View Optimization

Optimization Tips

Following are some tips for optimal results while using the TMC Web Application.

• Try to minimize the amount of sky in a camera’s picture. Angle the camera so the horizon of the roadway is as high as possible in the camera view. This will improve calibration quality and data accuracy.

• In your external camera controls (separate from the TMC Web Application), set your camera positioning presets to match the calibration presets you configure in the TMC Web Application.

• If cameras are in touring mode, program them to remain at each stop for a short period of time (around 15 minutes) to ensure accurate data collection.

• Configure time-specific alerts in the Settings tab for each type of incident separately for each camera. This will eliminate unwanted notifications if you do not want alerts for certain incidents on certain cameras.

• Adjust the time-specific thresholds by individual camera to reduce unnecessary or unwanted alerts.

• While calibrating a camera, click and move the end points of lines and borders to fine-tune the grid lines. You can click and drag these end points at any time.

• While calibrating a camera, if you do not see grid lines after you have drawn the lines on the image, confirm that the lane widths and known distances are correct. If they are correct, shorten the yellow plot line for the known length on the screen until grid lines display.

Examples of Bad Camera Views

• Horizon should be higher (too much sky).

• Overhead sign is blocking view of traffic.

• Tilt angle should be lower (tilt camera downward more).

• Tilt angle should be lower (tilt camera downward more).
• Vehicles appear too small (zoom in closer).

• Curved roadway undesirable (camera calibration requires straight lanes).
• Tilt angle should be lower (tilt camera downward more).
• Bridge is blocking view of traffic.

• Zoomed in too close (camera calibration requires longer lane distances).
• Pan angle too severe (angle between lane direction and camera direction should be less than 45 degrees).

Examples of Good Camera Positions