Abstract: An automatic motion-controlled photographing apparatus, according to the present invention, a rotatable turntable is located above an upper surface of a box of a controller fixedly supported on a tripod, and a camera is set onto the turntable. The turntable, on which the camera is set, is rotated at a given angle of rotation responsive to a signal from a turntable drive circuit disposed in the controller, and a shutter of the camera is turned on via a non-contact signal relay in response to a signal from a shutter drive circuit for photographing the same photograph images, each in one frame, at an angle of 360 degrees as those of an on-site field.

Abstract: A pan and tilt unit includes a platform for accommodating a device and a housing connected to the platform. A drive system is positioned within the housing and is adapted to move the platform in a desired direction. A plurality of drivers is further positioned within the housing in communication with the drive system and the device to append an internal operation protocol to a device operation protocol thereby permitting operation of the device by the pan and tilt unit.

Abstract: A surveillance camera housing contains a crown plate with voids and radially extending flanges which engage corresponding radially extending flanges and voids in a mounting cap. A radial gasket is disposed upon said crown plate and electrical connectors are disposed within said radial gasket. In operation, the flanges of the crown plate are placed within the voids of the mounting cap and the flanges of the mounting cap are placed in the voids of the crown plate. When the housing is further lifted vertically a horizontal plane defined by the crown plate flanges rises above a horizontal plane defined by the mounting cap flanges. The housing is then rotated so that the crown plate flanges rest upon the mounting cap flanges.

Abstract: There are described herein systems and methods for producing and distributing personalized photographic souvenirs for spectators of an event. Equipment well-known in the art is used to take photographs of performers at the event, and to scan images or take photos of items representative of the event, for example a ticket stub, advertisement, or team names and logos. In addition, at least one pan-and-tilt camera system, also well-known in the art, is used to take an orderly, indexed series of photos of the spectators such that substantially every spectator will appear in at least one spectator photo. The spectator photos are indexed according to a predetermined mapping algorithm which maps a particular location of the venue to a virtual sector. Individual souvenirs are then created at the venue in a centralized processing location, by organizing and combining a spectator photo with the other photos and/or scanned images.

Abstract: A mount for use in the outdoors to support a camera for recording images of flora, fauna, and participants in outdoors-recreational activities. The camera mount comprises a pivot and a rotatable support plate atop a clamping mechanism, which will clamp upon square, rectangular, and round shaped shafts. A camera is statically fastened to the rotatable support plate by a thumbscrew extending through a round hole and tightened. The pivot and rotatable support plate mount to the clamping mechanism with a bolt extending through holes aligned in each and a threaded knob, that when tightened or loosened on the bolt adjusts compressive tension on the clamping mechanism; also, securing the desired angle of rotation. An embodiment is shown of an alternate position of the bottom of the clamping mechanism for mounting on smaller round shafts. A method of mounting a camera for use in the recording of flora, fauna, and participants in outdoors-recreational activities is disclosed.

Abstract: A housing of a rotation type camera apparatus has a standing installation surface for standing installation and a wall-mounting installation surface for wall-mounting installation. The housing is also provided with a dome type cover composing a shooting window facing in a slanting direction with respect to a horizontal direction in a standing-mounting position and in a wall-mounting position. A camera is provided so as to be able to shoot outside from the shooting window. A camera rotation device is accommodated in the dome and has a pan rotation axis based on the horizontal direction. The shooting window faces in an appropriate direction in both the standing-mounting position and the wall-mounting position. Since the pan rotation axis is set based on the horizontal direction, a viewer's eyes do not run up and down so much during the pan rotation.

Abstract: A variable output device is mounted on a mounting unit with the operating shaft displaceable. An operating unit for transmitting the operation of the user to the operating shaft is mounted on the operating shaft relatively movably along the direction of the axis of the operating shaft, on the one hand, and in an operatively interlocked fashion along the direction of displacement of the operating shaft, on the other hand. A holding member is arranged in opposed relation with the mounting unit with the variable output device interposed therebetween. An elasticity applier urges the operating unit away from the variable output device. The holding member is provided with an operating hole. The holding member is arranged at a position in opposed relation with the mounting unit with the variable output device and the operating unit interposed therebetween.

