Traffic & Transportation

Automatic number-plate recognition (ANPR) is a technology that uses optical character recognition on images to read vehicle registration plates to create vehicle location data. It can use existing closed-circuit television, road-rule enforcement cameras, or cameras specifically designed for the task. ANPR is used by police forces around the world for law enforcement purposes, including checking if a vehicle is registered or licensed. It is also used for electronic toll collection on pay-per-use roads and as a method of cataloguing the movements of traffic, for example by highways agencies.

Regular inspection of rail tracks and the associated components is critical to the efficient and safe operation of railways. However, a number of factors can make inspections costly and time consuming and produce inconsistent results. Traditionally, inspections were performed manually, with skilled inspectors reviewing the tracks visually. Not only was this process time consuming, but often produced inconsistent results derived from subjective assessments and inspector fatigue. Given the large amount of effort required and inconsistent results produced using manual inspection methods, there is significant benefit in developing alternative solutions using non-destructive testing (NDT) methods. Machine vision systems often use a set of cameras paired with lights or lasers used to illuminate the subject. Line-scan technology, a method where individual rows or sets of rows are read from the camera sensor as an object passes through its field of view. The rows are then stitched to form a complete image. Algorithms and measurements are then applied to the image to identify defects. The data can be stored with long-record time DVRs or used for real-time analysis.

Machine vision cameras are integral components in intelligent transportation systems (ITS), facilitating various critical functions such as traffic monitoring, vehicle detection, and license plate recognition. These cameras are strategically deployed at key points along roadways, intersections, and highways to capture real-time images and videos of traffic flow and vehicle movement. Equipped with advanced sensors and image processing capabilities, machine vision cameras analyze the captured data to detect and track vehicles, identify traffic patterns, and monitor congestion levels. Moreover, these cameras enable automated license plate recognition systems to accurately read and record license plate numbers for vehicle identification and law enforcement purposes. By providing valuable data on traffic conditions and vehicle behavior, machine vision cameras enhance road safety, optimize traffic flow, and support the development of smart transportation infrastructures. Additionally, with the integration of artificial intelligence algorithms, machine vision cameras enable predictive analytics and adaptive traffic control, further improving efficiency and safety in intelligent transportation systems.

A red light camera is a form of automated enforcement of traffic safety laws. Red light cameras photograph a vehicle’s license plate if the driver fails to stop at a red light, and the vehicle owner or driver is sent a ticket. Red light cameras should be used to aid traditional enforcement efforts or in locations where traffic stops are impractical or unsafe.