Systems and methods for automated visual surveillance

Embodiments relate to systems, devices, and computer-implemented methods for performing automated visual surveillance by obtaining video camera coordinates determined using video data, video camera metadata, and/or digital elevation models, obtaining a surveillance rule associated with rule coordinates, identifying a video camera that is associated with video camera coordinates that include at least part of the rule coordinates, and transmitting the surveillance rule to a computing device associated with the video camera. The rule coordinates can be automatically determined based on received coordinates of an object. Additionally, the surveillance rule can be generated based on instructions from a user in a natural language syntax.

BACKGROUND

Computer vision systems can be used for automated visual surveillance by setting up a video camera to stream a video feed, associating surveillance rules with positions within the video feed, and determining that objects within the video feed violate the rules. For example, a rule can be to notify a user if an object enters into a selected area within the video feed.

However, such a system has numerous shortcomings. For example, the camera must remain static because if the camera is moved, a previously selected area within the video feed will no longer be associated with the same physical area being monitored. Additionally, rules are associated with a specific camera feed, and cannot be applied to views from other video cameras. Further, rules and areas associated with the rules have to be manually entered, which can require significant manual effort and is prone to human error.

Accordingly, there is a desire for methods, systems, and computer readable media for improved automated visual surveillance in computer vision systems.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure relates to systems, devices, and methods for improved automated visual surveillance.

Implementations of the present teachings relate to methods, systems, and computer-readable storage media for performing automated visual surveillance by obtaining video camera coordinates determined using video data, video camera metadata, and/or digital elevation models, obtaining a surveillance rule associated with rule coordinates, identifying a video camera that is associated with video camera coordinates that include at least part of the rule coordinates, and transmitting the surveillance rule to a computing device associated with the video camera.

In at least one embodiment, the rule coordinates can be automatically determined based on received coordinates of an object.

In at least one embodiment, the surveillance rule can be generated based on instructions from a user in a natural language syntax.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings. Wherever convenient, the same reference numbers are used in the drawings and the following description refers to the same or similar parts. While several examples of embodiments and features of the present disclosure are described herein, modifications, adaptations, and other implementations are possible, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the following detailed description does not limit the present disclosure. Instead, the proper scope of the disclosure is defined by the appended claims.

FIG. 1is a diagram depicting an example of an automated visual surveillance environment, consistent with certain disclosed embodiments. In particular,FIG. 1depicts an automated visual surveillance environment100that includes a computing device110, a video camera120, and a monitored object130.

In some embodiments, computing device110can each represent any type of one or more computing devices that can send instructions to video camera120, receive video data and metadata from video camera120, determine coordinates of a field-of-view (FOV) of video camera120(e.g., FOV140), receive surveillance rules (hereinafter “rules”) from a centralized information system (CIS) (not pictured) associated with coordinates, determine physical locations of objects (e.g., monitored object130) within the FOV of video camera120, determine whether rules are broken, generate alerts based on broken rules, and stream monitored object information, as described in further detail below. In various embodiments, computing device110can be, for example, a server, a mainframe, a proprietary and/or custom built device, etc.

In some implementations, computing device110can obtain and utilize digital elevation model (DEM) data to determine more precise physical locations of objects, as described in further detail below.

In some embodiments, video camera120can represent any type of one or more video cameras that can receive instructions from computing device110and send video data and metadata to computing device110. In various embodiments, video camera120can be a capable of capturing video data in one or more spectrums, including, visible, infrared, ultraviolet, etc. Additionally, in further embodiments, video camera120can include pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) functionality, rangefinder functionality, etc.

In some embodiments, video camera120can include or be connected to a sensor device. The sensor device can include one or more sensors, such as a Global Positioning System (GPS) sensor or an inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensor. In other embodiments, video camera120can include laser emitters and/or detectors, radar capability, etc. In various embodiments, information collected using the one or more sensors, emitters, detectors, and the like, can be stored, sent, and/or streamed as metadata. For example the metadata can be streamed to computing device110.

In some implementations, video camera120can include functionality for detecting its location (e.g., using a GPS sensor), as well as geometric information regarding its current FOV (e.g., using an IMU sensor). FOV140can represent a current FOV of video camera120. In various embodiments, video data captured in the current FOV of video camera120can be stored, sent, and/or streamed. For example the video data can be streamed to computing device110.

In some embodiments, video camera120can detect its view angle (e.g., 15 degrees from horizontal), its height off the ground (i.e., altitude), an azimuth angle, and the bounds of its FOV using an IMU sensor. In some embodiments, the bounds of the FOV of video camera120can be expressed as the coordinates of the center of the FOV and vertical and horizontal angles to the edges of the FOV. In other embodiments, the bounds of the FOV of video camera120can be determined based on the focal length of the FOV and the center of the FOV.

In various embodiments, the location and geometric information regarding the FOV of video camera120(e.g., view angle, altitude, FOV bounds, etc.) can be stored as metadata and/or sent or streamed as metadata to computing device110.

