Multi-sensor for intrusion detection fence

Abstract

A multi-sensor unit for attachment on a barrier, and a method for detecting a breakthrough of the barrier while utilizing this multi-sensor unit, wherein the multi-sensor unit comprises a case formed to have fixing means for attaching the unit on the barrier, a sensor of a type installed in the case and enabling detection of movement of a volume near the unit, a sensor of a type enabling detection of contact with a barrier near the unit, a sensor of a type enabling picking up of noise near the unit, and a sensor enabling generation of a visual image of what is happening in the vicinity of the unit, and functions as a platform for a plurality of sensors of different types selected from a group of sensor types.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Various embodiments described herein generally relate to security systems for sites and boundaries based on intrusion detection fences, and more particularly to sensors installed on a fence in such a system to detect and alert attempts to penetrate the fence.

Background Art

[0002] Security systems for sites and boundaries based on intrusion detection fences have been known in the art for a long time. In such systems, a fence (e.g., a mesh fence or a taut wire fence) is deployed on posts around a site (e.g., a site housing strategic facilities) or along a line (e.g., a boundary line) as a physical barrier designed to prevent a breach (of the site) or a crossing (of the boundary line).

[0003] To detect and alert attempts to penetrate a fence of the type in question, sensors for detecting intrusion are installed on the fence (on the surface of the fence, on the fence posts, or on designated posts located near the fence).

[0004] The sensors may be of different types, such as vibration sensors that sense vibrations of the fence due to attempts to break through the fence (e.g., by cutting or climbing over the fence wires), optical sensors (cameras) that enable visual observation of occurrences on and in the vicinity of the fence, motion sensors that detect movement in the vicinity of the fence (e.g., a person approaching the fence), and acoustic sensors that detect acoustic phenomena in the vicinity of the fence (e.g., noise associated with cutting or digging under the fence).

[0005] The sensor is connected (either wired or wirelessly) to a control center that controls the area where the fence is installed. If necessary, the control center can dispatch a mobile security force (manned or unmanned), additional sensors (e.g., drones) to the area where the sensor or sensor alarm was received, and can also activate remote means (e.g., lighting, loudspeakers, remotely controlled weapons).

[0006] The development of various sensor technologies, their relatively low cost availability, and the degree of reliability and certainty they offer in detecting attempts at intrusion and providing appropriate alarms (e.g., not only sensing shakes or rattles but also, simultaneously, visual indication from the location of the fence where vibration detection was received) have led to the side-by-side installation of various types of sensors along the intrusion detection fence. Multiple sensors of different types, of course, require different installations (depending on the type of sensor), wired or wireless communication from each type of sensor to the control center, power supply to each type of sensor, and extensive maintenance.

[0007] Attempts to integrate multiple different types of sensors are well known; see, for example, U.S. Patent Nos. 4,321,592, 5,517,429, 5,576,972, 8,120,524, 9,000,918.

[0008] However, prior to the present invention which is the subject of this patent application, based on instructions obtained from several (multiple) different sensing technologies installed and integrated therein (in such a way that each integrated individual platform operates as a multi-sensor itself), as individual units each providing a reliable alarm capability, and in a way that enables the installation of integrated platforms as individual units on and along the fence in an easy and convenient manner for daily maintenance, the need for an integrated sensor platform has remained unresolved. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Aspects and embodiments of the present invention can be attached as separate units on barriers such as fences or walls, enabling the sensing of appropriate indications and transmission to a remote control center when there are nearby movements, swaying of the attached barrier, and acoustic noise, and also providing the ability to send visual images of what is happening very nearby, targeting a multi-sensor platform.

[0010] According to one embodiment, the multi-sensor unit according to the present invention comprises a case designed to have fixing means enabling the installation of the unit on a barrier, and installed within the case are sensors of a type capable of sensing the occurrence of volume movements near the unit, sensors of a type capable of sensing contact with a barrier very near the unit, sensors of a type providing audible noise (sound) near the unit, and sensors of a type capable of generating visual images of what is happening very near the unit, and it functions as a platform for several different types of sensors selected from a group of sensors.

