This guide explains x-hoppers AI Video Alerts (AIVA) functionality, covering how it works and providing recommendations for optimizing detection.
Created: September 2024
Introduction
x-hoppers AI Video Alerts (AIVA) provides real-time theft detection and prevention, improving store security while supporting the in-store shopping experience. AIVA instantly detects suspicious actions captured by store CCTV cameras and sends alert notifications with video recordings to an app and discreet audio alerts to headsets, helping to reduce theft.
The system installation and configuration are handled by x-hoppers support team.
Detected actions
Suspicion of theft: Identifies behavior that strongly suggests potential theft
Suspicious activity: Indicates unusual behavior that raises security concern
Falling individuals: Detects if someone falls, enabling quick response from staff
Waiting customers: Notifies staff when customers are left unattended
No cashier: Detects when customers are at the counter but no staff is available
Note: AIVA only analyzes movements and gestures, ensuring individual privacy is maintained.
Requirements
Licensing
x-hoppers SuperHopper+AI per each 2 CCTV cameras
Hardware:
Modern CCTV video camera: A camera that connects to the network
IP Network Video Recorder (NVR)/ Digital Video Recorder (DVR) supporting RTSP protocol: A system to store and manage video footage
Network:
DVR/ NVR and cameras should be on the same local network.
Cameras positioning recommendations
For optimal detection and performance, follow these recommendations for camera positioning:
Positioning: Cameras should be centered on the aisle:
Detection range: 1,5 to 12 meters. The closer a shoplifter is to the camera, the higher detection rate (e.g. within 1,5m the detection rate is 70%, in the range of 12m - about 30%)
Optimal height: 1,8 to 3,5 meters. Proper camera height ensures a clear view of store activities and maximizes detection performance.
Things to avoid
Certain practices can significantly lower the detection rate. To maintain optimal performance, avoid:
Too wide field of view: A wide field of view increases the chance of missed detections due to crowding, so theft gestures may be hidden by other people, especially beyond 12 meters from the camera
Dead angles: Avoid placing cameras laterally on shelves in block formations. Customers may be hidden between shelves if cameras are positioned on the side. Focus cameras on the aisles to ensure full visibility
AIVA workflow
AIVA integrates with your CCTV cameras, continuously monitoring live feeds for suspicious activity
Using advanced AI algorithms, the system analyzes behavior patterns in real-time to detect potential theft, unusual actions or other key events
When suspicious activity is detected, AIVA automatically sends discreet audio alerts to staff headsets, ensuring immediate awareness
In addition to audio alerts, detailed text alerts are sent to a dedicated chat, accompanied by video recordings of the incidents, allowing staff to respond appropriately. Below is an example of one of the alerts generated by the system: