I know it’s a long shot, and I’m asking here, but I would like to install a dashcam in my car in case my car is broken into or someone tries to rob me. I would prefer to install a stealth version, but I can’t seem to find anyone who meets my criteria. Here are my requirements:
It must be able to record in front, behind, to the sides, and inside the car, similar to how Tesla does it. This would require approximately five cameras in total.
It should be capable of recording in low-light conditions and even when someone collides with my parked car.
Sound recording capability is also essential.
My plan is to 3D print a new rearview mirror, in which I will incorporate one of the cameras, and I intend to store the remaining ones in a similar fashion.
I’m considering using a Raspberry Pi with five connected cameras and some motion sensors, but I’m a bit concerned that this project might be too challenging for me to tackle alone. I’m particularly worried about the software aspect and the quality of the cameras.
Does anyone have any suggestions on how to approach this project? Are there any good open-source projects or resources available that could help me achieve this?
Personally, I haven’t realized such a dashcam project, but the following links have tutorials that will give you an insight. However, I don’t think you can achieve the quality of a purchased dash cam with a project like this. They usually have good cameras that even film in the dark (night vision), sensors for e.g. park monitoring etc. you would then have to program all of this, but nothing is impossible, everyone starts small.
I did a little more research. It is probably cheaper to just buy one rather than make it myself. For me, the most important function is that it can film inside the car. I think I will find a camera that can rotate 360 degrees, either automatically or manually. In the country I live in, you cannot use a dash cam in court as evidence if someone crashes into you in traffic.
However, I can use it if someone tries to rob me or if my car is broken into, so I can identify the thief myself.
I don’t mean to drag the discussion off-topic, but what is the rationale behind not allowing this type of footage as evidence? It seems like it would be very relevant and useful footage.
I’m not entirely sure, but a video recording can depict a situation from one angle, where things may appear one way, while the reality can be different. DNA cannot be used as it can in the US; however, DNA can be used to build a strong case. I am satisfied with the system we have. If video and image material could be used as evidence in a legal case, then I can come up with ideas for how such a video should be recorded to manipulate perceptions.
The only problem we currently face in the country is with our police personnel. They are sent to the USA as part of their training and must train with American officers. This has resulted in an increase in crime, and trust in our police officers has significantly declined.
We are also not allowed to create ‘Karen’ videos or generally record people and post them on the internet without their consent.
That is interesting. On the one hand, it seems like incredibly relevant evidence to flatly disallow. But on the other, the idea of putting up some resistance to filming everything constantly all the time is appealing in a way, if for no other reason than to potentially safeguard people’s privacy to a small degree. I mean, at some point enough is enough.