Whether conducting fixed surveillance from buildings or marine craft or visually scanning large surface areas of larger industrial machinery and infrastructure, achieving image accuracy and clarity from large fields of view (FOV) is undoubtedly tricky but essential. The problem is that an area of interest (a ship on the horizon or a defect on a larger structure) may be in plain sight but hard to identify.
It takes advanced imaging devices designed to overcome this large-subject-size visual barrier to survey expansive areas or inspect large-scale objects. InterTest Inc.'s comprehensive suite of solutions, including advanced high-resolution camera sensor technology, cameras with wide FOV lenses, or camera systems with motorized pan/tilt/zoom capability that help professionals overcome the vision barriers often encountered when viewing large-scale subject matter.
Large container ships require high-resolution, weatherproof cameras (often paired with long-wave infrared LWIR sensors) to view large horizon sections.
The Challenge of Large Subject Viewing
Inspection and surveillance of large-scale objects and expansive areas have unique challenges. Unlike the micro-scale, where focal range and magnification are key to fine details, large-scale viewing requires high-resolution image sensors, lenses with comprehensive FOV coverage, and motorized camera control. When inspecting vast construction sites, large industrial machinery, or even monitoring security footage, it's essential to maintain visibility across the entire subject, ensuring no critical detail is overlooked. Traditional, lower-resolution tools often fall short, leading to missed details in inspections or surveillance, which results in higher-cost repairs or even safety risks.
The difficulty arises from the sheer size of the object being inspected. A large piece of machinery or an expansive environment can have numerous intricate details that must be examined closely. Without the right technology, it's easy to overlook these finer points. To address these challenges, professionals need specialized tools to capture both the broad picture and the smallest details.
InterTest’s Advanced Imaging Solutions
At InterTest Inc., we provide an array of cutting-edge imaging solutions that ensure every detail is captured, regardless of the scale of surveillance or inspection. Our products are designed to offer high-resolution imagery, precise internal views, wide coverage, and optimal lighting, all critical elements for effective large subject inspections.
1. Sony 4K FCB Cameras
In image surveillance, having high-resolution cameras with optical zoom to deliver sharp, clear images over wide FOVs is essential. The Sony 4K FCB-ER9500 Block Camera Camera is an outstanding example of this capability. Equipped with a 25x optical and 10x digital zoom and a 20 MP Exmor R CMOS sensor, this camera provides exceptional image clarity at a distance, allowing professionals to capture broad areas without sacrificing detail. On top of its 4K/60fps video capability, the camera also features optical image stabilization, which minimizes "shakey" imaging, ensuring every shot remains sharp and accurate.
The FCB-ER9500's wide to narrow FOV range (f = 6.5 mm to 162.5 mm, F1.6 to 4.8) allows it to cover entire large-scale target areas but then zoom in on specific areas of interest without losing image quality. This makes it an excellent choice for fixed-position video surveillance applications. When paired with the proper interface or encoder boards, the FCB-ER9500's external synchronization and VISCA communication support allow seamless integration and control options over IP networks (see InterTest's custom OEM XBlock Camera Solutions capabilities here).
2. Sony Alpha ILX-LR1 Industrial Camera
The Sony Alpha ILX-LR1 61MP Industrial Camera easily handles large image scale.
The Sony Alpha ILX-LR1 is a camera specifically designed to record images of large-scale subjects, usually from aerial UAVs. The ILX-LR1 has a full frame 1.38-inch Exmor R CMOS camera sensor that delivers 61MP images, and, paired with the right lens, these images can be used in aerial drone surveillance or photogrammetry applications.
In photogrammetry, or the process of creating a high-resolution 3D map of a subject or area from multiple images, the primary vision barrier is the sheer size of the subject. The ILX-LR1 technology allows drones to gather stacks of image data necessary for photogrammetry, which is prevalent in commercial surveying, mining, waste management, and entertainment industries.
3. XtendaCam® HD Air
Sometimes, the camera itself, even with motorized zoom, isn't sufficient to view large subject areas. With the XtendaCam® HD Air Camera System, an operator can view a large industrial area (the camera has a 63.7-degree FOV when in full wide mode) in full HD 2 MP resolution but then can tilt and pan the position of the camera to view even more area of interests. This system capability may seem simplistic, but it is critical for large-scale industrial inspection.
When centered on the area of interest, the inspector can zoom in up to 30x optically or narrow down to a 2.3-degree FOV to look at fine details of a bridge defect or a mechanical snubber in a power generation facility.
Why the Right Tools Matter
In security, infrastructure inspection, and photogrammetry, having the right tools to view large targets is crucial for maintaining safety, efficiency, and quality. High-resolution cameras, video systems, and specialized technology ensure that professionals can identify problems where they may appear, preventing costly repairs and safety concerns. Whether you're inspecting a massive bridge, evaluating the condition of industrial machinery, or surveying a construction site, the right equipment makes all the difference.
Our range of advanced imaging solutions is designed to enhance your large-scale inspections, providing you with the tools you need to capture both the big picture and the fine details. Our products, including high-resolution cameras, wide-angle lenses, and pan/tilt/zoom inspection systems, help professionals navigate the complexities of extensive subject inspections with precision and confidence.
Explore Our Solutions
If you're ready to enhance your surveillance or inspection operations and gain greater clarity in your work, we invite you to explore our range of products. We are committed to helping you overcome vision barriers and achieve the precision and accuracy you need for successful outcomes. Contact us today to learn more about how our solutions can help you achieve a clearer, more comprehensive view of your inspection targets.