Abstract: A camera positioning for optimizing the field of view of a camera by adjusting the stop limits of the camera positioning system system in dependence upon the extent of the angle of view of the camera. If within a camera's field of view, there are areas devoid of useful information, the stop limit is dynamically changed each time the camera's angle of view is adjusted, so as to continually minimize the inclusion of such areas in the camera's field of view. Specifically, in a Pan/Tilt/Zoom camera positioning system, the Pan and/or Tilt stops are dynamically adjusted in dependence upon the Zoom.

Abstract: A suspended scaffold may be hung from a skyscraper, a ship's side or other structures where work on a surface is done by the workers on the scaffold. The surveillance system is a frame removably hung on the rails of the scaffold. A TV camera and transmitter is mounted to the frame. A remote TV/receiver allows a person on the ground to view the condition of the building. Optional pan, tilt, zoom features and a tilt alarm are disclosed.

Abstract: Disclosed is a traffic accident photographing device for a vehicle. The device comprises camera-fastening means for fastening a camera to the vehicle to allow the camera to photograph an actual scene upon occurrence of a collision; and shutter-pressing means for allowing a shutter of the camera fastened to the vehicle by the camera-fastening means, to be pressed by a weight member which is moved under action of inertia force generated by the collision.

Abstract: A preferred fire-rated dome housing assembly (10) is mountable in a space (12) formed between a ceiling (14) and a false ceiling (16) and having a height (20) as little as 8.9 cm. The housing assembly includes a housing (22) that is mountable through a hole (24) in the false ceiling, and is protected from heat by a thermal insulation blanket (32). Support straps (34) are attached to a ceiling ring (36) that surrounds the hole for securing the housing assembly to false ceiling supporting members (18). A spacing collar (50) is fastened to the ceiling ring by threaded spacers (52) that extend below the false ceiling. The housing protrudes below the false ceiling and includes a mounting flange (48) that is fastened to the spacing collar. A dome (62) is secured to the mounting flange. The housing assembly preferably encloses a video camera (102).

Abstract: Motion of a user's line of sight is detected. If motion of the user's line of sight stops for a period of time greater than a fixed period of time, a shutter-release operation is performed. Image data representing the image of a subject obtained by shutter release is recorded on a memory card. This makes it possible to record image data on the memory card without pressing a shutter-release button.

Abstract: A viewing angle-dependent retractable surveillance camera mounting mechanism allowing for pivotal movement of the camera (tilt and retraction capability) fully up into the interior of the housing; and correlation of the camera tilt/retraction angle to the lens telephoto angle and zoom in order to provide a consistent view. A protective cover and a fixed or movable dome bubble may be provided with the camera mounting mechanism.

Abstract: A system and method for cleaning an optical device in a hostile environment. A camera system is mounted in a housing which may be unitary or comprise layers of material. The camera lens is covered by a scratch resistant cover and is cleaned by user operated bursts of air when debris obstructs the view of the camera. Debris is blown out of the aperture of the unit. When water collects on the lens cover, it is drained by a channel that also provides air via a venturi effect when air is blasted over the lens cover during cleaning.

Abstract: The invention provides an environmental shroud (190, 290, 390) and a camera assembly (10, 20, 30) including the shroud. The environmental shroud (190, 290, 390) absorbs and dissipates heat energy that is not reflected and heat energy that is generated by the contents of the camera housing so that the camera housing temperature does not exceed the maximum rated temperature. In one embodiment, the camera assembly includes a camera housing (130) having a mounting cap (140) attached to sidewalls (126) to which is attached an optical surface (135), the camera housing enclosing a camera system; and an environmental shroud (190) attached to the camera housing.

Abstract: The present invention provides a compact case for a surveillance camera having exterior notches, recesses and/or grooves for accommodating the electronic receptors, connectors, wires and/or cables leading from the back of the camera. The case is designed for use with a specialized mounting system and covers, or to fit inside a secure enclosure having the same overall (and minimal) profile as the camera case itself which eliminate exposure of the electronic components in the notches to the outside. An adjustable protective base is provided in one embodiment.

Abstract: The present invention is an adjustable aesthetically pleasing support structure for a large surveillance camera that is resistant to water and moisture penetration and protects the wires connected to the camera while providing a wide range of adjustable viewing angles for the attached camera.

Abstract: A rotation device with an integral bearing that realizes reduced number of parts, simplified configuration, improved assembility, parts-compatibility, and reduced cost. Rotator holder 12 is secured to base plate 10. Slip ring 13 is provided inside rotator holder 12. Cylinder 12a of rotator holder 12 that encircles slip ring 13 serves as a bearing inner ring. Pan chassis 15 that is integrally formed with bearing outer ring 15a is circumscribed to cylinder 12a via rolling ball 14, and comprises horizontal rotation pan motor 16 and gear train 17.