[0011] Another embodiment of the present invention is a barrier system, along which the multi-sensor units according to the present invention are installed in a spaced-apart configuration.

[0012] In another and additional embodiment, the present invention embodies a method for detecting an intrusion into a barrier, including the steps of providing a plurality of multi-sensor units according to the present invention, installing the units on the barrier along and at intervals, connecting the units to a control center, and activating at least some of the sensors installed in each of the units in order to receive, at the control center, indications of attempts to intrude into and break through the barrier.

[0013] Additional other aspects, embodiments, and the advantages of these exemplary aspects and embodiments will be discussed in detail below. Embodiments disclosed herein may be combined with other embodiments in any manner consistent with at least one of the principles disclosed herein, and references to "embodiment", "some embodiments", "alternative embodiments", "various embodiments", "one embodiment", etc. are not necessarily mutually exclusive, and are intended to indicate that the particular features, structures, or characteristics described may be included in at least one embodiment. The appearance of such terms herein does not necessarily refer to all the same embodiments. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0014] Various aspects of at least one embodiment will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are not intended to be drawn to scale. The figures are included to provide illustration and further understanding of the various aspects and embodiments, are incorporated herein, and form a part of this specification, but are not intended as a definition of the limitations of the invention. In the figures, each identical or substantially identical component illustrated in the various figures is represented by like numerals. For clarity, not all components are labeled in all figures. In the figures,

[0015]

Figure 1

Figure 2a

Figure 2b

Figure 2c

Figure 3

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0016] Aspects and embodiments of the present invention can be attached as a unit on a barrier such as a fence or a wall, and can sense appropriate instructions and send them to a remote control center when there is nearby movement, swaying of the attached barrier, or acoustic noise, and also provide the ability to transmit a visual image of what is happening near the fence. At the same time, it is directed to a security system for a site and a boundary line, based on a barrier such as an intrusion detection fence, and the multi-sensor platform according to the present invention is attached at intervals as individual units on and along the barrier, and in addition, it is directed to a method embodied in the operation of the multi-sensor platform according to the present invention.

[0017] It should be understood that the embodiments of the methods and apparatuses contemplated herein are not limited to the details of the construction and arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The methods and apparatuses are capable of implementation in other embodiments and of being practiced or carried out in various ways. Examples of specific implementations are provided herein for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be limiting. Also, the expressions or terms used herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of "including", "comprising", "having", "containing", "involving" and their variants herein means including the items listed thereafter and their equivalents as well as additional items. References to "or" may be construed as inclusive such that any term described using "or" may indicate any one of, more than one of, and all of the terms so described.

[0018] Referring to FIG. 1, a perspective view of a section of an intrusion detection fence 10 to which an example of a multi-sensor platform 20 according to the present invention is attached, and the sensing problems to which the multi-sensor platform 20 responds are illustrated.

[0019] The multi-sensor unit 20 includes a case 30 that is designed to have fixing means (not shown) that enable the unit to be attached onto a barrier. According to the illustrated example, the multi-sensor unit 20 is attached to a support post 40 that supports a wire mesh type barrier 50.

[0020] Those skilled in the art will understand that the multi-sensor unit according to the present invention may be attached differently (e.g., directly to the surface of a fence stretched between posts or on a barrier of a wall configuration) and to various types of barriers (e.g., a taut wire fence that is not of a mesh configuration or a wall, etc.).

[0021] According to the present invention, each multi-sensor unit 20 functions as a platform for several (a plurality of) different types of sensors, which are attached inside the case 30 and are of a type that enables sensing of the movement of the volume near the unit, a type of sensor 60 that enables sensing of contact with a barrier near the unit, a type of sensor 70 that enables picking up noise near the unit, and a type of sensor 90 that enables generating a visual image of what is happening in the vicinity, and is selected from a group of sensor types.

[0022] One skilled in the art will understand that the multi-sensor unit 20 is connected to a remote control center (not shown) via wired communication (a cable 95 as shown in the illustrated example) or wireless communication in order to send instructions from the sensors to the control center and receive commands therefrom. One skilled in the art will also understand that the power required to operate the sensors and the communication from them can be supplied by wired communication (using the same cable 95 as shown in the illustrated example) or by an internal battery that may be rechargeable or replaceable from time to time.

