via client-side dewarping for stored video, and it can also be run on still images. Additionally, different parts of the image might be useful for different applications that are hard to predict in advance. For example, a merchandiser may want to zoom in and look at signage or an end cap after the fact to gain better insight into the business. Client-side dewarping may also be run on mobile devices, on either live or on stored video. One challenge of client-side dewarping is that VMS and NVR platforms have to support this function. There are already a large number of platforms that support this functionality because of end user demand. On the other hand, camera-side dewarping does not require a VMS/NVR platform to integrate this function. Camera-side dewarping means you can only virtually PTZ around in a live scene, which is the same as using a motorized PTZ camera – and this function requires an operator to manually navigate and record what the camera sees. Once these views are fixed, a user may only see those views in stored footage, severely limiting the possibility of being able to capture a wider scene for analysis. This means there may be more blind spots in live and stored video depending on how the views are configured. Evaluating Technology Implemented As businesses look to increase situational awareness by investing in omnidirectional cameras, it’s important to carefully evaluate the technology being implemented and various options before moving forward with an implementation. There are a number of pros and cons to dewarping software and the views within the cameras to consider. But, with higher resolutions and more efficient dewarping/stitching technologies, omnidirectional cameras may soon replace narrow field-of-view and PTZ cameras in a number of vertical markets, including transportation, retail, education, banking and finance, maritime, leisure and gaming, ushering in a new era of total situational awareness with a wealth of data and insight yet untapped.

Thermal video analytics identify intruders despite background water movement or glare off the water There are more than 300 ports in the U.S. maritime system, representing a major point of vulnerability that could have potentially devastating effects on the US economy. Securing the nation's ports is essential, and port perimeter security is the first line of defense against disruption to global commerce. In this article, SightLogix CEO, John Romanowich, explains how thermal cameras with video analytics have become a best-of-breed solution for port perimeter security.                                                      Ports cover large geographic areas that include vast and varied perimeters that are not capable of being secured the typical way. For example, fences aren't feasible for the waterside segment of a perimeter. Physical barriers also do not provide the necessary situational awareness over the large areas typical for a port setting. Additional elements that impact port security include: Location – Ports are often adjacent to public areas or neighborhoods where pedestrian intruders represent both security and safety threats. Some ports are located near densely populated urban areas, requiring security to carefully monitor and restrict perimeter access. Environment – Challenges of climate, weather and large areas of coverage pose additional difficulties for ports and maritime applications. Port security personnel must be alerted immediately when a breach in security occurs to allow them to respond in a timely and effective manner.  Outdoor systems must provide overall situational awareness, including the accurate size, location and nature of an event as it unfolds, while avoiding nuisance alarms. Lighting is often poor or unavailable along extensive port perimeters due to cost and lack of infrastructure. Threats Include the wide range of possible risks that ports are susceptible to, from theft to vandalism to sabotage. Port security covers a gamut of applications, including rail security, electrical yard protection and chemical safety. Thermal Cameras as a Technology Solution When it comes to protecting the port perimeter, technologies such as thermal cameras and outdoor video analytics address the particular needs of the port environment and serve as a critical first line of defense Achieving security awareness around port perimeters comes down to timely, credible alerts with detail to respond. Knowing the nature and location of an intrusion is the key to mounting an effective response. Smart thermal cameras operate day or night, and can “see” what the eye would miss, even over large outdoor areas in complete darkness. Recent advances in thermal camera image processing have expanded their traditional role as “night vision” cameras to 24-hour perimeter security solutions, making them an excellent choice for solving port security challenges. Thermal cameras that have substantially more on-board image processing accurately detect the presence of unauthorized persons anywhere across site perimeters, enclaves, and isolated outdoor assets, while filtering the effects of environmental elements. Smart cameras with sufficient processing can provide accurate detection over large areas, regardless of wind, weather or the movement of small animals, trees or blowing trash. Thermal cameras can also accurately discriminate legitimate targets from extraneous motion, while presenting very clear details about the scene. In a port perimeter application, thermal video analytics can identify intruders despite background water movement or glare off the water. Economics are important when securing large outdoor areas Thermal cameras can also geo-register their field-of-view to GPS coordinates. This allows the analytics to make accurate determinations regarding target location, size, bearing and speed, critical details for securing large areas like ports. Such geo-registration can be used to display a target’s precise location against a topology map of the port to pinpoint the location of an intrusion in real time. The same information can be used to automatically steer a PTZ camera to zoom and follow detected targets for making fast response decisions. Economics are important when securing large outdoor areas such as port perimeters, especially given the tight budgets many port operators have to work with. Outdoor surveillance involves additional infrastructure costs, including construction, trenching, camera poles, network connectivity, video display and storage. New thermal analytic cameras can operate at twice the distance and cover four times the area, creating a larger buffer zone for early detection of intruders, along with a direct economic benefit: fewer thermal analytic cameras are needed to protect the same location, lowering overall costs accordingly. The First Line of Defense The economic impact of the nation’s ports, and of ports around the world, is a good indicator of the importance of providing proper maritime security. Clearly, a lot is at stake as port management and local, state and federal governments evaluate the best security technologies to protect these important assets. When it comes to protecting the port perimeter, technologies such as thermal cameras and outdoor video analytics address the particular needs of the port environment and serve as a critical first line of defense.

