WO2018119488A1

WO2018119488A1 - Video surveillance apparatus

Info

Publication number: WO2018119488A1
Application number: PCT/AU2017/000288
Authority: WO
Inventors: Stephen Bell
Original assignee: Intelligent Security Integration Aust Pty Ltd
Current assignee: Intelligent Security Integration Aust Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2016-12-28
Filing date: 2017-12-22
Publication date: 2018-07-05
Anticipated expiration: 2019-06-28

Abstract

A video surveillance apparatus is disclosed herein, the apparatus comprising: a housing; a primary camera configured to capture video surveillance data; a plurality of communication components comprising a network switch and a networking device, for receiving and transmitting the video surveillance data; and independent voltage converters in electrical communication with each communication component for supplying a pre-determined voltage from a mobile power source based on the power requirement of each communication component. Also disclosed is a system for surveillance and a method of surveillance, using the video surveillance apparatus.

Description

Video Surveillance Apparatus

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to video surveillance apparatus and a system for surveillance.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

[0002] Video surveillance is often used in areas where security management and/or organisational risk management is desired. Video surveillance has recently moved to a new level by utilising the internet and wireless technology. The adoption of continuously improving wireless technologies, which provide faster and more reliable transmission of data, has led users to take advantage of surveillance systems without the need to be physically located at the surveillance site.

[0003] A popular video surveillance option is the use of a closed circuit television (CCTV) surveillance camera or an internet protocol closed circuit television (IP CCTV) surveillance camera. However, CCTV and IP CCTV surveillance camera installations are typically permanent installations and are non-portable. Moreover, traditional video surveillance installations require a cable back-bone and mains power infrastructure. Thus, set-up of a permanent installation is costly and time consuming and requires considerable planning to be effective. Additionally, since these surveillance camera systems are permanently fixed at the installation site, such systems are impractical in many situations, such as those which require video surveillance to be deployed at short notice and in quick time such as, during an emergency.

[0004] Mobile video surveillance systems have been introduced to fill the shortcomings of the CCTV and IP CCTV surveillance systems, in particular, for their ability to be a mobile and non-permanent installation, and their use of cameras and wireless technology to transmit data over a cellular/mobile connection or through the internet or an intranet. However, these mobile video surveillance systems require a connection to a mains power supply infrastructure (i.e., an AC power outlet) to provide power to the surveillance system. [0005] Rapid deploy video surveillance systems are an improved form of mobile surveillance. Basic rapid deploy video surveillance systems comprise a camera and a 3G/4G modem for wireless connectivity to transmit the surveillance information over a cellular/mobile connection, through the internet or an intranet, to stream back to a digital video recorder (DVR) or a static command centre. Rapid deploy systems are powered by a battery and therefore can be installed in areas where a mains power supply is not available and are useful in areas where immediate non-permanent installations are required to access, control and provide perimeter protection over a desired area. However, the demanding power requirements of current rapid deploy systems mean that the operational life is short, usually 1 or 2 days, from a standard 12V battery.

[0006] The present invention seeks to provide a video surveillance apparatus and system that addresses at least one of the shortcomings described above.

[0007] It would be desirable to improve the battery life of a video surveillance apparatus and system without the need to frequently replace batteries.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The applicant has developed a battery-powered video surveillance apparatus and system powered by a mobile power source such as a battery to allow a user to conduct video surveillance of an area for an extended period of time without the need to frequently replace the mobile power source. The video surveillance apparatus may be mobile, which enables quick deployment and set up at any area. Additionally, the video surveillance apparatus allows a user direct access to live video surveillance data from a command centre located remotely from the apparatus and/or via a remotely located server (or data centre), which could be in the Cloud.

[0009] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a video surveillance apparatus, the apparatus comprising: a housing; a primary camera configured to capture video surveillance data; a plurality of communication components comprising a network switch and a networking device, for receiving and transmitting the video surveillance data; and independent voltage converters in electrical communication with each communication component for supplying a pre-detennined voltage from a mobile power source based on the power requirement of each communication component. The drawing of each pre-determined voltage, as required by each communication component for it to be operatively functionable, from the mobile power source (such as a main battery) provides a power requirement optimised for main battery operating life.

[0010] In one embodiment of the first aspect, the mobile power source is a battery.

[0011] In another embodiment of the first aspect, the communication components of the apparatus further comprise a network communications bridge.

[0012] In another embodiment of the first aspect, the primary camera transmits the video surveillance data to the network communications bridge.

[0013] In another embodiment of the first aspect, the network communications bridge transmits the video surveillance data to a command centre via the networking device.

[0014] In another embodiment of the first aspect, the transmission of the video surveillance data is in response to a request from the command centre located remotely from the apparatus.

[0015] In another embodiment of the first aspect, the command centre is a mobile command centre.

[0016] In another embodiment of the first aspect, the battery is a main battery connected to at least three independent voltage converters to independently supply power to each of the communicati on components.

[0017] In another embodiment of the first aspect, the main battery is in electrical communication with a potentiometer to regulate the pre-determined voltage.

[0018] In another embodiment of the first aspect, the communication components and the main batteiy are housed in the housing.

[0019] In another embodiment of the first aspect, the primary camera is external to the housing.

[0020] In another embodiment of the first aspect, the apparatus comprises one or more supplementary camera configured to capture additional video surveillance data. [0021] In another embodiment of the first aspect, the communication components are configured to receive the additional video surveillance data from the one or more supplementary cameras.

[0022 ] In another embodiment of the first aspect, the one or more supplementary cameras is coupled to a mobile structure or a permanent structure.

[0023] In another embodiment of the first aspect, the housing is coupled to a mobile structure or a permanent structure.

[0024] In another embodiment of the first aspect, the primary camera is coupled to a mobile structure or a permanent structure.

[0025] In another embodiment of the first aspect, the mobile structure is a vehicle or trailer.

[0026] In another embodiment of the first aspect, the permanent structure is a tree, pole or a part of a building.

[0027] In another embodiment of the first aspect, the primary camera is a PoE-enabled IP security camera.

[0028] In another embodiment of the first aspect, the network communications bridge comprises at least one PoE camera port.

[0029] In another embodiment of the first aspect, the network communications bridge is configured to record and store video surveillance data locally.

[0030] In another embodiment of the first aspect, the network communications bridge is a cloud-managed video recorder and transmits video surveillance data to a pre-determined internet protocol (IP) address via the networking device.

[0031] In another embodiment of the first aspect, the apparatus is configured to connect to one or more supplementary batteries for electrical communication with the communication components.

[0032] In another embodiment of the first aspect, the apparatus comprises a GPS receiver.

[0033] In another embodiment of the first aspect, the apparatus comprises an antenna. [0034] In another embodiment of the first aspect, the apparatus is configured to connect to a solar panel for electrical communication with the communication components and/or the mobile power source such as the main battery.

[0035] In another embodiment of the first aspect, the apparatus comprises a fuse box.

[0036] In another embodiment of the first aspect, the apparatus comprises a battery toggle switch.

[0037] In a second aspect, the present invention provides a system for surveillance, the system comprising: (i) a mobile command centre configured with a server for recei ving and transmitting data; and (ii) a video surveillance apparatus of any of the embodiments of the first aspect configured to capture video surveillance data via its camera for (a) transmitting the video surveillance data in response to a request from the mobile command centre and/or (b) transmitting the video surveillance data to a server located external to the command centre.

[0038] In a third aspect, the present invention provides a method of surveillance comprising:

(i) requesting video surveillance data from a mobile command centre and (ii) receiving the video surveillance data from a video surveillance apparatus of any of the embodiments of the first aspect.

[0039] In a fourth aspect, the present invention provides a method of powering a video surveillance apparatus, the method comprising providing each communication component of the video surveillance apparatus of any of the embodiments of the first aspect a pre-determined voltage based on the power requirement of each communication component via independent voltage converters in electrical communication to a mobile power source. The drawing of each pre-determined voltage, as required by each communication component for it to be operatively functionable, from the mobile power source provides a power requirement optimised for main battery operating life.

[0040] In one embodiment of the fourth aspect, the mobile power source is a batteiy.

