Increasingly, retailers are using smart cameras. With these, they recognise shoplifters and prevent theft. Shop owners are enthusiastic.
The Dutch supermarket Jumbo is undergoing a trial in which smart cameras are being deployed to fight shoplifters. The cameras with smart software detect whether customers put products in their pockets, bags or coats. Which signals theft. VCS Observation makes frequent use of smart cameras.
What is a smart camera?
Our smart cameras can do much more than generate images. They are sensors that collect huge amounts of data. They have built-in software and supporting software.
Advanced video content analysis (VCA) software extends the capabilities of smart cameras. Through artificial intelligence, the camera learns what is a normal pattern of behaviour. This is a source of information.
Deviant behaviour pattern
Our smart camera recognises patterns of behaviour and also sees when someone deviates from them. As soon as the camera detects a deviant pattern, such as putting a product in his or her jacket pocket. Then the camera sounds an alarm to the surveillance room.
Catching shoplifters
The manager of the Jumbo in question, tells RTL News that he is happy with his cameras with smart software. “The other day, a man stuffed his rucksack with roast beef and other expensive meat products. He did so in a far corner of the shop, because no employee was standing there. But the system saw it and issued a notification. In August, I caught 18 shoplifters with it.”
From retail to industry
Smart cameras do not only come in handy in retail, but also in other sectors. For example, in the manufacturing industry, petrochemicals and transport companies. Our cameras record processes such as loading and unloading and make this transparent for operators.
Cameras in public spaces are also almost indispensable. For example, they count how many people are on the street and what type of vehicles pass. Or they check for vehicles that pass several times.
Want to know more?
Our smart cameras can do much more than people realise. From smoke detection, car congestion to shoplifters. Want to know more about cameras in retail? Or would you like to apply cameras in another industry? Contact Carel ten Horn by e-mail or call 0416 54 10 10.