In some embodiments, computing device110and video camera120can be part of the same structure and connected via one or more wired and/or wireless connections. For example, as depicted inFIG. 1, computing device110and video camera120can be connected to tower160. In some implementations, tower160can be a trailer-mounted tower with mounted surveillance systems, such as a Ground-Based Operational Surveillance System (G-BOSS) tower.

In other embodiments, computing device110and video camera120can be parts of a single device, while, in further embodiments, computing device110and video camera120can be remote to one another.

As shown inFIG. 1, video camera120has FOV140that includes monitored object130(a vehicle). Based on data received from video camera120, including video data and metadata that includes the location of video camera120and geometric information of video camera120, a computing device (e.g., computing device110or a centralized information system, described in further detail below) could determine, based on a flat-earth model target geolocation, that monitored object130is at location150. Based on the geolocation, the computing device could also determine that monitored object130is of a relatively large size, potentially too large to be a vehicle.

However, as shown inFIG. 1, monitored object130is a vehicle and is not at location150, but is actually at location170, and, by using a flat-earth model target geolocation, the computing device is unable to account for the raised elevation of location170.

Alternatively, the computing device can utilize DEM data with the video data and the metadata, as discussed in further detail below, to account for the raised elevated of location170and determine that the physical location of monitored object130is location170. Additionally, the computing device can determine that size of monitored object130is within a size range of a vehicle. Therefore, using DEM data, the computing device is able to, for example, determine physical locations of objects with a higher degree of accuracy, determine object sizes with a higher degree of accuracy, and determine object types with a greater degree of accuracy.

The diagram depicted inFIG. 1is merely for the purpose of illustration and is not intended to be limiting. Further, the automated visual surveillance environment depicted is merely a simplified example of an automated visual surveillance environment, consistent with certain disclosed embodiments, but this example is not intended to be limiting and many variations are possible. For example, in various embodiments, the automated visual surveillance environment can include additional video cameras, computing devices, etc.

FIG. 2is a diagram depicting an example of a distributed automated visual surveillance system, consistent with certain disclosed embodiments. In particular,FIG. 2depicts a distributed automated visual surveillance system200that includes a computing device210, a computing device220, a computing device230, a centralized information system240, and a network250.

In some embodiments, computing device210, computing device220, and/or computing device230can each represent any type of one or more devices that can send instructions to video camera215, video camera225, and video camera235, respectively, receive video data and metadata from video cameras215-235, determine coordinates of the FOVs of video cameras215-235, send coordinates of the FOVs of video cameras215-235to CIS240, send and/or stream video data and/or metadata to CIS240, receive rules from CIS240corresponding to determined coordinates of FOVs, determine physical locations of objects (e.g., monitored object130inFIG. 1) within the FOVs of video cameras215-235, determine whether rules are broken, generate alerts based on broken rules, and stream monitored object data, as described in further detail below. For example, computing device210, computing device220, or computing device230can represent computing device110inFIG. 1and video camera215, video camera225, or video camera235can represent video camera120inFIG. 1.

In some implementations, CIS240can represent any type of one or more computing devices that can, for example, communicate with other devices via network250, store rules, receive coordinates from one or more computing devices (e.g., computing devices210-230), receive video data and/or metadata from one or more computing devices (e.g., computing devices210-230), determine coordinates of the FOVs of one or more video cameras (e.g. video cameras215-235), send rules corresponding to received coordinates to one or more computing devices, send instructions to change the FOV of one or more computing devices, etc. In various embodiments, CIS240can represent one or more computing devices such as, for example, a server, a mainframe computer, a laptop computer, and/or a desktop computer.

In some implementations, user device260can represent any type of one or more computing devices that can, for example, automatically generate one or more rules, receive instructions to generate one or more rules, notify users in response to received alerts from one or more computing devices (e.g., computing device210-230), provide streamed monitored object information received from one or more computing devices, etc. In various embodiments, user device260can represent one or more computing devices such as, for example, a server, a mainframe computer, a laptop computer, and/or a desktop computer.

In some embodiments, network250can represent any type of one or more wide area communications networks. For example, network250can include the Internet and/or one or more mobile networks.

The diagram depicted inFIG. 2is merely for the purpose of illustration and is not intended to be limiting. Further, the distributed automated visual surveillance system depicted is merely a simplified example of a distributed automated visual surveillance system, consistent with certain disclosed embodiments, but this example is not intended to be limiting and many variations are possible. For example, in various embodiments, the distributed automated visual surveillance system can include additional computing devices, CISs, user devices, and/or other devices. As an additional example, in some embodiments, user device260and CIS240can be connected via one or more networks (as shown inFIG. 2), can directly connected, can be connected via a local area network, or can represent a single device.

FIG. 3is a flow diagram illustrating an example of a process of providing automated visual surveillance using DEM data, consistent with certain disclosed embodiments. In various embodiments, the process can be performed using a computerized device or devices and a video camera or video cameras. For example, the process can be performed by computing device110and video camera120inFIG. 1or computing device210, video camera215, computing device220, video camera225, computing device230, video camera235, and/or CIS240inFIG. 2. For simplicity of description, the process ofFIG. 3will refer to a video camera (singular) and a computing device (singular). However, in various embodiments, the process described can be performed with multiple video cameras and/or multiple computing devices.