[0041] The apparatus of the present invention provides efficient power distribution from the mobile power source by using a respective voltage converter for each of the communication components to increase the operating life of the apparatus. In the present invention, by using respective independent voltage converters to convert the power drawn from the mobile power source to the pre-determined power requirement of each communication component, there is less drain on the power source and thereby a longer operational l ife with a single charge of the power source is provided.

[0042] The present invention is a cost effective mobile rapid deploy video surveillance apparatus and system utilising wireless technology. It can operate off-grid, and can be deployed quickly, for example in under 1 hour or 2 hours, depending on the situation.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0043] In order that the present invention may be readily understood and put into practical effect, reference will now be made to the accompanying illustrations, wherein like reference numerals refer to like features and wherein:

[0044] Figure 1 is a schematic of one embodiment of a rapid deploy video surveillance apparatus according to the present invention.

[0045] Figure 2 is a schematic of the communication pathways of the video surveillance data transmission from a rapid deploy video surveillance apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 3 is a schematic of one embodiment of a rapid deploy video surveillance apparatus of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 4 is a schematic of one embodiment of a rapid deploy video surveillance apparatus of the present invention.

[0048] Figure 5 is a drawing of one embodiment of a rapid deploy video surveillance apparatus of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 6 is a drawing of one embodiment of a rapid deploy video surveillance apparatus of the present invention.

[0050] Figure 7 is a schematic of one embodiment of an external case comprising supplementary batteries useful with a rapid deploy video surveillance apparatus of the present invention. [0051] Figure 8 is a schematic of another embodiment of a rapid deploy video surveillance apparatus of the present invention.

[0052] Figure 9 is a drawing of one embodiment of a rapid deploy video surveillance apparatus of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 10 is a drawing of one embodiment of a supplementary camera useful with a rapid deploy video surveillance apparatus of the present invention.

[0054] Figure 11 is a drawing of one embodiment of a supplementary camera in the open condition useful with a rapid deploy video surveillance apparatus of the present invention.

[0055] Figure 12A shows one embodiment of a computer system suitable for use in the present invention.

[0056] Figure 12B shows one embodiment of a computer memory and processor arrangement suitable for use in the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0057] The following description refers to specific embodiments of the present invention and is in no way intended to limit the scope of the present invention to those specific embodiments.

[0058] Components shown in the figures are illustrative of the exemplary embodiments of the invention and are meant to avoid obscuring the invention. It shall also be understood throughout this disclosure that components may be described as separate functional units, which may comprise subunits, but those skilled in the art will recognise that various components, or portions thereof, may be divided into separate components or may be integrated together, comprising integrated within a single system or component. It should be noted that functions or operations disclosed herein may be implemented as components or nodes. Components may be implemented as software, hardware, or a combination thereof.

[0059] Connections between components within the figures are not intended to be limited to direct connections. Rather, data between these components may be modified, re- formatted, or otherwise changed by intermediary components or devices. Also, additional or fewer connections may be used. It shall also be noted that the terms "coupled", "connected", "communicatively coupled", or "electrical communication" shall be understood to comprise direct connections, indirect connections through one or more intermediary devices, and wireless connections. These terms may be used interchangeably.

[0060] Furthennore, one skilled in the art shall recognise that certain steps may be optionally performed; steps may not be limited to the specific order set forth herein; and certain steps may be performed in different orders, comprising being done contemporaneously.

[0061 ] Reference in the specification to "one embodiment", "another embodiment", "particular embodiments", "some embodiments", or "certain embodiments" means that a particular feature, structure, characteristic, or function described in connection with the embodiment is comprised in at least one embodiment of the invention and may be in more than one embodiment. The appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment", "in some embodiment", or "in certain embodiments" in various places throughout the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment or embodiments.

[0062] Where the terms "comprise", comprises", "comprising", "comprise", "comprises", "comprised" or "comprising" are used in this specification, they are to be interpreted as specifying the presence of the stated features, integers, steps or components referred to, but not to preclude the presence or addition of one or more other feature, integer, step, component or group thereof.

[0063] Further, any prior art reference or statement provided in the specification is not to be taken as an admission that such art constitutes, or is to be understood as constituting, part of the common general knowledge.

[0064] As used herein, "video", "surveillance videos", "surveillance data", "footage", "video surveillance data" and the like mean a live video feed, a live video recording or portions thereof or any selected videos, and any data (such as comprising meta data) or information associated with the video. [0065] As used herein, "networking device" means a device or combination of devices comprising a router, modem and optionally a local area network (LAN) antenna, that creates an access point for the network. The access point can be a wireless access point or a cabled access point.

[0066] As used herein, "mobile power source" has the same meaning as "portable power source" and includes an energy storage device or energy harvesting device that is readily moveable from one location to another. The energy may be stored in electrochemical cells that transforms chemical energy into electricity (e.g., a battery) or harvested by photovoltaic modules (e.g., solar panels) absorbing sunlight as a source of energy to generate electricity.

[0067] As used herein, "mobile" means an ability to be readily movable from one location to another as a single unit and in some instances may have wheels, castors and the like to assist in mobility.

[0068] Also, the indefinite articles "a" and "an" preceding an element or component of the invention are intended to be nonrestrictive regarding the number of instances (i.e. occurrences) of the element or component. Therefore "a" or "an" should be read to comprise one or at least one, and the singular word form of the element or component also comprises the plural unless the number is obviously meant to be singular.

[0069] Referring to figure 1 , a basic rapid deploy video surveillance apparatus 100 is shown.

The apparatus 100 can be positioned or located at any installation site in which it is desirable to monitor that area. The apparatus 100 comprises communication components 120 comprising at least a network switch 121 and a networking device 122 comprising a router 123 and modem 124. A housing 150 houses the communication components 120 to protect the components from exposure to the outside environment. As shown in figure 1, the apparatus 100 also includes two independent voltage converters 130, 131. Each communication component 121 , 122 is in electrical communication with a respective independent voltage converter 130, 131 for supplying a pre-determined voltage from a main battery 165 based on the power requirement of each communication component 121, 122. The main battery 165 is in electrical communication with each independent voltage converter 130, 131 via a battery power connector 167, which in turn is in electrical communication with each communication component 121, 122. The independent voltage converters 130, 131 connected in this manner allow a battery-powered video surveillance apparatus 100 to provide a live feed of the video surveillance data 1 10 via a wireless connection, or via the internet, or via the intranet, to a designated command centre 157 for a prolonged period of time. The drawing of each pre-determined voltage, as required by each communication component 121, 122 for each to be operatively functionable, from the main battery 165 provides a power requirement optimised for main batteiy operating life.

[0070] In one embodiment, the network switch 121 can be a Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) device, which passes electrical power along with data through an Ethernet cable 127. A PoE device 121 allows a single Ethernet cable 127 to provide electrical power and data connection to devices, such as an IP camera 101 , as shown in figure 1.

[0071] A PoE network switch 121 typically has one or more PoE ports 133 (not shown). In some embodiments, a network switch 121 can provide up to 15.4W of DC power. In other embodiments, a PoE device 121 can provide higher levels of electrical power. For example, the network switch 121 may be compliant with the IEEE 802.3 at (Power-over-Ethernet Plus/PoE+) standard and can provide up to 25.5W in each port, whereas a Universal Power-over-Ethernet (UPoE) switch can provide up to 60W in each port 133.

[0072] In the present invention, a primary security camera 101 and wireless access point 122 may be directly connected via Ethernet cable 128 for data transfer. In other embodiments, the primary security camera 101 and wireless access point 122 may be indirectly connected via Ethernet cables 127 and 129 through a network switch 121. A PoE network switch 121 in addition to providing for data transfer, can also provide power to connected devices 180, 181 , 182 via respective Ethernet cables 189, 190, 191. Such implementations can be advantageous for simplicity so that low power requiring devices 180, 181 , 182 do not need a separate power connection to the main battery 165 in order to operate.

[0073] In one embodiment, the apparatus 100 comprises a 12 volt 3G/4G modem router 122.