[0023] The ability 60 to sense the presence of volume movement (such as the movement of an intruder before touching or contacting a fence) in the vicinity of the multi-sensor platform according to the present invention can be implemented by attaching a lidar radar on the platform.

[0024] Lidar (Light Detection and Ranging, or Laser Imaging, Detection and Ranging, also sometimes called LADAR) is a method of determining range (variable distance) by targeting an object or surface with a laser and measuring the time it takes for the reflected light to return to the receiver. It can also be used to create a digital 3-D representation of an area by varying the wavelength of the light. It has terrestrial, aerial, and mobile applications. Lidar is an acronym for "Light Detection And Ranging" or "Laser Imaging, Detection And Ranging". This is also sometimes called 3-D laser scanning and is a special combination of 3-D scanning and laser scanning.

[0025] Another possible component for such an embodiment is the Infineon BGT24LTR11 N 16 24 GHz radar MMIC.

[0026] Such radar components may be integrated on a standard FR4 PCB, and fitting the multi-sensor platform according to the present invention into a case made of a polymer material does not impair their operation under any weather conditions. Mounting such radar components on the platform may enable the sensing of volumetric movement in the range of 5 to 10 meters.

[0027] The passive IR sensor is another possible component that can be incorporated to enable the detection of the presence of volumetric movement near the multi-sensor platform according to the present invention (next to or instead of the radar component).

[0028] The sensor capability 70 of vibration generation within or on the barrier to which the multi-sensor platform according to the present invention is attached may be implemented by installing an accelerometer on the platform. A three-axis accelerometer enables vibration to be sensed in all types of fences and wall-type barriers (at least, unless made of very thick heavy concrete). Those skilled in the art know that this is a proven touch sensor technology that does not pose specific challenges with respect to the power required for operation, the ability to pack into a compact case, and low cost.

[0029] Possible components for such an application are the Adafruit MMA8451 Triple-Axis Accelerometer w / 14-bit ADC, the ST LIS3DHH three-axis accelerometer, ultra-high resolution, low noise, SPI 4-wire digital output, ±2.5 g full scale, and the Analog Devices ADXL313 three-axis, ±0.5 g / ±1 g / ±2 g / ±4 g digital accelerometer.

[0030] The audible ability 80 of the noise near the barrier with the multi-sensor platform according to the present invention can be implemented by installing a microphone on the platform. Thus, for example, an ultrasonic MEMS microphone can be installed on the platform without using significant power, enabling, for example, the transmission of sound indications of human footsteps, conversation sounds, and excavation noise near the platform.

[0031] Those skilled in the art will also understand that integrating a sound sensor on the platform according to the present invention can also provide the system with additional capabilities such as detecting that a noisy aircraft has passed over the barrier and the position of flying objects (e.g., drones), and by deploying the platform according to the present invention at intervals measured along the barrier, and then, in combination with synchronization of nodes with a reference clock (IEEE 1588 / Time Sensitive Networking (TSN)) and known algorithms, it is also possible to detect the position of hostile weapons where the noise of muzzle blasts and the passage of bullets over the barrier has been picked up by the microphone.

[0032] A possible microphone for this embodiment is the TDK InvenSense EV_INMP621-FX evaluation board MEMS MIC INMP621.

[0033] The ability to generate a visual image 90 of what is happening in the vicinity of the barrier to which the multi-sensor platform according to the present invention is attached can be implemented by installing a camera on the platform. Those skilled in the art are aware of numerous supplies of camera modules that can be installed and operated even under low-light / NIR conditions without the need for optical accessories other than a small window within the platform case.

[0034] Possible camera modules for this application are the OMNIVISION RGB-Ir CMOS (1920×1280) high dynamic range (HDR) high-definition image sensor with Nyxel (registered trademark) technology (also known as OX03A2S 2.5MP), and the OMNIVISION OVM9724-RADA image sensor color 1280×720 pixels / IC image sensor 720P 28-CSP3.

