Perimeter surveillance system

Abstract

A perimeter surveillance system, comprising a plurality of sensor networks distributed along a perimeter of an area, wherein each of the sensor networks comprise a plurality of sensor nodes, and a gateway module communicatively coupled to the sensor nodes and disposed at a predetermined distance thereof. The sensor nodes may comprise a first, a second, and a third sensor node, wherein each of the first, second, and third sensor nodes may comprise a plurality of first, second, and third passive sensors, respectively. The gateway module may comprise an detecting unit to confirm an existence of an intrusion activity when an output of a data fusion process indicates a probability of the intrusion activity existence.

Description

PERIMETER SURVEILLANCE SYSTEMTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to surveillance systems for protecting a perimeter of an area, and more particularly to surveillance systems comprising a plurality of sensor networks for decreasing power consumption, and false detections and corresponding false alarms.BACKGROUND

[0002] Surveillance systems with capability of mounting on perimeter demarcation components such as fences, posts, walls, etc., play an important role in monitoring and protecting particular territories or private properties. Said systems may utilize sensors (or detectors, transducers, etc.) for exploring a desired region and detecting various activities occurring along or around a perimeter thereof. The sensors or transducers implemented in such systems may usually operate based on a single type of technology selected from the group of LASER, optical fiber, acoustic technologies, etc. In such systems, all sensors may continually receive inputs for transmitting to a central processing module wireless or wire-based communication networks where the inputs are processed and a decision is made as to whether the inputs indicate threat activities.

[0003] Surveillance systems with continually operating sensors may not be power efficient and with a process of directly transmitting the inputs to the central processing module without any further confirmations, false alarm rates may increase. Therefore, there is need for power-efficient perimeter surveillance systems capable of detecting events accurately to reduce false alarm rates.SUMMARY

[0004] This summary is intended to provide an overview of the subject matter of one or more exemplary embodiments, and is not intended to identify essential elements or key elements of the subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to determine the scope of the claimed implementations. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of one or more aspects in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later. The proper scope of one or more exemplary embodiments may be ascertained from the claims set forth below in view of the detailed description below and the drawings.

[0005] In one general aspect, the present disclosure may describe an exemplary perimeter surveillance system, comprising a plurality of exemplary sensor networks distributed along an exemplary perimeter of an exemplary area, wherein each of exemplary sensor networks may comprise a plurality of exemplary sensor nodes.

[0006] In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary sensor nodes may comprise an exemplary first sensor node capable of detecting an exemplary disturbance event when an exemplary disturbance event locally occurs within an exemplary sensing range of an exemplary first sensor node.

[0007] In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary sensor nodes may further comprise an exemplary second sensor node communicatively coupled to an exemplary first sensor node and disposed at an exemplary distance of an exemplary first sensor node such that an exemplary sensing range of an exemplary first sensor node may overlap an exemplary sensing range of an exemplary second sensor node. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary second sensor node may be capable of detecting an exemplary disturbance event when an exemplary disturbance event locally occurs within an exemplary sensing range of an exemplary second sensor node.

[0008] In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary sensor nodes may further comprise an exemplary third sensor node which may be communicatively coupled to an exemplary first sensor node. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary third sensor node may be disposed at an exemplary distance of an exemplary first sensor node such that an exemplary sensing range of an exemplary first sensor node may overlap an exemplary sensing range of an exemplary third sensor node. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary third sensor node may be capable of detecting an exemplary disturbance event when an exemplary disturbance event locally occurs within an exemplary sensing range of an exemplary third sensor node.

[0009] In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary sensor networks may further comprise an exemplary gateway module communicatively coupled to exemplary sensor nodes. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary gateway module may be disposed at an exemplary predetermined distance of exemplary sensor nodes. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary gateway module may comprise an exemplary detecting unit capable of monitoring exemplary sensor nodes.