Globally renowned sensor solutions provider, HENSOLDT will equip the Norwegian Coast Guard vessel “Svalbard” with the latest version of its TRS-3D naval radar and MSSR 2000 IIFF System. This is already the second upgrade contract from the Norwegian Defense Materiel Agency as HENSOLDT is already under contract to equip the three new Arctic Coast Guard Vessels in the P6615 Program with the upgraded radar and IFF system. TRS-3D naval radar system Under both contracts worth more than € 27 m HENSOLDT will deliver four TRS-3D radars including the latest solid-state technology and signal processing software and will deliver them from 2021, in parallel to the building program of the new Arctic Coast Guard vessels. The TRS-3D includes a secondary radar MSSR 2000 I for Identification-friend-or-foe (IFF). It operates all current IFF modes, including the latest “Mode S/Mode 5 Level 1/2” standard answering the most recent NATO requirements. Our TRS-3D naval radar is an extremely reliable radar, particularly suited for littoral missions" “Our TRS-3D naval radar is an extremely reliable radar, particularly suited for littoral missions”, said HENSOLDT CEO Thomas Müller. “We are taking the upgrade contract of the Norwegian Coast Guard as proof of the customer’s satisfaction with our product and services”. Air and sea surveillance TRS-3D is a three-dimensional multimode naval radar for air and sea surveillance. It includes the ability to correlate plots and tracks of targets with the MSSR 2000 I identification system for automatic identification of vessels and aircraft which is essential to avoid friendly fire and to establish a comprehensive situation picture. It is used for automatically locating and tracking all types of air and sea targets and safe guidance of on-board helicopters. Thanks to its signal processing technologies, the TRS-3D is particularly suited for the early detection of low flying or slow moving objects under extreme environmental conditions. Naval surveillance and security More than 50 units of the radar are in operation with naval forces around the world. Among the ships equipped are frigates and corvettes of the German Navy, the US Coast Guard National Security Cutters and the "Squadron 2000" patrol boats of the Finnish Navy. 

EchoGuard receives FCC Equipment Authorization allowing widespread deployment of the radar for security, surveillance, and airspace management applications. EchoGuard radar Echodyne, the manufacturer of innovative, high-performance radars for government and commercial markets, announces that it has received approval from the FCC for widespread deployment of its EchoGuard radar for radiolocation and radionavigation in the United States. FCC Equipment Authorization allows the radar to be used throughout the US for ground, airspace surveillance  The FCC Equipment Authorization allows the radar to be used throughout the United States for ground and airspace surveillance applications that detect and track potential security threats with high accuracy and for ground-based airspace management applications that ensure safe navigation of commercial drone missions. Electronically Scanning Array radar Echodyne's innovative metamaterials technology and powerful software combine to create an electronically scanning array (ESA) radar in a compact, solid-state format at commercial price points for the very first time. The radar has been demonstrating award-winning performance for government, law enforcement, security, and UAS / UTM customers for some time via experimental licenses. "We are excited that EchoGuard has received this authorization allowing its widespread adoption in the US," said Eben Frankenberg, CEO of Echodyne. "With the growing number of troubling drone incursions at airports, stadiums, and other facilities, there is tremendous demand for high-performance radar sensors. Tackling drone threats Eben adds, "Our innovative radar technology and software greatly increases the ability for security systems to accurately detect and track drone threats, as well as improves ground tracking of people, vehicles, and vessels. Our radar outperforms every other radar in its class, is priced for commercial markets, and has proven to be the best mid-range surveillance radar in the market." Features of the EchoGuard high-performance radar include: True electronic beam-steering with market-leading C-SWaP attributes; Long-range detection with high reliability and accurate tracking of multiple, concurrent air and ground targets; and Easy integration into sensor fusion and security systems for unmatched 3D situational awareness.

