Solution and Benefits
Stadtverkehr Lubeck (SL) commissioned a planning agency to develop a security solution that would integrate harmoniously and discreetly into the existing infrastructure, but would still be visible enough to discourage potential offenders. The previous analog surveillance system had finally reached the limits of its technical capabilities, and needed a comprehensive, yet cost-efficient upgrade with modern, powerful camera and video components. SL's final choice of components for a digital camera/video management system was driven by the need for premium image quality, as provided by Basler's IP cameras. Before system implementation, all components were extensively tested and evaluated in mock-up installations.
Another decisive factor was the reliable performance of Basler IP cameras in a 24/7 outdoor environment. The cameras' versatility provides for accurate color rendering under many different conditions. Although the premises are permanently illuminated, the periods of low light conditions at and around the bus terminal pose a challenge for any video surveillance system. However, the cameras never switch to black and white mode, but remain in color mode both day and night.
Another challenge was supplied by the structure of the outer bus stops across the street. Newly erected masts have been color-coordinated to help them integrate unobtrusively into the environment. These masts hold several IP fixed dome cameras that monitor this area discreetly and efficiently.
Application
SL provides regional public bus transport in and around the city of Lubeck, and the ferry service between Lubeck and Travemunde. It currently operates 148 buses. The starting point of all bus lines is the main bus terminal; located adjacent to Lubeck's central railway station, it facilitates easy transfers between rail and bus services for residents and visitors alike.
Passenger safety is a major concern for the company, during the bus ride itself, but also in the waiting times at and around the terminal facilities, before bus departures or after arrival. The old video system needed a complete renewal, so SL decided on a comprehensive review of its surveillance system for indoor and outdoor use.
On the central "island" of the bus terminal, IP fixed dome and IP fixed box cameras were installed into the roof structure, to cover the bus stops and their immediate surroundings. One camera is directly linked to the SOS telephone. When a user pushes the emergency button, the monitor in the control center automatically switches to that specific camera. Hence, quick help can be sent in the case of an emergency. A high-performance LAN, which runs separately from all other IT applications for security reasons, transmits all the collected image data to the monitors in the control center at the bus depot, and in the office at the bus terminal itself.
Since SL wanted to be able to configure the system and, if necessary, to perform the technical support themselves, the planning agency emphasized easy handling, right from the beginning of the project. With Basler IP cameras, users can specifically select the areas of interest, while specifically excluding others from surveillance. At the Lubeck bus terminal, all private areas and staff are protected from the cameras' view. Data protection officials and SL's Works Council were consulted to approve the areas to be monitored and the maximum storage time of all recorded image data. According to company agreements, the system automatically deletes all recorded data after 72 hours, except in cases of a registered police report. Then, and only then, the recordings are accessed by the police or the District Attorney's Office and consulted for investigation.
The video surveillance system is primarily designed to monitor all transfer connections within the regular service, to assure smooth operation throughout the entire bus system, especially in off-peak times. This discreet and reliable surveillance solution met the customer's needs precisely. "All our requirements regarding this new surveillance system were fulfilled", explains Steffen Hahnewald, SL's IT Manager. "We now have a system that delivers premium image quality, that operates reliably during day and night and in all weather conditions, and that can be easily handled by our staff. "