Abstract: A viewing angle-dependent retractable surveillance camera mounting mechanism allowing for pivotal movement of the camera (tilt and retraction capability) fully up into the interior of the housing; and correlation of the camera tilt/retraction angle to the lens telephoto angle and zoom in order to provide a consistent view. A protective cover and a fixed or movable dome bubble may be provided with the camera mounting mechanism.

Abstract: A camera system is provided for acquiring an image of a scene with a wide angle such as an omni-directional scene with a high resolution and for acquiring an image of a dynamic object. The camera system includes a reflecting mirror, a first imaging unit, and a second imaging unit. The reflecting mirror has a mirror surface disposed around a center axis and spread on one side of the center axis to form an opening portion. The first imaging unit is provided within a plane composed of an outer surface of the reflecting mirror and a plane extending from the outer surface of the reflecting mirror on the opening portion side. The second imaging unit is disposed opposite to the mirror surface of the reflecting mirror, and includes a number of cameras disposed on the same circumference centered at the center axis of the reflecting mirror in such a manner as to be spaced from each other at equal intervals.

Abstract: A camera apparatus of the present invention comprises: an optical system for projecting image light representing an image of a wide view field area toward a prescribed direction; an imaging section for obtaining, as an image, the image light projected by the optical system; and a holding member for integrally holding the optical system and the imaging section in a state where the curved mirror and the imaging section are opposed to each other.

Abstract: A monitoring installation in which a monitoring unit having a monitoring device is suspended from a trolley that rolls or glides along a rigid path by at least one traction rope or cable which pulls the trolley along the path.

Abstract: An omnidirectional monitoring control system includes an omnidirectional camera for taking an omnidirectional image over a viewing angle of a maximum of 360 degrees; at least one zoom camera for performing positional control and magnification ratio control; a control section for rotating the omnidirectional image about a central axis of the omnidirectional image at a prescribed angle such that an apparent reference position of the omnidirectional camera is matched with an apparent reference position for driving the at least one zoom camera, and driving the at least one zoom camera to allow a prescribed monitoring position of omnidirectional image data obtained by the rotation to be photographed by the at least one zoom camera; and a display section for displaying the omnidirectional image taken by the omnidirectional camera and a zoom image taken by the at least one zoom camera.

Abstract: A turntable device principally includes a horizontal rotation base and an up-and-down swinging mechanism, which are driven by VCMs. An optical apparatus is placed on supports, which are arranged on the horizontal rotation base, with a horizontal rotation shaft therebetween. The optical apparatus is directed up-and-down and right-and-left by movable pieces connected to movable coils of the VCMs, so as to constitute the turntable device. The optical apparatus is placed on the turntable.

Abstract: A two degree of freedom camera mount. The camera mount includes a socket, a ball, a first linkage and a second linkage. The socket includes an interior surface and an opening. The ball is positioned within an interior of the socket. The ball includes a coupling point for rotating the ball relative to the socket and an aperture for mounting a camera. The first and second linkages are rotatably connected to the socket and slidably connected to the coupling point of the ball. Rotation of the linkages with respect to the socket causes the ball to rotate with respect to the socket.

Abstract: An iris pickup apparatus includes: a wide-angle camera for picking up the image of a photographic object, a telephotograph camera for picking up the enlarged image of an iris of a photographic object by focusing the lens of the camera on the iris of the photographic object, a panning mechanism for panning the telephotograph camera, and a tilt mechanism for pivotally tilting the wide-angle camera and the telephotograph camera. The wide-angle camera and the telephotograph camera are arranged so that their optical axes cross each other at right angles. The tilt mechanism operates to pivotally tilt the wide-angle camera and the telephotograph camera on the same plane as the optical axis plane.

Abstract: A surveillance system is provided including a platform having a plurality and variety of cameras or sensors mounted thereto, and a base enclosure adapted to accommodate a power supply, a variety of electronics and other equipment for controlling and providing power to the surveillance equipment. The base is constructed to be tamper resistant and immovable by manual means. A substantially hollow support pole includes a lower portion detachably mounted to the base, and an upper portion mounted to the platform. Wires and cables for connecting the surveillance equipment with the electronics and power supply are run through the support pole. Power to the system may be supplied through existing power sources, for example a 120V power source. The system may further be adapted to be trailer mountable for facilitating transport of the system. A trailer assembly specifically adapted for transporting the system may be provided.

