Intelligent high security system

Abstract

This invention is entitled "Intelligent Height Safety System". The invention relates to an apparatus. This apparatus and related methods involve an intelligent hook, a safety harness module, and related electronic components that detect a user's safety status by monitoring various parameters at the intelligent hook and the safety harness module and determining whether the user is using appropriate safety protocols at extreme heights and / or whether the user has experienced a height-related incident. In an illustrative example, the user may wear a safety harness that may include a module containing sensors that monitor the user's acceleration / velocity / position and / or ambient air pressure around the user. This module may receive wireless signals from at least one rebar hook with sensors monitoring the rebar hook's acceleration / velocity / position and the door position. A controller included in the safety harness module can use these sensors to advantageously determine the user's safety status and generate warning / alarm signals.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Various embodiments generally relate to personal protective equipment. Background Art

[0002] Workers who perform construction, repair, and maintenance work at height expose themselves to many risks. For example, maintenance workers climbing cell towers may reach heights of 200, 400, 500, or more feet. Falling from such heights can result in serious injury, if not fatal, to the worker. Various types of protective and safety equipment have been developed to reduce the risks associated with working at such extreme heights.

[0003] One such type of safety equipment is a body safety harness. A worker may wear a safety harness that may have a coupling member to anchor the worker to a fixed point when the worker is working at extreme heights. For example, the safety harness may be coupled to a dual lanyard that may have a hook that can releasably attach the worker to a stabilizing beam or structure. When a safety worker properly uses the dual lanyard hook, the worker may significantly reduce the risk of altitude-related injuries. Summary of the invention

[0004] Apparatus and related methods relate to a smart hook, a safety harness module, and related electronic components that detect the safety status of a user by monitoring various parameters at the smart hook and the safety harness module and determining whether the user is using proper safety protocols at extreme altitudes and / or whether the user has experienced an altitude-related accident. In one illustrative example, a user may don a safety harness that may include a module containing sensors that monitor the acceleration / velocity / position of the user and / or the ambient air pressure around the user. The module may receive wireless signals from at least one rebar hook having sensors that monitor the acceleration / velocity / position of the rebar hook and the door position. A controller contained in the safety harness module may use these sensors to advantageously determine the safety status of the user and generate an alert / warning signal.

[0005] Various embodiments can achieve one or more advantages. For example, some embodiments can remind users that they are not using the rebar hook correctly, such as by activating a buzzer or alarm on the user's safety harness. A warning / alert signal indicating incorrect use of the rebar hook can be sent from the safety harness module to the remote computing device of the supervisor, thereby advantageously notifying the supervisor that their staff has not followed the correct safety regulations. Safety violations can be recorded in a database so that supervisors can easily monitor statics and identify which staff members always violate the correct safety measures when they are at height. In some embodiments, if it has been determined that the user has had an accident (e.g., has fallen), an emergency signal can be automatically generated and sent to a hospital or other emergency response service so that immediate assistance can be provided to the user. In some embodiments, various data signals can be sent wirelessly to avoid any potential dangers associated with the user being hindered by a wired connection. In various embodiments, real-time data can be transmitted from the safety harness module to a remote computing device, which can advantageously allow real-time monitoring of the user when the user is working on a cell tower or other high-rise building structure.

[0006] The details of various embodiments are set forth in the drawings and the description that follows.Other features and advantages will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] Figure 1 A perspective view of an exemplary radio tower scenario is shown with respect to an exemplary smart safety harness and an exemplary smart rebar hook.

[0008] Figure 2 A front view of an exemplary smart safety harness and smart rebar hook and an exemplary remote computing device is shown.

[0009] Figure 3 A block diagram of an exemplary safety monitoring system is shown.

[0010] Figure 4A Figure 4B , Figure 4C and Figure 4D Various views of an exemplary smart rebar hook and an exemplary micro switch are shown.

[0011] Figure 5A and Figure 5B A side view of an exemplary smart rebar hook with a magnetic field sensor is shown.

[0012] Figure 6 A perspective enlarged view of an exemplary smart rebar hook with a magnetic field sensor is shown.

[0013] Figure 7A perspective view of an exemplary horizontal movement scenario of an exemplary smart safety harness and smart rebar hook is shown.

[0014] Figure 8 A perspective view of an exemplary fall scenario is shown.

[0015] Fig. 9 A flow chart of an exemplary safety system decision tree is shown.

[0016] Fig.10 A flow chart of an exemplary user movement condition decision tree is shown.

[0017] Fig.11 A flow chart of an exemplary user fall decision tree is shown.

[0018] Fig.12 Block diagrams of an exemplary smart hook system, an exemplary smart safety harness system, and an exemplary supervisory monitoring system are shown.

[0019] Fig.13 A block diagram of an exemplary fall protection and safety monitoring engine is shown.

[0020] Like reference symbols in the various drawings represent like elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] Figure 1 A perspective view of an exemplary radio tower scenario with respect to an exemplary smart safety harness and an exemplary smart rebar hook is shown. The use case scenario 100 has a setting of a radio tower 105. The radio tower 105 is shown with a worker 110 climbing the tower 105 to perform routine maintenance on the tower 105. The worker 110 is wearing a safety harness 115, which is used to prevent a fall accident when the worker 110 is on the tower 105. Two rebar hooks 120a and 120b are coupled to the safety harness 115. Figure 1 , worker 110 selectively attaches two rebar hooks 120a and 120b to respective anchor points on tower 105. If worker 110 is anchored to tower 105 via the rebar hooks and a fall occurs, worker 110 will only fall a limited distance, thereby preventing serious injury to worker 110. Rebar hooks 120a and 120b include various electronic components that can measure various parameters for determining the status of rebar hooks 120a and 120b.

[0022] Module 125 is disposed on safety harness 115. Module 125 includes various electronic components that can measure various parameters used to determine the status of worker 110. These measurements can be advantageously used to determine whether worker 110 is moving vertically or horizontally, or whether worker 110 has been in an accident, such as falling from tower 105. Module 125 also includes a receiver that can receive wireless data signals. For example, rebar hooks 120a and 120b can include a transmitter that can transmit data to a receiver of module 125. Module 125 can also include a transmitter that can transmit wireless data signals to a remote computing device.

[0023] In some embodiments, the rebar hooks 120a and 120b may transmit signals to the module 125 via a wireless (e.g., Bluetooth) connection 130. In various examples, the module 125 may transmit signals to the ground station 140 via a wireless (e.g., radio frequency) link 135. The ground station 140 includes a remote computing device 145 that receives the wireless signals transmitted from the module 125. For example, data collected at the rebar hooks 120a and 120b may be transmitted to the module 125. The module 125 then forwards this data to the remote computing device 145 along with the data measured at the module 125. These data transmissions may advantageously allow a supervisor using the remote computing device 145 to monitor the status of the crew 110 as they are performing maneuvers and repairs on the tower 105.

