The WLSD system provides rapid detection of wildfires through visible range optical cameras. The system is compatible with IP, analog and previously installed cameras.
Smoke is the first visible indication of a wildfire. Trees and other topographical factors obscure the flames until the fire is grown and on the verge of being out of control. Rapid detection, in the first 5 to 15 minutes, will allow the fire to be extinguished quickly and with moderate equipment. Optical Detection Systems meet the Rapid Detection requirement.
WLSD is an early smoke detection program based on mathematical analysis of streaming video. The monitoring system includes video cameras installed on towers (detection towers) with the video stream from each camera sent to the control center. The system analyses and evaluates the image reducing it to its mathematical components and provides the system with the capability to identify each micro component, edge and movement within the image. Analysis of successive images provides for identification of wildfire smoke and the differentiation from other similar images.
The system is configured as a local area network with up to 16 camera feeds monitored simultaneously at the coordinating WLSD Surveillance Center. The system progresses through multiple steps in the detection process. Once the smoke detection is confirmed by the system, an audible and visual alarm is issued. The operator is able to examine the alert area by manual control, decide the appropriate response, issue notifications and/or dispatch suppression resources. While the system can be programmed to issue automatic notifications to remote individuals or systems, the final alarm/dispatch disposition is reserved for the operator.
