ViconNet VI Technical Overview

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1 April 10, 2008 Vicon Industries Inc. ViconNet VI Technical Overview INSIDE THIS ISSUE: ViconNet VI Page 1 How Does it Work? Page 2 User Interface Page 2-4 System Components Integration Options Detection Options Page 5 Page 6-8 Page 9-13 Design Steps Page 14 Licensing Method Product Codes and Pricing Page 16 Page 17 FAQ Page 18 ViconNet VI Vicon is proud to introduce a new addition to the ViconNet enterprise video management platform, ViconNet VI (Video Intelligence). ViconNet VI offers state of the art, intelligent motion-based analytics of the video provided by the ViconNet system. This option allows the users to increase the usability of the video from the ViconNet system and define unique detections to be automatically reported. Adding ViconNet VI to the system assists in filtering information and allows the operators to focus on real events, thus increasing their effectivity. What is ViconNet VI? ViconNet VI is a software solution based on Vicon s use of a sophisticated algorithm. The actual algorithm and analytics engine is built by Vicon s partner to provide the exact functionality and performance required in the ViconNet system. The concept of ViconNet VI is to offer the right detection tools for the right channel, thereby minimizing the system price and maximizing its performance. Pre-defined behaviors on the video will trigger an alarm event and highlight the actual detection. Written By Guy Arazi, Manager Digital Products Vicon Industries Inc. 89 Arkay Drive, Hauppauge, NY P: (631) F: (631)

2 How Does ViconNet VI Work? The ViconNet VI system is integrated with the ViconNet system through either a software or a hardware interface. Video from the ViconNet system will be provided to the ViconNet VI module for analytics purpose. Specific detections will be defined in the ViconNet VI system to identify and send an alert on certain behaviors found in the video feed. When a detection occurs, the ViconNet VI system will create an alarm and will tag the event in its event log. A graphical overlay on the video will show the exact detection as defined by the user. The user then can classify the event and mark it as a true, false or other type event. ViconNet VI User Interface The user interface for the ViconNet VI system is not built into the ViconNet software. The ViconNet VI applications (these applications are part of the ViconNet VI software package) are: VI-Server: SQL based application; no user interface, handles the database. VI-Proxy: Windows service on the VI-Proxy PC; configured by VI-setup and VI-config applications. VI-Config: Application to configure system devices (proxies, encoders) and hierarchy. VI-Setup: Configuration application; to setup the different detection rules and behaviors. VI-Monitor: Monitoring application; allows live video monitoring as well as detection and alert monitoring. This is the main application for the operator. Events that are detected by the system will generate an alarm in the VI-Monitor window and the same window will be used to classify and follow-up on events. Page 2

User Interface VI-Setup application main screen will be used to set specific

3 VI-Config application main screen will be used to setup the different sites and cameras monitored; the hierarchy will be shown on the site list. User Interface VI-Setup application main screen will be used to set specific rules for behaviors and schedules for the different cameras as they were defined in the VI-Config. Page 3

4 VI-Monitor application main screen will be used as the primary monitoring tool for the ViconNet VI system. All active detections and alarms will be shown on this application. User Interface Page 4

5 ViconNet VI Server (VN-VI-Server or VN-VI-SW) The ViconNet VI Server is the heart of the system. The server will receive the data, apply the detections defined by the user and provide alerts when those behaviors have been detected. Components The Server consists of a PC running an MS SQL server and the ViconNet VI server tools. One server can handle up to 100 cameras with unlimited detections per camera. Any system with ViconNet VI enabled must have at least one ViconNet VI Server. Additional servers can be added to increase the number of cameras analyzed. The server software is not licensed but rather allows the licensing per-camera to be added. Vicon offers a pre-installed server in a desktop or rack-mount chassis as well as a software package for those who wish to install the software on their own hardware. ViconNet VI Proxy (VN-VI-PROXY or VN-VI-SW) The ViconNet VI Proxy is a software module that allows the ViconNet VI system to pull video from any ViconNet device, such as DVR, encoder or IP camera, and provide the data needed for analytics purposes to the ViconNet VI Server. The VN-VI-PROXY consists of a PC running the Proxy software tools. One proxy can handle up to 18 cameras. Any system with ViconNet VI enabled can have as many proxy PCs as needed for the number of camera being analyzed. The proxy software, like the server, is not licensed; it can be installed and configured but will be subject to the detection licenses purchased (see licensing). Vicon offers a pre-installed proxy in a desktop or rack-mount chassis as well as a software package for those who wish to install the software on their own hardware. ViconNet VI Encoder (VI-DSP-2) The analytics encoder is a small form DSP-based unit that offers an analog video input with a looping output and a network connection. The encoder will capture the analog video and provide analytics data to the ViconNet VI Server through the network. The encoder also allows adding the video analytics detection data as an overlay on its loop out. The encoder includes 4 relays that can be triggered as a response to an analytics event. Each video encoder will analyze a single channel of analog video (input 2 is not being used) and comes with a power supply for power input. Page 5

