Performance Analysis of Tower Watch Camera Systems

摘要

A technology demonstration effort was undertaken to determine if a remote imaging system could be used to reduce workload at a U.S. Coast Guard Small Boat (Surf) Station. The remote imaging system consisted of a black and white Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) system with integrated image intensification and long-range thermal (infrared) imaging. The goal was to determine the extent to which remote monitoring of rough inlet bar conditions and vessel traffic could reduce the need to staff a watch tower. The demonstration project was conducted at U.S. Coast Guard Station Cape Disappointment in Ilwaco, WA. The remote imaging system was controllable both locally at the watch tower site and remotely from the Station s Communications Center. The cameras were mounted on a remotely controllable pan/tilt unit to allow the observer to determine the area of interest. The full motion video signal and all control signals were transmitted back and forth from the watch tower and the Communications Center via fiber-optic cabling. Comparisons were made of the fidelity of the remote imaging system s capabilities to that of traditional monitoring techniques. An operational assessment was made on the impact the remote imaging system had on the operations of the Station. The evaluations identified that the remote imaging system with the long-range infrared camera improved monitoring during adverse weather conditions and darkness. The remote imaging system provided more accurate and timely information to the Station s Duty Officer, thus allowing additional decision- making time regarding resource assignments. Recommendations on remote imaging system requirements and cost estimates are provided to aid in implementation decision making for the Office of Boat Forces (G-OCS).