TechNexion's 4K HDR camera for smart traffic systems

Effective traffic management relies on high-resolution cameras in smart traffic systems, such as 4K HDR cameras. These advanced cameras offer improved accuracy, detail, and adaptability, crucial for enhancing traffic flow and ensuring road safety. They also provide data for traffic analysis and have the means to accurately capture images of vehicles, license plates, and pedestrians for vehicle counting, crowd analytics, and even facial recognition. Integrating high-resolution imaging in traffic management is a breakthrough in addressing urban traffic issues amid ever-evolving technology.

Smart traffic devices are placed on poles, building walls, or vehicles. Depending on their placement, the challenges the camera modules used in the system face will vary, examples of the challenges include:

Capturing images and videos in bright lighting conditions during the day.
Varied light environments with low (or no) light at night.
The possibility of harsh external environmental conditions.
Shock and vibrations (if the camera system is placed on a moving vehicle).

Given these challenges, many modern-day product developers turn to 4K HDR cameras to achieve the required image quality in intelligent transport systems.

In this blog post, we will explain what 4K HDR cameras are, how they assist in smart traffic systems, and why TechNexion’s AR0822 4K HDR camera is your premier choice for these new age smart city devices.

What is a 4K HDR camera?

A 4K HDR camera is an advanced embedded camera that combines two cutting-edge imaging technologies: 4K resolution and High Dynamic Range (HDR).

4K resolution: The term 4K denotes the camera sensor’s resolution, with approximately 4000 pixels horizontally. To be precise, a 4K camera has a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels, four times the full HD pixel count (1080p), resulting in significantly clearer, more detailed images. This high resolution is particularly advantageous for facial recognition in smart traffic systems where a high level of detail is required.

High Dynamic Range (HDR): HDR technology enhances the camera’s ability to capture a broader range of light intensities. Conventional cameras may struggle with scenes containing bright and dark areas, often losing detail in these extremes. HDR technology enables the camera to capture more detail in both the brightest and darkest parts of the image, resulting in a more balanced exposure with increased depth of color and contrast.

Also read: HDR Cameras and Their Applications in Embedded Vision

This capability is especially valuable in challenging lighting conditions like direct sunlight or shadowed areas. The combination of 4K and HDR features makes these cameras powerful tools for capturing detailed and color-accurate images in various lighting environments. They are commonly used in industries where image quality is crucial, such as automated sports broadcasting, advanced surveillance systems, and advanced traffic monitoring solutions.

Why is a 4K HDR camera helpful for smart traffic systems?

A 4K HDR camera can be extremely beneficial for smart traffic systems due to its high resolution and ability to operate effectively in bright light conditions. It offers:

Improved clarity and detail: 4K cameras offer a resolution of around 3840 x 2160 pixels. This increased resolution allows the camera to capture more intricate details. In the context of traffic, this results in sharper images of vehicles, license plates, and even the facial features of drivers and pedestrians.

Expanded monitoring range: High-resolution cameras can oversee larger areas with the same level of detail as multiple lower-resolution cameras. This means fewer cameras are required to cover the same area, potentially reducing infrastructure and maintenance costs. However, it is to be noted that the number of cameras to be used in a smart traffic device will also depend on factors such as sensor size, field of view, working distance, etc.

Zoom with minimal quality loss: In traffic monitoring, the capability to zoom in on a specific area (such as a vehicle or an incident) without sacrificing image quality is essential. With 4K resolution, operators can zoom in much further than standard HD cameras before the image becomes pixelated or unclear. This is extremely helpful if you are using digital zoom instead of optical zoom.

Also read: Optical Zoom vs. Digital Zoom in Embedded Vision Cameras

Achieving optimal lighting balance: Utilizing HDR technology enables the camera to effectively manage a wide spectrum of lighting situations, ensuring that details in both dark and bright areas of an image are preserved, whether it’s dealing with bright sunlight, shadows, or headlights in a traffic environment.

Improved clarity in diverse lighting: HDR proves invaluable when faced with scenes containing extreme variations in brightness, such as those encountered on a sunny day where some parts of the road are heavily shadowed. In contrast, others are bathed in intense sunlight. It guarantees that all details remain visible across these contrasting areas.

Enhanced nighttime visibility: Although commonly associated with handling bright settings, HDR also plays a pivotal role in enhancing visibility during low-light conditions. This is essential for continuous traffic monitoring, ensuring consistent camera performance regardless of the time of day.

