| A geospatial surveillance system can allow for map-based activity searches. |
Map-Based Presentation of Data
What is a geospatial surveillance system, and what value does it provide in protecting a water facility? A geospatial surveillance system is a technology that relies heavily on location data for primary display, or a map-based graphical user interface (GUI), and for analysis and integration of sensor signals. One of the major advantages is that it provides a high level of situational awareness by allowing for a map-based representation of a system's sensor location, sensor status and dynamic views of current security events. Further, a user can view the GUI and quickly gain an understanding of the current state of events.
This compares to the more traditional systems, where a user, or multiple users, may have to analyze many monitors to understand the status of various sensors. This advantage is similar to using a map when driving to a new location versus using a textual description of the same route. Although both contain value and provide the information to direct the traveler to his or her destination, the map provides a frame of reference and instant visual cues and quickly communicates a large amount of detailed information. This improvement in ease-of-use becomes increasingly important as water security budgets are subjected to growing pressure and there is increased demand to make security operations more efficient.
A geospatial system also provides for user interaction through this same interface. This means sensors can be queried and controlled via a map-based display. Sensors such as spotlights, fixed and PTZ cameras, and acoustic devices used to interrogate or react to an event, can be controlled from the GUI using animated intrusion tracks as a means to direct the sensors to the exact location. This type of user control is very intuitive, resulting in an easier learning curve and less risk of an operational misstep during an event.
Geospatial Sensors
The fundamental components that comprise a geospatial system are the sensors themselves. True geospatial sensors include radars, GPS and smartphones. These sensors provide a large amount of data, including time-based location, direction, speed, and even acceleration. Equally important are sensors that can be geospatially-enabled. These include fence-intrusion systems, which can provide linear location along the fence line, and cameras that can be converted into "visual-radars" through a pixel-to-terrain mapping process called geo-referencing. PTZ cameras, laser illuminators, spotlights, range finders, acoustic devices, and even fixed-position sensors (fire, proximity, door, etc.) can also be enabled to be geospatial, allowing them to be monitored and controlled using latitude and longitude information.
Another essential piece that comprises a geospatial system is the software that allows sensors to be controlled and collaborate via a common operating picture, mainly a physical coordinate system. This means they can effectively communicate with each other using a common geospatial command set, ultimately allowing the system to easily automate many tasks that previously required operator control, including steering cameras to other sensor detections, fusing data and tracks from multiple sensors, and automatically tracking targets and other assets.