The modem router 122 is in electrical communication with the main battery 165 and obtains its power from it. [0074] In the embodiment shown in figure 1, the communication components 120 comprise a networking device 122 configured to receive the captured video surveillance data 1 10 and wirelessly transmit the data to a command centre 157 in response to a request from the command centre 157. In some embodiments, the communication components 120 comprises a cellular router 123 and modem 124 configured to receive the captured video surveillance data 1 10 and wirelessly transmit the data via the modem 124 to a command centre 157 in response to a request from the command centre 157. The modem 124 and router 123 may be two separate components. In some embodiments, the modem 124 and router 123 is a single device. The modem/router 122 can be used to transmit video surveillance data 1 10 over a 3G/4G cellular network. The modem 124 may be a Universal Serial Bus (USB) cellular modem or a non-USB cellular modem. Additionally, the router 123 may operate on a 3G, 4G, or other network, and/or can form or create a Wi-Fi access point.

[0075] The router 123 is configured to transmit the video surveillance data 1 10 to the command centre 157 and in certain embodiments, transmit the video surveillance data 1 10 to a server (or data centre) 200 in the Cloud 159. The server (or data centre) 200 is located external to the remotely positioned apparatus 100.

[0076] In certain embodiments, the router 123 may be bound to an internet protocol address of the server (or data centre) 200 in the Cloud 159. In other embodiments, a virtual private network (VPN) may be used wherein the router 123 can comprise the termination point of the VPN. In other embodiments, the request from the command centre 157 may be addressed to a public IP address of the server/data centre 200 in the Cloud 159 and can be directed to the router 123 by a data centre firewall or other network component in the data centre, using hairpin routing. For example, the data centre 200 can be configured to translate the public IP address of the command centre 157 to a private IP address associated with the router 123.

[0077] In the embodiment shown in figure 1, the apparatus 100 comprises a point to multipoint mesh network provided by a LAN antenna 180. The LAN antenna 180 can be mounted on the housing 150 and connected to the PoE switch 121 (e.g., 24 volt DC) via a cat 6 patch lead 189. The LAN antenna 180 may incorporate a flexi goose neck 183 for signal alignment adjustment in order to obtain a strong wireless connection to the command centre 157. In this embodiment, the 3G/4G router 123 may be used as a failsafe. The network switch 121 can provide PoE output 133 for the wireless point-to-point LAN antenna 180. A suitable LAN antenna 180 useful in the present invention is the Nanobeam M5 (Model No. NBE-M5-19) available from Ubiquiti Networks, Inc. The wireless point-to-point LAN antenna 180 can transmit video surveillance data 1 10 across a range of about 1km, 10km, 20km and up to about 30km to the command centre 157.

[0078] Accordingly, the command centre 157 may be network connected via multiple network streaming options selected from any one or more of a 3G/4G cellular network, 4G mesh network, Wi-Fi network and cloud encryption network, and provides streaming from a network connected primary camera 101 for viewing, recording and monitoring of a designated surveillance area.

[0079] In one embodiment, the apparatus 100 may comprise a GPS receiver 182, as shown in figure 1. The GPS receiver 182 is configured to receive GPS signals transmitted from GPS satellites to calculate and determine the location of the apparatus 100 (and thereby the location of the surveillance area).

[0080] In one embodiment, the primary camera 101 is mounted on an external surface/outer face of the housing 150. The primary camera 101 is communicatively coupled to the communication components 120 and is configured to capture video surveillance data 1 10 and transmit the data through the communication components 120. In this embodiment, the primary camera 101 is connected to the network switch 121 via cable 127 which is in turn connected to the networking device 122 via cable 129. Alternatively, or in addition, the primary camera 101 may be connected directly to the networking device 122 via cable 128. Cable 127 comprises a camera interfacing end 136 and communication component interfacing end 137. The camera interfacing end 136 of cable 127 is connected to the primary camera 101 and the communication component interfacing end 137 of cable 127 is connected to the network switch 121. Cable 129 comprises a network switch interfacing end 140 and a networking device interfacing end 141. The network switch interfacing end 140 of cable 129 is connected to the network switch 121 and the networking device interfacing end 141 of cable 129 is connected to the networking device 122. Cable 128 comprises a primary camera interfacing end 138 and networking device interfacing end 139. The camera interfacing end 138 of cable 128 is connected to the primary camera 101 and the networking device interfacing end 139 of cable 128 is connected to the networking device 122.

[0081] In some embodiments, any of the voltage converters 130, 131 may be connected to a voltage injector/midspan (not shown). It would be appreciated that use of a voltage injector/midspan would be beneficial in situations for supplying direct power to a component, such as a primary camera 101, where the PoE port 133 of the network switch 121 has insufficient power. The housing 150 comprises at least one antenna/aerial 160 which is connected to the networking device 122 via cable 161.

[0082] In a particular embodiment, the housing 150 is a plastic water-proof or water- resistant case. The housing 150 may comprise wheels 151 for delivery to the installation site.

[0083] In some embodiments, multiple supplementary cameras 102 may be mounted on the housing 150, mobile structure 170 and/or permanent structure 171 via an external supplementary camera housing 152. In some situations, a supplementary camera 102 would be beneficial to provide a field of view of the surveillance area that is different to the view observed by the primary camera 101. In other situations, multiple supplementary cameras 102 would be beneficial to provide multiple fields of views of the surveillance area that are different from the view observed by each supplementary camera 102 and the view observed by the primary camera 101. The primary camera 101 and supplementary camera 102 can be selected from an internet protocol (IP) camera, high-definition (HD) IP camera, a pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) camera and a closed-circuit television camera (CCTV). A suitable IP camera that may be used in the present invention is an AXIS P1427-LE Network Camera, available from Axis Communications AB. A suitable PTZ camera that may be used in the present invention is an AXIS Q61 15-E PTZ Network Camera, available from Axis Communications AB. In certain embodiments, the primary camera 101 and/or supplementary camera 102 streams video surveillance data live using real-time streaming protocol (RTPS); takes timer-based snapshots; and/or motion-based snapshots. The primary camera 101 and/or supplementary camera 102 can be positioned at any angle or can rotate about a pivot point to capture a panoramic view (i.e. 360 degrees). The primary camera 101 and/or supplementary camera 102 may comprise built-in infrared (IR) and/or night vision viewing ability, for example, by using 1R LED technology. In some embodiments, the primary camera 101 and/or supplementary camera 102 can directly communicate with the mesh network and/or the Cloud in a wireless manner. If the primary camera 101 and/or supplementary camera 102 is an IP camera, the captured image can be converted to surveillance data packets and transmit them over the network.

[0084] In the embodiment shown in figure 1 , the apparatus 100 is powered by a main battery 165 located external to the housing 150. In this embodiment, the main battery 165 is housed in a separate external case 166 (not shown) and is in electrical communication via the battery power connector 167.

[0085] As shown in figure 2, the communication path of the video surveillance data transmission can be a network connection 1 14. Examples of such a network connection 1 14 comprises local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), personal area network (PAN), and the Internet, among others.

[0086] Figure 3 shows a particular embodiment of the present invention. The video surveillance apparatus 100 comprises communication components 120 comprising a network switch 121, a networking device 122 comprising a 3G/4G router 123 and modem 124, and a network communications bridge 125. A housing 150 houses the communication components 120. As shown in Figure 3, the apparatus 100 includes three independent voltage converters 130, 131 , 132. Each respective independent voltage converter 130, 131, 132 is connected to a potentiometer 144, 145, 146. Each communication component 120 is in electrical communication with a respective independent voltage converter 130, 131, 132 for supplying a pre-detennined voltage from the main battery 165 based on the power requirement of each communication component 120. The main battery 165 is in electrical communication with each independent voltage converter 130, 131 , 132 via a battery power connector 167, which in turn is in electrical communication with each respective potentiometer 144, 145, 146 and each respective communication component 120. The power requirement drawn from the main battery 165 by each communication component 120 results from it being operatively functionable, thereby providing a power requirement optimised for main battery 165 operating life. [0087] In a particular embodiment, as shown in figure 4, the video surveillance apparatus 100 comprises a fuse box 142. In this embodiment, the fuse box 142 is positioned between the battery 165 and voltage converters 130, 131, 132 and allows electrical communication from the battery 165 to the communication components 120 via the fuse box 142. In a particular embodiment, all components of the video surveillance apparatus 100, such as components 121 , 123, 124, 125 and optional components 102, 103, 181 , are in electrical communication with, and individually fused with the fuse box 142. The fuse box 142 provides safe electrical connections for the video surveillance apparatus 100 and prevents damage in the event of an electrical short circuit.