Practical applications of smart traffic systems

Enhanced accident analysis and response: The advanced high-resolution and HDR features enable a thorough review of footage after accidents, providing deeper insights into the incidents and paving the way for enhanced traffic safety measures in the future.
Automated enforcement for precision: High-quality embedded cameras like 4K HDR cameras facilitates precise automatic detection of traffic violations like speeding and red light running, significantly bolstering road safety efforts.
Dynamic traffic control: By leveraging data from these cameras, intelligent traffic systems can dynamically adjust signals and optimize traffic flow, reducing congestion and heightening operational efficiency.

TechNexion's AR0821 4K HDR cameras

Introducing VLS3-AR0822-CB, TechNexion’s cutting edge AR0822 4K HDR camera! This top-of-the-line imaging solution is powered by the Onsemi’s AR0822 sensor, delivering stunning 4K resolution for crystal-clear images. HDR technology excels in capturing high-quality visuals even in fluctuating light conditions. In addition, below are the key features of the camera that make it an effective choice for smart traffic systems:

Large pixel size: VLS3-AR0822-CB’s large pixel size of 2.0 μm x 2.0 μm ensures that adequate light is collected by all the pixels.
Near IR enhancement: The camera comes with high QE (Quantum Efficiency) in the Near InfraRed spectrum. This helps the camera perform imaging during the night when there is no ambient or external light source.
IP-rated enclosure: TechNexion’s AR0822 4K HDR camera comes with an optional IP68 enclosure, which protects it from water, dust, and fog. This, in turn, makes it suitable for use in outdoor conditions.
Lens mount variants: TechNexion’s portfolio has different variants of the AR0822 camera module. We offer cameras with C mounts as well as S mounts so that customers can choose the lens of their choice.
Interface compatibility: The AR0822 camera from TechNexion is available in USB, MIPI, and FPD-Link III variants. Depending on the end application requirements, customers can choose the right interface for the smart traffic system.
VLS3-AR0822-CB also boasts a high temperature tolerance with a temperature range of -30°C to +70℃.
FAKRA connector: The sturdy FAKRA connector of the camera ensures the proper functioning of the vision system during shocks, vibrations, and other disturbances.
Multiple variants: In addition to VLS3-AR0822-CB, TechNexion’s portfolio also includes other variants with different lens mount types and interfaces.

FPDLINK-III IP68 Camera with onsemi AR0822 8MP 4K Color Rolling Shutter with ISP + IR-Cut Filter with C Mount Body

In stock Out of stock On backorder

VLS3-AR0822-CB

onsemi AR0822 8MP Rolling Shutter Sensor
4K HDR Imaging Capabilities
Near Infra-Red Enhancement for Outdoor Applications
Designed for Low Light Applications
C-Mount for Interchangeable Lenses
FAKRA Automotive Connector
Plug & Play with Linux OS & Yocto
Comes with VizionViewer™ Configuration Utility and VizionSDK

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View Product

Smart traffic applications of TechNexion’s 4K HDR cameras

Smart traffic poles – TechNexion’s 4K HDR camera modules based on the AR0822 sensor can be attached to traffic poles to monitor and control traffic patterns effectively, identify potential accidents, and detect areas of congestion. Their high-quality resolution and HDR technology allow them to capture clear images in all lighting conditions, making them essential for precise traffic analysis and decision-making processes.
Smart buses – Smart buses are equipped with cameras that provide high-quality visuals of the road and surrounding environment. These cameras are crucial in improving safety with accident prevention, enforcing traffic laws, and enhancing public transportation safety.

A smart bus

Road inspection – Our cameras’ high resolution and HDR capabilities make them ideal for road inspection tasks. They can effectively detect maintenance needs and promote road safety by providing clear images of road conditions and identifying potential hazards such as potholes, wear and tear, and other issues.
Parking lot management – Parking lot management systems are installed in parking lots for vehicle counting and helping drivers find free parking spaces easily. They are most deployed in large open parking lots where manually finding free slots and keeping an account of vehicles is challenging. Cameras make parking lot management easy by helping both drivers and the staff equally.

Wrapping up

TechNexion’s 4K HDR cameras are at the forefront of smart traffic management technology innovation. With their high-resolution imaging, exceptional performance in different lighting situations, and improved low-light sensitivity, these cameras are perfectly suited for various uses, such as smart traffic poles, smart buses, and road inspection. They offer detailed and dependable data to enhance traffic flow, improve public transportation safety, and uphold road infrastructure. Their versatility and durability solidify their importance in advancing intelligent urban traffic systems. Learn more about our other embedded vision solutions here.