SightLogix IP thermal video analytics systems have been deployed by the New York State Bridge Authority (NYSBA) to protect five large North Hudson River bridges. 

NYSBA is using SightLogix’ smart video perimeter security system to secure the Bear Mountain Bridge, Newburgh-Beacon Bridge, Mid-Hudson Bridge, Kingston-Rhinecliff Bridge and the Rip Van Winkle Bridge which together serve more than 1 million Hudson River crossings each week.

Bridge security requires accurate, reliable intruder detection in a difficult waterside environment. Traditional barriers such as fences aren't feasible for bridges, while physical barriers do not provide the necessary situational awareness over the large areas typical for these settings. In the past, challenges of climate, weather, poor lighting and large areas of coverage have posed additional difficulties. 

Achieving security awareness on and around bridges requires timely, credible alerts with detail to respond. Knowing the nature and location of an intrusion is the key to mounting an effective response. While there are a number of options available, thermal cameras with video analytics have become a best-of-breed solution for waterside requirements. Smart thermal cameras operate day or night, and can “see” what the eye would miss, even over large outdoor areas in complete darkness.

SightLogix technology has been successfully deployed to protect facilities throughout the world for a wide range of outdoor perimeter security applications. SightLogix thermal systems can detect intruders despite background water movement or reflections, making them a uniquely capable solution for bridges. On-board image processing is used to accurately detect a person entering a secure area and filter nuisance alarms such as small animals, birds, and blowing debris, while electronic stabilization is used to eliminate bridge vibrations from causing false alerts. Upon detecting an intruder, the system determines the exact location of the intrusion and can automatically steer Pan Tilt Zoom cameras to zoom in and follow the intruder using PTZ tracking. To endure the challenges of the water environments, SightSensors are enclosed in ruggedized, NEMA 4X nitrogen-sealed enclosures.

Image processing also provides a direct economic benefit as well. The same processing that is used for accurate detection also gives SightSensors extended range, up to two times the distance of traditional thermal cameras. Processing four times the number of pixels is equivalent to processing four times the area, which also doubles the effective operating range. This means fewer cameras are needed to cover larger areas, greatly reducing the infrastructure otherwise needed.

SightLogix systems work with existing video management, PSIM and Access Control systems, without middleware, custom integration or additional equipment. The system supports end-to-end data security, open IT standards and configurable bandwidth.

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