[0010] In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary gateway module may be configured to receive a plurality of exemplary first inputs from exemplary first sensor node in response to an exemplary occurrence of an exemplary disturbance event. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary gateway module may be further configured to compare exemplary first inputs to a plurality of exemplary predefined input thresholds associated with an exemplary disturbance event. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary gateway module may be further configured to receive a plurality of exemplary second inputs from an exemplary second sensor node, and a plurality of exemplary third inputs from an exemplary third sensor node in response to an exemplary comparison of exemplary first inputs to a plurality of exemplary predefined thresholds associated with an exemplary disturbance event. In an exemplary embodiment, anexemplary gateway module may be further configured to perform an exemplary data fusion process on exemplary first, second, and third inputs and communicate an exemplary order to an exemplary detecting unit in response to an exemplary output of an exemplary data fusion process.

[0011] This Summary may introduce a number of concepts in a simplified format; the concepts are further disclosed within the “Detailed Description” section. This Summary is not intended to configure essential / key features of the claimed subject matter, nor is intended to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] The novel features which are believed to be characteristic of the present disclosure, as to its structure, organization, use and method of operation, together with further objectives and advantages thereof, will be better understood from the following drawings in which a presently preferred embodiment of the present disclosure will now be illustrated by way of example. It is expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the present disclosure. Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described by way of example in association with the accompanying drawings in which:

[0013] FIG. 1 illustrates an area protected by a perimeter surveillance system, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0014] FIG. 2 illustrates a sensor network of a perimeter surveillance system, being in communication with a central control module, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0015] FIG. 3 illustrates a sensor network of a perimeter surveillance system comprising three sensor nodes and a gateway module, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0016] FIG. 4 illustrates charts depicting sensor node inputs received at first, second and third sensor nodes with respect to time, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0017] FIG. 5 illustrates a flowchart of a threat activity detecting process, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth by way of examples to provide a thorough understanding of the relevant teachings related to the exemplary embodiments. However, it should be apparent that the present teachings may be practiced without such details. In other instances, well known methods, procedures, components, and / or circuitry have been described at a relatively high-level, without detail, in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring aspects of the present teachings.

[0019] The following detailed description is presented to enable a person skilled in the art to make and use the methods and devices disclosed in one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. For purposes of explanation, specific nomenclature is set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the present disclosure. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that these specific details are not required to practice the disclosed exemplary embodiments. Descriptions of specific exemplary embodiments are provided only as representative examples. Various modifications to the exemplary implementations will be plain to one skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other implementations and applications without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.The present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the implementations shown, but is to be accorded the widest possible scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein.

[0020] Disclosed herein is an exemplary perimeter surveillance system, comprising a plurality of exemplary sensor networks distributed along an exemplary perimeter of an exemplary area, wherein each of exemplary sensor networks may comprise a plurality of exemplary sensor nodes and an exemplary gateway module. In an exemplary embodiment, each exemplary sensor node may be capable of detecting an exemplary disturbance event when an exemplary disturbance event locally occurs within an exemplary sensing range of an exemplary sensor node. In an exemplary embodiment, each exemplary sensor node may comprise a plurality of exemplary passive sensors capable of detecting an exemplary disturbance event when an exemplary disturbance event locally occurs within an exemplary sensing range of an exemplary sensor node. In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary sensor nodes within an exemplary sensor network may be communicatively coupled to each other and to an exemplary gateway module via at least one selected from the group of an exemplary wireless network and a plurality of exemplary communication cables. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary gateway module may comprise an exemplary detecting unit. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary gateway module may be disposed at an exemplary predetermined distance of exemplary sensor nodes such that an exemplary detecting unit may be capable of monitoring exemplary sensor nodes.