[0024] The remote computing device 145 may communicate with the cloud data system 150 via a data link 155 (e.g., a 2G, 3G, or 4G wireless standard). The data measured at the rebar hooks 120a and 120b and the module 125 may be forwarded to the cloud data system 150, which may store the data in a database. In some embodiments, the module 125, the remote computing device 145, and / or the cloud data system 150 may perform various processing steps on the data collected at the rebar hooks 120a and 120b and the module 125. For example, the module 125 may perform calculations on the data received from the rebar hooks 120a and 120b to determine whether the worker 110 is using the rebar hooks 120a and 120b correctly. In some examples, the remote computing device 145 may use the data collected at the module 125 and the rebar hooks 120a and 120b to determine whether the worker 110 has had an accident. If remote computing device 145 determines that the worker has fallen, remote computing device 145 may send an alert signal to cloud data system 150 .

[0025] It may be very dangerous for the worker 110 to climb the tower 105 without using the rebar hooks 120a and 120b. The worker 110 may give up using the rebar hooks 120a and 120b because using the rebar hooks 120a and 120b may significantly reduce the worker's climbing speed. Therefore, the module 125 can advantageously remind the worker 110 to use the rebar hooks 120a and 120b appropriately. The rebar hooks 120a and 120b and the module 125 can also monitor the worker 110 to ensure that they are using the correct safety practices. The rebar hooks 120a and 120b and the module 125 can be portable and can advantageously be simple to operate for worker safety.

[0026] The rebar hooks 120a and 120b and the module 125 can remind the user to properly use the lanyard connected to the safety harness 115. These reminders can be used, for example, when the worker 110 is climbing or climbing down the tower 105. The worker 110 can use the lanyards connected to the rebar hooks 120a and 120b as anchor connections when climbing or climbing down. When the worker 110 is horizontally displaced, at least one rebar hook 120a or 120b can be anchored on the worker's chest point to provide sufficient fall protection factor. When the worker 110 falls, the module 125 can broadcast a "man down" signal to notify the supervisor, for example, that a fall has occurred and rescue personnel should respond as soon as possible.

[0027] Figure 2 A front view of an exemplary smart safety harness and a smart rebar hook and an exemplary remote computing device is shown. The smart safety harness system 200 includes a safety harness 205. Module C is disposed on the safety harness 205. The module C may have various electronic components to collect, receive, and transmit parameter data. In some embodiments, the module C may be located on the chest section 205 of the safety harness. Having the module C located on the chest section of the safety harness 205 may advantageously provide a central location for the electronic components of the module C to accurately measure the status of the worker wearing the safety harness 205. The module C may also process the data collected at the module C to determine whether the worker wearing the safety harness 205 has fallen.

[0028] The safety harness 205 is coupled to the proximal end of the dual lanyard 210. The dual lanyard 210 has a distal end that is coupled to a respective rebar hook 215a and 215b. Each rebar hook 215a and 215b has a respective hook module A and B. The hook modules A and B have electronic components for transmitting parameter data to module C. Module C can process the parameter data to determine whether the user is using the rebar hooks 215a and 215b correctly.

[0029] Remote from the safety harness 205 is a remote device D. Remote device D is a remote computing device configured to receive data signals from module C. In some examples, data collected at modules A, B, and C may be forwarded to remote device D. Remote device D may process the data to determine if the user is using the rebar hooks 215a and 215b correctly, or if an accident has occurred with the worker wearing the safety harness 205. In some examples, remote device D may receive post-processed data from module C. For example, module C may determine on its own whether the worker wearing the safety harness 205 has fallen, and may send a warning signal to remote device D if a fall is determined to have occurred.

[0030] Hook modules A and B may be installed in or may be combined with the corresponding hook 215a or 215b of the dual lanyard 210. Hook modules A and B may include sensors (e.g., gyroscopes, Hall effect sensors, micro switches) that can be used to detect the state of the hook 215a or 215b. In some examples, the sensors in hook modules A or B can detect the opening of the hook door and the movement of the hook. Hook modules A and B may also have signal transmission capabilities (e.g., via Bluetooth low energy) and batteries to power various electronic components.

[0031] Module C may be combined with the safety harness 205 or sewn into the fabric of the safety harness 205. Module C may include sensors (e.g., gyroscopes (9 axes to measure speed / acceleration), air pressure sensors) that can be used to measure the movement and / or height changes of the worker wearing the safety harness 205. Module C may have a signal receiving / transmitting function to receive data signals from hook modules A and B and send the data signals to a remote device D. Module C may also have a battery and a warning element (e.g., a buzzer) that is used to notify the worker wearing the safety harness 205 that they are not using the steel bar hooks 215a and 215b correctly. Module C may also include a GPS system to track the location of the worker wearing the safety harness 205.

[0032] The remote device D may be a remote computing device (e.g., a smart phone). The remote device D may include a signal receiving / transmitting function to receive a data signal from the module C and send the data signal to a cloud data system. The remote device D may also include an alert / warning function that may notify a user of the remote device D. The remote device D may also include a GPS system.

[0033] Figure 3A block diagram of an exemplary safety monitoring system is shown. Safety monitoring system 300 includes work equipment 305. Work equipment 305 may include a rebar hook with corresponding hook modules A and B. Data collected at hook modules A and B may be transmitted (e.g., via Bluetooth low energy) to module C. In some examples, module C is located on a worker's safety harness. In some embodiments, module C may be attached elsewhere on the worker's body (e.g., helmet, chest, back).

[0034] Module C can transmit data to remote devices D and / or E at the field location 310. In some examples, remote device D can be a smartphone. Remote device E can receive data signals from module C via a WiFi connection. In various examples, remote device E can be a radio frequency receiver. Remote device E can receive signals from module C via a radio frequency connection. Remote device E can transmit data signals to remote device D via, for example, a Bluetooth low energy connection.

[0035] Remote device D may communicate with cloud server 315 (e.g., via 2G, 3G, or 4G). For example, a signal received from module C may be forwarded to cloud server 315 via remote device D. Cloud server 315 may store data received from remote device D in a database. In some examples, remote device D may send a warning and / or alert signal to cloud server 315 if, for example, a worker has fallen at the site. In some embodiments, remote device E may communicate with cloud server 315.

[0036] The cloud server 315 may communicate with various entities 320. For example, the cloud server 315 may send warning or alert signals to the health, safety, and environment (HSE) department. The HSE department may use these warning or alert signals to notify other entities (e.g., rescue, first aid, local HQ) of incidents involving workers using work equipment 305. In some examples, warning alerts may be sent to the cloud server 315, and the cloud server 315 may notify a specific entity 320 of the relevant risk, or the entity 320 may link to the cloud server 315 to learn of any updates.

[0037] Module C, remote device D or E, and / or cloud server 315 can perform any of the following safety functions / calculations: (1) check whether workers are using double lanyard hooks correctly when climbing or descending; (2) detect whether workers are using rebar hooks correctly to protect themselves when moving horizontally; (3) detect whether an accident has occurred on site (e.g., a person has fallen); (4) remind workers to follow proper safety procedures; (5) notify on-site supervisors that workers are not following the rules; and (6) alert entities to relevant risks / warnings / alerts.