The process can begin in300, when the computing device obtains DEM data. In some embodiments, the DEM data can be specific to the location of the video camera and/or the computing device. In other embodiments, the DEM data may cover some or all possible locations within possible FOVs of the video camera.

In some implementations, the DEM data can be obtained, directly or indirectly (e.g., via a CIS), from the United States Geological Survey (USGS) and/or the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). For example, the National Geophysical Data Center (NGDC), which is part of the NOAA, provides a geospatial online catalog that links to web-published DEMs.

In some embodiments, a DEM can be a digital model or 3D representation of the earth's surface, including objects, geological formations, etc. on the earth's surface, which can be used to define the elevation of a specific point on a map. DEM data may be bathymetric, topographic, or a merged combination of both. DEM data can also range from high-resolution coastal DEM data for local studies to coarser DEM data with global coverage.

In various embodiments, DEM data can be represented as a raster or a heightmap (e.g., a grid of squares) or as a vector-based triangular irregular network (TIN). DEM data is commonly built using data collected using remote sensing techniques and/or land surveying.

In310, the video camera and/or the computing device can initialize metadata for the video camera. For example, the video camera can be pointed due north with an FOV that is parallel to the horizontal by an operator, and the metadata can be initialized as due north with an FOV that is parallel to the horizontal. Accordingly, any movement by the camera (e.g., by panning, tilting, or zooming) can result in an appropriate change in the metadata. For example, if the camera pans 45 degrees to the left of due north, the metadata can indicate that the camera is pointing due west. As an additional example, if the camera tilts 10 degrees down, the metadata can indicate that the camera is −10 degrees from horizontal.

In320, the video camera can be positioned to cover a selected FOV. For example, the computing device can send instructions to the video camera to pan, tilt, or zoom based on operator instructions, based on a monitoring schedule that changes the position of the camera at selected times, based on instructions or a rule received from a CIS, based on instructions or a rule received from a user device, etc.

In330, the video camera can determine, send, and/or stream the metadata associated with the selected FOV. For example, the camera can determine (e.g., based on movement from the initialization position) the cardinal direction (e.g., north, northwest, 15 degrees east of north, etc.) and the vertical direction (e.g. −10 degrees from horizontal, 23 degrees from horizontal, etc.). Additionally, for example, the camera can determine the bounds of the selected FOV. In some embodiments, the bounds of the FOV can be expressed as the coordinates of the center of the FOV and vertical and horizontal angles to the edges of the FOV. In other embodiments, the bounds of the FOV can be determined based on the focal length of the FOV (e.g., based on the current zoom level) and the center of the FOV.

In some embodiments, the metadata can also include a height off the ground (i.e., altitude) of the video camera, which can be manually entered if the height of the video camera is static, or initialized in310if the video camera is capable of moving up and down.

In340, the computing device can obtain video data (e.g., captured in the selected FOV) and metadata from the video camera. For example, if the computing device is connected to the video camera, the computing device can receive the video data and metadata via a direct connection to the video camera. In other embodiments, if the computing device is or includes a CIS (e.g., CIS240inFIG. 2), the computing device can receive the video data and metadata via a computing device connected to the video camera.

In350, the computing device can determine a range of real-world coordinates in the FOV using the video data. In some implementations, latitude and longitude or Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM) coordinates can be determined for the location in the center of the FOV and/or for the bounds of the FOV using the video data and the metadata. For example, using the known coordinates of the camera (e.g., from a GPS sensor or manually entered by an operator), the camera coordinates can be converted into real-world coordinates by projecting the two-dimensional FOV onto the three-dimensional real-world (e.g., using projective geometry, projection transformation matrices, and/or model target geolocation processes).

However, without considering DEM data, the resulting coordinates would be based on a flat-earth model target geolocation. Accordingly, if objects or geological formations are within the FOV, the determined coordinates may not be accurate (e.g., as shown with monitored object130inFIG. 1).

The DEM data can indicate the surface elevation at different latitude and longitude or UTM coordinates. Accordingly, the computing device can account for differences in surface elevation when determining the coordinates. For example, if there is an area of raised elevation at the center of the FOV, the computing device can determine that the coordinates of the center of the FOV is actually closer to the video camera than a flat-earth model target geolocation would indicate. Thus, the computing device can factor in the DEM data when projecting the two-dimensional FOV onto the three-dimensional real-world.

In some embodiments, elevation data can be assigned to pixels in the FOV based on the DEM data, even when the FOV covers different blocks of DEM data. The DEM data is usually stored and available in blocks. Although the location of a video camera is in one block, its FOV may have overlaps with multiple DEM blocks. Instead of using multiple blocks of DEM data simultaneously which may encounter boundary issues, some embodiments build an image to geographic location look up table first for each FOV. This look up table can be computed using the metadata such as the video camera's physical location, heading, focal length and field-of-view angles, as well as the blocks of DEM data around the camera location. For each pixel in the FOV, the look up table provides its corresponding real-world geographic location. With a given video camera monitoring position accuracy requirement, for example, three feet, both image and physical video camera effective monitoring areas can also be computed. The physical effective monitoring range further tells which blocks of DEM data are actually used by the computing device. With the use of this image pixel to geographic location look up table, a downstream system does not need to access the DEM data directly; hence there is no DEM block boundary issue anymore.

