Exploring the popular applications of synchronised multi-camera solutions

Unlocking new dimensions in imaging technology, multi-camera synchronisation has revolutionised various industries and applications. From sports broadcasting to autonomous vehicles, the power of synchronised multi-camera setups has had a transformative impact – capturing immersive visuals, enhancing situational awareness, enabling data analysis, and more.

In this blog, we delve into the fascinating world of multi-camera synchronisation, exploring its wide-ranging applications and the immense value it brings to different sectors.

What is a multi-camera solution – and how does it work?

A multi-camera solution is a setup incorporating multiple cameras to address specific requirements. Hence, multiple cameras simultaneously capture different angles, perspectives, or aspects of a scene. This synchronisation ensures that the cameras capture the same moment, enabling the system to obtain a comprehensive and synchronised view of the scene or subject. However, in some setups, these cameras may not be used to capture images at the same time, which we will explore later in the blog.

Once the images or frames are captured, they can be processed and analysed collectively to extract valuable insights or perform specific tasks. It can include depth sensing, object tracking, or generating a panoramic view. Using multiple cameras, a multi-camera solution enhances the overall quality, accuracy, and coverage of data acquisition, enabling more robust analysis and decision-making processes. A multi-camera solution’s exact configuration and functionality vary depending on the application.

Crucial questions to ask before multi-camera integration:

• How many cameras will be used?
• What is the synchronisation method?
• Which camera interface to use?
• What is the best-fit host platform?
• What is the level of latency?

Popular applications that leverage multi-camera synchronisation

Multi-camera solutions find applications in various fields:

Surround-view systems

Surround-view systems rely on multi-camera setups to give drivers a full view of their vehicle’s surroundings. Several cameras are strategically positioned around the vehicle to capture a 360-degree view. These cameras work synchronised to provide a stitched and composite image. This eliminates blind spots – allowing for an accurate representation of the environment.

The data captured by the multi-camera system is processed by advanced algorithms that merge and stitch the images together. This composite image is then displayed, giving the driver a bird’s-eye view and assisting them in manoeuvring the vehicle safely. Whether it’s parallel parking, navigating crowded areas, or avoiding obstacles, multi-camera-based surround-view systems lead to increased situational awareness.

Delivery robots

Multi-camera systems help delivery robots to navigate autonomously and efficiently carry out their tasks. Multiple cameras are synchronised to capture visual data from different angles, enabling the delivery robot to perceive its environment accurately. In turn, the robot can detect and avoid obstacles, identify paths, and make real-time navigation decisions – by leveraging the data captured by the multi-camera system.

Also, the synchronised operation allows the delivery robot to generate a 360-degree view and map its environment to adjust movements as and when required. Integrating multi-camera systems in delivery robots enables them to operate with high autonomy and reliability, revolutionising the last-mile delivery industry.

Sports broadcasting systems

Multi-camera setups have revolutionised the field of sports broadcasting, enabling broadcasters to capture every moment of the game from multiple angles and provide viewers with an immersive viewing experience. Basically, a network of synchronised cameras is positioned throughout the venue to capture different perspectives of the action.

These multi-camera systems allow broadcasters to switch between camera angles seamlessly, showcasing key moments, player reactions, and intricate details of the game. So, they can capture the excitement and intensity of live sporting events, offering viewers a front-row seat to the action – whether a close-up of a game-changing play or a panoramic view of the entire field. Furthermore, these systems also provide critical imaging data that can be used by coaches/players to improve their performance.

Airport kiosks

It has become increasingly evident that multiple cameras can be leveraged to capture different biometric data points in airport kiosks. One camera may focus on iris recognition, enabling accurate and reliable identification of individuals. Another camera can be dedicated to facial recognition, ensuring the authentication of passengers by matching their facial features with existing databases. Additionally, a third camera may facilitate document scanning and verification, allowing passengers to scan their travel documents for seamless processing. It’s important to note that while the cameras do not operate with real-time synchronisation, they ensure that the kiosks gather comprehensive data to facilitate smooth and secure passenger experiences.

By employing multi-camera systems at airport kiosks, airports can streamline the check-in process, prioritise passenger convenience and safety, and reduce the need for manual intervention.

Multi-camera systems developed by e-con Systems

e-con Systems comes with a wealth of experience when it comes to integrating multi-camera systems. We have successfully implemented numerous multi-camera integrations for clients in various industries, including industrial, retail, smart city, medical, sports, etc.

What sets us apart is our strong partner ecosystem, collaborating with renowned sensor manufacturers like Sony, Onsemi, and Omnivision. As an esteemed partner of NVIDIA, the leading-edge processor provider, we ensure cutting-edge technology for our customers.

We also simplify the camera evaluation process by offering readily available multi-camera solutions that support 2-8 cameras in a single system. Our team provides extensive customisation services, tailoring the camera setup to meet your application requirements.

Some of our multi-camera solutions include:

• NileCAM130M_CUQRB5 -13.0 MP Monochrome GMSL2 Camera
• NileCAM210_CUQRB5 – 2.0 MP Ultra-Low Light IMX462 GMSL2 Camera
• NileCAM82_CUQRB5– 8.0 MP Ultra-Low Light IMX485 GMSL2 Camera
• NileCAM81_CUOAGX – AR0821 4K HDR GMSL2 Camera
• e-CAM85_CUQRB5 – Sony Starvis IMX715 Camera
• e-CAM21_CUQRB5 – Full HD HDR Camera
• e-CAM82_CUQRB5 – 4K SONY STARVIS IMX485 Ultra Low Light camera
• e-CAM130M_CUQRB5 – 13MP AR1335 Monochrome Cameras
• e-CAM210_CUQRB5 – Sony Starvis IMX462 Camera
• e-CAM25_CUQRB5- Global Shutter Camera
• e-CAM180_CUXVR – Six Synchronised 18MP Cameras
• e-CAM130A_CUXVR_3H02R1 Multi-Camera Solution with 180° Image Stitching
• e-CAM27_CUOAGX – 2MP OV2312 Global Shutter RGB-IR Camera
• e-CAM20_CUOAGX – Six Synchronised Global Shutter Camera
• e-CAM81_CUXVR – AR0821 4K HDR Cameras
• e-CAM180_CUOAGX- 18MP AR1820HS Six Synchronised Cameras
• e-CAM25_CUXVR – Six Synchronised Global Shutter Cameras
• e-CAM24_CUXVR – 2MP Global Shutter Monochrome Camera