[0038] In addition, the various components of the safety monitoring system 300 can perform the following functions: (1) perform fall accident detection and rescue reminders (e.g., detect whether a worker has fallen from a dangerous height); (2) detect the use / non-use of lanyards / hooks when climbing or climbing down and issue warning reminders (e.g., determine whether the worker is moving vertically, determine whether the steel bar hook is open, and determine whether the steel bar hook is being carried by the body); (3) detect the use / non-use of lanyards / hooks when moving sideways and issue warning reminders (e.g., detect whether the worker is moving horizontally, and detect whether the steel bar hook is being carried by the body); (4) transmit data between modules A / B / C / D / E; (5) check the status of the intelligent safety harness system (e.g., detect the status of transmission problems and battery capacity); and (6) warnings / alerts on modules C / D / E.

[0039] Figure 4A Figure 4B , Figure 4C and Figure 4D Various views of an exemplary smart rebar hook and an exemplary micro switch are shown. FIG. 4A shows a rebar hook 400 in a “closed” state. The rebar hook 400 includes a hook section 405 and a door section 410. The door section 410 is hingedly coupled to the hook portion 405 so that a user can selectively open the rebar hook 400 to couple or detach the rebar hook 400 from an anchor point. The rebar hook 400 includes various electronic components (e.g., switches and / or sensors, such as accelerometers) coupled to a transmitter 415 via a wired connection 420. The sensor can collect data related to the state of the rebar hook 400, which can then be transmitted to another location (e.g., to module C as described above) via the transmitter 415.

[0040] The steel bar hook 400 also includes a micro switch 425, which detects the opening / closing of the steel bar hook 400. Figure 4B In this illustrative embodiment, the micro switch 425 is located inside the door section 410 so that when the door section 410 is in the open state ( Figure 4D ), the micro switch 425 is in a first state, and when the door section 410 is in a closed state (FIG. 4A), the micro switch 425 is in a second state. Data signals indicating these first and second states may be transmitted to the transmitter 415, which may forward the state information to, for example, module C.

[0041] Figure 4CAn exemplary micro switch 425 including a pivot plate 430 is shown. When the pivot plate 430 is depressed, it activates the switch 435. Thus, the switch 435 is in a first state (hinge plates closed) or a second state (hinge plates open). State information of the switch 435 can be measured at electrical leads 440, which can be coupled to the transmitter 415 via a wired connection 420.

[0042] This configuration can advantageously allow for detection of the door open / closed state of the rebar hook 400 . In some examples, the transmitter 415 can receive status information from the micro switch 425 and send the status information to the module C. In various embodiments, the micro switch 425 can be incorporated within the door section 410 .

[0043] Figure 4D The "open" state of the rebar hook 400 is shown. The hook section 405 and the door section 410 are pressed together by the user's hand 445. When this happens, the micro switch 425 (located in the door section 410) will be in the first state (hinge plates closed) due to engagement with the opposite side of the hook 405. The transmitter 415 can receive an electrical signal indicating this change in state of the micro switch 425 and send this state information to the module C.

[0044] In some embodiments, a sensor and / or switch may be disposed on or elsewhere in the rebar hook 400. For example, the switch may be located on the inside of the hook section 405. The sensor may be integrally formed with the rebar hook 400 to minimize noise due to vibration.

[0045] Figure 5A and Figure 5B A side view of an exemplary smart rebar hook with a magnetic field sensor is shown. The rebar hook 500 includes a hook section 505 and a door section 510, the door section being hingedly connected to the hook section 505. A hinge plate 520 is connected to both the hook section 505 and the door section 510, the hinge plate being hingedly connected to the hook section 505. A sensor housing 515 is located on the door section 510. The sensor housing contains a magnetic field sensor / chip (not shown) that is capable of detecting local magnetic field strength. A magnetic field generator (not shown) is disposed in or on the hinge plate 520. When the rebar hook 500 is in a "closed" state (e.g., Figure 5A ) and the "open" state (for example, Figure 5B ), the magnetic field sensor detects the change in magnetic field strength because the magnetic field generator is moving away from or approaching the magnetic field sensor.

[0046] Figure 6A perspective enlarged view of an exemplary smart rebar hook with a magnetic field sensor is shown. The rebar hook 500 includes a hook section 505, a door section 510, a sensor housing 515, and a hinge plate 520 (as described above with respect to Figure 5A and Figure 5B described above).

[0047] In this illustrative embodiment, the magnetic field sensor 605 is located in the sensor housing 515. The magnetic field sensor 605 is configured to detect the magnetic field generated by the magnetic field generator 610. In this exemplary illustration, the magnetic field generator 610 is disposed on the bottom inner section of the hinge plate 520. In this configuration, when the door section 510 is opened, the magnetic field sensor 605 and the magnetic field generator 610 can be close to each other, so that the magnetic flux near the magnetic field sensor 605 can be measurably increased. This configuration can advantageously detect the state (e.g., open, closed) of the door section 510 of the rebar hook 500.

[0048] An accelerometer 620 is also located in the sensor housing 515. The accelerometer 620 measures the acceleration of the rebar hook 500. The magnetic field sensor 605 and the accelerometer 620 are electrically coupled to a wireless transmitter 625. The outputs of the sensors 605 and 620 are transmitted to the wireless transmitter 625, which transmits these sensor outputs to another device (e.g., module C). In some examples, the wireless transmitter 625 is a Bluetooth module with a CPU and wireless capabilities. The wireless transmitter 625 can be mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB) that is located within the sensor housing 515. The accelerometer 620 can also be mounted on the PCB.

[0049] The sensor housing 515 also includes a battery cover 615 for protecting a battery (not shown). The battery can provide power to the magnetic field sensor 605, the acceleration sensor 620 and / or the wireless transmitter 625.

[0050] In some embodiments, the magnetic field sensor 605 may not be limited to a specific type of magnetic field sensor. For example, the magnetic field sensor 605 may be any of the following types of magnetic field sensors: a Hall effect sensor, a magnetosensitive diode, a magnetosensitive transistor, an anisotropic magnetoresistive (AMR) magnetometer, a giant magnetoresistive (GMR) magnetometer, a magnetic tunnel junction magnetometer, a magneto-optical sensor, a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) sensor based on Lorentz force, a MEMS sensor based on electron tunneling, a MEMS compass, a nuclear precession magnetic field sensor, an optically pumped magnetic field sensor, a fluxgate magnetometer, a search coil magnetic field sensor, a magnetoresistive sensor, a tunnel magnetoresistive (TMR) sensor, or a superconducting quantum interference (SQUID) magnetometer.

[0051] In various examples, the magnetic field generator 610 may not be limited to a specific type of magnetic field generator. For example, the magnetic field generator 610 may be a permanent magnet, an electromagnet, or other magnetizable material.

