REMPREX deploys Qognify Ocularis video management system for remote operations centre in Illinois

REMPREX specialises in enabling freight to get where it needs to be, when it needs to be there, through the creation of customised intermodal logistics and transportation operating solutions. It does this by combining a broad suite of value-added services with proprietary technology.

The company transformed the freight checkpoint process with its automated gate system (AGS), and now, with REMPREX at more than 120 rail, port, and transportation facilities throughout the U.S. and Canada, the company is defining the industry yet again by using live data and its proprietary operating platform to take full facility operations to the next level.

Video surveillance cameras

An excellent example of this next-level operation is in REMPREX’s innovative use of video technology to deliver added operational benefits from video surveillance cameras originally installed at rail yards for security and the handling of insurance claims.

By using these insights REMPREX can automatically notify relevant stakeholders

Director of Technology Support / Remote Operation at REMPREX, Joeseph Gruzanski explains: “Video technology and in-camera analytics have evolved so much. We identified an opportunity to create an intelligent camera-based system that would trigger alerts, informing us about the operational impact of an event ahead of time, even before the operation itself knew.” By using these insights REMPREX can automatically notify relevant stakeholders and take action that prevents or mitigates the operational impact of an event.

Camera-based system

At the heart of this intelligent camera-based system is its new Ocularis video management system (VMS) from Qognify. The VMS sits within the REMPREX 24/7 Remote Operations Centre (ROC) based in Illinois. Gruzanski adds: “We evaluated a lot of VMSs and we chose Qognify’s Ocularis because of its wide range of triggering, profiling, and administrative capabilities, as well as its integrating with our cameras which are predominantly from Hanwha Techwin.”

One of the major benefits of the new intelligent video solution is the ability to optimise gating. The ROC boasts an impressive video wall, comprising 36 55-inch screens, displaying video from 24 of its intermodal facilities. It handles more than two dozen terminals and facilitates over 13 million gate transactions annually.

Creating audible notifications

The system is also monitoring the number of people entering its driver assistance buildings/kiosks

“With so many vehicles entering and exiting REMPREX-managed facilities there is the potential for events that slow operations down,” observes Gruzanski. One such example is a sudden influx of traffic that could create a back-up in the queuing area. He explains how the process has been improved: “We are able to use our smart triggering system to create audible notifications, log the event and continually fine-tune our processes.”

As well as detecting vehicles, the system is also monitoring the number of people entering its driver assistance buildings/kiosks. “A sudden increase in drivers may mean more assistance is required, so the ROC can now coordinate with the Support Team to assign people to the task before any delays happen,” adds Gruzanski.

Distributing information appropriately

Having an intelligent system is having a positive impact on the security of REMPREX’s managed facilities, as well as their operational performance.

Automotive facilities are notorious for having intrusion problems

Automotive facilities are notorious for having intrusion problems. Gruzanski continues: “We have preventative measures, such as fencing and crash gating, however, we now use our video system to automatically identify and trigger alerts to our security teams if people congregate in unexpected areas, or breach no-go zones.”

Video analytics capabilities

Looking to the future, REMPREX and Qognify will be working together to discover other areas within the organisation that would benefit from the intelligent system that has been deployed, this is likely to include more API integrations and the addition of further video analytics capabilities.

“We have a different purpose for our VMS, compared to many other organisations, and what continues to impress me about Qognify is its receptiveness and positive reaction to multiple requests and recommendations we have made regarding new features and functionality within Ocluaris. The fact that our voice is heard is extremely appreciated.” Gruzanski concludes: “Utilising an intelligent video-based system to identify and distribute information appropriately has been tremendous for REMPREX.”