The sensor solutions provider HENSOLDT is equipping the second batch of the German Navy’s K130 corvettes with its TRS-4D Rotator naval radar and its MSSR 2000 I friend-or-foe identification system (IFF). Only six months after the order was placed, the company has now successfully passed the factory acceptance test by the German procurement authority BAAINBw for the second system. “With the TRS-4D, the corvettes are getting an extremely powerful radar system,” said HENSOLDT’s CEO Thomas Müller. “Since we have started to produce our radars in series a short time ago, we have been able to reduce the time required for delivery to our customers considerably.” Order for seven TRS-4D radars On board the new F125 frigate, the TRS-4D is used in a configuration comprising four fixed planar arraysHENSOLDT has orders for seven radars which are intended for five ships and two land-based systems and are to be delivered by 2022. The company had previously equipped the first K130 batch with its proven TRS-3D radar. For the second batch, the TRS-4D has now been ordered to be supplied in a version comprising a mechanically rotating antenna (TRS-4D Rotator), which is also under contract for the U.S. Navy’s littoral combat ship (LCS). On board the new F125 frigate, the TRS-4D is used in a configuration comprising four fixed planar arrays. This radar system is part of a family of products which also includes ground-based air defense radar, TRML-4D. It thus benefits from shorter production cycles, continuous product improvements as well as advantages in stock levels of spare parts and training. Quick detection and tracking of targets The TRS-4D Rotator has been designed to be used for anti-aircraft and anti-surface operations. Its rotating antenna combines mechanical and electronic azimuth scanning, which allows targets to be detected and tracked very quickly. Thanks to its higher sensitivity, the AESA radar allows more precise detection, especially of small and maneuvering objects, as well as faster confirmation of the target, which means that the ship crew has more time to respond to threats. The system includes an MSSR 2000 I secondary radar for friend-or-foe identification (IFF) The radar can be specifically programmed according to the customer’s needs, and its characteristics can be changed via the software to match new requirements that arise during its useful life. The system also includes an MSSR 2000 I secondary radar for friend-or-foe identification (IFF), which complies with all IFF standards, even the latest ‘Mode S / Mode 5’. This is all the more important as all NATO troops and their allies are currently in the process of converting their IFF systems to Mode 5. The Mode 5 capability enables the troops to take part in joint and combined operations with NATO and other allied forces.

With its capacity of 32 million tons per year and water frontage of 6 kilometres, Chernomorsk sea port is one of the largest transport terminals in Ukraine, providing trade links with more than 100 countries all over the world. This port is a part of Eurasian transport corridor connecting the Western European countries, Ukraine, Georgia and the Asian countries. Its territory embodies the unique multimodal terminal that serves railway-ferry and auto-ferry lines as well as roll-on/roll-off vessels. The mission was to implement round-the-clock monitoring of the port territory and port waters in order to detect violations and prevent them. Monitoring in challenging light conditions PTZ cameras with integrated Axis Lightfinder are used for monitoring Experts from Inlimited suggested fitting the port with thermal technology platforms using 11 Axis network thermal cameras aboard (including models with two sensors: optic and thermal). PTZ cameras with integrated Axis Lightfinder technology are used, among others, for monitoring in challenging light conditions with low object contrast or difficult light sources. Thermal network cameras support guard tour function that can be used for continuous monitoring of a particular area according to the preset guard tour. In the context of modernization, the existing port security system was extended with the following video surveillance solutions: computer-aided continuous visual monitoring of the water frontage, the adjacent port area and the port waters of Sukhyi Estuary, the area along the port perimeter as well as monitoring of vehicles (license plate recognition) and approaches to the mounting locations of the main cameras. Integrated video surveillance Centralized security service control center offer video analysis capabilities. Video surveillance solutions integrated into a single software and hardware platform provide high-quality digital video real time record and store the archive for a minimum of 30 days. The integrator considered all the challenging conditions that cameras may encounter at sea and in the maritime area Integrated video surveillance and alarm system modernization project developed by Inlimited Ltd. for Chernomorsk sea port is of strategic importance for the customer since it is aimed at increasing the reliability of the guard tours and critical infrastructure of the port and its entire water area. When developing the architectural concept, the integrator considered all the challenging conditions that cameras may encounter at sea and in the maritime area, such as hurricane hazards, lightning strikes, salt air impact, as well as restricted visibility due to fog, heavy rain, snowfall and direct sunlight. Installation of PTZ network cameras Thermal platforms with Axis PTZ network cameras installed on the top became the ultimate solution for the port. Optical and thermal sensors combined into one system is the specific feature of bispectral modules. With this capability, such a device can substitute a significant number of conventional optical cameras and partially the security alarm system. Hence, the extensive territory of the port was covered by turntables with a total of 11 Axis network cameras: bispectral, optical and outdoor. Due to the intelligent capabilities of Axis network cameras, a real-time detection signal is automatically transferred to operator screen, immediately providing a very clear image of an object and ensuring reliable detection under any visibility and weather conditions. Moreover, the system can also detect suspicious objects even before an intrusion attempt. Recognizing person, car or watercraft We chose to go with Axis cameras because they are flexible and yet can be customized to solve particular problems"Automatic systems facilitate the work of security service operators displaying only actual violations, which helps to minimize the percentage of false responses. With this intelligent system, it is possible to immediately recognize a person, car or small-sized watercraft as well as detect possible smoke spread and other abnormal situations. Thus, the security staff has extra time to provide quick response. The video surveillance and alarm system of Chernomorsk sea port is integrated with IP-video control system Milestone Xprotect and vehicle license plate recognition system VIT AutoCode. “We chose to go with Axis cameras because they are flexible and yet can be customized to solve particular problems. Axis network cameras gained an excellent reputation as a part of the video surveillance system currently operating at the port and for this reason, we selected them again for additional security platforms,” noted the Chernomorsk sea port security service.

