Embedded vision systems are integral to modern-day parking lot management, supporting functions such as entry/exit monitoring and parking assistance. These systems combine cameras with local processing units that handle visual data analysis directly on-site, negating the need for external processing centers.
For example, cameras capture vehicle information, such as license plates, and process the data in real time to manage access control for entry and exit management. They also assist in detecting available parking spaces, directing drivers to the nearest open spot, and monitoring vehicles within the lot.
In this blog, you’ll discover the rising importance of real-time AI capabilities in parking lot management, as well as the key camera features of an ideal imaging solution.
Impact of Real-Time AI on Parking Lot Management Systems
Traditional systems rely on external cloud-based servers or additional hardware for AI processing, which can introduce delays and increase costs. However, advanced camera sensors with built-in AI capabilities perform data analysis directly within the device.
Real-time processing supports immediate decision-making, such as recognizing number plates or detecting vehicle movements without the latency associated with off-site processing. Furthermore, these systems are scalable, which enables cost-effective deployment across parking lots of varying sizes.
For instance, e-con Systems’ camera sensors feature ISP tuning and onboard AI processing, which streamline operations by consolidating all necessary functionalities into a single device. It reduces the need for external processing hardware, thereby lowering installation and maintenance costs.
Our sensors are also optimized for low-light conditions and high dynamic range scenarios, making them suitable for various lighting environments in parking lots.
Key Camera Features of Parking Lot Management Systems
Longer cabling options, such as GigE and GMSL
Gigabit Ethernet (GigE) or Gigabit Multimedia Serial Link (GMSL) camera interfaces play an important role in parking lot management systems that require extensive coverage. GigE cameras offer high bandwidth and long cable lengths, making them ideal for large-scale deployments. They support data transmission over long distances, ensuring that even remote cameras can deliver high-quality images to the central system without latency.
GMSL cameras offer high-speed data transfer over coaxial cables, enabling the transmission of video, audio, and control data through a single cable. This simplifies installation and reduces wiring complexity. GMSL technology is also resilient to electromagnetic interference, furthering the parking lot management system’s performance in tough environments.
Choosing the Perfect Camera Interface: GMSL or GigE?
High resolution for superior image quality
High-resolution cameras effectively capture images that are crucial for tasks such as vehicle identification and monitoring. Basically, a higher resolution translates to more pixels, which means clearer images in scenarios where the camera needs to capture small details, such as license plate numbers.
High-resolution cameras also provide greater flexibility for wide coverage, which eliminates the need for too many cameras. It directly lowers the cost of the parking lot management system while still maintaining the right level of detail.
Rolling shutter vs. global shutter
In parking lot management, selecting the right camera technology is crucial for accurate image capture. Rolling shutter cameras, commonly used in indoor parking spaces, capture images line by line. It is ideal for environments in which vehicles move at moderate speeds, ensuring clear and undistorted visuals under typical conditions.
On the other hand, global shutter cameras capture the entire image simultaneously, preventing distortion caused by fast-moving objects. They ensure that every frame is captured with maximum clarity by avoiding motion blur and distortion. Global shutter cameras are a better fit for scenarios where vehicles are in constant motion. These include entry and exit points or dynamic traffic flow areas in which they ensure precise data capture and dependable monitoring.
Field of View (FoV) for parking lot monitoring
In parking lot management, choosing between wide and narrow Field of View cameras depends on the monitoring objectives. Narrow Field of View (NFoV) cameras focus on smaller, specific areas, making them suitable for applications where high detail is necessary. These cameras capture detailed information at entry and exit points in indoor parking spaces. They ensure precise recording of license plates, vehicle models, and driver interactions, supporting tasks like access control and license plate recognition.
In contrast, wide Field of View (WFoV) cameras cover broader areas, thereby reducing the number of cameras needed to monitor large spaces. They are more appropriate for general surveillance in expansive sections of a parking lot, such as monitoring vehicle movement within parking bays or identifying vacant spaces.
Ultimately, for indoor parking spaces, NFoV cameras are often sufficient for monitoring entry and exit points, as their focus on smaller areas delivers the level of detail required.
High sensitivity and quantum efficiency for low-light performance
In parking lot management, low-light performance is critical, especially in dimly lit areas like underground garages or at night. Cameras with high sensitivity capture clear images with minimal light. In cases where more detail is needed in total darkness, RGB-IR cameras, which combine visible and infrared light, can deliver accurate color images and depth.
NIR (Near-Infrared) cameras are ideal for capturing clear visuals in environments with no visible light, providing clear details in pitch-dark conditions. The combination of high quantum efficiency and these technologies ensures the required data is captured, regardless of lighting conditions.
IP67K rating for withstanding harsh conditions
Cameras with the IP67K rating can withstand dust, high-pressure water jets, and extreme temperatures. It ensures consistent performance in outdoor parking lots where they may be exposed to rain, snow, dust, and temperature fluctuations. The sealing and construction of IP67K-rated cameras also prevent water and particulate ingress.
Parking lot cameras are often installed in environments where they face constant exposure to the elements. Hence, the IP67K rating also means these cameras can endure rigorous cleaning processes, which is important in industrial parking lots where debris and contaminants are prevalent.
e-con Systems’ Cameras for Parking Lot Management Systems
e-con Systems has 20+ years of experience in designing, developing, and manufacturing OEM cameras. We have integrated cutting-edge cameras into smart parking solutions for many clients. This has empowered us to recognize the importance of capturing wide-field, high-resolution images from elevated positions like street lights and rooftops.
Our camera modules feature come with features such as high sensitivity, quantum efficiency, optical zoom, HDR, high resolution etc. e-con Systems also supports rapid development with device drivers, applications, and OpenCV integration for ARM processors, which streamlines the design of parking lot solutions.
Some of our parking lot cameras are:
Learn more about our parking lot cameras
Go to our Camera Selector Page to browse our full portfolio.
If you need expert guidance to find the ideal camera for your parking lot management system, please write to camerasolutions@e-consystems.com
Suresh Madhu is the product marketing manager with 16+ years of experience in embedded product design, technical architecture, SOM product design, camera solutions, and product development. He has played an integral part in helping many customers build their products by integrating the right vision technology into them.