In some embodiments, the computing device can determine the range of coordinates within the FOV based on the bounds of the FOV, while, in further embodiments, the computing device can determine the range of the coordinates within the FOV by determining coordinates for all or some of the pixels within the FOV.

In some embodiments, if the computing device is not or does not include a CIS, the computing device can send the range of coordinates to a CIS (e.g., CIS240inFIG. 2).

In360, the computing device can obtain rule(s) associated with the range of coordinates. In some embodiments, if the computing device is or includes a CIS, the computing device can search stored rules based on the coordinates and determine rules, if any, that correspond to the coordinates. If any rules are determined, the computing device can send the rules to a computing device associated with the video camera.

Alternatively, in other embodiments, if the computing device is not or does not include a CIS, the computing device can receive the rules from a CIS in response to sending the range of coordinates to the CIS. Then, the computing device can monitor areas of the FOV that correspond to the obtained rule(s) and determine when and/or if any rules are broken, as discuss in further detail below.

While the functions or operations depicted inFIG. 3are shown as being performed in a particular order, the order described is merely an example, and various different sequences of operations can be performed, consistent with certain disclosed embodiments. For example, obtaining the DEM data in300can be performed after initializing the metadata in310, after positioning the video camera in330, after determining the metadata in330, or after obtaining the video data and the metadata in340.

FIG. 4is a flow diagram illustrating an example of a process of receiving instructions to generate rules, consistent with certain disclosed embodiments. In various embodiments, the process can be performed using a computerized device or devices. For example, the process can be performed by user device260or CIS240inFIG. 2. For simplicity of description, the process ofFIG. 4will refer to a computing device (singular). However, in various embodiments, the process described can be performed with multiple computing devices.

The process can begin in400, when the computing device obtains instructions to generate a video tripwire rule. In some embodiments, the instructions can include input from a user on a map that indicates a position of a video tripwire and/or input on a streaming video or a static image of an FOV of a video camera that indicates a position of the video tripwire. In further embodiments, the instructions can include a map object, coordinates of an object, and/or instructions to generate the video tripwire rule in a natural language based syntax, as discussed in further detail below.

In some implementations, real-world coordinates of the video tripwire can be determined based on the input (e.g., the latitude and longitude or the UTM coordinates). For example, a map can have coordinates associated with each position, and the coordinates can be determined based on the selected positions of the map corresponding to the tripwire. As another example, an FOV can have coordinates associated with each pixel (e.g., as determined in350ofFIG. 3), and the coordinates can be determined based on the pixels corresponding to selected positions of the tripwire.

Additionally, in some embodiments, the instructions can include specific parameters for the tripwire rule. For example, a parameter can be that the rule can only be broken by a certain type of object, by an object traveling within a certain range of speeds, by an object within a certain size range, by an object with a heading in a certain direction, by an object crossing the tripwire within a certain time range, etc.

Additional details regarding video tripwires are discussed in further detail in U.S. Pat. No. 6,696,945, granted 24 Feb. 2004, entitled Video Tripwire, and U.S. Pat. No. 6,970,083, granted 29 Nov. 2005, entitled Video Tripwire, which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

In410, the computing device can obtain instructions to generate an area of interest rule. In some embodiments, the instructions can include input from a user on a map that indicates a position of an area of interest and/or input on a streaming video or a static image of an FOV of a video camera that indicates a position of the area of interest. In further embodiments, the instructions can include a map object, coordinates of an object, and/or instructions to generate the area of interest rule in a natural language based syntax, as discussed in further detail below.

In some implementations, real-world coordinates of the area of interest can be determined based on the input (e.g., the latitude and longitude or the UTM coordinates). For example, a map can have coordinates associated with each position, and the coordinates can be determined based on the selected positions of the map of the area of interest. As another example, an FOV can have coordinates associated with each pixel (e.g., as determined in350ofFIG. 3), and the coordinates can be determined based on the pixels corresponding to the area of interest.

Additionally, in some embodiments, the instructions can include specific parameters for the area of interest rule. For example, a parameter can be that the rule can only be broken by a certain type of object, by an object traveling within a certain range of speeds, by an object within a certain size range, by an object with a heading in a certain direction, by an object being in the area of interest within a certain time range, by an object remaining in the area of interest and/or remaining static in the area of interest for a certain amount of time (i.e., loitering), by an object entering the area of interest, by an object leaving the area of interest, by an object appearing in the area of interest, by an object disappearing from the area of interest, by a first object leaving behind a second object in the area of interest, etc.

In420, the computing device can obtain instructions to generate an approach rule. In some embodiments, the instructions can include input from a user of a selected video camera and a distance from the video camera for the approach rule. In further embodiments, the instructions can include a map object, coordinates of an object, and/or instructions to generate the approach rule in a natural language based syntax, as discussed in further detail below.