[0088] As shown in figure 4, in one embodiment, the apparatus of the present invention comprises a battery toggle switch 143 in electrical communication with the communication components 120 and the battery 165. The battery toggle switch 143 is advantageously positioned between the battery 165 and fuse box 142, to allow electrical communication from the battery 165 to be toggled between an open state and a closed state. In this embodiment, electrical power from the battery 165 to the communication components 120 can be provided by toggling the battery toggle switch 143 to the open state (i.e., power "on" state). Alternatively, electrical power from the battery 165 to the communication components 120 can be disconnected by toggling the battery toggle switch 143 to the closed state (i.e., power "off state). When a battery toggle switch 143 is incorporated into the video surveillance apparatus 100 of the present invention, the battery toggle switch 143 provides a simple and fast powering on and powering off (i.e., start up and shut down) switch for a user. The battery toggle switch 143 advantageously allows a user to quickly activate the video surveillance apparatus 100 in situations when immediate surveillance is required, and/or in situations when immediate disconnection and relocation of the video surveillance apparatus 100 are required.

[0089] In a particular embodiment, the battery 165 is a 12 volt 75-amp hour deep cycle AGM battery. In a particular embodiment, the battery 165 is configured to provide a constant 12 volts. In another particular embodiment, the battery 165 is a 12 volt 60-

80 amp lithium battery. In another particular embodiment, the battery 165 is a 12 volt

20Ah lithium iron phosphate battery. In another particular embodiment, the battery

165 is a 12 volt 50Ah lithium iron phosphate battery. In embodiments where a lithium battery is used, the total weight of the video surveillance apparatus 100 is reduced due to its lighter weight relative to an AGM battery. In some embodiments, the total weight of the video surveillance apparatus 100 can be reduced by up to 20 kg when a lithium battery is used compared with an AGM battery. Advantageously, in some embodiments, the operating life of the video surveillance apparatus 100 may be doubled when a lithium battery is used compared with an AGM battery. In some embodiments, the operating life of the video surveillance apparatus 100 may be about 14 hours when a single 12 volt 20Ah lithium iron phosphate battery is used. In other embodiments, the operating life of the video surveillance apparatus 100 may be about 10 days or more when a combination of three 12 volt 20Ah lithium iron phosphate batteries and a single 12 volt 50Ah lithium iron phosphate battery is used.

[0090] In one embodiment, the apparatus 100 is configured to transmit video surveillance data 1 10 directly to a command centre 157. In other embodiments, the surveillance apparatus 100 is configured to transmit video surveillance data 1 10 to a server (or data centre) 200 located in the Cloud 159. In other embodiments, the surveillance apparatus 100 is configured to transmit video surveillance data 1 10 directly to a command centre 157 and to a server (or data centre) 200 located in the Cloud 159. In other embodiments, the video surveillance data 1 10 may be transmitted over a network, such as the internet, and then on to a personal computing device 162. In some embodiments, individuals may view or access surveillance videos via a personal computing device 162 and is not limited to access by the command centre 157. In certain embodiments, individuals may view or access surveillance videos via a personal computing device 162 via the Cloud 159. In some embodiments, the video surveillance data 1 10 may be transmitted to the command centre 157 and/or personal computing device 162 over a virtual private network (VPN).

[0091 ] In one embodiment, the captured video surveillance data 1 10 is wirelessly transmitted by the router 123 to the command centre 157 and/or to the command centre 157 via a modem 124 in response to a request from the command centre 157, and/or directly to the command centre 157 via a mesh network in response to a request from the command centre 157. In some embodiments, the captured video surveillance data 1 10 can be wirelessly transmitted by any one or more of the above mentioned wireless transmission routes. [0092] In certain embodiments, the video surveillance data 1 10 may be transmitted to a personal computing device 162 of a user such as a smart phone or tablet. In this embodiment, the personal computing device 162 transmits a request to the server/data centre 200 in the Cloud 159. The router 123 can be bound to a public internet protocol (IP) address of the server/data centre 200 using a virtual private network (VPN) and the router 123 can comprise the termination point of the VPN. In this case, the request from the personal computing device 162 can be addressed to the public IP address of the server/data centre 200 in the Cloud 159, which in turn can be directed to the router 123 by the server/data centre 200 using hairpin routing. In order to re-route the request, the server/data centre 200 can be configured to translate the public IP address of the server/data centre 200 to a private IP address associated with the router 123.

[0093] The apparatus 100 may be located or positioned at any site or location in which video surveillance is desired for periodic or constant viewing or monitoring.

[0094] In one embodiment, the apparatus 100 comprises at least two voltage converters 130, 131 to provide, respectively, a first pre-detennined voltage for the PoE switch 121 and a second pre-determined voltage for the networking device 122, supplied independently by the main battery 165. In a particular embodiment, a further third pre-determined voltage for the network communications bridge 125 is provided via a third voltage converter 132 wherein the pre-determined voltage is supplied independently by the main battery 165. In particular embodiments, the PoE switch 121 is a 5 port PoE switch requiring a first pre-determined voltage (e.g., 24 volts); the networking device 122 is a 3G/4G cellular router 123 requiring a second predetermined voltage (e.g., 12 volts); and in certain embodiments, the network communications bridge 125 is an Eagle Eye ^IM cloud bridge requiring a third predetermined voltage (e.g., 19 volts); wherein each pre-determined voltage is supplied independently by the main battery 165.

[0095] Optionally, a fourth voltage converter 134, is connected to a PoE network converter/midspan 174 (12-48 volts). Optionally, a fifth voltage converter 135, is connected to a PoE network converter/midspan 175 (12-48 volts). In some embodiments, the PoE network converters/mi dspans 174, 175 are each in electrical communication directly with the fuse box 142 (not shown). These two PoE network converters/midspans 174, 175 provide PoE respectively to two supplementary PoE HD cameras 102, 103 (48 volts each). In one embodiment, the PoE network converters/midspans 174, 175 provide PoE respectively to one supplementary HD camera 102 (48 volts) and one PoE horn speaker 181 (48 volts).

[0096] n a particular embodiment, the independent voltage converters 130, 131 , 132 and optional voltage converters 134, 135 may be selected from a 12 volt to 19 volt converter and a 12 volt to 24 volt converter. In certain embodiments, the independent voltage converters 130, 131, 132 and optional voltage converters 134, 135 may be any combination of 12 volt to 19 volt converter and a 12 volt to 24 volt converter.

[0097] The apparatus 100 comprises fans 193, 194 for ventilation in high temperature environments. The fans comprise one inlet fan 193 and one outlet fan 194. In one embodiment, the inlet fan 193 may be a 12 volt fan and the outlet fan 194 may be a 12 volt fan. The fans 193, 194 may be connected to and powered by a PoE port of the network switch 121 . In other embodiments, the fans 193, 194 may be connected to and powered by electrical communication directly with individual fuses in the fuse box 142, which in turn is in electrical communication with battery 165 (not shown). In another embodiment, the fans 193, 194 may be connected to the main battery 165 via an independent voltage converter which may be in electrical communication with the fuse box 142 (not shown). In a particular embodiment, the fans 193, 194 may be temperature controlled, wherein the fans 193, 194 are activated to cool the communication components 120 when the housing 150 reaches a pre-determined temperature.

[0098] In the embodiments shown in figure 3 and figure 4, the apparatus 100 comprises an antenna 160. In some embodiments, two 4G antennas 160. The one or more antennae 160 is mounted on the top portion of the housing (or case) 150 and is connected to the 3G/4G networking device 122 to achieve a high gain signal boost.

[0099] In the embodiments shown in figure 5 and figure 6, the apparatus 100 comprises a LAN network antenna 1 80. The LAN network antenna 180 can be mounted on the housing 150 and connected to the PoE switch 121 (e.g., 24 volt DC) via a cat 6 patch lead 189 (not shown). The LAN network antenna 180 may incorporate a flexi goose neck 183 for signal alignment adjustment in order to obtain a strong wireless connection to the command centre 157 (not shown).