Abstract: A slip ring assembly for use in a rotational camera. The camera has a rotating plate portion and a stationary base. The assembly comprises a housing, the housing having a body with a longitudinal axis, a top end and a bottom end. The top end of the housing includes an inner cylinder protruding therethrough, and upon the cylinder, a plurality of connectors rotationally coupled to the rotating portion of the camera. The second end of the housing is affixed to the stationary portion of the camera. The top end and the bottom end of the housing rotate with respect each other. The slip ring assembly acts as a connector, joining the rotational and the stationary portions of the rotational camera. The present invention minimizes component wear in the camera's stationary base since the end of the assembly in the stationary portion and all of the wires and electrical components coupled to it remain stationary during rotation of the camera.

Abstract: A security camera has an adjustable turret that holds a lens assembly which can be aimed in various directions. The camera also has a compact housing which, in combination with the adjustable directionality of the turret, enables universal mounting to various structures and positions in an aircraft cabin. The camera operates in light and dark conditions, as the lens assembly is configured to focus visible and infrared light wavelengths onto a fixed focal plane. In an embodiment, the camera includes an infrared illumination source to illuminate a field of view during dark conditions. The lens assembly includes a rigid barrel with a pinhole aperture through which light enters a series of lens elements. An optical sensor is mounted to an opposite end of the barrel at the fixed focal plane to generate an electronic image signal, and the sensor is rotatably adjustable to yield a correct image orientation depending on the turret position.

Abstract: The primary objective of the present invention is to provide a set of simple methods and apparatus to obtain simultaneously omnidirectional stereo images without using any moving parts. The field of view of a conventional camera or a light projector can be dramatically increased by employing a reflective mirror properly placed in front of the camera or the projector. A pair of omnidirectional cameras is able to form a unique stereo imaging system that is able to obtain three dimensional images of surrounding scene with 360 degree view angle. A combination of an omnidirectional camera and an omnidirectional structured light projector can also provide a means to obtain quantitative three dimensional measurements of the objects around the camera system. The omnidirectional three dimensional imaging methods and apparatus presented herein may offer unique solutions to many practical systems that need simultaneous 360 degree viewing angle and three dimensional measurement capability.

Abstract: An apparatus and process for installation for supplying superior closeup images of an individuals face and provide a height measurement device for witnesses for the purpose of identification with the steps of; utilizing sunlight to illuminate a subject's face for better exposure, always being directed towards the path of an individual arriving or exiting a building or structure, placed at eye level to avoid physical obstructions and a multiple axis mounting system to enable fine position adjustments. Preferred embodiments include a machine that is installed on a door frame or wall, facing into a building structure no less than ninety degrees from an existing outdoor light source, facing towards the suspects path of exit, a machine that is covert in it's operation and provides a height scale for witnesses to identify a subjects height as they leave through the door.

Abstract: Disclosed is a traffic accident photographing device for a vehicle. The device comprises camera-fastening means for fastening a camera to the vehicle to allow the camera to photograph an actual scene upon occurrence of a collision; and shutter-pressing means for allowing a shutter of the camera fastened to the vehicle by the camera-fastening means, to be pressed by a weight member which is moved under action of inertia force generated by the collision.

Abstract: A camera system includes a camera module that can be rapidly aligned with a predetermined field of view. In one embodiment, the camera module includes a faceplate that is matable to a mounting bracket so as to place the camera module in a fixed position relative to the mounting bracket. A mounting rail is securable to the face plate, such as perpendicularly. A base plate, to which the camera can be affixed, is engagable to the mounting plate such that that the camera is movable about yaw and pitch axes with respect to the mounting plate. The base plate position can be adjusted by a plurality of screws that impinge upon the mounting plate until the camera optical axis is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the module. Once the camera is aligned it is fixed in position in relation to the mounting plate, and therefore, the faceplate and the mounting bracket as well. This arrangement allows a camera to be rapidly aligned with the predetermined field of view by mounting the camera module on the mounting bracket.