In some implementations, real-world coordinates of the approach rule can be determined based on the input (e.g., the latitude and longitude or the UTM coordinates). For example, the selected video camera or object can have coordinates associated with it, the real-world coordinates of the approach rule can be determined based on the coordinates of the video camera and the distance from the video camera for the approach rule. In further embodiments, the instructions can include coordinates of an object and/or instructions to generate the approach rule relative to the object in a natural language based syntax, as discussed in further detail below.

Additionally, in some embodiments, the instructions can include specific parameters for the approach rule. For example, a parameter can be that the rule can only be broken by a certain type of object, by an object traveling within a certain range of speeds, by an object within a certain size range, by an object with a heading towards or away from the video camera or object, by an object approaching the video camera or object within a certain time range, etc.

In some implementations, the instructions can instruct the computing device to determine an estimated time of arrival of an object that is within a certain distance of the video camera or object. For example, the speed, heading, and position of the object can be determined and used to determine the estimated time of arrival.

In430, one or more of a tripwire rule, an area of interest rule, or an approach rule can be sent to the CIS (e.g., CIS240inFIG. 2), and the CIS can store the rules. In embodiments where the CIS performs one or more of400-420, the CIS can store the rules in430.

In some embodiments, the CIS or the user device can identify whether any video cameras connected to the CIS or the user device have the ability to monitor an area corresponding to the determined coordinates of a tripwire rule, an area of interest rule, and/or an approach rule. For example, each video camera can be associated with its physical location and/or the coordinates of possible FOVs of the video camera. Accordingly, the coordinates of the rule can be used to search the coordinates of the video cameras and/or the coordinates of possible FOVs of the video cameras. In further embodiments, if the rule and/or coordinates associated with the rule are identified as high-priority and the coordinates remain out of view of video cameras connected to the CIS or the user device, the CIS or the user device can send the rule and instructions to a computing device associated with a video camera that is identified to have a possible FOV that matches the coordinates associated with the rule. The instructions can be for the video camera to adjust its FOV to cover the coordinates of the rule.

While the functions or operations depicted inFIG. 4are shown as being performed in a particular order, the order described is merely an example, and various different sequences of operations can be performed, consistent with certain disclosed embodiments. For example, only one of400,410, or420may need to be performed prior to sending and/or storing the rule(s) in430. Accordingly, in some embodiments, instructions can be received to generate a tripwire rule, an area of interest rule, or an approach rule, and the rule can be sent to the CIS and/or stored after it is generated and before any other rules are generated.

FIG. 5is a flow diagram illustrating an example of a process of providing automated visual surveillance using DEM data, consistent with certain disclosed embodiments. In various embodiments, the process can be performed using a computerized device or devices and a video camera or video cameras. For example, the process can be performed by computing device110and video camera120inFIG. 1or computing device210, video camera215, computing device220, video camera225, computing device230, video camera235, and/or CIS240inFIG. 2. For simplicity of description, the process ofFIG. 5will refer to a video camera (singular) and a computing device (singular). However, in various embodiments, the process described can be used with multiple video cameras and/or multiple computing devices.

In some embodiments, the process can begin after DEM data is obtained (e.g.,300inFIG. 3), metadata is initialized (e.g.,310inFIG. 3), and the video camera is positioned (e.g.,320). In500, the computing device can obtain and monitor the video data and metadata received from the video camera based on rule(s) received from the CIS (e.g.,370inFIG. 3). For example, the computing device can determine when and/or if any rules are broken and/or stream target information. Monitoring video data and metadata is discussed in further detail below.

In510, the computing device can detect whether a change in the position of the video camera has occurred based on the video data or the metadata from the video camera. For example, if the video camera pans, tilts, or zooms, the metadata received from the video camera can indicate that the bounds of the FOV have changed, that the cardinal direction has changed, that the vertical direction has changed, that the altitude of the camera has changed, etc.

If no change is detected (NO in510) (i.e., the video camera remains stationary) the processes can remain in500, and the computing device can monitor video data and metadata.

If a change is detected (YES in510) then, in520, the computing device can determine a range of real-world coordinates in the new FOV using the video data, the metadata, and, in some embodiments, the DEM data, as described above in350ofFIG. 3.

In some embodiments, if the computing device is not or does not include a CIS, the computing device can send the range of coordinates to a CIS (e.g., CIS240inFIG. 2).

In530, the computing device can obtain rule(s) associated with the range of coordinates. For example, if the computing device is or includes a CIS, the computing device can search stored rules based on the new range of coordinates and determine rule, if any, that correspond to the coordinates. If any rules are determined, the computing device can send the rules to a computing device associated with the video camera.

Alternatively, in other embodiments, if the computing device is not or does not include a CIS, the computing device can receive the rule(s) from a CIS after the CIS obtains the new range of coordinates and determines which rules, if any, correspond to the range of coordinates.

The process can then return to500, and the computing device can monitor video data and metadata to determine if any of the newly obtained rule(s) are broken, as discussed in further detail below.

