One of the more interesting developments for video solutions in recent years has come about as a result of advances in processing. As processors have become faster and capable of dealing with increased loads, so manufacturers have looked at different ways to leverage the new capacity and deliver advanced functionality. AI and deep learning are the most prolific of these, but the use of third-party applications is arguably one of the most flexible solutions.
The use of advanced processing has created something of a sea-change in the video sector. Where once performance parameters needed to be restricted in order to ensure advanced functionality, today’s devices can deliver both high video quality and advanced functionality. The user no longer has to accept compromise to achieve the full benefits of video surveillance.
While steady advances have been made in terms of the capabilities of central hardware such as NVRs and servers, edge devices have often been able to offer very high video quality and advanced functionality, but rarely both at the same time. If image quality was pushed to its maximum, some functions became unavailable. Equally, the addition of additional features often resulted in video configurations being adjusted down automatically.
As the power available from processing chips has increased, not only can edge devices now support high quality video, including 4K UHD and higher, they can also deliver the full range of integral features as well, even where these include processing-heavy functions such as IVA, tracking and dynamic encoding.
Modern cameras can not only deliver quality and functionality, but many still have processing capacity to spare. This has led to a growth in the use of on-camera applications. These third-party apps can be uploaded to a compatible camera, adding functionality which might be specific to a certain application or task. They range from specific analytical tasks, such as people counting or traffic management, to housekeeping and system utilities such as archiving flagged data on a regular basis or switching peripheral devices in response to a system need.
Many cameras supporting third-party apps only support applications from a handful of partners, meaning users can be limited in terms of choice when seeking a bespoke solution. However, there is now an option for a shared OS to be used, allowing a greater level of integration options.
Open platform OS
Bosch has launched INTEOX, a new camera platform designed to modernise the security and safety industry. The first fully open platform of its kind, INTEOX gives users, system integrators and application developers unlimited freedom for innovation and customisation.
The Internet of Things (IoT) presents new opportunities for individuals and businesses. However, to take full advantage of the opportunities that the IoT brings, the safety and security industry must embrace change. Bosch is demonstrating the vast potential of the IoT with INTEOX. The INTEOX open camera platform combines built-in Intelligent Video Analytics from Bosch with a commonly used open OS, and the ability to add software apps securely.
The new powerful platform supports latest technologies. For example neural network based analytics, the next step in machine learning and Artificial Intelligence, is supported.
INTEOX enables app developers and integration partners to take advantage of its built-in intelligence and capabilities to easily develop unlimited software apps based on a common language. At the same time, system integrators can customise their solutions to meet specific and changing customer requirements by adding apps and deploying them into INTEOX cameras.
An open platform approach has already proven successful in the computer and mobile phone market, where software and apps have become an integral part of daily life. For example, apps provide immediate information, instant communication and connection, improved work productivity, and simplified daily tasks. These benefits extend to security cameras. By having an open platform, developers can work with integrators to address their customer’s business challenges.
The INTEOX camera platform will power an entirely new line of MIC, AUTODOME, FLEXIDOME, and DINION fixed and moving cameras supported by an open IoT infrastructure. Developed by Security & Safety Things GmbH, a Bosch start-up company, this IoT infrastructure is based on four pillars: an open OS based on Android Open Source Project and strengthened for increased security; an application store to access relevant apps; a web portal for app developers and designers; a device management portal that shows app and device health statistics and enables easy management of apps.
The INTEOX cameras, together with the IoT infrastructure, enable app developers, system integrators, integration partners, and other market players to create customer-specific apps and insert them easily into INTEOX cameras.
Currently, the Security & Safety Things application store includes over 70 applications including everything from object recognition and intruder detection to container identification and emotion estimation. With applications designed for vertical sectors including airports, hospitals, commercial buildings, retail and entertainment, amongst others, the flexibility ensures bespoke solutions can be designed to meet user needs.