Video cameras support parking lot management
The Virtuose-DE research project aims to optimize traffic by simplifying the search for parking spaces. To this end, the project is developing a cloud-based service platform for Big Data video analysis and data processing in real time. 13 video cameras record the occupancy of 56 parking spaces.
The project, which is funded by the Smart Data technology program of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy, is currently testing its system in a parking garage belonging to project partner Fraunhofer Fokus in Berlin. For this purpose, the occupancy situation of 56 parking spaces is monitored by 13 video cameras. Ten additional cameras support this by analyzing vehicle movements along approximately 350 meters of driving paths in the parking garage.
Intelligent parking space management
The video cameras enable intelligent parking space management, which is urgently needed in large cities in particular due to the scarcity of parking space and increasing traffic volumes. After all, the search for a free parking space is not only a burden on drivers, but also on other road users and the environment. Virtuose-DE provides a remedy: Through the Use of cameras, innovative video analytics and the cloud-based platform creates a system that shows drivers the way from the parking garage entrance to the nearest parking space. Similarly, the platform can also be used to find parking spaces on the street.
Peter Amon, project manager of Virtuose-DE, explains the platform's functionality and potential: "The cameras in conjunction with the video analysis software detect other vehicles in the parking garage as well as the free parking spaces. On this basis, the route to a free parking space is determined and the driver is guided there. In the longer term, it is conceivable that the driver will already leave the vehicle at the entrance to the parking garage and the car will autonomously head for a parking space."
Also more security
The scalable analysis, processing and storage of large volumes of image and video data on the Virtuose-DE platform opens up numerous other possible applications. These include the security of people on public transport as well as the security of major events, buildings and public places. "With Virtuose-DE technology, critical events in public transport, for example, can be detected almost in real time, countermeasures can be initiated immediately and direct influence can be exerted on criminal acts," says Amon, describing the advantages of the system.
About Smart Data
With the "Smart Data - Innovations from Data" technology program, the BMWi is funding a total of 16 lighthouse projects from 2014 to 2018 that are designed to open up the future market for Big Data technologies for the German economy. "Smart Data" is part of the German government's high-tech strategy and digital agenda.
For more information on the Smart Data Technology Program: www.smart-data-programm.de