[0052] In some examples, the magnetic field sensor 605, the battery, the magnetic field generator 610, the acceleration sensor 620, and / or the wireless transmitter 625 can be located on the rebar hook 500 or at other locations in the rebar hook 500. For example, the locations of the magnetic field sensor 605 and the magnetic field generator 610 can be determined from Figure 6 In some embodiments, the magnetic field sensor 605 can be disposed near the tip of the door section 510 , while the magnetic field generator 610 can be disposed on an opposing inner surface of the hook section 505 .

[0053] Figure 7 A perspective view of an exemplary horizontal movement scenario of an exemplary smart safety harness and smart rebar hook is shown. The use case scenario 700 has a setup of a radio tower 705. The radio tower 705 is shown with a worker 710 who is horizontally moving on the tower 705 to perform routine maintenance. The worker 710 is wearing a safety harness 715 that can be used to prevent a fall accident while the worker is on the tower 705. Two rebar hooks 720a and 720b with respective hook modules A and B are coupled to the safety harness 715. Figure 7 In the illustration of FIG. 7 , worker 710 has attached a rebar hook 720a to a support rope 725 that is fixedly coupled to tower 705. Hook modules A and B on respective rebar hooks 720a and 720b include sensors that can measure various parameters for determining the status of rebar hooks 720a and 720b. For example, each hook module A and B can include an acceleration sensor to measure the acceleration of each rebar hook 720a and 720b.

[0054] Module C is disposed on the safety harness 715. The module C includes at least one sensor that can measure various parameters used to determine the status of the worker 710. For example, module C may include an acceleration sensor to measure the acceleration of the worker 710. These measurements can be advantageously used to determine whether the horizontally moving worker 710 is following the correct horizontal movement procedures (for example, whether the worker 710 correctly connects the rebar hook 720 to the support rope 725). Module C includes a receiver that can receive wireless signals transmitted from modules A and B on the rebar hooks 720a and 720b, respectively. Module C may also include a transmitter that can transmit wireless signals to a device associated with a site supervisor 730 (for example, Figure 2This may advantageously allow a supervisor using device D to monitor the status of worker 710 while maintenance is being performed on tower 705.

[0055] Devices D and / or E may communicate with cloud system 735 via, for example, a wireless (e.g., 2G, 3G, or 4G) link. Data recorded by sensors in rebar hooks 720a and 720b and module C may be forwarded to cloud data system 735, which may log the data in a database.

[0056] Module F is also located on the worker, and the module F may have similar functionality to module C. For example, module F may have one or more sensors (e.g., an accelerometer), a receiver and / or transmitter for receiving data signals from modules A and B and transmitting the data signals to devices D and / or E. In some examples, module F may be used in place of module C (or vice versa). In various embodiments, module F may be the same as module C, but is only disposed at a different location relative to worker 710.

[0057] Figure 8 A perspective view of an exemplary falling scenario is shown. Falling scenario 800 includes a worker in an unbalanced state 805a. The worker in unbalanced state 805a begins to lose balance on beam 810. The worker is connected to anchor point 815 via lanyard 820. As the worker loses balance on beam 810, they begin to fall and transition to falling state 805b. The worker continues to fall until the slack in the lanyard runs out. At this point, the worker reaches a final falling state 805c, in which the worker hangs on anchor point 815 and experiences an oscillating pendulum motion 825.

[0058] Throughout the falling motion, module 830 actively measures various parameters associated with the falling worker. For example, the module may have an accelerometer that detects the acceleration of the worker. The module may include an air pressure sensor that measures the air pressure in the vicinity of the worker, which can be used to calculate the change in height of the worker. These measurements can be used to detect when a fall occurs. For example, if the accelerometer measures that the acceleration on the z-axis is substantially equal to the acceleration due to gravity over a certain period of time (e.g., acceleration ≈ g = 9.8 m / s 2 ), then the worker may be considered to have fallen. In this context the phrase "substantially equal to" may mean an order of magnitude of a value g+ / -50%. In some examples, after the worker reaches the final falling state 805c, the worker may swing back and forth in the air. This oscillating motion may be detected by an acceleration sensor and may also indicate that the worker has fallen.

[0059] Fig. 9 A flow chart of an exemplary safety system decision tree is shown. Safety system decision tree 900 begins at step 905, which determines whether the worker is climbing or descending. If it is determined that the worker is neither climbing nor descending, then at step 910, the current air pressure (as measured by the air pressure sensor on / in module C) is set as the baseline. If it is determined that the worker is climbing or descending (e.g., because the air pressure has changed a minimum amount within a given time period), then step 915 determines whether the worker is using dual lanyards. If it is determined that the worker is using dual lanyards, then at step 920, the air pressure baseline is updated / updated as the worker climbs / falls.

[0060] If it is determined that the worker is not using a dual lanyard (e.g., because the micro switch signal does not change during the minimum altitude change measured by the air pressure sensor), an alarm (e.g., a buzzer) is activated on site at step 925 until the rebar hook is opened. In some examples, determining whether the worker is using a dual lanyard can be based on a change in the hook door sensor signal (e.g., magnetic field sensor 605). The alarm can advantageously remind the worker to use the correct hook / lanyard procedure. If the alarm is activated for more than a given time period (e.g., more than Z minutes), then at step 930, a warning signal is sent to the supervisor to alert them that the worker is not using the dual lanyard correctly when climbing / climbing down. The warning signal can advantageously notify the supervisor that one of his subordinates is not using the correct hook / lanyard procedure.

[0061] The baseline set and updated in step 910 can be used to calculate "air pressure change during X seconds", or to calculate "air pressure difference change during Y meters", such as Fig. 9As shown. For example, an initial air pressure value may be set as a baseline (e.g., step 910). When the air pressure value changes, method 900 may compare the changed air pressure value with the baseline and calculate a difference (Δ) value. If the difference exceeds a certain threshold, data from other sensors may be checked (e.g., in step 915, method 900 checks the number of micro switch / magnetic field sensor signals). This check step may act like a judgment trigger. For example, if the height measured by the air pressure sensor has changed by more than 1.5 meters and the state of the hook door sensor signal has not changed, it may be determined that the staff has violated the correct hook / lanyard safety rules. Once method 900 has set the baseline, it may compare the baseline with the (rapid) change in height to determine whether the user is actually using the hook / lanyard.

[0062] Fig.10 A flow chart of an exemplary user movement condition decision tree is shown. The movement condition decision tree 1000 begins at step 1005, which determines whether the air pressure and / or acceleration data has changed by more than a minimum amount at module C within a predetermined time period. If the air pressure and / or acceleration data has changed by more than a minimum amount within a predetermined time period, then at step 1010, the worker is determined to be in a vertical movement state. Next, at step 1015, the opening time of each rebar hook and the height change over time are recorded.

[0063] Next, at step 1020, it is determined whether the height has changed by more than a predetermined amount without the door open signal. If the height has not changed by more than a predetermined amount without the door open signal, then at step 1025, the worker is judged to be using the hook / lanyard correctly. If the height has changed by more than a predetermined amount without the door open signal, then at step 1030, the worker is judged to be violating the correct hook / lanyard usage rules. Therefore, module C will warn the worker of the incorrect safety procedure, and if the worker does not correct the incorrect safety procedure after a period of time, a warning signal will be transmitted to device D and / or E.