[00100] The housing 150 comprises a weatherproof RJ45 connector 184 in electrical communication with at least one of the communication components 120. In some embodiments, the housing 150 comprises at least two weatherproof RJ45 connectors 184. One RJ45 connector 184 may be used to connect a supplementary camera 102 whilst another RJ45 connector 184 may be used to connect a PoE horn 181 (not shown). A PoE horn 181 provides audio at the remote installation site from the command centre 157. In some embodiments, the supplementary cameras 102, 103 (not shown) comprise a universal one-size-fits-all bracketing system 195 (not shown) to support a range of autonomous cameras 101 , 102, 103 (not shown) for mounting on a mobile structure 170 (not shown) such as vehicles, trailers, stands (e.g., tripods) and the like, or on a permanent structure 171 (not shown) such as poles, trees, posts and the like.

[00101] As shown in figure 5, in one embodiment, the apparatus 100 comprises a 4- pin rugged connector 196 for connecting an external case 166 (not shown).

[00102] As show in figure 6, in a particular embodiment, the video surveillance apparatus 100 comprises a set of LED lights 185. The LED lights 165 are in electrical communication with the battery 165 and located in the housing 150. The LED lights advantageously have a power switch 187 to toggle between an on and off state to provide illumination and improved viewing of internal components in the housing 150. In some embodiments, the LED lights 165 can be connected to the battery 165 via a fuse box 142 and is individually fused. In other embodiments, the LED lights 185 may be connected to the battery 165 via the network switch 121. In some embodiments, the fuse box 142 may be a six point fuse box.

[00103] As shown in figure 7, the external case 166 houses at least one supplementary battery 168. The external case 166 may be of any suitable size to house the at least one supplementary battery 168. In certain embodiments, the dimensions of the external case 166 can be from between 16cm by 26cm by 29cm and 25 by 36 by 65cm. In some embodiments, the external case 166 is about 25cm by 36cm by 65cm. In one embodiment, the external case 166 may house one 12V 75-amp hour main battery 165. In another embodiment, the external case 166 may house one 12 V 20 Ah lithium iron phosphate battery 165. In another embodiment, the external case 166 may house one 12V 75-amp hour supplementary battery 168. In another embodiment, the external case 166 may house two 12V 75-amp hour supplementary batteries 168 (total of 150-amp hour). In certain embodiments, at least one main battery 165 and at least one supplementary battery 168 can all be lithium batteries. In an embodiment where one external case 166 houses one 12V 20Ah lithium iron phosphate main battery 165, and a second external case 166 houses two 12V 20Ah lithium iron phosphate batteries and one 12 volt 50 Ah lithium iron phosphate battery 168, the operating life of the video surveillance apparatus 100 is about 10 days or more.

[00104] In a particular embodiment, the apparatus 100 may be operational for up to 7 days with a single main battery 165 when the communication components 120 described herein are in use. Longer operational period of time of up to about 2 weeks may be achieved with two main lithium batteries 165 when the minimum of communication components 120 are used for video surveillance. In other embodiments, an operational period of time of up to about 2 weeks may be achieved with a single main lithium battery 165 and a single supplementary lithium battery 168 are used for video surveillance. The external case 166 comprising at least one battery 165, 168 may be substituted with a replacement external case 166 housing at least one battery 165, 168 by releasing a bracket attached thereto and removing the 4-pin connector 196. The detached connector 196 allows the at least one battery 165, 168 (fully charged) in the replacement external case 166 to be attached to establish an electrical communication with the communication components 120.

[00105] In one embodiment, as shown in figure 8, a solar panel 186 can be connected to the apparatus 100. The solar panel 186 can be coupled to the housing 150 or a mobile structure 170 (or permanent structure 171 ) (not shown) and configured to tilt and swivel to maximise sunlight exposure. In one embodiment, the external case 166, which houses at least one supplementary battery 168 is electrically coupled to the solar panel 186 and configured to store energy collected by the solar panel 186. In a particular embodiment, the main battery 165 is used to power the communication components 120 comprising the network switch 121 and networking device 122 and if present, the network communications bridge 125. Of course, in some embodiments, the housing 150 and the external case 166 may be combined into a single housing 169, which houses all of the components and batteries in the housing 169.

[00106] The solar panel 186 and external supplementary batteries 168 provide power backup when connected to the apparatus 100 in the event of a full battery discharge of the main battery 165.

[00107] In a particular embodiment, the housing 150 is coupled to an upper section of a mobile structure 170 or permanent structure 171 (not shown), and the external case 166 is positioned at the base of the structure 170, 171. This positioning allows the housing 150 of the apparatus 100 to be positioned above ground level to allow the primary camera 101 to capture video surveillance data 110 from a vantage point and away from tampering by unscrupulous people or vandals. The external case 166 may be positioned on the ground for easy swapping of supplementary batteries 168 when the batteries 165, 168 are low due to insufficient recharge from the solar panels 186. n embodiments where solar panels 186 are installed, they may be coupled to the upper section of the mobile structure 170 or permanent structure 171 in order to optimise the quality and quantity of sunlight received by elevating the solar panel 186 above any obstructions or shadows.

[00108] In some embodiments, the 4-pin connector 196 can be connected to a solar panel 186 (not shown). In this embodiment, the solar panel 186 incorporating a bracket 197 (not shown) may be configured to recharge the main battery 165 and/or is in electrical communication with the communication components 120. In this embodiment, the solar panel 186 may use a matingly compatible bracketing component 197 for easy detachment and attachment with the 4-pin connector 196. In a particular embodiment, any external components for attachment to the apparatus 100 of the present invention utilises the same matingly compatible bracketing component 197.

[00109] As shown in figure 9, the housing 150 comprises a bracket or plate 153. In one embodiment, the bracket or plate 153 can be a standoff bracket/plate mounted on the front of the housing 150. In another embodiment, the bracket or plate 153 can be mounted directly to the housing 150. The bracket/plate 153 may be configured to mount a primary camera 101 (not shown). In some embodiments, a Weatherproof RJ45 connector 184 can be located behind or adjacent to the bracket/plate 153 for connecting with a supplementary camera 102, 103 (not shown) for electrical communication to the communication components 120. In other embodiments, a rubber grommet 198 can be positioned between the bracket 153 and mounted camera 101 (not shown). The bracket/plate 153 allows a patch lead to connect to the camera 101 from PoE component such as a network switch 121 or a converter/midspan 174, 175 (12-48 volts).

[00110] In the embodiment shown in figure 9, the housing 150 comprises a mounting plate 154 located distal to the front of the housing 150 (i.e., attached to the back portion of the housing 150). The plate 154 is configured to receive a complementary mounting bracket 155 for removably fixing to a mobile structure 170 or permanent structure 171 (not shown). In embodiments where a mobile structure 170 is used, the mobile structure 170 may be a vehicle, trailer or a tripod. When a tripod is used, it may be weighted down with a weight so as to stablise the tripod during unfavourable weather conditions. The tripod may be telescopic and allow the apparatus 100 to be mounted at any adjustable height. In one embodiment, the housing 150 comprises a male plate 154 and the structure 170, 171 at the installation site comprises a female bracket 155, which when coupled together forms a removable attachment. In an alternative embodiment, the housing 150 comprises a female plate 154 and the structure 170, 171 at the installation site comprises a male bracket 155, which when coupled together forms a removable attachment. The structure 170, 171 at the installation site may be a pole, tree, post, wall or any part of a building, and the mounting bracket 155 may be attached thereto using screws or stainless steel cable ties. The complementary plate 154 and bracket 155 may be configured for a friction fit for a quick and simple friction fit attachment.

[00111] In a particular embodiment, the main battery 165 and supplementary battery

168 are lithium batteries. A lithium battery may be beneficial in situations where lighter weights and/or smaller battery sizes are desirable whilst providing excellent power output. The use of a lithium battery advantageously allows the external battery case 166 to be of smaller dimensions than that housing a non-lithium battery. The use of a smaller dimensioned external battery 165, 168 would be advantageous in situations where the external case 166 needs to be hidden from sight and/or in situations where the supporting structure 170,171 cannot handle the combined weight of the battery 165, 168 and case 166.

[00112] In a particular embodiment, the communications bridge 125 provides PoE directly from the bridge. In this embodiment, a primary camera 101 can be powered directly from the bridge 125. The communications bridge 125 has at least one PoE port 126, in some embodiments, two PoE ports 126, in some embodiments, three PoE ports 126, in some embodiments, four PoE ports 126, and in some embodiments, five or more PoE ports 126. In particular embodiments, one or multiple cameras 101 , 102, 103 can be directly connected to the bridge 125 and be powered directly, thereby bypassing the PoE network switch 121. In a particular embodiment, the communications bridge 125 has an in-built cloud-based video surveillance recorder 129 (not shown).

