Network video cameras are currently used in multiple cities around the world for traffic monitoring, surveillance and meeting security needs. These systems have largely replaced analog closed-circuit television (CCTV).
By Andrea Sorri*
Notwithstanding the above, the role that these teams will play in improving the functioning of smart cities and the way in which people live, travel and work both in the present and in the near future, will be fundamental.
Uses range from the implementation of information systems – cameras become an essential component of an operations center for a variety of services related to safety, energy, health, transit and transportation – to sustainable urban planning through environmental solutions that monitor air quality, noise levels and UV radiation. Network cameras can also enable innovative applications for commerce, entertainment and tourism, especially when combined with mobile and location technologies.
These are some of the examples of the possibilities of video surveillance technologies applied in smart cities:
Virtual cities with real-time 3D maps: Tourists and citizens alike want to know about events, traffic inconveniences, and thus avoid the most saturated areas. Three-dimensional virtual city models that are delivered to mobile phones could provide information in a practical way, in real time. Advanced software that integrates the cameras along with augmented reality technology, can generate a 3D map with several layers of live data, including video. The areas of application of these "living" maps can range from safety and security to industrial, health, educational, entertainment and advertising purposes.
Better communication with citizens: Cities need to keep the population updated on what's going on. To do this, they need smarter tools to communicate with citizens in case of potential threats that may arise in certain areas. With screens installed at the main points, such as squares or train stations, and through the information transmitted by network cameras, the authorities can show important messages that alert people and give guidance on the best actions to take.
Improve the satisfaction of the population: For many people, the smartphone has become a basic tool for day-to-day communication. A mobile app with GPS-based location information could allow citizens to report faulty or inefficient services at the moment such as full dumpsters or street lights/headlights that are broken. City authorities can check for reported problems using their network of installed video cameras and decide on the best and fastest way to resolve the issue.
Make the most of social media: Social media is already a crucial source of information for law enforcement, the media, and users in general, especially during any incident that is occurring. Once the city authorities have been alerted to an event through social networks, network video systems allow to collect the visual information instantly, locate the problem, monitor the situation and verify its importance. Ultimately, combining content posted on social media with data from cameras, smart sensors and other IT applications allows authorities to leverage big data to better understand what's happening on a day-to-day basis and provide the right response.
Lost and found tracking: Keys, wallets, phones, computers, and bicycles are among the items that are commonly misplaced in a city every day, either because their owners lose them or because they have been stolen. Undoubtedly, citizens and police would benefit from a system capable of tracking these objects using sensors and GPS technology. The cameras can provide the necessary video support and allow police forces or city officials to conduct a more detailed investigation.
Remote pedestrian safety: Streets or parks at night can be potential risk areas. To protect citizens in situations where they have to transit through those areas, and make them feel safer, authorities could offer a mobile app that connects users directly from their smartphones to the city's surveillance system. The built-in alarm function generates a direct link with the police. In addition, the combination of location data and cameras with smart lighting allows authorities, from the control room, to track the movements and actions of the citizen and escort them safely through potentially dangerous areas.
Reduce workplace accidents: Video surveillance systems can be used to monitor construction sites, roads and other work environments, in order to prevent accidents and prevent unauthorized access. They can also determine the safety conditions of a site and trigger alarm signals when a worker is engaged in suspicious behavior.
Vehicle parking management: Finding a parking space in an area of the city with a lot of affluence can be a nightmare. A system based on network cameras, video analytics, and car counting can provide reliable updates on available parking spaces. The information can be delivered to drivers via a mobile app, which can also calculate the fastest route to a parking spot through the person's current location. The same configuration can be used to manage sites for the disabled and that the passageways are free for them to access the places.
In conclusion, there are many more areas of application for video surveillance solutions when connected to other sensors, information systems and data analysis tools as part of a smart city network. While they will always play an important role in crime prevention, infrastructure protection and effective response to emergencies, perhaps it is time to think differently and find new ways where they can make a significant difference to the quality of urban life.
About Axis Communications
Axis offers intelligent security solutions that enable an intelligently safer world. As the ip video market leader, Axis is driving the industry to continuously launch innovative network products based on an open platform – offering high value to its customers through a worldwide network of partners. Axis has long-term relationships with its partners, providing them with innovative network products and knowledge for new and existing markets. Axis has more than 2,100 specialized employees, in more than 50 countries worldwide, supported by a global network of more than 80,000 partners in 179 countries. Founded in 1984, Axis is a Sweden-based company listed on nasdaq Stockholm under the listed name AXIS.
*Andrea Sorri is Director of Business Development at Axis Communications
