Technical Analysis of Time-of-Flight Cameras in People Counting Applications

Time-of-Flight (ToF) cameras, as an advanced 3D camera technology, have been widely adopted in the field of people counting in recent years (click here to have a quick understanding of 3D ToF Cameras). And there is a study have shown that it is suitable for different crowded scenarios.
The people counting functionality of ToF cameras goes beyond simple headcounts. By integrating machine learning algorithms, it can analyze crowd movement trajectories, density distribution, and behavioral patterns. These insights provide valuable data for operational decision-making in commercial spaces, such as optimizing layout, adjusting staffing, or predicting peak hours.

Specific Application Scenarios of 3D Time-of-Flight Cameras

Shopping Malls: Enhancing Safety and Crowd Management

In shopping malls, 3D ToF cameras monitor foot traffic across zones using real-time depth data, helping optimize layouts and promotional strategies. ToF technology also detects abnormal behaviors like crowd gatherings, improving safety and preventing incidents such as overcrowding during peak events.

Airports and Transportation Hubs: Boosting Operational Efficiency

At airports and hubs, ToF cameras track passenger flow and queue lengths in real time, enabling dynamic adjustments to security checkpoints or boarding gates. This reduces wait times and enhances efficiency. ToF technology also supports autonomous robots and AGVs/AMRs, advancing operational intelligence.

Entertainment Venues: Optimizing Equipment Operations

In venues like theme parks, 3D ToF cameras analyze visitor numbers to manage equipment operations. Real-time foot traffic monitoring allows dynamic adjustments to device usage, saving energy during off-peak hours and meeting demand during peak times. ToF technology also monitors equipment status, ensuring safety and reliability through timely maintenance.

Why choose Vzense Time-of-Flight Cameras?

The Vzense people counting solution integrates 3D Time-of-Flight (ToF) depth sensing cameras equipped with artificial intelligence algorithms. This system is designed to track and count the number of people entering and exiting buildings, rooms, spaces, and public transportation systems such as trains, airports, and subways. By providing accurate and real-time data, it enables the rational allocation and sharing of resources in public systems, enhancing operational efficiency and safety. Here are 3 main advantages of Vzense Time-of-Flight Cameras:

Privacy Protection

Vzense ToF cameras utilize infrared light for depth sensing (Figure 2), ensuring robust privacy protection. These cameras anonymize data by not capturing detailed personal images. Additionally, encrypted data storage and transmission prevent unauthorized access. The non-intrusive data collection method focuses solely on counting and tracking, avoiding the recording of personal details, which aligns with modern privacy standards.

（Figure 2）

High-Precision Real-Time Data

The Vzense NYX series iToF cameras are powered by Nuvoton’s pulse-wave ToF chip, delivering exceptional performance in both high-light outdoor environments (e.g., ski resorts（Figure 3）, amusement parks) and low-light indoor settings. With a high frame rate of up to 30 fps, these cameras significantly enhance real-time people counting systems by capturing more frames per second, reducing errors in counting and tracking. This makes them ideal for applications requiring high accuracy, such as industrial automation, bin picking, and autonomous robots.

（Figure 3）

Wide Coverage and Lightweight, Durable Design

The Vzense NYX series cameras feature a wide field of view (FOV) of up to 120° (H) and 90° (V), enabling real-time monitoring of foot traffic across large areas（Figure 4). This reduces the need for multiple sensors, lowering costs and improving resource allocation. The lightweight yet durable design minimizes installation costs and ensures reliability in multi-camera setups, preventing overcrowding and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.

（Figure 4）

Also, you can explore more application cases about our productions. If you would like to talk to us offline about our products or do any collaborative work, please click here for the latest information on the upcoming shows we will be attending. We look forward to seeing you and let’s work together to create a smarter, more convenient future!