While the functions or operations depicted inFIG. 5are shown as being performed in a particular order, the order described is merely an example, and various different sequences of operations can be performed, consistent with certain disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 6is a flow diagram illustrating an example of a process of monitoring video data and/or metadata, consistent with certain disclosed embodiments. In various embodiments, the process can be performed using a computerized device or devices and a video camera or video cameras. For example, the process can be performed by computing device110and video camera120inFIG. 1or computing device210, video camera215, computing device220, video camera225, computing device230, and/or video camera235inFIG. 2. For simplicity of description, the process ofFIG. 6will refer to a video camera (singular) and a computing device (singular). However, in various embodiments, the process described can be used with multiple video cameras and/or multiple computing devices.

In further embodiments, the process described inFIG. 6can represent the process performed by the computing device in500ofFIG. 5, when the computing device obtains and monitors video data and metadata received from the video camera based on obtained rules.

The process can begin in600, when the computing device identifies an object within the current FOV of the video camera. For example, the computing device can detect whether there is a change in lighting or color in the video data, changes in position or shape of objects that were previously static in the current FOV of the video camera, etc. Additionally or alternately, for example, the computing device can use feature detection processes such as edge detection, corner detection, blob detection, etc. on the video data to determine whether there is a change in the video data and/or whether the change corresponds to an object.

In some implementations, the computing device may only monitor pixel locations within the FOV that correspond to at least one rule (e.g., rules obtained in370ofFIG. 3 and/or 540ofFIG. 5). This can allow for faster detection times and/or reduced power consumption. For example, a rule can correspond to real-world coordinates (e.g., latitude and longitude or UTM, as described above), and the computing device can associated pixel locations with real-world coordinates (e.g., as determined in350ofFIG. 3 and/or 520ofFIG. 5). Accordingly, the computing device may only monitor pixels that are associated with real-world coordinates that correspond to one or more rules.

In other implementations, areas of the FOV that are identified as corresponding to the sky may not be monitored. In further implementations, monitoring video data can be turned off if no pixel locations within the FOV correspond to at least one rule.

In some embodiments, the computing device can additionally determine a type of the identified object. For example, the computing device can use one or more model databases that include a collection of geometric models of objects to be recognized (e.g., humans, different types of vehicles, etc.). Using a model database can be combined with feature detection processes such as, for example, edge matching, interpretation trees, scale-invariant feature transform (SIFT), speeded up robust features (SURF), etc.

In some implementations, the process may only proceed to610if a type of the identified object is determined and if the type matches a type of object to be monitored. For example, the computing device can be instructed to only monitor humans or vehicles. Accordingly, the process would only proceed if the type of the identified object is a human or a vehicle. In some embodiments, the type of objects to be monitored can be received from a CIS and/or can be determined based on rules received from the CIS.

In other implementations, the process can proceed to610regardless of the type of the identified object and/or the type of the identified object may not be determined.

In610, the computing device can determine if the identified object broke one or more of the rules. For example, the computing device can determine if the identified object crossed a tripwire from a tripwire rule, entered an area of interest from an area of interest rule, is approaching the video camera or other object based an approach rule, etc. Additionally, for example, the computing device can determine whether the object meets one or more parameters for the appropriate rule. For example, the computing device can determine the speed, size, heading, etc. of the object and determine whether the one or more parameters of the rule are met.

If no rule is broken and/or the parameters for a rule that would be broken are not met (NO in610), the process can return to600when another object is identified within the FOV.

If a rule is broken and any parameters are met (Yes in610), the process can proceed to620where an alert is generated. In some embodiments, an alert can include an identification of the object (e.g., the type of the object), an indication of the rule broken by the object (e.g., the type of rule broken and/or coordinates associated with the rule), an image or video of the object, and/or determined information about the object (e.g., speed, size, heading, estimated time of arrival, etc.).

In some embodiments, the alert can be sent to a user device, such a desktop computer, a laptop, a mobile device, etc. For example, the alert can be send to user device260inFIG. 2. In some implementations, the alert can be transmitted over a wired and/or wireless network (e.g.,250inFIG. 2) and can activate a computer or mobile application. The activation can cause the alert to display the information included in the alert. The activation can also allow a user to save the alert, ignore the alert, and/or receive streamed object information corresponding to the identified object (streamed by the computing device in630).

In630, the computing device can stream information about the identified object. In some embodiments, the computing device can send, for example, images or a streamed video of the object and/or regularly updated information about the object (e.g., location, speed, size, heading, etc.). For example, the computing device can stream the information to the user device that received the generated alert in620.

While the functions or operations depicted inFIG. 6are shown as being performed in a particular order, the order described is merely an example, and various different sequences of operations can be performed, consistent with certain disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 7is a flow diagram illustrating an example of automatically generating a rule, consistent with certain disclosed embodiments. In various embodiments, the process can be performed using a computerized device or devices. For example, the process can be performed by user device260or CIS240inFIG. 2. For simplicity of description, the process ofFIG. 7will refer to a computing device (singular). However, in various embodiments, the process described can be performed with multiple computing devices.

