Abstract: An illumination system is provided to enable speed dome camera systems with a minimum of weight increase and existing motor designs to be used in conditions where the ambient illumination is insufficient for surveillance needs. A laser illumination system is divided and dispersed in the system, with its heavy components, namely the power supply, heat sinks, and laser beam generator mounted outside the speed dome and only a lightweight fiber optic cable output mounted adjacent to the speed dome camera. The key innovation in the present invention is having only a laser beam delivered over an optical slip joint rather than power for a laser, allowing for a higher speed of orientation of the camera. A pulsing system is used to avoid flashback within the speed dome.

Abstract: This invention provides an infrared illuminator and camera system for imaging of auto vehicle license plates. The system works in ambient light conditions, ranging from bright sunlight, to dim light, to dark, to zero ambient light. It yields high-contrast imaging of the letters and numbers on retro-reflective license plates. The images of the license letter and number combinations can be read manually by a remote operator. They can be converted to text format with optical character recognition computer hardware and software. The text data can then be compared to data files listing license numbers to provide further data about the owner of a licensed vehicle. A decision can be made quickly about whether to allow a vehicle to proceed through a gate, or whether to take other action.

Abstract: This invention provides an infrared illuminator and camera system for imaging of auto vehicle license plates. The system works in ambient light conditions, ranging from bright sunlight, to dim light, to dark, to zero ambient light. It yields high-contrast imaging of the letters and numbers on retro-reflective license plates. The images of the license letter and number combinations can be read manually by a remote operator. They can be converted to text format with optical character recognition computer hardware and software. The text data can then be compared to data files listing license numbers to provide further data about the owner of a licensed vehicle. A decision can be made quickly about whether to allow a vehicle to proceed through a gate, or whether to take other action.