Building an Under Vehicle Search Camera

In today’s world, security is paramount, particularly in high-risk environments such as correctional facilities. The Ministry of Justice, responsible for managing prisons across the United Kingdom, recently faced an increasing need to enhance their vehicle inspection protocols. UK Inspection Camera was approached to design and build a bespoke under vehicle search camera system tailored specifically for a Ministry of Justice His Majesty’s Prison (HMP) site. This article details the journey from concept to completion of a camera system designed to meet stringent security requirements.

Client's Needs and Challenges

The Ministry of Justice highlighted a growing concern around vehicle security. With the rise of smuggling attempts, contraband risks, and unauthorized access, there was a clear need for a robust system to inspect vehicles entering and exiting their facilities. The client required a system that not only delivered high-quality footage but also enhanced operational efficiency, particularly during peak vehicle access times.

Designing the Under Vehicle Search Camera

Designing the under vehicle search camera was a process that required both innovation and practicality. The team at UK Inspection Camera began by identifying the key challenges faced by the Ministry of Justice. It was clear from the outset that the system would need to be more durable, provide superior image quality, and allow for rapid deployment and use. These considerations guided the development of the camera system through multiple iterations, each designed to address specific operational challenges.

First Iteration: The Wireless Design

"While the wireless design allowed for flexibility, the two-minute connection delay proved inefficient during peak vehicle access periods. In environments where time is of the essence, every second counts."

Learning from this, the design was refined to better suit the client's needs.

Final Iteration: Trolley Design

Key Features of the Final Design:

Robust 3mm thick alloy base
Omni-directional caster wheels for smooth movement
2MP dome camera with a wide-angle lens
Adjustable viewing angle with an angled adapter
4-metre telescopic pole for ground-level and aerial views

Technical Specifications of the Final Design

The final design of the under vehicle search camera is packed with features aimed at maximizing efficiency and effectiveness:

2MP dome camera with wide-angle lens
3mm thick alloy base for durability
7-inch monitor with optional sunshade
Photo, video recording, and playback functionalities
Adjustable LED lights, digital zoom (up to 8x), sound recording
Mini HDMI connector for secondary viewing
Real-time documentation with on-screen note typing

Importance of Vehicle Security in High-Security Establishments

Vehicle security is a critical component in maintaining the overall safety of high-security establishments like prisons. Effective under vehicle inspection systems help mitigate threats by providing security personnel with the tools they need to conduct thorough and efficient checks.

Why This Camera System Stands Out

The under vehicle search camera system designed by UK Inspection Camera stands out due to its robust design, superior image clarity, and user-friendly features. It is a valuable tool for security personnel, combining power with ease of use. Not only this - but the camera versatility when it comes to being used as not only a under vehicle search camera - but also a aerial camera aswell. Security Operatives can also use the telescopic pole to increase the height of the pole and inspect common hard to reach areas like: Wind Fairings, Lorry trailers, Tops of vehicle etc.

Feedback from the Ministry of Justice HMP Site

"The security personnel have noted the ease of use and effectiveness of the system in enhancing their vehicle inspection protocols, significantly improving efficiency during busy periods."

Take the First Step Towards Enhanced Vehicle Security

If you are responsible for security in a high-risk environment and are interested in learning more about how the under vehicle search camera system can enhance your security protocols, we encourage you to reach out to us.