The process can begin in700, when the computing device obtains coordinates associated with a new rule. In some embodiments, obtaining the coordinates can be received in the form of an input file that includes the coordinates of an object. For example, a user may wish to create a new rule for an object having a known location (e.g., a building, an oil pipeline, etc.), and, accordingly, the user can upload a file to an application on the computing device performing the method described inFIG. 7, and the file can include a range of coordinates (e.g., latitude and longitude or UTM coordinates) associated with the object.

In other embodiments, obtaining the coordinates can be received in the form of a name of a map object (e.g., a street name, a river name, etc.). For example, a user may wish to create a new rule for an object on a publicly available digital map, and, accordingly, the user can indicate the map object (e.g., by name or position), and the computing device can determine a range of coordinates (e.g., latitude and longitude or UTM coordinates) associated with the map object based on publicly available digital mapping data.

In some embodiments, the computing device can also receive a keyword associated with the object. For example, a user can enter the keyword or the keyword can be included in the file uploaded to the application.

In710, the computing device can obtain the instructions to create a rule associated with the coordinates received in700(e.g., the coordinates of the object with a known location). In some embodiments, the instructions can be received from the user in a natural language syntax. For example, the instructions can be received as a string that includes the text: “notify on all people or vehicles approaching within 30 meters of the pipeline.”

In some implementations, when the rule is received from the user in a natural language syntax, the computing device can parse the string for keywords. For example, the word “notify” can be identified, and the computing device can create a rule that generates an alert when the rule is broken. As a further example, the words “all people or vehicles” can be identified, and the computing device can create a rule that can only be broken when the identified object type is human or vehicle and makes no distinction between types of humans or types of vehicles. As another example, the word “approaching” can be identified, and the computing device can create an approach rule. As an additional example, the words “within 30 meters” can be identified, and the computing device can determine coordinates that correspond to “within 30 meters,” as discussed below. As a further example, the word “pipeline” can be identified as a keyword associated with coordinates obtained in700, and the computing device can, accordingly, use the coordinates obtained in700to create the new rule.

In720, the computing device can determine coordinates associated with the rule. In various embodiments, the coordinates can be determined based on the coordinates received in700, the type of rule (e.g., tripwire, area of interest, or approach), and other parameters provided by user in710(e.g., a distance from the object with a known location or map object). For example, if the type of rule is identified as an approach rule and the user specifies “within 30 meters,” the coordinates 30 meters away from the edge coordinates of the object with the known location or map object can be associated with the rule.

In730, the created rule can be sent to the CIS (e.g., CIS240inFIG. 2), and the CIS can store the rules. In embodiments where the CIS performs one or more of700-720, the CIS can store the rules in730.

In some embodiments, the CIS or the user device can identify whether any video cameras connected to the CIS or the user device have the ability to monitor an area corresponding to the determined coordinates in730. For example, each video camera can be associated with its physical location and/or the coordinates of possible FOVs of the video camera. Accordingly, the coordinates of the rule can be used to search the coordinates of the video cameras and/or the coordinates of possible FOVs of the video cameras. In further embodiments, if the rule and/or coordinates associated with the rule are identified as high-priority and the coordinates remain out-of-view of video cameras connected to the CIS or the user device, the CIS or the user device can send the rule and instructions to a video camera that is identified to have a possible FOV that matches the coordinates associated with the rule. The instructions can be for the camera to adjust its FOV to cover the coordinates of the rule.

While the functions or operations depicted inFIG. 7are shown as being performed in a particular order, the order described is merely an example, and various different sequences of operations can be performed, consistent with certain disclosed embodiments. For example, the computing device can obtain instructions to create a rule in710, can instruct the user to input the coordinates, and then can obtain the coordinates in700.

FIG. 8is a flow diagram illustrating an example of automatically identifying a video camera based on a rule, consistent with certain disclosed embodiments. In various embodiments, the process can be performed using a computerized device or devices. For example, the process can be performed by user device260or CIS240inFIG. 2. For simplicity of description, the process ofFIG. 8will refer to a computing device (singular). However, in various embodiments, the process described can be performed with multiple computing devices.

The process can begin in800, when the computing device obtains coordinates associated with one or more video cameras (e.g., video camera120inFIG. 1. or video cameras215-235inFIG. 2). For example, the coordinates can be received from one or more computing devices connected to the one or more video cameras (e.g., computing device110inFIG. 1. or computing devices210-230inFIG. 2).

In various embodiments, the coordinates be a physical location of a video camera, coordinates within the current FOV of the video camera, and/or coordinates of possible FOVs of the video camera.

In810, the computing device can obtain a rule. In some embodiments, the rule can be one of a tripwire rule, an area of interest rule, or an approach rule. In further embodiments, the rule can be obtained based on user input and/or based on receiving the rule from a user device (e.g., user device260inFIG. 2).

In various embodiments, a rule can be associated with real-world coordinates, as described above.

In820, the computing device can compare the coordinates associated with the rule to coordinates associated with the one or more video cameras.

