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Rugged Edge AI Computer Deployed with Object Tracking Engine

Things Embedded were approached by a leading software developer for state-of-the-art detection and single object video tracking, which uses multiple Deep Neural Networks to detect and maintain an accurate “lock” onto objects of interest. Looking to deploy their object tracking software at the edge, including in vehicle use cases, they were looking for a ruggedized computer designed to meet the following prerequisites:

 

  • High performance edge AI capabilities.
  • Low-latency video input and PTZ camera control via serial RS-485.
  • Open architecture to allow additional third-party apps.
  • Ignition control to support delayed system power shutdown.
  • Shock and vibration resistant with a wide operating temperature for cold system start-up.
  • Encrypted cellular radio communication with GNSS for AIoT applications.

 

Looking towards our range of rugged Jetson computers a couple candidates stood out as viable options for the application whilst offering complete flexibility on embedded video capture.

Vehicle computers remain in operation for many years having to endure the daily vigour’s of repeat shock and vibration and as a result, it is important that the chosen compute platform is durable and robust. The integration of NVIDIA Jetson system-on-modules has opened the door for true fanless GPU computing.” Andrew Whitehouse, CEO at Things Embedded.

Powerful AI-Powered Single Object Video Tracking for Integrated and Unmanned Systems

Video tracking is the process of analysing consecutive video frames from a live camera device or a recorded video file to monitor the locations of one or more dynamic objects over time. Knowing a target’s movements and current position at a given moment is valuable information that enables several applications such as alerts for unauthorised area access, post-event analysis for law enforcement, and real-time situational awareness for unmanned or autonomous vehicles.

Our customers state-of-the-art detection and single object video tracker uses multiple Deep Neural Networks to detect and maintain an accurate “lock” onto objects of interest. The real-time track position information can direct any IP, AHD or SDI camera-based system and is an effective means of reducing the cognitive burden on the operator.

Selecting an AI Transportation PC Featuring NVIDIA Jetson AGX Xavier

Based on the NVIDIA Jetson AGX Xavier SOM, the RSLA3 Transport PC from Syslogic was selected to handle the large amounts of data and process in parallel with virtually zero latency. With up to 32 TOPS AI computing power, AI algorithms independently derive intelligent decisions from this data making the system perfect for intelligent video analysis.

Syslogic combines the embedded AI module from NVIDIA with its own carrier board and integrates inside robust housing. Designed for true fanless operation the rugged edge AI PC is passively cooled and relies on SSD technology to obtain status of having no moving parts on board. All the electronics are selected for reliable long-term operation in harsh environments and can withstand wide temperature swings and deployment in vehicles.

Having no moving parts and featuring M12 screw-on connectors for power, serial, ethernet interfaces the RSLA3 makes easy work of shock and vibration and guarantees long term operation at the edge. Accordingly, the AI Transportation Computer meets UNECE-R10 (E-Mark) type approval and supports wide voltage input with ignition control for deployment in-vehicles.

Supporting additional mPCIe and M.2 expansion the system could be fitted with a range of embedded video capture cards or optional onboard radio communication including LTE and Wi-Fi making the rugged transport PC suitable for vehicle-to-vehicle communication.

Raw Video Inputs with Supreme Image Enhancement

When every second counts, impaired performance caused by external factors such as heat turbulence, fog and platform movement cannot undermine system performance and result in undetected threats or delayed response. The onboard NVIDIA Jetson AGX Xavier system-on-module achieves 40ms low latency video capture on local 1080p video and allows  the integrated object tracking software to reduce image degradation without ever compromising on detection accuracy and tracking capability.

Compatible with a Multitude of Analog and Digital Video Inputs

The RSLA3 AI transportation PC provides duel LAN ports for connecting with the current IP camera infrastructure onboard vehicles and those which are already present roadside. Subject to requirements the industrial AI platform can stack an additional four gigabit power over ethernet ports giving the user complete flexibility for additional expansion.

With further onboard expansion via mPCIe and M.2 PCIe lanes the AI edge systems are configured with industrial embedded video capture cards manufactured by an industry leader, Yuan High-Tech. This provides complete flexibility on rollout with further video inputs from Analog HD (AHD) and SDI composite BNC/SMA inputs.

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