[00113] In a particular embodiment, the communications bridge 125 is a cloud managed video recorder 129 (CMVR). A communications bridge 125 useful in the present invention is the Eagle Eye bridge Model No. 224 available from Eagle Eye Networks, Inc. With this CMVR communications bridge 129, a PoE converter 174, 175 may be required, such as an Axis T81B22 DC 30W midspan, which converts 12 volts in to 48 volts out to supply power to a camera 101 , 102, 103. Another communications bridge useful in the present invention is the Eagle Eye bridge Model No. 305, also available from Eagle Eye Networks, Inc. With this CMVR communications bridge 129, PoE ports (not shown) are built-in for direct connection to one or more cameras 101 , 102, 103. This means that a PoE converter 174, 175 such as an Axis T81 B22 DC 30W midspan, would only be required for providing electrical communication with additional external devices such as a horn speaker 181 for audio capabilities. A particular horn speaker 181 useful in the present invention is an Axis P3004 available from Axis Communications AB.

[00114] Additionally, a non-PoE network connection may be provided for any of the cameras 101 , 102, 103 and extra devices 181 , 182, 186 that may be connected to at least one PoE converter 174, in some embodiments, two PoE converters 174, 175, such as an Axis T81B22 DC 30W midspan (12 volt direct input), which provides non-PoE network input and 48 volts output for PoE cameras 101 , 102, 103 and devices 181 , 182, 186. In embodiments where PoE ports 126 are provided by the network communications bridge 125 (such as Eagle Eye bridge Model No. 305), it would be understood that it not necessary to use PoE converters 174, 175 (such as an Axis T81B22 DC 30 W midspan) unless an external device 181 , 1 82, 186 connected directly thereto is not recognised and/or has incompatible power requirements. For example, an external device 181 such as the AXIS C3003-E Network Horn Speaker (available from Axis communications AB) is currently not compatible with the Eagle Eye communications bridge. It is envisaged that a midspan 174, 175 would no longer be required when the Eagle Eye communications bridge has been modified to be compatible with the Axis horn speaker.

[00115] As indicated above, in a particular embodiment the network communications bridge 125 may be a CMVR 129. The CMVR 129 can be installed on-site, connects to one or more cameras 101 , 102, 103, configured to record video surveillance data locally and securely synchronises the video surveillance data 1 10 (both video and meta data) to the external server 200 in the Cloud 159. The network communications bridge 125 may be configured to be compatible with any camera 101 , 102, 103 comprising IP cameras, ONVIF Profile S IP cameras, NTSC analog cameras and PAL analog cameras. The network communications bridge 125 may be directly connect up to two or four cameras, or alternatively up to six HD IP cameras via a PoE network switch 121 connected thereto. In some embodiments, the network communications bridge 125 is a CMVR 129 and comprises both video and audio recording. The network communication bridge 125 may comprise one or more fans 193,194 or is fanless. In some embodiments, the network communication bridge 125 comprises integrated heats fins (not shown). The network communications bridge 125 may also provide any one or more of: local video buffering, automatic network configuration, packet loss detection, packet loss reporting, network disconnection alerts, automatic camera discovery, camera disconnection alerts, internet disconnection alerts, automatic camera configuration, and remote management. The network communication bridge 125 may comprise local video connection ports such as a display port 147 and/or HDMI port 148 (not shown).

[001 16] In some embodiments, the network communications bridge 125 can transmit live and recorded video surveillance data 1 10 using the router 123 and modem 124 over an encrypted virtual private network (VPN) link. [00117] In some embodiments, the network communications bridge 125 may comprise a removable or non-removable data storage capability, such as but not limited to, magnetic disks, magnetic tapes or cassettes, CD-ROMs, CD-RWs, DVDs, USB memory sticks, SD memory cards, SDXC memory cards, micro SDXC memory cards, SDHC memory cards, micro SDHC memory cards, micro SD memory cards, compact flask cards or any other medium which can be used to store information and which can be accessed from within the network and/or physically retrievable.

[00118] In a particular embodiment, the video surveillance data may be stored as an encrypted data in the communications bridge 125 and as well as during transmission to the command centre 157 and/or server 200 and/or data centre in the Cloud 159. In some embodiments, the communications bridge 125 has no open ports to the internet thereby eliminating security vulnerabilities.

[00119] As stated previously, the apparatus 100 of the present invention may be configured to provide data connectivity (i.e., transmit video surveillance data 1 10) to a command centre 157. The command centre 157 may be a mobile command centre, which may be installed in a suitable vehicle such as a van, truck or trailer.

[00120] In other embodiments, the apparatus 100 of the present invention may be configured to provide connectivity (i.e., transmit video surveillance data 1 10) to a server 200 (or data centre) located in the Cloud 159. In other embodiments, the apparatus 100 of the present invention may be configured to provide connectivity (i.e., transmit video surveillance data 1 10) to a command centre 157 and a server 200 (or data centre) located in the Cloud 159. In a particular embodiment, the apparatus 100 provides connectivity to a mobile command centre 157 and to any internet- enabled video surveillance framework in the world.

[001211 In one embodiment, the apparatus 100 comprises a point to multi-point mesh network provided by the mesh antenna 180. In this embodiment, the 3G/4G router 123 may be used as a failsafe and the Cloud back-up of the video surveillance data 1 10 may be accessed from the command centre 157.

[00122] In a particular embodiment as shown in figure 3, each communication component 120 of the apparatus 100 is in electrical communication with a respective independent voltage converter 130-135 for supplying an independent pre-determined voltage from the main battery 165 in response to a power request by each communication component 120. A respective potentiometer 144-145 may be in electrical communication with an individual converter 130-135 to regulate each independent pre-determined input voltage supplied by the main battery 165. For example, the main battery 165 and/or supplementary battery 168 may provide independently, 24 volts input for the PoE network switch 121 ; 19 volts input for the communications bridge 125 (e.g., Eagle Eye Bridge); and 48 volts input for the camera/s 101-103 and external devices 180-182, 186 in response to a power request by each component 120, 101-103, 180-182, 186 so that the independent predetermined voltage drawn from the main battery 165 by each component 120, 101- 103, 180-182, 186 is optimised for battery 165 operating life.

[00123] In a particular embodiment, a 12-26 volts converter is used, which is in electrical communication to a potentiometer 144-146 to regulate the voltage from the power source (main battery 165/supplementary batteries 168).

[00124] Optionally, a heat sink 1 17 (not shown) may be in electrical communication with the power source 165, 168.

[00125] In embodiments where a communications bridge 125 with internal PoE ports

126 may be used, one voltage converter 132 can be used to generate a pre-determined voltage, such as 19 volts from 12 volts DC for powering the communications bridge 125, and a second voltage converter 131 to generate another pre-determined voltage, such as 24 volts from 12 volts DC for the PoE network switch 121, which in turn can for example, provide 24 volts PoE output for the wireless point-to-point mesh network antenna 180. As indicated previously, a suitable mesh network antenna 180 useful in the present invention is the Nanobeam M5 (Model No. NBE-M5-19) available from Ubiquiti Networks, Inc.

[00126] In one embodiment, as shown in figure 10, apparatus 100 comprises a supplementary camera 102, which may provide a field of view of the surveillance area that is different to the view observed by the primary camera 101. The supplementary camera 102 can be any camera which is in electrical communication with the communication components 120 and configured to capture additional video surveillance data. The supplementary camera 102 may an internet protocol (IP) camera, high-definition (HD) IP camera, a pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) camera or a closed- circuit television camera (CCTV). As shown in figure 10, the supplementary camera 102 comprises a universal one-size-fits-all bracketing system 195 to support the camera 102 for mounting on a tree 172. It would be understood that the mounting structure 170, 171 can be any mobile or permanent structure that is capable of being mounted by the supplementary camera 102. Examples of such structures 170, 171 comprise vehicles, trailers, stands (such as tripods), poles, trees, posts, and the like.

[00127| Figure 1 1 depicts a supplementary camera 102 with its casing 105 in the open position. The supplementary camera casing 105 comprises a wind-up reel mechanism 106 configured to retract any excess or loose cabling 107 (e.g., cat5 cable) from the apparatus 100.