[0035] Those skilled in the art will understand that the multi-sensor platform according to the present invention operates in a manner such that not all of its sensing capabilities are activated simultaneously, but rather in a stepwise and controlled operation of the sensing capabilities, receiving an instruction from one active sensor (for example, an instruction of the occurrence of movement of a volume near a barrier may lead to a decision in a remote control center to activate ( "revive") all or part of the additional sensing capabilities), which of course means a significant saving of power required before receiving the instruction, redirects the bandwidth required for communication transmission, and reduces the risk of consumption and malfunction of various sensors.

[0036] Those skilled in the art will also understand that the instructions received from various sensors within the multi-sensor platform according to the present invention can be combined for verification (for example, an instruction from a vibration sensor combined with an instruction from a sound sensor).

[0037] Those skilled in the art will also understand that in a remote control to which the multi-sensor platform according to the present invention is connected (by wired or wireless communication), or in addition to or instead of that, machine learning / artificial intelligence computer technology can be implemented in the multi-sensor platform itself to draw conclusions regarding a clear attempt at intrusion based on the instructions received from the sensors and present it to the team in charge of the control center.

[0038] Those skilled in the art will understand that communication via a system comprising a plurality of multi-sensor platforms according to the present invention connected to a control center may be performed by node networking, i.e., redistribution points or communication endpoints that are electronic devices to which each multi-sensor is attached and that can create, receive, or transmit information via a communication channel.

[0039] A possible communication protocol for this application is EtherCAT (Ethernet for Control Automation Technology), an Ethernet-based fieldbus system. The protocol is standardized in IEC61158 and is suitable for both hard and soft real-time computing requirements in automation technology. Another option (instead of industrial Ethernet) is RS-422.

[0040] Synchronization of nodes using a reference clock is also applicable by an EtherCAT node that measures the time difference between outgoing and incoming frames, or by a switch port using an integrated IEEE 1588 boundary clock.

[0041] Regarding the system topology, it can be an arbitrarily extensible flexible tree structure. Topology variations such as line, star, tree daisy chain + drop line are possible and can be used in any combination. Up to 65,535 nodes are available for each EtherCAT segment (when implemented) with standard Ethernet cable wiring. For redundancy, master-to-slave, slave-to-slave, and master-to-master methods are applicable.

[0042] The processor requirements are an EtherCAT support (if selected), a camera interface that matches the image sensor, and possible candidates are Infineon's XMC4300 (Arm Cortex M4 / 256kB Flash / 128kB RAM) and TI's Sitara AM3357 (ARM Cortex A8 / Ext Mem).

[0043] Power can be provided by a separate higher gauge power pair or distributed 48VDC provided on the communication bus.

[0044] Refer to FIGS. 2a - 2c. FIGS. 2a - 2c are perspective views (2a, 2b) from different angles and a side view (2c) in the open mode of an example of the multi - sensor platform 220 according to the present invention.

[0045] According to the illustrated example, in the multi - sensor unit 220 according to the present invention, the sensors are mounted on a PCB electronic circuit 222 fitted inside a case 230. The case 230 is formed as a kind of sealed box that protects the contents of the unit from damage due to climate and vandalism. The case 230 may be made of a polymer material and includes hinge means 232 that allow the case to be opened in a manner that provides access to the sensors (as required for maintenance purposes). The case 230 is also formed with a connector 235 at the bottom for fixing communication wiring to the multi - sensor unit 220 and for supplying power. In addition, the rear of the case 230 is formed to have fixing means 237 for attaching the unit to a barrier (when installed on a fence post according to the illustrated example). The case 230 is also formed with a window 239 so as to be required for the operation of a type of sensor (e.g., a CMOS image sensor) that enables generation of a visual image of what is occurring in the vicinity of the unit.

[0046] Those skilled in the art will understand that this is only an example, and the case of the multi-sensor unit according to the present invention may be formed in other different configurations (by normal mechanical design), whereby these other and different configurations enable the incorporation of sensors, protect the sensors from weather damage and vandalism, enable access to the wiring of the sensors, communication, and power supply at any time, attach the unit to the barrier, and operate the optical sensor from within.

