Wimbledon-based Ipsotek installed its video analytics software on a trial basis after motion detection and a competitor's analytics proved unable to cope with the demanding conditions at the site. Using thermal imaging cameras, Ipsotek provided scenario-based detection software which met the client's stringent service level agreements (SLAs), particularly governing detection accuracy.
Phil Foreman of Universal Security, the installation company for the project, described the unusual challenges. He said, "We ran trials to determine the best way of detecting intruders and soon came up against complications. "
"The first video analytics system we tried could not distinguish between the constant shadows thrown by this huge revolving structure and movement that might be a genuine threat. But Ipsotek's software has the intelligence to absorb information about conditions that are unique to a location."
Mr Foreman continued, "The complications multiplied, given that the London Eye is not only at a waterfront location but that the water is tidal. It was not possible to put cameras on the river bank with a horizontal view because of waves and tidal movement."
The London Eye is operated by the Merlin Entertainments Group and stands on the south bank of the Thames near Westminster Bridge. During a 30-minute ‘flight', visitors experience views from enclosed glass capsules which can be hired for corporate and private functions. The attraction has won 75 major awards for design, engineering, customer care and services to tourism.
Chris Gomersall, CEO of Ipsotek, said, "The project shows the versatility of our software. If you are underneath the wheel, the likelihood is that you are a customer or legitimate operative. But if you have climbed on top of the structure outside scheduled maintenance times then the client wants alarm bells to ring."
Mr Gomersall continued, "A revolving structure flanked by a tidal river! Conditions couldn't have come much tougher. Ipsotek can now add the London Eye to a list of successful installations at iconic London locations which also include the O2."
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