6 Integration through Proxy When ViconNet VI is added to a ViconNet system using the VN-VI-PROXY, the interface is purely software based and uses the network to collect, deliver and alert on specific behaviors. Integration The VI-Proxy software is running on the VN-VI-PROXY unit (or units) and receives, through an API based interface, video from the necessary cameras. That video will be processed, and the information needed for the analytics detections to work will be sent to the VN-VI-Server over the network. This type of integration allows using both analog cameras through DVRs or encoders and IP cameras directly to the network. It does not require any special wiring or connections. Each VN-VI-PROXY will handle up to 18 camera feeds and multiple VI Proxies can be installed to support the necessary number of channels. The computers handling the VI Proxy software are dedicated to this task and can t be used for any other task. Page 6

7 Integration through Encoder When ViconNet VI is added to a ViconNet system using the analytics encoder (VI-DSP-2), the interface is a hardware interface. Integration The analytics encoder receives video through an analog video input; although the unit has two inputs, it will handle a single channel of video for analytics. The encoder will process the video and the information needed for the analytics detections to work, which will be sent to the VN- VI-Server over the network. The video signal is looped out of the encoder and to the DVR/ encoder. This type of integration allows using only analog cameras (no IP cameras) and requires specific wiring to get the video to the unit and back to the DVR/encoder. Each analytics encoder can handle a single channel of video and offers 4 dry contact relays that can be used to trigger dry contacts as a result of a detection. Page 7

8 When to Use What? The choice of using either VN-VI-PROXY or the VI-DSP-2 Encoder depends on a few basic differences between potential systems. The preferred and cost-effective solution involves the necessary number of VN-VI-PROXY units and will take advantage of the network. Comparison In cases where the additional features from the encoder are needed, it should be used. In any system, you will have the option to mix and match both of the solutions to achieve the optimal system. The following table summarizes the differences between the two solutions: VI-Proxy PC-based service can be located anywhere on the network One unit per 18 cameras Can handle analog and IP cameras Over the network integration utilizes ViconNet API to collect video from ViconNet Video is processed and information is sent over the network to the VN- VI-Server for detection Video in ViconNet will not show the detection and tracking graphics (VI- Monitor software needed) Can t control PTZ cameras for tracking and presets No relays are available to operate dry contact-based response to detection VI-DSP-2 Encoder Embedded small form unit needs to be within cabling distance from camera and network 1 encoder per camera Can handle only analog inputs Direct analog input from camera, not API-based Video is processed and information is sent over the network to the VN- VI-Server for detection Video output (loop out) can include an overlay of the detection graphics that can be seen in ViconNet Can control PTZ cameras for tracking and presets 4 relays available for dry contact based response Note: VN-VI-PROXY and VI-DSP-2 can be part of the same system. VI-DSP-2 can also be used for relay purpose only and not for video analytics. These will be tied together by the ViconNet VI system. Page 8

Detection Options Video Motion Detection: VI-VMD

line Move into an area Moving within an area One

9 Detection Options Video Motion Detection: VI-VMD Detections Detect and distinguish between various object types (human, vehicle, etc.) Refer to motion patterns: Crossing a virtual line Move into an area Moving within an area One license per channel Allowed Warning Warning Alert RO Page 9

10 Detection Options Non-Motion Detection: VI-NMD Detections Detect and distinguish between various object types (human, vehicle, etc.) Refer to non-motion patterns: Stopped object (e.g., stopped car) Unattended object One license per channel Page 10

11 Detection Options Video Motion + Non-Motion: VI-VMN Detections Combined license that includes: VI-VMD VI-NMD For use on channel that requires both detections (bundle) One license per channel Object Counting: VI-CNT Detect and distinguish between various object types (human, vehicle, etc.) Count objects Crossing a line In an area (density) Going in and out of an area One license per channel Motion Detection On Different Preset: VI-VMD-PTZ Allow setting different VI-VMD rules for different presets Solve a basic problem with presets changing the camera view Work only with VMD rules Requires a VI-DSP-2 Encoder to work One license per channel Page 11