[0047] Refer to FIG. 3. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an example of a PCB electronic circuit 222 attached to an example 220 of a multi-sensor platform according to the present invention (see the above with reference to FIGS. 2a - 2c).

[0048] According to the illustrated example, mounted on the PCB surface are a sensor 360 of a type that enables detection of the occurrence of movement of the volume near the unit (in the illustrated example, a radar component), a sensor 370 of a type that enables detection of contact with the barrier unit (in the illustrated example, a 3-axis accelerometer), a sensor 380 of a type that enables eavesdropping of noise near the unit (in the illustrated example, a MEMS microphone), and a sensor 390 of a type that enables generation of a visual image occurring in the vicinity of the unit (in the illustrated example, a CMOS image sensor).

[0049] The AI processor 384 and IR LED 386 components can also be seen on the PCB surface.

[0050] Therefore, in light of the description given above and with reference to the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art will understand that the multi-sensor unit (20, 220) according to the present invention can be a separate unit that provides reliable alarm capabilities based on instructions obtained from an integrated sensor platform and several (a plurality of) different sensing technologies all installed and integrated therein, whereby, in a manner useful for easy and convenient daily maintenance, by installing several units at intervals, it becomes possible to attach the units as separate units onto and along a barrier.

[0051] Furthermore, in light of the above description and with reference to the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention is also embodied in an overall barrier system (such as a fence or wall) along which and at intervals the multi-sensor unit (20, 220) according to the present invention is attached.

[0052] Finally, in light of the above description and with reference to the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention embodies a general method for detecting intrusion through a barrier. A method comprising the steps of providing a plurality of multi-sensor units (20, 220) according to the present invention, attaching the units onto, along, and at intervals along a barrier (10), connecting the units to a control center, and operating at least some of the sensors (60, 70, 80, 90, 360, 370, 380, 390) installed in each unit in order to receive at the control center an indication regarding an attempt to breach the barrier.

[0053] Although some aspects of at least one embodiment have been described above, it should be understood that those skilled in the art will readily conceive of various changes, modifications, and improvements. Such changes, modifications, and improvements are intended to be part of this disclosure and are intended to be within the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the foregoing description and drawings are by way of example only, and the scope of the present invention should be determined from the appropriate construction of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A multi-sensor unit for attachment on a barrier, comprising a case formed to have fixing means for attaching the unit on the barrier, a plurality of different types of sensors installed in the case and selected from the group of sensor types including a sensor of a type enabling detection of volume movement near the unit, a sensor of a type enabling detection of contact with the barrier near the unit, a sensor of a type enabling picking up of noise near the unit, and a sensor of a type enabling generation of a visual image of what is happening in the vicinity of the unit, and functioning as a platform for the plurality of different types of sensors.

2. The multi-sensor unit according to claim 1, wherein the sensor of the type enabling detection of volume movement near the unit includes a radar or an IR passive component.

3. The multi-sensor unit according to claim 1, wherein the sensor of the type enabling detection of contact with the barrier near the unit includes a triaxial accelerometer.

4. The multi-sensor unit according to claim 1, wherein the sensor of the type enabling detection of noise near the unit includes a MEMS microphone.

5. The multi-sensor unit according to claim 1, wherein the sensor of the type enabling generation of a visual image of what is happening in the vicinity of the unit includes a CMOS image sensor.

6. The multi-sensor unit according to claim 1, wherein the sensors are mounted on a PCB packed in the case.

7. The multi-sensor unit according to claim 1, wherein the case is made of a polymer material and is provided with hinge means enabling opening of the case to provide access to the sensors.

8. The multi-sensor unit according to claim 1, wherein the barrier is a mesh or wire fence extending between posts, and the fixing means are adapted to connect to the fence posts.

9. A barrier system having the multi-sensor units according to each of claims 1 to 8 attached thereto along and at intervals therealong.

10. A method for detecting a breach of a barrier, ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Providing a multi-sensor unit according to each of claims 1 to 8; Mounting the unit on the barrier along and at intervals along the barrier; Connecting the unit to a control center; Actuating at least some of the sensors mounted in each of the multi-sensor units to receive an indication of an attempted intrusion of the barrier by the control center. A method comprising:

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