Videotec has extended its range of cameras that include the new DELUX imaging and encoding technology. It can now be found in models designed for surveillance in the Marine and Oil & Gas sectors, and significantly improves the day and night vision and competitiveness of these products.  DELUX Imaging And Encoding Technology After recently being integrated into the ULISSE COMPACT PTZ, DELUX technology is now available across the IP, PTZ and fixed cameras of the ex-proof and Marine lines, namely the MAXIMUS MPX, MVX AND NXPTZ. These models are well regarded on the market for their high-performance levels and operational efficiency in extreme environments and where there is a risk of explosion. DELUX technology brings increased light sensitivity, which means the cameras deliver very high-quality vision during the day or night, with clear high-definition images and incredibly well-defined colours – even in very low light conditions. The improved precision and image clarity provides immediate added value to outdoor surveillance applications Day/Night Surveillance The improved precision and image clarity provides immediate added value to outdoor surveillance applications, especially in sensitive areas where the need to identify people, objects, moving vehicles and other events, day or night, is crucial. In addition to improved color rendering and greater noise reduction, DELUX technology has brought new advanced PTZ performance, namely in the control of speed proportional to zoom and the management of Privacy Masking. High-Performance Solutions The DELUX technology has been developed end-to-end by Videotec’s R&D team and this has led to considerable reductions to the costs of these new camera models. Videotec’s DELUX products are therefore extremely competitive, and are complete high-performance solutions, reinforcing their prominent position in an increasingly demanding and selective international security market.

Finland’s foreign trade depends on shipping lanes and seaports that are ice-free, so the country operates the world's second-largest fleet of icebreakers. One of the latest ships, called Polaris, is equipped with Bosch video cameras and a Bosch Video Management System (BVMS) that ensure safe operations in some of the roughest cold weather that the planet has to offer. Polaris departs for the Bay of Bothnia – between Finland and Sweden – around the end of each year and stays there until the following May. During this period, the officers and crew under Captain Pasi Järvelin work 12 hours a day, 20 days at a time. The long shifts and challenging working conditions impose tough requirements on occupational safety. Cameras from the MIC series are used on deck, cameras from the FLEXIDOME and DINION series are used inside Bosch HD Video Cameras For safe, efficient work at sea, the Polaris uses high-definition cameras from Bosch. Cameras from the MIC series are used on deck, cameras from the FLEXIDOME and DINION series are used inside, for example in the engine room and engineering space. “We can investigate incidents by checking the recordings. This reduces the need for routine tours, in person, of various parts of the vessel. The exterior MIC cameras monitor the ice and the vessels for which we are breaking ice; the ones on the stern monitor distances to other vessels. Even under the arctic conditions of the Baltic Sea, the Bosch cameras work perfectly,” says Captain Järvelin. All the cameras and recording equipment are controlled and operated via the Bosch Video Management System (BVMS), which is rarely seen in marine applications. Focus, zoom, horizontal- and vertical-pitch features are indispensable, and the MIC cameras have wipers for adverse weather conditions that can be actuated from the bridge. At the top of the mast, a 360-degree MIC IP camera operates flawlessly, even in darkness. Bosch’s MIC IP cameras are ideal for extreme weather. They can stand up to high winds, rain, fog, 100 percent humidity, temperatures as low as -40°C to as high as +65°C, extreme vibrations, high impacts and even corrosion.

Higher pixel count is better. It’s a basic tenet of the video surveillance market, or at least it is the implication as manufacturers continue to tout their latest products offering ever-higher pixel counts. But the reality is more nuanced, as our Expert Panel Roundtable panellists explain this week. Pixel count shouldn’t be seen as an end unto itself, but rather as a factor in determining what camera is applicable to which application. Pixel count is just one factor of several to consider, and the needs of the application must rule all decisions. We asked this week’s panel: How many megapixels are enough? At what point does additional resolution not matter, or not make economic sense?