to onboard video. Traditionally, any onboard camera system had to
be coupled with a network video recorder (NVR) which housed its
video management software. Observit’s system is housed directly on
the camera, allowing for cloud-based information exchanges, utilizes
the camera edge storage, and removes the requirement for an onboard
NVR. The evaluation of the system included playback of recorded
video, real time video and audio.
“Implementing a server-less system means less points of failure and
ease of installation and management, which all increases the system’s
reliability and total cost of ownership as a whole,” Incorvati says.
“Furthermore, the Observit system allows Dean Transportation to live
view and pull video remotely from any browser, without needing to
physically touch a recorder or having to wait until the bus reaches a
Wi-Fi connection in the Barn or Depot.”
In addition to being cloud-based, the Axis cameras allow for
diagnostic alerts on any technological element, including image
sensors, microphones or SD cards.
Christopher Dean says he is most impressed by the breadth of
knowledge Axis Communications has regarding different cameras,
sensors, and where they can be most effective.
“As we looked at different cameras for our buses and facilities,
the representatives from Axis were able to lend a lot of expertise,”
he says. “Gleaning knowledge and learning from them based on the
effectiveness of their product has been extremely useful.”
Dean Transportation found low maintenance and ease-of-use to be
the top factors drawing them toward installing more Axis cameras in
the future.
“Configuration was incredibly easy because, after configuring one
camera system, we were able to transfer those settings immediately,”
Dean says. “From a daily perspective, it’s a necessity that when a driver
starts a bus in the morning, he or she knows instantly about any system
failures or lack thereof.”
In terms of maintenance, Dean says the cloud-based system means
much less I.T. work by the company’s maintenance team.
24 | BUSRIDE.COM | OCTOBER 2018
Positive results and moving forward
“Look at how the world of technology is progressing, with
cloud-based services and high-definition video,” Incorvati says.
“Transportation has historically been more of a late adopter to new
technology, but I believe operators like Dean Transportation are
breaking down those barriers. The industry’s appetite for adopting
new technology is growing.”
With a few tweaks and adjustments, Christopher Dean says, the Axis
system is well suited for the company’s expansive school transportation
business. Furthermore, the company’s current recommendation is to
move forward with installing Axis cameras at Dean’s facilities when
the time comes to upgrade on-site security capabilities.
“The families and students we transport are the most precious cargo
that exists,” he says. “It’s our job to make sure they’re safe, and that
our drivers and vehicles are safe. Axis has years of experience in the
industry, and we want to leverage that experience and knowledge into
a safer experience for everyone who touches our operation.”