[00128| The person skilled in the art will recognise that no programming language is critical to the practice of the present invention.

[00129] One method of using the apparatus 100 of the present invention comprises selecting a location for temporarily installing the surveillance apparatus 100. Once selected, the surveillance apparatus 100 can be placed at the desired location. After installation, electrical power is supplied to the rapid deploy surveillance apparatus 100 via the main battery 165 (and/or supplementary batteries 168 and/or solar panels 186, if installed). The command centre 157 can then be used to connect to the ad hoc network created by the router 123 and/or mesh network to test the view observed by the primary camera 101 and any views observed by supplementary cameras 102, 103 attached thereto.

[00130] The command centre 157 can be configured to view surveillance footage in real time, recorded surveillance footage, snapshots or time-lapsed surveillance snapshots over the ad hoc mesh network. In addition, or alternatively, the live surveillance footage can be transmitted over a cellular network across an encrypted VPN channel to the server 200 in the Cloud 159 via the network communications bridge 125. The server 200 in the Cloud 159 is configured to receive incoming video surveillance data 1 10 and store them for later access.

[00131] One embodiment of a computer system 200 suitable for use in the present invention is shown in figures 12A and 12B. In the embodiment shown computer system 200 comprises a personal computing device 201 comprising input devices such as a keyboard 202, a mouse pointer device 203, a scanner 226, an external hard drive 227, and a microphone 280; and output devices including a printer 215, a display device 214 and loudspeakers 217. In some embodiments video display 214 may comprise a touchscreen. The computer system may be comprised in the command centre 157.

[00132] The input devices may be used for receiving live video surveillance data and/or recorded video surveillance data. In one embodiment, this data is received by requesting the data via the keyboard 202. The live and recorded data may be retrieved at the same time or at a different time. In other embodiments, video surveillance data is requested by using keyboard 202 and received by network connection device 216 through network 220.

[00133] Computing device 201 may be used for requesting and receiving a live video surveillance data or one or more recorded video surveillance data. Similar computing devices may be associated with the command centre 157.

[00134] Examples of computing devices 201 on which the described arrangements can be practiced include IBM-PC's and compatibles, Sun Sparc stations, Apple computers; smart phones; tablet computers or a like device comprising a computer module like computer module 201. It is to be understood that when computing device 201 comprises a smart phone or a tablet computer, display device 214 may comprise a touchscreen and other input and output devices may not be included such as, mouse pointer device 201 ; keyboard 202; scanner 226; and printer 215. A network connection device 216 such as, a Modulator-Demodulator (Modem) transceiver device, may be used by the computer module 201 for communicating to and from a communications network 220 via a connection 221.

[00135] Network connection device 216 may receive live video surveillance data and/or recorded video surveillance data through network 220.

[00136] The network 220 may be a wide-area network (WAN), such as the Internet, a cellular telecommunications network, or a private WAN. Through the network 220, computer module 201 may be connected to other similar computer modules 290 or server computers 291. A wireless modem is used for wireless connection to network 220.

[00137] The computer module 201 typically includes at least one processor 205, and a memory 206 for example formed from semiconductor random access memory (RAM) and semiconductor read only memory (ROM).

[00138] The memory 206 may store video surveillance data. Memory 206 may be password or otherwise protected so that its contents can be maintained as confidential.

[00139] The module 201 also includes a number of input/output (I/O) interfaces including: an audio-video interface 207 that couples to the video display 214, loudspeakers 217 and microphone 280; an I/O interface 213 for the keyboard 202, mouse 203, scanner 226 and external hard drive 227; and an I/O interface 208 for the external modem 216 and printer 215. In some implementations, modem 216 may be incorporated within the computer module 201 , for example within the interface 208. The computer module 201 also has a local network interface 21 1 which, via a connection 223, permits coupling of the personal device 200 to a local computer network 222, known as a Local Area Network (LAN).

[00140] As also illustrated, the local network 222 may also couple to the wide network 220 via a connection 224, which would typically include a so-called "firewall" device or device of similar functionality. The interface 21 1 may be formed by an Ethernet circuit card, a Bluetooth wireless arrangement or an IEEE 802.1 1 wireless arrangement or other suitable interface.

[00141] The I/O interfaces 208 and 213 may afford either or both of serial and parallel connectivity, the former typically being implemented according to the Universal Serial Bus (USB) standards and having corresponding USB connectors (not illustrated).

[00142] Storage devices 209 are provided and typically include a hard disk drive (HDD) 210. Other storage devices such as, an external HDD 227, a disk drive (not shown) and a magnetic tape drive (not shown) may also be used. An optical disk drive 212 is typically provided to act as a non-volatile source of data. Portable memory devices, such as optical disks (e.g.: CD-ROM, DVD, Blu-Ray Disc), USB- RAM, external hard drives and floppy disks for example may be used as appropriate sources of data to the computing device 201. Another source of data to computing device 200 is provided by the at least one server computer 291 through network 220.

[00143] The components 205 to 213 of the computer module 201 typically communicate via an interconnected bus 204 in a manner that results in a con ventional mode of operation of computer module 200. In the embodiment shown in figures 12A and 12B, processor 205 is coupled to system bus 204 through connections 218. Similarly, memory 206 and optical disk drive 212 are coupled to the system bus 204 by connections 219.

[00144] Figure 12B is a detailed schematic block diagram of processor 205 and a memory 234. The memory 234 represents a logical aggregation of all the memory modules, including the storage device 209 and semiconductor memory 206, which can be accessed by computing device 201 in figure 12 A.

[00145] The method and/or system of the invention may be implemented using computing device 201 wherein the method and/or system may be implemented as one or more software application programs 233 executable within computer module 201. In particular, th e steps of the method and/or system 100 of the invention may be effected by instructions 231 in the software carried out within the computer module 201.

[00146] The software instructions 231 may be formed as one or more code modules, each for performing one or more particular tasks. The software 233 may also be divided into two separate parts, in which a first part and the corresponding code modules performs the method of the invention and a second part and the corresponding code modules manages a graphical user interface between the first part and the user.

[00147] The software 233 may be stored in a computer readable medium, including in a storage device of a type described herein. The software is loaded into the computing device 201 from the computer readable medium or through network 221 or 223, and then executed by computer module 201 . In one example the software 233 is stored on storage medium 225 that is read by optical disk drive 212. Software 233 is typically stored in the HDD 210 or the memory 206.

[00148] A computer readable medium having such software 233 or computer program recorded on it is a computer program product. The use of the computer program product in the computing device 201 may effect a device or apparatus for implementing the method and/or system of the invention.

[00149] In some instances, the software application programs 233 may be supplied to the user encoded on one or more disk storage medium 225 such as a CD-ROM, DVD or Blu-Ray disc, and read via the corresponding drive 212, or alternatively may be read by the user from the networks 220 or 222. Still further, the software can also be loaded into the computing device 201 from other computer readable media. Computer readable storage media refers to any non-transitory tangible storage medium that provides recorded instructions and/or data to the computer module 201 , 290 and/or server computer 291 for execution and/or processing. Examples of such storage media include floppy disks, magnetic tape, CD-ROM, DVD, Blu-ray Disc, a hard disk drive, a ROM or integrated circuit, USB memory, a magneto-optical disk, or a computer readable card such as a PCMCIA card or SD card and the like, whether or not such devices are internal or external of the computing device 201. Examples of transitory or non-tangible computer readable transmission media that may also participate in the provision of software application programs 233, instructions 231 and/or data to the computing device 201 include radio or infra-red transmission channels as well as a network connection 221 , 223, 224, to another computer or networked device 290, 291 and the Internet or an Intranet including email transmissions and information recorded on Websites and the like.

[00150] The second part of the application programs 233 and the corresponding code modules mentioned above may be executed to implement one or more graphical user interfaces (GUIs) to be rendered or otherwise represented upon display 214. Through manipulation of, typically, keyboard 202, mouse 203 and/or screen 214 when comprising a touchscreen, a user of computer module 201 and the method and/or system of the invention may manipulate the interface in a functionally adaptable manner to provide controlling commands and/or input to the applications associated with the GUI(s). Other forms of functionally adaptable user interfaces may also be implemented, such as an audio interface utilizing speech prompts output via loudspeakers 217 and user voice commands input via microphone 280. The manipulations including mouse clicks, screen touches, speech prompts and/or user voice commands may be transmitted via network 220 or 222.