Detection Options PTZ Auto Tracking: VI-TRACK 9130-08 Detections Auto track an object with a PTZ camera Detect, lock and follow an object with a PTZ camera Requires a VI-DSP-2

12 Detection Options PTZ Auto Tracking: VI-TRACK Detections Auto track an object with a PTZ camera Detect, lock and follow an object with a PTZ camera Requires a VI-DSP-2 Encoder to work One license per channel Crowed Monitoring: VI-CRWD Detect and notify about overcrowded areas Used on: Train platforms Retail areas One license per channel Page 12

Detection Options Behavior Detection: VI-BHV 9130-70

13 Detection Options Behavior Detection: VI-BHV Detections Detect and distinguish between various object types (human, vehicle, etc.) Refer to behavior patterns: Tailgating Loitering One license per channel Page 13

2c at minimum How many cameras require ViconNet VI? -> Add a VN-VI-SERVER Can the VN-VI-PROXY be used or is a VI-DSP-2 required? -> Add VN-VI-PROXY and / or encoders Which licenses are needed?

14 Design Steps When designing a ViconNet VI system, a few rules should be followed in order to achieve the best results at a competitive price. How to Approach System Design Design the ViconNet system first and only then continue to the ViconNet VI part If the system is an existing ViconNet system, verify it s running version 3.2c at minimum How many cameras require ViconNet VI? -> Add a VN-VI-SERVER Can the VN-VI-PROXY be used or is a VI-DSP-2 required? -> Add VN-VI-PROXY and / or encoders Which licenses are needed? -> Add licenses according to specific detections Always remember that the ViconNet VI is a module and can be added according to actual need. Most systems will not require analytics on all the channels, and by defining the needs and expected detections the cost of the system can be significantly reduced. See flow chart on next page for design process. Important Differences from CCTV When designing a system that involves video analytics, keep in mind that certain rules apply to the actual installation and placement of cameras. Part of the documentation is a Best Practices guide for CCTV installations that covers these basic rules. Some existing CCTV installations will have to be modified to allow the right camera height, angle and quality required for the detection to work. Good (Horizontal) Bad (Camera Horizontal) Page 14

15 Design Flowchart Determine the number of cameras you need to analyze Is the analytics for a digital based (DVR/encoder or IP camera) system or a legacy analog (switch/vcr) system Integration with ViconNet or an analog system Analog ViconNet Design the ViconNet system Do you need Analytics encoders Usually in a ViconNet-based system an encoder isn t needed. However, there are some situations where an encoder on some of the channels will be required: - Need a relay output to provide dry contact on alarm - Need graphic overlay feed to DVR - PTZ tracking is needed - Different VMD for different presets is needed - Location-based needs For further details and information, refer to the ViconNet VI technical overview. All channels in an analog system and none or some in a digital one Need Encoders Add encoders for the channel that need these (VN-DSP-2) No Encoders The software package contains all the software needed for any component (server and proxy) in the system. Only one is required per system. For example, if you have 24 channels and, from those, 4 are with encoders you need 1 proxy; if you have 22 channel with no encoders, you need two proxies Are you using Vicon s PC hardware? Vicon Hardware Add Proxy server for each 18 analyzed cameras not using an encoder (VN-VI-PROXY) Customer Hardware Add software package (VN-VI-SW) Advise customer to provide 1 x PC for every 18 analyzed cameras not using an encoder (to run as Proxy) Add analytics server (VN-VI-SERVER) Advise customer to provide a PC to run as a server Identify which camera requires which detection license Add the detection licenses according to the count License Example 1 12 cameras total 1 motion detection 10 non motion detection 1 people counting Add: 1 x VI-VMD 10 x VI-NMD 1 x VI-CNT License Example 2 20 cameras total All motion detection 12 non motion detection 3 people counting 6 crowd detection Add: 8 x VI-VMD 12 x VI-VMN 3 x VI-CNT 6 x VI-CRWD License Example 3 25 cameras total All motion detection All non motion detection 6 people counting 6 crowd detection Add: 25 x VI-VMN 6 x VI-CNT 6 x VI-CRWD Page 15

16 Licensing Method The way ViconNet VI is licensed is different than the general licensing needed for ViconNet. If, and only if, the system requires ViconNet VI capabilities, the necessary components will be added (as described on page 14). Licensing The system will include at least (in order to function), one VN-VI-SERVER and either a VN- VI-PROXY or a VN-DSP-2, and, potentially, few of these. The user can choose to buy the Server and Proxy from Vicon, or they can purchase their own PC hardware and buy the software package alone. In both cases, the installation of the software is only the first step in making the system operational. The next step is to license the software on the server; the licensing process will enable the number of detections specific for this system, for example: A system with 100 cameras total can have 5 x VI-VMD and 5 x VI-CRWD licenses to achieve the desired functionality. The license installed on the server will reflect these licenses and will not allow other or different detections. So how does it work?... After installing the server, the installer will generate a license on the server using a built-in tool. That license will be sent by , with reference original sales order, to Vicon and in return they will get a license file. For further details see the ViconNet VI Software Activation Guide XX Page 16