Abstract: A pressurizable camera housing of a surveillance camera. The housing includes a transparent dome, an upper housing shell, and an upper sealing plate. The components are separable for access to the housing interior for installation and maintenance purposes. O-ring seals are provided between the separable components for maintaining pressure within the housing. A pivotal mounting bracket includes a hinged portion allowing access to wiring, circuitry and other components behind the bracket.

Abstract: There are described herein systems and methods for producing and distributing personalized photographic souvenirs for spectators of an event. Equipment well-known in the art is used to take photographs of performers at the event, and to scan images or take photos of items representative of the event, for example a ticket stub, advertisement, or team names and logos. In addition, at least one pan-and-tilt camera system, also well-known in the art, is used to take an orderly, indexed series of photos of the spectators such that substantially every spectator will appear in at least one spectator photo. The spectator photos are indexed according to a predetermined mapping algorithm which maps a particular location of the venue to a virtual sector. Individual souvenirs are then created at the venue in a centralized processing location, by organizing and combining a spectator photo with the other photos and/or scanned images.

Abstract: A universal adaptor that may be used to hold any of a number of different surveillance cameras for deployment in any of a number of different camera housings or enclosures. The adaptor is in the form of a bi-sectional open-ended generally rectangular assembly designed to snap together around a camera and its associated PC boards encapsulating them into a single unit. The assembly includes a plurality of internal slots for holding up to several PC boards associated with the camera, and optional frontal tabs for heating/defrost elements. The camera lens extends through a wide opening at one end of the adaptor. Ventilation, access and attachment openings are provided on the adaptor allowing access to the interior for adjusting PC board switches, running wires and attaching the unit inside a larger mounting enclosure.

Abstract: A pan/tilt camera apparatus effectively photographs an object by adjusting a camera to a desired direction according to motion of the object through controlling a pan movement unit for horizontal rotation and a tilt movement unit for vertical rotation of the camera at the same time. The pan/tilt camera apparatus includes the camera for photographing an object, a first housing for receiving a part of the camera, the first housing rotating right/left in integration with the camera. The pan/tilt camera includes a tilt movement unit received in the first housing for moving the camera upward/downward, and a pan movement unit connected to the first housing. The pan movement unit moves the first housing right/left in a separate way from the tilt movement unit. A second housing receives the pan driving unit.

Abstract: There are described herein systems and methods for producing and distributing personalized photographic souvenirs for spectators of an event. Equipment well-known in the art is used to take photographs of performers at the event, and to scan images or take photos of items representative of the event, for example a ticket stub, advertisement, or team names and logos. In addition, at least one pan-and-tilt camera system, also well-known in the art, is used to take an orderly, indexed series of photos of the spectators such that substantially every spectator will appear in at least one spectator photo. The spectator photos are indexed according to a predetermined mapping algorithm which maps a particular location of the venue to a virtual sector. Individual souvenirs are then created at the venue in a centralized processing location, by organizing and combining a spectator photo with the other photos and/or scanned images.

Abstract: A camera operating apparatus for operating at least one camera unit at an operation speed which is to be changed by an operator, comprises a retainer having an operation surface, a joystick mounted on the retainer and having a center axis, the joystick being pivotable at an inclination angle between the center axes of the joystick positioned at first and second angular positions, angle signal inputting means for inputting an angle signal indicative of the inclination angle of the joystick, a plurality of keys each operatively arranged on the retainer to perform a key-pushed action and a key-released action, each of the keys being operative to input a speed signal indicative of the key-pushed action thereof, the keys including a specified key selected for the operation speed of the camera unit desired by the operator, information recording means for recording specific relevant information between the angle signal inputted from the angle signal inputting means and the speed signal inputted from the specified ke

Abstract: A microprocessor-controlled servo device carrying and driving camera, mainly comprises a microprocessor-chip-processed control circuit, an I/O port a servo set. A user operate a keyboard to input a control signal input command and control signal input termination command, microprocessor will read the relating program and data stored in a memory, then inputs a corresponding control pulse signal to a sever set after control process, and drives a servo to rotate after comparison, magnification and operation in the servo set. The servo set comprises two driving circuit two servos that carry and move a camera horizontally and vertically. Under the control of the present invention, the servos that carry and move the camera can do many functions of camera monitoring, such as the locating memorizing of a plurality of preset points, cruise scanning, alarm outputting and automatic tracking.