[00151] When the computing device 201 is initially powered up, a power-on self-test

(POST) program 250 may execute. The POST program 250 is typically stored in a ROM 249 of the semiconductor memory 206. A hardware device such as the ROM 249 is sometimes referred to as firmware. The POST program 250 examines hardware within the computing device 201 to ensure proper functioning, and typically checks processor 205, memory 234 (209, 206), and a basic input-output systems software (BIOS) module 251 , also typically stored in ROM 249, for correct operation. Once the POST program 250 has run successfully, BIOS 251 activates hard disk drive 210. Activation of hard disk drive 210 causes a bootstrap loader program 252 that is resident on hard disk drive 210 to execute via processor 205. This loads an operating system 253 into RAM memory 206 upon which operating system 253 commences operation. Operating system 253 is a system level application, executable by processor 205, to fulfill various high level functions, including processor management, memory management, device management, storage management, software application interface, and generic user interface.

[00152] Operating system 253 manages memory 234 (209, 206) in order to ensure that each process or application running on computing device 201 has sufficient memory in which to execute without colliding with memory allocated to another process. Furthermore, the different types of memory available in the computing device 201 must be used properly so that each process can run effectively. Accordingly, the aggregated memory 234 is not intended to illustrate how particular segments of memory are allocated, but rather to provide a general view of the memory accessible by computing device 201 and how such is used.

[00153] Processor 205 includes a number of functional modules including a control unit 239, an arithmetic logic unit (ALU) 240, and a local or internal memory 248, sometimes called a cache memory. The cache memory 248 typically includes a number of storage registers 244, 245, 246 in a register section storing data 247. One or more internal busses 241 functionally interconnect these functional modules. The processor 205 typically also has one or more interfaces 242 for communicating with external devices via the system bus 204, using a connection 218. The memory 234 is connected to the bus 204 by connection 219.

[00154] Application program 233 includes a sequence of instructions 231 that may include conditional branch and loop instructions. Program 233 may also include data 232 which is used in execution of the program 233. The instructions 231 and the data 232 are stored in memory locations 228, 229, 230 and 235, 236, 237, respectively. Depending upon the relative size of the instructions 231 and the memory locations 228-230, a particular instruction may be stored in a single memory location as depicted by the instruction shown in the memory location 230. Alternately, an instruction may be segmented into a number of parts each of which is stored in a separate memory location, as depicted by the instruction segments shown in the memory locations 228 and 229.

[00155] In general, processor 205 is given a set of instructions 243 which are executed therein. The processor 205 then waits for a subsequent input, to which processor 205 reacts by executing another set of instructions. Each input may be provided from one or more of a number of sources, including data generated by one or more of the input devices 202, 203, or 214 when comprising a touchscreen, data received from an external source across one of the networks 220, 222, data retrieved from one of the storage devices 206, 209 or data retrieved from a storage medium 225 inserted into the corresponding reader 212. The execution of a set of the instructions may in some cases result in output of data. Execution may also involve storing data or variables to the memory 234.

[00156] The disclosed arrangements use input variables 254 that are stored in the memory 234 in corresponding memory locations 255, 256, 257, 258. The described arrangements produce output variables 261 that are stored in the memory 234 in corresponding memory locations 262, 263, 264, 265. Intermediate variables 268 may be stored in memory locations 259, 260, 266 and 267.

[00157] The register section 244, 245, 246, the arithmetic logic unit (ALU) 240, and the control unit 239 of the processor 205 work together to perform sequences of micro-operations needed to perform "fetch, decode, and execute" cycles for every instruction in the instruction set making up the program 233. Each fetch, decode, and execute cycle comprises:

(a) a fetch operation, which fetches or reads an instruction 231 from memory location 228, 229, 230;

(b) a decode operation in which control unit 239 determines which instruction has been fetched; and

(c) an execute operation in which the control unit 239 and/or the ALU 240 execute the instruction.

[00158] Thereafter, a further fetch, decode, and execute cycle for the next instruction may be executed. Similarly, a store cycle may be performed by which the control unit 239 stores or writes a value to a memory location 232.

[00159] Each step or sub-process in the method and/or system of the invention may be associated with one or more segments of the program 233, and may be performed by register section 244-246, the ALU 240, and the control unit 239 in the processor 205 working together to perform the fetch, decode and execute cycles for every instruction in the instruction set for the noted segments of program 233.

[00160] A person of skill in the art readily understands that the computer-executable instructions for individual steps or sub-processes may be extracted and assembled into other methods.

[00161] Computer-executable instructions for other steps, sub-processes may be added to the computer readable storage medium embodiments.

[00162] One or more other computers 290 may be connected to the communications network 220 as seen in figure 12 A. Each such computer 290 may have a similar configuration to the computer module 201 and corresponding peripherals.

[00163] One or more server 291 may be connected to the communications network

220. These servers 291 respond to requests from the personal devices 201 or other computers to provide information. For example, server 291 may be operated by an administrator and may be connected to one or more database for securely storing video surveillance data.

[00164] The method and/or system of the present invention may alternatively be implemented in dedicated hardware such as one or more integrated circuits performing the functions or sub functions of the described methods. Such dedicated hardware may include graphic processors, digital signal processors, or one or more microprocessors and associated memories.

[00165] Other embodiments and uses of this invention will be apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art upon consideration of the specification and figures of the invention disclosed herein. The specification and specific examples given should be considered exemplary only, and it is contemplated that the appended claims will cover any other such embodiments or modifications that fall within the scope of the invention disclosed herein.

Claims

Claims:

1. A video surveillance apparatus, the apparatus comprising:

(i) a housing;

(ii) a primary camera configured to capture video surveillance data;

(iii) a plurality of communication components comprising a network switch and a networking device, for receiving and transmitting the video surveillance data; and

(iv) independent voltage converters in electrical communication with each communication component for supplying a pre-determined voltage from a mobile power source based on the power requirement of each communication component.

2. The video surveillance apparatus of claim 1, wherein the mobile power source is a battery.

3. The video surveillance apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the communication components further comprise a network communications bridge.

4. The video surveillance apparatus of claim 3, wherein the primary camera transmits the video surveillance data to the network communications bridge.

5. The video surveillance apparatus of claim 3, wherein the network communications bridge transmits the video surveillance data to a command centre via the networking device.

6. The video surveillance apparatus of claim 5, wherein the transmission is in response to a request from the command centre located remotely from the apparatus.

7. The video surveillance apparatus of claim 2, wherein the battery is a main battery connected to at least three independent voltage converters to independently supply power to each of the communication components.

8. The video surveillance apparatus of claim 7, wherein the main battery is in electrical communication with a potentiometer to regulate the pre-determined voltage.

9. The video surveillance apparatus of claims 1 to 8, wherein the communication components and the main battery are housed in the housing.

10. The video surveillance apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the apparatus comprises one or more supplementary cameras configured to capture additional video surveillance data.

1 1. The video surveillance apparatus of claim 10, wherein the communication components are configured to receive the additional video surveillance data from the one or more supplementary cameras.

12. The video surveillance apparatus of claim 3, wherein the network communications bridge is configured to record and store video surveillance data locally, and/or wherein the network communications bridge is a cloud-managed video recorder and transmits video surveillance data to a pre-determined internet protocol (IP) address via the networking device.

13. The video surveillance apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus is configured to connect to one or more supplementary batteries for electrical communication with the communication components.

14. The video surveillance apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the apparatus comprises at least one of a GPS receiver, an antenna, a solar panel, a fuse box, and a battery toggle switch.

15. A system for surveillance, the system comprising:

(i) a mobile command centre configured with a server for receiving and transmitting data; and

(ii ) a video surveillance apparatus of claim 1 configured to capture video survei llance data via its camera for (a) transmitting the video surveillance data in response to a request from the mobile command centre and/or (b) transmitting the video surveillance data to a server located external to the command centre.

6. A method of surveillance comprising: (i) requesting video surveillance data from a mobile command centre and (ii) receiving the video surveillance data from a video surveillance apparatus of claim 1.