[0064] If at step 1005, the air pressure and / or acceleration data has not changed by more than a minimum amount at module C within a predetermined period of time, then at step 1035, the worker is determined to be in a horizontal movement state. Next, at step 1040, it is determined whether (1) the acceleration and / or velocity of modules A / B / C are substantially the same (indicating that the hook is being carried on the harness), or (2) the height of A / B is less than the height of C. If the answer is "no", then at step 1045, the worker is determined to be using the hook / lanyard correctly. If the answer is "yes" (e.g., (1) or (2) is true), then at step 1050, the worker is determined to be violating the correct hook / lanyard usage rules. Therefore, module C will warn the worker of the incorrect safety procedure, and if the worker does not correct the incorrect safety procedure after a period of time, a warning signal will be transmitted to devices D and / or E. The phrase "substantially the same" in this context may mean that the relative difference between the acceleration and / or speed of modules A / B / C is about ±1%, 2%, 5%, 10%, 20%, or about at least 30% or more.

[0065] Fig.10 An exemplary scenario of the steps shown in is as follows: a worker on the ground begins to climb a tower to perform routine maintenance. As the worker is climbing the tower, air pressure and / or vertical acceleration / velocity data (as measured at module C) changes over time by more than a certain amount. These measurements indicate that the worker is in a vertical motion state (e.g., the answer at step 1005 is "yes"). At this point, the number of times the hook connected to the worker's safety harness is opened and the height change of the worker (e.g., as measured by the air pressure sensor in module C) are recorded and stored. As the worker is climbing the ladder on the tower, the worker continuously attaches the hook to various points above the worker's center of gravity. Therefore, as the worker's height increases, the opening time of the hook occurs at a relatively high frequency. These frequently opened hook times indicate that the worker is using the hook correctly when climbing the tower (e.g., the answer at step 1020 is "no").

[0066] After the staff reaches a certain height, the staff stops their vertical movement and starts to move horizontally. In this horizontal movement state, the air pressure and / or vertical acceleration / velocity data (as measured at module C) change very little (e.g., close to zero) over time. These measurements indicate that the staff is in a horizontal movement state (e.g., the answer at step 1005 is "no"). Now, because the staff is in a hurry, the staff hangs the steel hook on their safety harness and moves horizontally without attaching the hook to the anchor point supported by the tower. Because the steel hook is hooked to the staff instead of the anchor point, the acceleration of modules A and B on the steel hook is almost equal to the acceleration of module C on the staff safety harness. These measurements indicate that the staff did not use the hook / lanyard correctly (e.g., the answer at step 1040 is "yes"). Therefore, the warning element (e.g., buzzer) in module C will warn the staff that the staff did not use the correct safety procedures. Because the worker is still in a hurry, the worker decides to ignore the warning, and after a period of time, module C transmits a warning signal to the worker's supervisor (for example, to device D used by the supervisor).

[0067] After the worker completes the repair, the worker begins to descend the tower. As the worker is climbing down, the air pressure and / or vertical acceleration data (as measured at module C) changes over time by more than a certain amount. These measurements indicate that the worker is in vertical motion (e.g., the answer at step 1005 is "yes"). At this point, the number of times the hook connected to the worker's safety harness is opened and the worker's height change (e.g., as measured by the air pressure sensor in module C) is recorded and logged. Because the worker is still in a hurry, the worker decides to keep their hook hooked to their safety harness.

[0068] When the staff climbs down, the opening time of the hook is not recorded because the staff has decided to ignore the risk and not connect the hook to the anchor point when climbing down. Therefore, when the staff height is reduced, the opening time of the hook occurs with zero frequency. Lack of the time indication of opening the hook, the staff did not use the hook correctly when going down the tower (for example, the answer at step 1020 is "yes"). Therefore, the warning element (for example, buzzer) in module C will warn the staff that the staff did not use the correct safety regulations. At this time, the staff decided to listen to the warning and began to anchor the hook when the staff went down the tower. Since the state of the staff has changed at this time (for example, the opening time of the hook occurs with a high enough frequency), the warning element in module C is closed, and the supervisor of the staff will not receive the warning signal (because the staff has corrected the incorrect hook / lanyard usage).

[0069] Fig.11 A flow chart of an exemplary user fall decision tree is shown. The fall decision tree 1100 begins at step 1105, which determines whether the z-axis acceleration of module C jumps to substantially g = 9.8m / s 2 If the z-axis acceleration of module C does not jump to g = 9.8m / s 2 , then at step 1110, the z-axis acceleration of module C continues to be monitored. In this context, the phrase "substantially" may mean that the z-axis acceleration of module C is g The actual value is plus or minus 1%, 2%, 5%, 10%, 20%, or 30%.

[0070] If the z-axis acceleration of module C jumps to g = 9.8 m / s within a certain period of time 2 , then at step 1115 the worker is determined to have fallen. Module C will then send a "worker has fallen" signal to device D and / or E. Next, at step 1120, device D and / or E transmits the "worker has fallen" signal to the cloud for emergency contact. Next, at step 1125, a warning will be activated on module C and / or device D or E to alert on-site personnel that a fall has occurred. Next, at step 1130, the serial numbers of modules A, B, C and / or device D and / or the GPS coordinates of module C are transmitted to the cloud and / or emergency contact to convey the exact location of the fallen worker.

[0071] In some examples, Fig.11 The order of steps described in the embodiment may be performed in a different order, and some steps may be optional. For example, step 1130 may be performed before step 1125. In various embodiments, the "worker has fallen" signal may be sent only to device D and / or E without being sent to the cloud (e.g., step 1120 may be omitted).

[0072] In various embodiments, after the worker falls and is captured by the energy absorber, the worker may be swung in the air (e.g., Figure 8 825). Therefore, the acceleration, velocity and angle of the acceleration sensor in module C will show periodic characteristics, which can be used to determine that the worker has fallen and is suspended in the air by the lanyard connected to the anchor point. Such swinging motion can be used to determine whether the worker has fallen in step 1105.

[0073] Fig.12Block diagrams of an exemplary smart hook system, an exemplary smart safety harness system, and an exemplary supervisory monitoring system are shown. Safety system 1200 includes a smart hook system 1205. Each rebar hook (e.g., hook modules A and B) may have at least some of the components of the smart hook system 1205. The smart hook system 1205 includes a controller (e.g., a processor), a non-volatile memory (NVM), a random access memory (RAM), an input / output interface (I / F), a door sensor (e.g., a micro switch, a magnetic field sensor), an acceleration sensor (e.g., an accelerometer), and a power supply.

