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Creating Intelligent Functions Capable of Wide-Ranging Image Detection

Canon's newest network cameras are capable of transmitting megapixel images (1,280 x 960 pixels) of up to 30 frames per second to viewers. In addition to conventional JPEG image compression, they also use H.264 for high image quality and high compression rates, making it possible to operate high quality monitoring systems while reducing the burden placed on the network. Their web browser-based internal viewer makes it easy to remotely monitor video and images, as well as controlling the camera.
They provide color video under low light conditions, important for monitoring cameras, through the use of Canon-developed bright lenses and image-processing algorithms for effective control of dark area noise, which is common in low lighting.
These cameras also offer various intelligent functions capable of detecting the occurrence of changes in a scene, such as when an intruder or suspicious object enters the field of view, an object is removed, or the camera has been tampered with, thanks to DIGIC NET and its dedicated image detection circuits. These functions use a new algorithm based on the background subtraction technique, in which a specific state is set as the background image. The algorithm uses differences between this baseline image and the current image to detect changes. Conventional motion detection was based on the comparison of image frames with preceding images, and thus it was difficult to detect slow or partial changes. This new algorithm analyzes the difference between an image and the background image, making it possible to continually assess the entire object.
Canon's newest network cameras support the ONVIF^*1 protocol industry standard, providing increased compatibility throughout monitoring systems.

Example of Intelligent Function Operation

Comparison of Background Subtraction and Conventional Methods

• *1 ONVIF (Open Network Video Interface Forum): Standard for protocol system used by network cameras and recording servers

Monitoring and Recording of Remote Video over a Network

Network video-recording software can be used to remotely control network cameras installed in multiple locations, and to record video images from them to a server, while simultaneously allowing them to be displayed on monitors.
In conjunction with intelligent functions of the camera, recording can be started when various events are detected, and control of external devices such as security lamps is also possible. Canon's network video-recording software supports the latest video compression technology, H.264, recording high-quality video with small data sizes, making it possible to reduce system costs such as HDD (hard disk drive) costs.