In some embodiments, the coordinates associated with the rule can be compared to the coordinates of the physical locations of the one or more video cameras, and video cameras that are considered within close proximity of the coordinates associated with the rule, if any, can be identified.

In other embodiments, the coordinates associated with the rule can be compared to the coordinates within the current FOVs of the one or more video cameras, and video cameras that have a current FOV that includes the coordinates associated with the rule, if any, can be identified.

In further embodiments, the coordinates associated with the rule can be compared to the coordinates of possible FOVs of the one or more video cameras, and video cameras with possible FOVs that include the coordinates associated with the rule can be identified. For example, if the rule is identified as a “high-priority” rule, if no video cameras have a current FOV that includes the coordinates associated with the rule, and/or if the coordinates associated with the rule have been out-of-view of the one or more video cameras for a threshold amount of time, the video cameras with possible FOVs that include the coordinates associated with the rule, if any, can be identified.

In830, the computing device can send the rule to computing devices associated with the video cameras that were identified in820. In some embodiments, the computing device can additionally send instructions to one or more video cameras (e.g., via the computing devices associated with the video cameras) to change their position to a new FOV that covers the coordinates associated with the rule (e.g., if the rule is identified as a “high-priority” rule).

While the functions or operations depicted inFIG. 8are shown as being performed in a particular order, the order described is merely an example, and various different sequences of operations can be performed, consistent with certain disclosed embodiments. For example, the computing device can obtain the rule in810, can request coordinates from the one or more video cameras (e.g., coordinates of the video camera, coordinates of the current FOV, possible coordinates of FOVs, etc.), and then can obtain the coordinates in800.

FIG. 9is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware system900for providing automatic visual surveillance, consistent with certain disclosed embodiments. The example system900includes example system components that may be used. The components and arrangement, however, may be varied.

A computer901may include a processor910, a memory920, storage930, and input/output (I/O) devices (not pictured). The computer901may be implemented in various ways and can be configured to perform any of the embodiments described above. For example, the computer901may be a general purpose computer, a mainframe computer, any combination of these components, or any other appropriate computing device. The computer901may be standalone, or may be part of a subsystem, which may, in turn, be part of a larger system.

The processor910may include one or more known processing devices, such as a microprocessor from the Intel Core™ family manufactured by Intel™, the Phenom™ family manufactured by AMD™, or the like. Memory920may include one or more non-transitory storage devices configured to store information and/or instructions used by processor910to perform certain functions and operations related to the disclosed embodiments, such as the methods ofFIGS. 3-8. Storage930may include a volatile, non-volatile, non-transitory, magnetic, semiconductor, tape, optical, removable, non-removable, or other type of computer-readable medium used as a storage device. In some embodiments, storage930can store rules, videos, images, applications, and the like.

In one embodiment, memory920may include one or more programs or subprograms including instructions that may be loaded from storage930or elsewhere that, when executed by computer901, perform various procedures, operations, or processes consistent with disclosed embodiments. For example, memory920may include an automated visual surveillance program925for providing automated visual surveillance using DEM data (e.g., as described with regard toFIG. 3 or 5), generating rules (e.g., as described with regard toFIG. 4), monitoring video data and/or metadata (as described with regard toFIG. 6), automatically generating rules (e.g., as described with regard toFIG. 7), or automatically identifying a video camera (e.g., as described with regard toFIG. 8), according to various disclosed embodiments. Memory920may also include other programs that perform other functions, operations, and processes, such as programs that provide communication support, Internet access, etc. The automated visual surveillance program925may be embodied as a single program, or alternatively, may include multiple subprograms that, when executed, operate together to perform the functions and operations of the automated visual surveillance program925according to disclosed embodiments.

The computer901may communicate over a link with a network960. For example, the link may be a direct communication link, a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), or other suitable connection. The network960may include the Internet, as well as other networks, which may be connected to various systems and devices, such as network250inFIG. 2.

The computer901may include one or more input/output (I/O) devices (not pictured) that allow data to be received and/or transmitted by the computer901. I/O devices may also include one or more digital and/or analog communication I/O devices that allow the computer901to communicate with other machines and devices. I/O devices may also include input devices such as a keyboard or a mouse, and may include output devices such as a display or a printer. The computer901may receive data from external machines and devices and output data to external machines and devices via I/O devices. The configuration and number of input and/or output devices incorporated in I/O devices may vary as appropriate for various embodiments.

Example uses of the system900can be described by way of example with reference to the example embodiments described above.

While the teachings has been described with reference to the example embodiments, those skilled in the art will be able to make various modifications to the described embodiments without departing from the true spirit and scope. The terms and descriptions used herein are set forth by way of illustration only and are not meant as limitations. In particular, although the method has been described by examples, the steps of the method may be performed in a different order than illustrated or simultaneously. Furthermore, to the extent that the terms “including”, “includes”, “having”, “has”, “with”, or variants thereof are used in either the detailed description and the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising.” As used herein, the term “one or more of” with respect to a listing of items such as, for example, A and B, means A alone, B alone, or A and B. Those skilled in the art will recognize that these and other variations are possible within the spirit and scope as defined in the following claims and their equivalents.