[0074] The door sensor of 1205 can detect various parameters related to the door of the rebar hook. For example, a micro switch or a magnetic field sensor can be used to detect the opening and closing of the rebar hook. The acceleration sensor of 1205 can detect the acceleration of the rebar hook, which can also be used indirectly to calculate the speed and height change of the rebar hook. The data readings from the door sensor and the acceleration sensor of 1205 are transmitted to the controller of 1205, which can perform various processing functions on the data readings. For example, the controller of 1205 can perform statistical filtering of the data to remove outliers from the acceleration readings. The NVM of 1205 contains program instructions (e.g., P1, P2) that can be executed by the controller of 1205. The controller of 1205 sends the data readings from the sensors to the I / F of 1205, which transmits the data readings wirelessly via the transmitter of 1205 (e.g., to module C).

[0075] In some examples, the smart hook system 1205 does not include a controller, RAM or NVM. In such examples, the measurements obtained by the sensors and accelerometers of 1205 can be directly transmitted to module C instead of being processed locally at 1205.

[0076] The safety system 1200 also includes an intelligent safety harness system 1210. Module C may have at least some components of the intelligent safety harness system 1210. The intelligent safety harness system 1210 includes a controller (e.g., a processor), a non-volatile memory (NVM), a random access memory (RAM), at least one input / output interface (I / F), an air pressure sensor, an acceleration sensor (e.g., an accelerometer), an output terminal, and a power supply.

[0077] At least one I / F of 1210 may receive a signal transmitted from an I / F of 1205. This may allow the controller of 1210 to perform various calculations using both the sensor readings of 1205 and the sensor readings of 1210. For example, the acceleration data measured at 1205 may be compared with the acceleration data measured at 1210 to determine whether the rebar hook is connected to an anchor point or whether the rebar hook is hooked to a worker's safety harness (see, e.g., Fig.10 1040 in step 1040).

[0078] The NVM of 1210 may contain program instructions (eg, P1, P2) that may be executed by the controller of 1210. For example, the NVM of 1210 may contain instructions that allow the controller of 1210 to perform operations related to Figures 9 to 11 For example, the NVM of 1210 may have instructions that can be used to perform various calculations using the sensor readings of 1205 and / or the sensor readings of 1210. The NVM of 1210 may also include thresholds (e.g., time, altitude, acceleration thresholds) that can be used to determine whether to activate an alarm or send a warning signal. For example, the NVM of 1210 may have instructions that, when executed by the controller of 1210, determine whether the z-axis acceleration of module C jumps to within a threshold time period. g = 9.8 / s 2 (See, e.g., Fig.11 If this happens, the controller of 1210 may send a warning signal to the supervisor of the worker (eg, via at least one I / F of 1210 ) to inform them that the worker has fallen.

[0079] The security system 1200 also includes a supervisory monitoring system 1215. Device D may have at least some components of the supervisory monitoring system 1215. The supervisory monitoring system 1215 includes a processor, a non-volatile memory (NVM), a random access memory (RAM), an input / output interface (I / F), and a power supply.

[0080] At least one I / F of 1215 may receive a signal transmitted from an I / F of 1210. This may allow a processor of 1215 to perform various calculations using both the sensor readings of 1205 and the sensor readings of 1210. For example, acceleration data and the hook opening time measured at 1205 may be used at the processor of 1215 to determine whether the height of the hook has changed by more than a given distance without a door opening signal (see, e.g., Fig.10 1020 in step 1020).

[0081] The NVM of 1215 contains program instructions (e.g., P1, P2) that can be executed by the processor of 1215. For example, the NVM of 1215 can contain instructions that allow the processor of 1215 to perform the same Figures 9 to 11 For example, the NVM of 1215 may have instructions that can be used to perform various calculations using the sensor readings of 1205 and / or the sensor readings of 1210. The NVM of 1215 may also include thresholds (e.g., time, altitude, acceleration thresholds) that can be used to determine whether to activate an alarm or send a warning signal. For example, the NVM of 1215 may have instructions that, when executed by the processor of 1215, determine whether the z-axis acceleration of module C jumps to within a threshold time period. g = 9.8 / s 2 (See, e.g., Fig.11 If this happens, the processor at 1215 can send a warning signal to the cloud system and / or emergency contacts to inform them that the worker has fallen.

[0082] The supervisory monitoring system 1215 may be coupled to a supervisory device 1220. Data, alerts, warnings, and other information transmitted from the supervisory monitoring system 1215 will be output to the supervisory device 1220. In addition, the supervisory monitoring system 1215 and / or the supervisory device 1220 may send information to a cloud system and / or an emergency contact. In some examples, the supervisory monitoring system and the supervisory computing device are one and the same. For example, the supervisory device 1220 may be a smartphone or laptop computer that includes components of the supervisory monitoring system 1215.

[0083] Fig.13 A block diagram of an exemplary fall protection and safety monitoring engine is shown. The fall protection and safety monitoring system 1300 includes a fall protection and safety monitoring engine 1305. The fall protection and safety monitoring engine 1305 includes a processor, NVM, RAM, an event processing engine, a data logging engine, and an I / F. The I / F is communicatively coupled to a plurality of databases 1310, and a health and safety liaison 1315.

[0084] In some examples, the fall protection and safety monitoring engine 1305 may be located in conjunction with Figure 1 Component 150, Figure 3 Element 315, or Figure 7. For example, the fall protection and safety monitoring engine 1305 may receive data from devices D and / or E, and may use a data logging engine to log the data. The event processing engine may be configured to receive event data (e.g., alerts, warnings) from devices D and / or E, and may respond to these events in a specific manner. For example, if a "worker has fallen" alert is received at the fall protection and safety monitoring engine 1305, the event processing engine may send a "worker has fallen" notification to the health and safety contact 1315. The notification may include the location of the fallen worker, the time of fall, sensor data, and / or worker health status, among other items.

[0085] Multiple databases 1310 include a personal protective equipment (PPE) database, a personnel database, a safety violation database, and a health and safety database. The personal protective equipment database may include data related to the PPE deployed on site. For example, the PPE database may contain information about how long the PPE equipment has been deployed on site, whether the PPE equipment has been associated with any past safety issues, and / or the brand / model of the PPE equipment. The personnel database may include data related to safety staff. For example, the personnel database may contain the name, telephone number, address, and / or health status of the staff deployed on site. The safety violation database may include data related to safety violations committed by safety staff in the past. For example, the safety violation database may contain the number of safety violations committed by the staff, the nature of the safety violation, and / or the date on which the safety violation occurred. The health and safety database may include data that may be widely related to the health and safety of the staff.

[0086] The health and safety liaisons 1315 include rescue liaisons, headquarters, first aid, supervisors, and / or teammates. Whenever a worker has an incident on site (e.g., when a worker has fallen), the fall protection and safety monitoring engine 1305 can alert the health and safety liaisons 1315 to the incident. The health and safety liaisons 1315 can then respond accordingly (e.g., by dispatching an ambulance or rescue helicopter to the site, or deploying team members to save the fallen worker).

[0087] Although various embodiments have been described with reference to the accompanying drawings, other embodiments are possible. For example, the output element ( Fig.12 The output element may be a buzzer that vibrates when the alert condition is met. The output element may be a speaker that receives an audio signal from a supervisor speaking to device D. The output element may be an audible alarm that emits an alarm noise when the alert condition is met.