17 Model Product Code Product Codes and Pricing VI-VMD Video Analytics Motion Detection only (software). Single license. Description User Dealer $ 2,226 $ 1,445 VI-NMD Video Analytics Non-Motion Detection only (software). Single license. VI-VMN Video Analytics Motion and Non-Motion Detection only (software). Single license. VI-CNT Video Analytics Object Counting only (software). Single license. VI-BHV Video Analytics Behavior Detection, includes Tailgating, Loitering, Mantrap Detectors (software). Single license. VI-VMD-PTZ Video Analytics VMD; on different presets on PTZ camera only (software). Single license. VI-TRACK Video Analytics Auto Tracking on PTZ Camera only (software). Single license. VI-CRWD Video Analytics Crowd Detector only (software). Single license. VI-DSP Video Analytics Encoder; one-channel, 4 relays out $ 2,226 $ 1,445 $ 3,350 $ 2,175 $ 886 $ 575 $ 886 $ 575 $ 4,312 $ 2,800 $ 4,312 $ 2,800 $ 886 $ 575 $ 2,072 $ 1,345 VI-ASP-PRO Video Analytics On-Site Engineer for Site Survey/Training; one day VI-ASP-CAL Video Analytics On-Site Engineer for Installation, Configuration, Calibration (Setup); one channel VN-VI-SERVER Video Analytics Server for ViconNet VI; includes software configured for server; up to 100 channels VN-VI-PROXY Video Analytics Proxy Server for ViconNet VI, up to 18 Cameras; includes software configured for Proxy VN-VI-SW ViconNet VI Software for Video Analytics System Capabilities (Server and Proxy) $ 2,000 (fix) $ 1,294 $ 840 $6,160 $ 4,000 $ 6,160 $ 4,000 $ 385 $ 250 Page 17

18 Frequently Asked Questions Q: Does ViconNet VI come built into the ViconNet software? A: No, the ViconNet VI system is an add-on module to a ViconNet system and needs to be purchased Separately. Q: Do I need to buy a license for every camera I have? A: You only need to buy licenses for the cameras you wish to use ViconNet VI on. You don't have to license all the cameras in the system. Q: Is there a limit to the number of cameras that can be handled by the ViconNet VI system? A: There is no limit but you will need to add components as you grow the system. Q: Can I add licenses later? A: Absolutely, you can add additional licenses at any time. Q: What hardware do I need? A: You will need a PC to run the VN-VI-SERVER and, depending on your design, you might require other PCs to run VN-VI-PROXY and/or analytics encoders. Q: If I have my own hardware can I buy software only? A: Yes, Vicon offers a software package (VN-VI-SW) that contains all the software you will need to install on your own hardware (minimum requirement apply). Q: Will my system work out-of the-box? A: No, the system can be installed but will not work until license activation is performed on the server. Q: Do I need the system to have an Internet link in order to work? A: The system itself doesn't have to have an Internet connection, however you will need access (on any computer) to perform the license activation on the server. Q: If I have separate systems (for example in two different states) do I need to activate them separately? A: If the systems are separate and each has its own VN-VI-SERVER the answer is YES (Vicon also recommends that each server s licenses be ordered separately for easier tracking). If the two system are connected by a network and share the same server, you need to activate just that server. Q: Can I change cameras using a specific detection with another? A: Yes, the licenses are purchased for the system. You can choose to remove one camera and connected a different one in its place. Q: Are there specific rules I need to follow for my CCTV system to be used with ViconNet VI? A: Yes there are. Camera mounting and angles are very important; see the Best Practices guide for details. Q: Can ViconNet VI be used in a legacy analog system where there is no ViconNet software? A: Yes, by using the analytics encoder (VI-DSP-2) that can be done. Page 18

ViconNet VI Updates ViconNet Version 5

ViconNet VI Updates ViconNet Version 5 January 13, 2009 Vicon Industries Inc. ViconNet Version 5 I N S I D E T H I S I S S U E : ViconNet VI Page 1 Changes to the system Page 2 ViconNet VI Following the initial introduction of ViconNet VI,