Camera Firmware Update With Security Asset Proximity Check
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Solution Overview
Problem
Security cameras typically go offline during software or firmware updates, resulting in unmonitored camera fields of view, which can compromise security.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that delay software or firmware updates for security cameras until a security asset, such as a security guard or mobile camera, is within a predetermined distance or within the camera's field of view, ensuring continuous monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If software or firmware update is performed on a security camera, then the camera software is improved or updated, but the camera goes offline and cannot stream video during the update process
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple cameras into a camera group where one camera serves as a backup. When the primary camera needs updating, the backup camera takes over monitoring duties, ensuring continuous surveillance without interruption. This merging approach allows updates to proceed while maintaining system functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring backup cameras and establishing camera groups before updates are needed. The backup camera is ready in advance to immediately take over when the primary camera goes offline for updating, minimizing the unmonitored period.
2Productivity
If camera update is performed immediately, then update is applied quickly, but security monitoring is compromised during the update
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between primary and backup cameras based on update status. The camera group configuration allows flexible role assignment where cameras can transition between primary and backup roles, enabling seamless handover during updates while maintaining continuous monitoring capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The backup camera acts as an intermediary during the update process. When the primary camera is being updated, the backup camera mediates the monitoring function, ensuring that security surveillance continues uninterrupted while the update is applied to the primary camera.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for minimizing a time that a camera field of view is not being monitored while the camera is undergoing a software or firmware update is provided herein. During operation a determination is made that a camera needs a software or firmware update. The location of a security asset (e.g., a mobile camera, a security guard, a drone, . . . , etc.) is determined. The update is performed based on the security asset being within a predetermined distance from the camera. More particularly, in one embodiment, the update is performed only when the security asset is within the predetermined distance from the camera.