[0088] In some examples, the smart hook system can generate a reminder to use the smart hook correctly. The smart hook system can also monitor the user to ensure correct operation. In some examples, the smart hook system may include various electronic components, software applications (APPs), and remote controls. The smart hook system can help avoid danger to people who do not use hooks and lanyards correctly. For example, it is very dangerous not to use hooks and lanyards when people climb to a high place. Because hooks and lanyards reduce the speed of climbing / climbing down, people may not use hooks and lanyards. The smart hook system can provide people with a strong incentive to use hooks and lanyards correctly.

[0089] In some cases, only one steel bar hook may be used (e.g., a safety harness using a single lanyard and hook instead of a dual lanyard and hook; see e.g. Figure 8 In various embodiments, the processing of data may be performed at different locations. For example, the processing of data may be performed at hook modules A and B (e.g., element 1205, Fig.12 ) at the module C (e.g., element 1210, Fig.12 ) to process data. This may allow modules A and B to still perform their functions without the processor / RAM / NVM. Fig.12 ) to process data. This can allow most of the processing power to be used at a location far from the staff deployed on site. Fig.13 Security monitoring engine 1305, Figure 1 Component 150, Figure 3 Element 315, or Figure 7 The data is processed in the element 735 in . This can allow tracking the activities of multiple workers deployed at different locations.

[0090] Some aspects of the embodiments may be implemented as a computer system. For example, various specific implementations may include digital and / or analog circuits, computer hardware, firmware, software, or a combination thereof. The device element may be implemented in a computer program product tangibly embodied in an information carrier, such as in a machine-readable storage device, for execution by a programmable processor; and the method may be executed by a programmable processor executing an instruction program to perform the functions of various embodiments by operating on input data and generating output. Some embodiments may advantageously be implemented in one or more computer programs executable on a programmable system, the programmable system comprising at least one programmable processor coupled to receive data and instructions from a data storage system, at least one input device, and / or at least one output device, and to transmit data and instructions to the data storage system, at least one input device, and / or at least one output device. A computer program is a set of instructions that can be used directly or indirectly in a computer to perform an activity or produce a result. A computer program may be written in any form of programming language, including compiled or interpreted languages, and it may be deployed in any form, including as a stand-alone program or as a module, component, subroutine, or other unit suitable for use in a computing environment.

[0091] Suitable processors for executing instruction programs include, by way of example and not limitation, both general-purpose microprocessors and special-purpose microprocessors, which may include a single processor or one of multiple processors of any type of computer. Typically, the processor will receive instructions and data from a read-only memory or a random access memory or both. The basic elements of a computer are a processor for executing instructions and one or more memories for storing instructions and data. Storage devices suitable for tangibly embodying computer program instructions and data include all forms of non-volatile memory, including, for example, semiconductor memory devices such as EPROM, EEPROM, and flash memory devices; disks such as built-in hard disks and removable disks; magneto-optical disks; and CD-ROM and DVD-ROM disks. The processor and memory may be supplemented by or incorporated into an ASIC (application-specific integrated circuit). In some embodiments, the processor and components may be supplemented by or incorporated into a hardware programmable device such as an FPGA.

[0092] In some embodiments, each system can be programmed with the same or similar information and / or initialized with substantially the same information stored in volatile and / or non-volatile memory. For example, one data interface can be configured to perform auto-configuration, auto-download, and / or auto-update functions when coupled to an appropriate host device (such as a desktop computer or server).

[0093] In some implementations, one or more user interface features may be custom configured to perform a specific function. Exemplary embodiments may be implemented in a computer system that includes a graphical user interface and / or an Internet browser. To provide interaction with a user, some implementations may be implemented on a computer having a display device (such as an LCD (liquid crystal display) monitor for displaying information to the user), a keyboard, and a pointing device (such as a mouse or trackball) through which the user can provide input to the computer.

[0094] In various implementations, the system may communicate using suitable communication methods, devices, and techniques. For example, the system may communicate with compatible devices (e.g., devices capable of transmitting data to and / or from the system) using point-to-point communications, where messages are transmitted directly from the source to the receiver via a dedicated physical link (e.g., a fiber optic link, an infrared link, an ultrasonic link, point-to-point wiring, a daisy chain). The components of the system may exchange information via analog or digital data communications of any form or medium, including packet-based messages over a communication network. Examples of communication networks include, for example, LANs (local area networks), WANs (wide area networks), MANs (metropolitan area networks), wireless and / or optical networks, and computers and networks forming the Internet. Other implementations may transmit messages to all or substantially all devices connected together via a communication network by broadcasting, for example, by using omnidirectional radio frequency (RF) signals. Other implementations may transmit messages characterized by high directivity, such as RF signals transmitted using directional (i.e., narrow beam) antennas or infrared signals that may optionally be used with focusing optics. Other implementations may also be implemented using appropriate interfaces and protocols such as, by way of example and not limitation: USB 2.0, FireWire, ATA / IDE, RS-232, RS-422, RS-485, 802.11 a / b / g / n, Wi-Fi, WiFi-Direct, Li-Fi, Bluetooth, Ethernet, IrDA, FDDI (Fiber Distributed Data Interface), Token Ring networks, or frequency, time or code division based multiplexing techniques. Some implementations may optionally include features such as error checking and correction (ECC) for data integrity, or security measures such as encryption (e.g., WEP) and password protection.

[0095] In various embodiments, a computer system may include non-transitory memory. The memory may be connected to one or more processors, which may be configured to encode data and computer-readable instructions, including processor-executable program instructions. The data and computer-readable instructions may be accessible to one or more processors. The processor-executable program instructions, when executed by one or more processors, may cause the one or more processors to perform various operations.

[0096] In various embodiments, the computer system may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. An IoT device may include objects embedded with electronics, software, sensors, actuators, and network connectivity that enable these objects to collect and exchange data. An IoT device may be used with a wired or wireless device by sending data to another device via an interface. An IoT device may collect useful data and then autonomously flow the data between other devices.

[0097] Some specific implementations have been described. However, it should be understood that various modifications may be made. For example, if the steps of the disclosed technology are performed in a different order, or if the components of the disclosed system are combined in a different way, or if the components are supplemented with other components, then advantageous results may be achieved. Therefore, other specific implementations are within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. A safety monitoring device, comprising: A monitoring module, the monitoring module being configured to be coupled to a safety harness, the monitoring module comprising: Main accelerometer; Air pressure sensor; GPS sensor; a controller coupled to the primary acceleration sensor and configured to receive sensor readings from the primary acceleration sensor, the controller coupled to the air pressure sensor and configured to receive sensor readings from the air pressure sensor; wherein the controller is also coupled to the GPS sensor and configured to receive location readings to track the location of a worker wearing the safety harness; and a receiver coupled to the controller; A first steel bar hook, the first steel bar hook comprising: a first hook sensor configured to detect an open-closed state of the first rebar hook; and a first rebar hook transmitter, the first rebar hook transmitter being coupled to the first hook sensor, the first rebar hook transmitter being configured to transmit a sensor reading from the first hook sensor to the receiver of the monitoring module, wherein the controller processes the sensor reading to determine whether the worker is using the first rebar hook correctly, wherein the first rebar hook is configured to be coupled to a distal end of a lanyard, and the lanyard is configured to be coupled at a proximal end of the safety harness, wherein when climbing or descending, the first rebar hook and the monitoring module instruct the worker to properly use the lanyard coupled to the first rebar hook as an anchor connection, and when the worker is horizontally displacing, the first rebar hook is anchored at the worker's chest point to provide an adequate fall protection factor; The monitoring module further includes a primary transmitter coupled to the controller and configured to transmit a signal to a remote computing device.

