IMS Research predicts the world market for video smoke detection to reach $36 million by 2011 (a compound annual growth rate of 38.8 per cent).
The researchers say up until now the market has been “hindered” by a lack of acceptance and awareness by the “characteristically conservative” fire sector.
But now, suppliers are gaining legislative approval and market experience which will fuel growth. Fire detection software is also being embedded into network cameras, which is expected to bring down costs.
The “vast majority” of non-residential structures in the UK (68 per cent) and USA (72 per cent) do not have automatic fire detection equipment installed and are prime targets for this new technology, says IMS.
Unlike traditional point-based detectors, video smoke detection (VSD) does not rely on proximity of smoke to the detector. This enables it to detect the start of a fire before it causes any real damage.
Says IMS: “In 2005, a cost of over $2 billion was attributed to fires in US non-residential structures, many of which could potentially have been prevented. Companies such as AxonX, Detector Technologies (D-Tec) and Fastcom Technology have been the early pioneers of the technology and have been exploiting the shortfalls of traditional fire protection products, creating a new market niche.”
VSD incorporates standard video surveillance cameras with sophisticated image recognition and processing software to identify the distinctive characteristics of smoke and flame patterns, differentiating between smoke, dust and haze.
Until recently, most VSD technology has been server-based but the software is increasingly being embedded into video surveillance devices, such as network cameras. This is expected to make it more affordable. Newer systems are combining flame detection and remote monitoring capability for 24/7 fast response.
Says IMS: “The market demand for VSD has been hindered by a general lack of awareness and acceptance by the characteristically conservative fire industry. However, as suppliers gain further legislative approval and market experience, VSD will increasingly be used. The technology is already used in the power generation sector and is showing great potential in areas such as tunnels, rail depots, shopping malls, aircraft hangers and other large non-residential structures.”
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