Page 58 - Security Today, September/October 2024

puting. Instead of relying on powerful backend servers, modern ALPR systems can process data on the edge directly within the camera. This approach not only reduces costs but also simplifies installation and maintenance. Even existing cameras can be ret- rofitted with ALPR capabilities using lightweight software that runs efficiently on minimal hardware.
Processing ALPR on the edge offers several advantages in many use cases. It reduces the need for extensive data transmis- sion, ensuring faster response times and lower latency. This is particularly important in high-security environments where time- ly data processing is critical. Additionally, edge-based ALPR sys- tems can operate independently of network connectivity, provid- ing reliable performance even in remote or challenging locations.
Q. HOW IMPORTANT IS COLLABORATION BETWEEN ALPR SOFTWARE PROVIDERS AND CAMERA MANUFACTURERS?
Jason Cook: The collaboration between ALPR software providers and camera manufacturers is crucial for optimizing performance. Our partnership with i-PRO exemplifies this synergy. By working closely with camera manufacturers, ALPR providers can ensure that their software leverages the full potential of the camera hardware. For instance, specific lens choices and camera positioning can sig- nificantly impact the accuracy and effectiveness of ALPR systems.
Rui Barbosa: Our latest AI-enabled cameras use power SoCs, such as Ambarella’s CV-52. These powerful processors can host multiple simultaneous applications such as VaxALPR and more.
The lens and camera placement choice are vital for high-speed scenarios, such as highways. Cameras must capture clear images of license plates from various angles and distances. This collabo- ration and attention to detail enhances the reliability of ALPR systems for every application.
Q. HOW DO MODERN ALPR SYSTEMS ADAPT TO ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGES LIKE LIGHTING AND WEATHER CONDITIONS?
Jason Cook: Environmental factors such as lighting conditions and weather can affect the performance of ALPR systems. Mod- ern ALPR technology addresses these challenges through ad- vanced image processing and adaptive algorithms. Our software can manage varying lighting conditions, ensuring accurate plate recognition even in low light or harsh weather.
Rui Barbosa: Both the camera and the software’s adaptability are crucial, as vehicles may pass through at any time of day and in different weather conditions. Having adequate lighting, whether through IR illumination from the camera or additional ambient lighting, ensures that ALPR systems perform consistently regard- less of external factors.
Q. WHAT ARE SOME EXPANDING USE CASES FOR ALPR TECHNOLOGY BEYOND BORDER SECURITY, LAW ENFORCEMENT, AND PARKING MANAGEMENT? Jason Cook: While ALPR technology is widely used in law en- forcement and parking management, its applications are expand-
ing into other areas. In border security, ALPR systems can moni- tor and control vehicle access, track suspect vehicles, and gather data for intelligence and analysis. Additionally, ALPR is increas- ingly used in retail environments to collect demographic data, monitor customer behavior, and enhance operational efficiency.
Rui Barbosa: Access control via ALPR has grown significantly as prices for systems have decreased. For example, some retailers offer opt-in recognition for preferred customers to offer special- ized services. Schools are also rolling out ALPR as a frictionless access control method for students and staff.
Q. HOW DO PRIVACY AND REGULATORY CONSIDERATIONS AFFECT THE DEPLOYMENT OF ALPR SYSTEMS?
Jason Cook: As ALPR technology evolves, so do privacy and regulatory compliance considerations. In regions like Europe, stringent regulations such as GDPR require careful handling of personal data. ALPR providers must ensure that their systems comply with these regulations, protecting the privacy of individu- als while providing robust security solutions.
Rui Barbosa: I some countries, ALPR-enabled cameras on private property may only be allowed to capture plates entering the prop- erty. Cameras must be mounted at distinct angles and in some cases, masking is employed to limit the cameras range of view. Ensuring transparency and adhering to regulatory requirements helps main- tain public trust and supports the ethical use of ALPR technology.
Q. IN CONCLUSION, HOW DO YOU SEE THE
FUTURE OF ALPR TECHNOLOGY ADVANCING?
Jason Cook: The advancements in ALPR technology, driven by improvements in camera hardware and image processing capabili- ties, have made it a powerful tool for various applications. The inte- gration of ALPR software into standard CCTV cameras, the move towards edge computing, and the collaboration between ALPR providers and camera manufacturers have significantly enhanced the accuracy, efficiency, and accessibility of ALPR systems.
We are getting requests from organizations wanting to enhance the automation of tasks, which requires more general optical char- acter recognition (OCR). Our latest VaxOCR Genesis reader is an example of that technology that recognizes Latin characters and numbers, such as ID cards, stock labels, receipts and more.
Rui Barbosa: As AI-enabled cameras become increasingly sophis- ticated, we expect to see more emphasis on accurately detecting make, model, and color information in addition to plate numbers to recog- nize vehicles of interest and enhance verification of vehicles customers wish to track. When integrated with AI-based analytics, ALPR and generic OCR provide a wealth of additional information. Whether it is parking, law enforcement, traffic management,
security, access control, logistics or smart cities, advances in ALPR technology are paving the way for streamlined security and operations.
Ralph C. Jensen is the publisher and editor in chief for Security Today magazine.
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