King Faisal Air Academy (KFAI) in Majmmah, Riyadh Governorate, recently implemented a License Plate Recognition (LPR, also known as ANPR for Automatic Number Plate Recognition) system to fortify security and streamline access control at its main gate. The LPR system, developed by Fore Vision, utilizes Vidar ANPR/LPR cameras, known for their exceptional accuracy and ability to function in diverse conditions, and Carmen® number plate recognition software, a powerful OCR engine that can be integrated with various hardware platforms to enable accurate license plate recognition. The academy, under the Ministry of Defence and Royal Saudi Air Forces, sought an advanced solution to enhance its security infrastructure at the main entrance.
Challenges at KFAI Academy before the LPR system
Before implementing the LPR system, KFAI faced several challenges related to security and efficiency at its main gate:
- Inadequate Security: The existing manual gate control system could not effectively monitor vehicle access and identify unauthorized vehicles.
- Slow Processing Times: The manual gate process was time-consuming, leading to congestion and delays at the entry and exit points.
- Limited Data Collection: The lack of an automated system prevented KFAI from capturing and analyzing vehicle data for security and operational purposes.
- Potential for Unauthorized Entry: The manual entry process increased the risk of unauthorized vehicles gaining access.
Solution
To address these challenges, KFAI partnered with Fore Vision, a leading provider of LPR solutions, to implement a new and advanced LPR solution at the main entrance. Fore Vision utilized Adaptive Recognition’s Vidar ANPR/LPR Cameras and Carmen® ANPR Software, which are known for their exceptional accuracy and ability to function in diverse conditions.
- Vidar ANPR Cameras: The Vidar cameras are equipped with advanced sensors and software that enable them to adjust their settings automatically to optimize performance. The cameras were also strategically placed to capture license plates from multiple angles, reducing the likelihood of capturing an incomplete or distorted plate image.
- Carmen® Software: The Carmen® ANPR software serves as the central hub for the OCR system, processing captured images, identifying license plates, and verifying the associated vehicle information. The software is integrated with the KFAI toll collection system, allowing for seamless data exchange and automated toll collection. Carmen® proved to be a versatile platform that can be customized to meet the specific needs of different toll collection operations, such as stop-and-go, open road, and electronic toll collection (ETC).
- Triggering Loop: A system that triggers the cameras for seamless and automated operation. This sophisticated loop system is meticulously calibrated to respond dynamically to vehicle movements. As a vehicle approaches the gate, the triggering loop activates the Vidar Cameras and other associated components, ensuring a timely capture of license plate information.
- “SecuPlate” LPR Application: Operational 24/7, recording all vehicle transactions for accurate monitoring. The continuous operation of “SecuPlate” guarantees that the security surveillance is unrelenting, contributing to a robust and vigilant monitoring system at the academy’s main gate.
- Membership Module: Integrated with barriers and road blockers to facilitate entry for authorized vehicles. The Membership Module operates in harmony with the LPR system, cross-referencing license plate information with a pre-approved database.
- Centralized Data Transfer: Data collected at the gate will be seamlessly transferred to a central server once the control room is operational. The efficiency of data transfer enhances the overall responsiveness of the security infrastructure at King Faisal Air Academy.
- Scalability: The solution is designed for potential expansion to other gates, ensuring a comprehensive security infrastructure. This forward-thinking approach ensures that as the academy grows or security needs evolve, the LPR system can be seamlessly extended to cover additional entry points
Implementation
The new LPR system and software were seamlessly integrated into all three lanes of the KFAI main gate. The installation process was streamlined and efficient, facilitated by the easy-to-use web interface and automatic operation mode of the new Vidar ANPR/LPR cameras. The integration of the new ANPR/LPR camera system and software across all three lanes of the KFAI main gate was executed with precision, expediting the installation process. Additionally, the new system was carefully calibrated to ensure accurate license plate capture under various lighting conditions and weather conditions.
Results
KFAI has realized significant results from implementing the new ANPR/LPR system and software:
- Improved Security: The system has strengthened security by enhancing vehicle identification and access control, reducing the risk of unauthorized entry.
- Improved Access Control: The authorized vehicles experience seamless entry, contributing to a more secure environment. The automated gate control has reduced processing times, improving traffic flow and overall efficiency.
- Data-driven Insights: The LPR data provides valuable insights into vehicle movements and patterns, enabling KFAI to make informed decisions about security and operations.
Future Plans
Fore Vision plans to transfer the data from the main gate to a central server once the control room is prepared. Additionally, the company intends to expand the LPR system to other gates at KFAI to further enhance security and operational efficiency across the entire campus.
Overall Impact
KFAI’s implementation of a License Plate Recognition system with Vidar ANPR Cameras and Carmen® ANPR Software demonstrates the transformative power of technology in enhancing security and streamlining operations in the educational sector. The LPR system has provided KFAI with a valuable tool for maintaining a secure and efficient environment for its students, staff, and visitors.
By embracing cutting-edge technology with Vidar ANPR Cameras and Carmen® ANPR Software, the King Faisal Air Academy is now equipped with a robust and scalable License Plate Recognition system. This not only enhances security but also aligns with the academy’s commitment to excellence in education and training. The success of this project sets a precedent for potential future installations and expansions at other gates within the academy.
Want to Learn More About Vidar ANPR/LPR Camera and Carmen Software?
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Vidar Camera: Click here to discover Vidar Camera
Carmen® Software: Click here to read more about Carmen® Software
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