Abstract: A surveillance system is provided including a platform having a plurality and variety of cameras or sensors mounted thereto, and a base enclosure adapted to accommodate a power supply, a variety of electronics and other equipment for controlling and providing power to the surveillance equipment. The base is constructed to be tamper resistant and immovable by manual means. A substantially hollow support pole includes a lower portion detachably mounted to the base, and an upper portion mounted to the platform. Wires and cables for connecting the surveillance equipment with the electronics and power supply are run through the support pole. Power to the system may be supplied through existing power sources, for example a 120V power source. A current breaker secured in an environmentally protected housing on the exterior of the surveillance system connected to the power supply and the electronics and surveillance equipment.

Abstract: A motor-driven pan-tilt unit such as a pan-tilt camera mount designed to remotely control panning and tilting motion of, for example, a surveillance camera is provided. The pan-tilt unit includes a pan mechanism, a transmitting unit, and an optical signal transmitting unit. The pan mechanism has a stationary housing and a rotary shaft in connection with the camera. The transmitting unit includes a plurality of conductive rings and a plurality of conductive contacts. Each of the conductive rings is mounted on one of the rotary shaft and an inner wall of the stationary housing in electrical contact with one of the conductive contacts to establish transmission of electric power and control signals required for a tilt mechanism and the camera. The optical signal transmitting unit includes a light-emitting element and a light-sensitive element.

Abstract: A surveillance camera for wild game animals includes a camera having automatic flash, focus, aperture and shutter speed and film advance functions. The camera is mounted within a housing adapted for outdoor installation and protection from adverse weather conditions. An electronic control circuit mounted within the housing is operably connected to the camera and includes a programmable microprocessor providing an interval set function for timing between taking photographs. The camera is activated by a passive infrared sensor detecting body heat of the animal or group of animals to be photographed. Day/night enable and aiming light functions are provided. The electronic control circuit is designed for extremely low voltage requirements.

Abstract: A panoramic imaging system includes a convex reflector, a camera, a transparent cylinder for mounting the convex reflector to the camera, and a first radially-oriented planar member positioned in the transparent cylinder between the convex reflector and the camera. A second radially-oriented planar member can be positioned in the transparent cylinder between the convex reflector and the camera. The first and second radially-oriented planar members would preferably lie in perpendicular planes, however, they may lie in non-perpendicular planes. A mirror mount for a panoramic imaging system includes a convex reflector, a transparent cylinder for supporting the convex reflector, means for connecting a camera to the transparent cylinder, and a first radially-oriented planar member positioned in the transparent cylinder between the convex reflector and the camera. A method of reducing unwanted reflections in the panoramic imaging system is also included.

Abstract: An enclosure for a wildlife surveillance assembly includes a base configured to house a surveillance assembly and a cover coupled to the base with a hinge so as to permit rotating movement therebetween. In addition, the enclosure includes a locking assembly that secures the enclosure to a mounting structure. And prevents removal of the enclosure from the mounting structure without opening the cover of the enclosure. The base further preferably includes first and second compartments that are environmentally isolated from one another and includes openings to accommodate the locking assembly. In the preferred embodiment, the locking mechanism includes a flexible cable having opposed ends, with an abutment coupled to one of the ends. A collar is slidably coupled to the flexible cable and adapted to be locked to the flexible cable at a desired position.

Abstract: A camera apparatus which includes a casing; a pan unit having an external video incident section; a pan shaft; a pan shaft support; pan driving means for rotating the pan unit about the pan shaft; a tilt unit having an internal video incident section and tilt face; a tilt shaft; tilt driving means for rotating the tilt unit about the tilt shaft; and a camera disposed inside the tilt unit. This configuration allows to visibly recognize the movement of the camera, and increases the design flexibility by covering an internal mechanism. Moreover, the apparatus may be downsized by reducing the unused space inside. Furthermore, a simple mechanism increases the productivity of the camera apparatus.

Abstract: A sensing and processing unit (10) installed on an elevated structure (T) adjacent a roadway (R). An enclosure (12) is mounted on the structure. Housed in the enclosure is a television camera (22, 24), the camera being mounted at an angle less than the plane of the horizontal axis of the enclosure. A processor (42) is also housed in the enclosure and is operatively connected to the camera to process video images acquired by the camera. A digital data storage device (44, 46) is also installed in the enclosure for storing information relevant to a monitoring activity. A communications device (50) installed inside said enclosure sends data to and receives instructions from a monitoring site. The single enclosure facilitates remote site monitoring using a minimum of equipment and simplifies both installation and maintenance requirements.