Thermal imaging cameras are one of the most suitable solutions for making public transport systems safer, according to a recent blog post by FLIR Systems.
Thermal imaging cameras are one of the most suitable solutions for making public transport systems safer, according to a recent blog post by
FLIR Systems.
“Every day, public transportation passengers rely on trains, metros or trams to bring them safely and timely at their point of destination,” the blog post said. “However, accidents caused by fire or by the careless behavior of people can lead to delays as well as severe damage to rolling goods and rail infrastructure. Thermal imaging cameras can detect many of these incidents in time and therefore help public transportation operators take the appropriate measures.”
Traditionally video surveillance cameras are used to monitor public transport environments such as metro platforms or railway tracks. However, although these are reliable tools for video analysis, they need additional algorithms to overcome several limitations. For proper operation in the night, additional light may also be needed. Moreover, regular video surveillance cameras could be blinded by light from sun or the train. These are some of the reasons due to which FLIR recommends the use of thermal cameras over regular cameras in this vertical.
“Thermal imaging cameras can overcome all of these limitations, because they create a crisp image based on subtle temperature differences and are not affected by environmental challenges, such as total darkness, smoke or fog,” FLIR noted. “They do not need any light whatsoever and can’t be blinded by direct sunlight; they are therefore an ideal source for detection on a 24/7 basis.
“Thermal imaging cameras produce images of invisible infrared or “heat” radiation. Based on temperature differences between objects, thermal imaging sensors produce a clear image in any lighting condition, day or night. Thermal imaging cameras will allow railway operators to detect trespassers, stopped cars on tracks, people falling from platforms on tracks, people walking in tunnels, etc.”
People and vehicle detection at crucial points
Thermal cameras become especially useful in places like tunnels where it can detect people and warn an operator with the relevant information. In places such as level crossings, thermal cameras can prevent collisions between trains and obstacles by detecting if a vehicle stops on tracks and is blocking the path of an oncoming train.
“An operator can view the threat in his workstation and decide which safety scenario is appropriate,” said FLIR in its blog. “A vehicle-train collision can be prevented by warning the approaching train/tram through rail signals, warning lights or directly to the train/tram driver.”
Countering challenges of traditional fire detectors
Thermal cameras can potentially play a major role in detecting fire in tunnels and rail coaches. Traditional fire detectors often depend on the smoke to detect fire. This means the smoke has to first reach the detector before the alarm can go off. On the other hand, they can also be triggered by minor issues such as cigarette smoke.
“Thermal cameras have the power to see starting and developing fires much quicker than conventional smoke detectors,” said the blog. “A thermal imager does not rely on smoke particles to reach the sensor or ambient temperature changes, but uses thermal energy coming off the objects in its field of view. By adding dynamic video detection algorithms, thermal cameras can also take into account the size, rate of temperature increase and movement of a hotspot.”
In conclusion, FLIR noted that thermal cameras are a very flexible technology, offering high image quality, multiple lens options and ease of installation. They also have the advantage of being designed for harsh environments and all climates.