A Network Camera with a Nose

Abstract: Some network cameras have already several other sensors besides the image sensor to extend the capabilities of the camera. It is then only natural to think what can be achieved when air sensors are added into the mix. In this master thesis the applications of air sensors coupled together with network cameras have been investigated. Considering the network infrastructure is already in place, having camera units collecting air quality data is certainly attractive in cities where pollution is a problem. Not only will it help localise the source, it will also aid urban planning. Of course, this is only one of the many application areas of air sensors. Having accurate data is also important as the price of air sensors usually have a relation with their accuracy. Two prototypes for an low-cost NO2 electrochemical sensor, Alphasense NO2-B43F, were built that can be connected to a I/O-interface of a network camera for data transmission and power. Another low-cost sensor, the Alphasense OPC-N2, was evaluated, as measurement of particles are interesting. The evaluation was based on comparison with the more expensive counterparts of the low-cost sensor. Climate test were performed for the Alphasense NO2-B43F. It was concluded that these low-cost sensors have many uncertainties and require various tests, such as long term tests and precision tests. From the performed tests and comparison, the Alphasense NO2-B43F has shown to correlate well enough with the reference measurements to have the potential to supplement the reference with local measurements. The transmission of data and power through a network camera has been successful with the prototype.