Sep 17 2010
Finland-based VTT Technical Research Centre is advancing image processing systems that can augment the surveillance of discarded luggage in public zones. Various CCTV systems are installed in public areas to collect the images of such materials. Currently no efficient method has been devised for the automatic evaluation of the entire video information and prior recognition of possible risks that are likely to be encountered. VTT is taking part in an EU research scheme for providing IT-based solutions to such issues.
The luggage abandoned in public zones may contain hazardous substances or explosive elements and can cause serious disasters costing many lives. Luggage surveillance is crucial at railway stations, trade fairs, airports and in other significant infrastructures.
The SUBITO project, funded by the European Commission, aims to enhance the image evaluation technology in the prevailing CCTV systems. An application that has been advanced for this project will enable the cameras to realize the discarded luggage automatically, thereby detecting, locating and tracing the person responsible for it. The innovative application has major commercial value, since it tracks the images before any disaster can occur. VTT has devised various tools for the efficient exploitation of the intelligent cameras.
The security personnel can shift the luggage prior the identification of a risk associated with it and the luggage can be handed over to the airport’s or trade fair’s lost property section.
SUBITO can reinforce surveillance in a cost-effective method, since the novel technology is based on the available CCTV systems. Personal issues can be considered easily, since the ultimate user can monitor them in the system. The potential CCTV security system can improve surveillance in public areas.
The SUBITO project is managed by experts from ten collaborative organisations across six European countries with specialists from universities, businesses, research institutes, and end users.
The project will extend upto the end of 2011 and ensures the accession of this technology to security authorities.
Source: http://www.vtt.fi