2. The safety monitoring device according to claim 1, wherein the first hook sensor includes a magnetic field sensor, and the first steel bar hook also includes a first magnetic field generator, and the first magnetic field generator cooperates with the first hook sensor to detect the open-closed state of the first steel bar hook.

3. The safety monitoring device of claim 2, wherein the magnetic field sensor comprises a Hall effect sensor.

4. The safety monitoring device of claim 1, wherein the monitoring module further comprises a non-transitory computer readable medium, wherein the non-transitory computer readable medium contains instructions, which when executed cause the controller to perform operations including: determining whether a vertical sensor reading from the primary acceleration sensor has changed by more than a minimum amount within a predetermined period of time; if the sensor reading from the primary acceleration sensor has changed by more than a minimum amount within a predetermined period of time, then the worker wearing the safety harness is deemed to be in a vertically displaced position; recording changes in the open-closed state of the first hook sensor over a time span; determining whether a change in altitude measured by the air pressure sensor has changed by more than a threshold altitude amount over the time span; and If the height change measured by the air pressure sensor has changed by more than a threshold height amount over the time span, a violation signal is generated indicating that the worker is improperly using the first rebar hook.

5. The safety monitoring device of claim 1 , wherein the monitoring module further comprises a non-transitory computer readable medium, wherein the non-transitory computer readable medium contains instructions, which when executed cause the controller to perform operations including: determining whether the vertical sensor reading from the primary acceleration sensor has been substantially equal to a local acceleration due to gravity for more than a predetermined period of time; if the vertical sensor reading from the primary acceleration sensor has been substantially equal to the local acceleration due to gravity for more than a predetermined period of time, then the worker wearing the safety harness is deemed to have fallen; A warning signal is transmitted to the remote computing device via the primary transmitter, the warning signal indicating that the worker wearing the safety harness has fallen.

6. The safety monitoring device of claim 1, wherein the primary transmitter is configured to wirelessly transmit the sensor readings from the primary acceleration sensor and the first hook sensor to the remote computing device.

7. The safety monitoring device of claim 6, wherein the primary transmitter is configured to wirelessly transmit signals to the remote computing device via a radio frequency channel.

8. The safety monitoring device of claim 1, wherein the first rebar hook transmitter is configured to transmit a sensor reading from a first hook sensor to the receiver of the monitoring module via a Bluetooth wireless channel.

9. The safety monitoring apparatus of claim 1, wherein the remote computing device can be a smart phone.

10. The safety monitoring device of claim 1, wherein the primary transmitter transmits a warning signal indicating that the worker is improperly using the first rebar hook.

11. A safety monitoring device, comprising: A monitoring module, the monitoring module is configured to be coupled to the safety harness, the monitoring module comprising: a main acceleration sensor; GPS sensor; a controller coupled to the primary acceleration sensor and configured to receive sensor readings from the primary acceleration sensor; wherein the controller is also coupled to the GPS sensor and configured to receive location readings to track the location of a worker wearing the safety harness; and a receiver coupled to the controller; A first steel bar hook, the first steel bar hook comprising: a first hook sensor configured to detect an open-closed state of the first rebar hook; and a first rebar hook transmitter, the first rebar hook transmitter being coupled to the first hook sensor, the first rebar hook transmitter being configured to transmit a sensor reading from the first hook sensor to the receiver of the monitoring module, wherein the controller processes the sensor reading to determine whether the worker is using the first rebar hook correctly, wherein the first rebar hook is configured to be coupled to a distal end of a lanyard, and the lanyard is configured to be coupled at a proximal end of the safety harness, wherein when climbing or descending, the first rebar hook and the monitoring module instruct the worker to properly use the lanyard coupled to the first rebar hook as an anchor connection, and when the worker is horizontally displacing, the first rebar hook is anchored at the worker's chest point to provide an adequate fall protection factor; The monitoring module further includes a primary transmitter coupled to the controller and configured to transmit a signal to a remote computing device.

12. The safety monitoring device according to claim 11, wherein the first hook sensor comprises a magnetic field sensor, and the first steel bar hook further comprises a first magnetic field generator, the first magnetic field generator cooperates with the first hook sensor to detect the open-closed state of the first steel bar hook.

13. The safety monitoring device of claim 12, wherein the magnetic field sensor comprises a Hall effect sensor.

14. The safety monitoring device of claim 11, wherein the primary transmitter is configured to wirelessly transmit the sensor readings from the primary acceleration sensor and the first hook sensor to the remote computing device.

15. The safety monitoring device of claim 11, wherein the primary transmitter is configured to wirelessly transmit signals to the remote computing device via a radio frequency channel.

16. The safety monitoring device of claim 11, wherein the first rebar hook transmitter is configured to transmit a sensor reading from a first hook sensor to the receiver of the monitoring module via a Bluetooth wireless channel.

17. The safety monitoring apparatus of claim 11, wherein the remote computing device can be a smart phone.

18. The safety monitoring device of claim 11, wherein the primary transmitter transmits a warning signal indicating that the worker is improperly using the first rebar hook.

19. A safety monitoring device, comprising: A monitoring module, the monitoring module being configured to be coupled to a safety harness, the monitoring module comprising: Main accelerometer; GPS sensor; a controller coupled to the primary acceleration sensor and configured to receive sensor readings from the primary acceleration sensor; wherein the controller is also coupled to the GPS sensor and configured to receive location readings to track the location of a worker wearing the safety harness; and a receiver coupled to the controller; A first steel bar hook, the first steel bar hook comprising: means for detecting the open-closed state of said first rebar hook; and a first rebar hook transmitter configured to transmit an open-closed state of the first rebar hook to the receiver of the monitoring module, wherein the controller processes the open-closed state of the first rebar hook to determine whether the worker is using the first rebar hook correctly, wherein the first rebar hook is configured to be coupled to a distal end of a lanyard, and the lanyard is configured to be coupled at a proximal end of the safety harness, wherein when climbing or descending, the first rebar hook and the monitoring module instruct the worker to properly use the lanyard coupled to the first rebar hook as an anchor connection, and when the worker is horizontally displacing, the first rebar hook is anchored at the worker's chest point to provide an adequate fall protection factor; The monitoring module further includes a primary transmitter coupled to the controller and configured to transmit a signal to a remote computing device.

20. The safety monitoring device of claim 19, wherein the primary transmitter is configured to wirelessly transmit signals to the remote computing device via a radio frequency channel.

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