[0021] In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary sensor nodes may comprise at least three exemplary sensor nodes comprising an exemplary first, second, and third sensor node. In an exemplary embodiment, when an exemplary disturbance event occurs within an exemplary sensing range of an exemplary first sensor node, a plurality of exemplary first inputs may be received from exemplary first passive sensors. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplaryfirst sensor node may compare exemplary first inputs to a plurality of exemplary predefined input thresholds associated with an exemplary disturbance event and transmit an exemplary existence indication of an exemplary disturbance event or exemplary first inputs to an exemplary gateway module. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary first sensor node may be further configured to determine if an exemplary disturbance event indicates an exemplary threat activity in response to at least one of a plurality of exemplary first inputs meeting or exceeding at least one of a plurality of exemplary predefined input thresholds.

[0022] In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary gateway module may be configured to receive a plurality of exemplary first inputs from an exemplary first sensor node, a plurality of exemplary second inputs from an exemplary second sensor node and a plurality of exemplary third inputs from an exemplary third sensor node in response to receiving an exemplary existence indication of an exemplary disturbance event or exemplary first inputs from an exemplary first sensor node. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary gateway module may be further configured to perform an exemplary data fusion process on exemplary first, second, and third inputs to increase a certainty factor of an exemplary disturbance event detection process. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary gateway module may be further configured to communicate an exemplary order to an exemplary detecting unit in response to an exemplary output of an exemplary data fusion process. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary gateway module may be further configured to activate an exemplary warning action in response to an exemplary output received from an exemplary detecting unit, meeting or exceeding at least one of a plurality of exemplary threat activity thresholds. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary warning action may comprise at least one selected from the group of triggering an exemplary audible alarm, switching on an exemplary lighting module, communicating to authorities, sending massages to clients, etc.

[0023] Referring now to the figures, FIG. 1 illustrates an area 132 protected by a perimeter surveillance system 100, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, perimeter surveillance system 100 may comprise at least one or a plurality of sensor networks (e.g., 124, 126, 128) distributed along perimeter 130 of area 132. In an exemplary embodiment, the number of sensor networks (e.g., 124, 126, 128) may be determined by a length of perimeter 130 or a topography of area 132 or a combination thereof.

[0024] In an exemplary embodiment, each sensor network of a plurality of sensor networks (e.g., 124, 126, 128) may comprise a plurality of sensor nodes (e.g., 108, 110, 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 121, 122) and at least one gateway module (e.g., 102, 104, 106). In an exemplary embodiment, sensor nodes (e.g., 108, 110, 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 121, 122) may be fastened to exemplary perimeter demarcation components such as fences, posts, walls, etc. that create a perimeter around an exemplary area or territory supposed to be protected. In an exemplary embodiment, sensor nodes (e.g., 108, 110, 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 121, 122) may be disposed on the ground and along an imaginary border line which is drawn around an exemplary area or territory supposed to be protected.

[0025] In an exemplary embodiment, sensor nodes (e.g., 108, 110, 112, 114, 116, 118) of corresponding sensor network (e.g., 124) may be disposed successively along perimeter 130. In an exemplary embodiment, each sensor node (e.g., 108, 116) of corresponding sensor network (e.g., 124) may be disposed at a distance of respective preceding (e.g., 110, 114, respectively) and succeeding sensor nodes (e.g., 112, 118, respectively). In an exemplary embodiment, gateway module 102 of corresponding sensor network 124 may be disposed at an exemplary predetermined distance of respective sensor nodes (e.g., 108, 110, 112, 114, 116,118) such that gateway module 102 may be capable of monitoring and / or observing each sensor node (e.g., 108, 110, 112, 114, 116, 118) via an exemplary detecting unit.

[0026] FIG. 2 illustrates a sensor network 200 of a perimeter surveillance system, being in communication with a central control module 228, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, sensor nodes (e.g., 206, 208, 210, 240, 242) of corresponding sensor network 200 may communicate with each other and with gateway module 202 via exemplary communication cables and / or an exemplary wireless network. In an exemplary embodiment, gateway module 202 may comprise an exemplary detecting unit capable of monitoring and / or observing monitoring zone 204. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary detecting unit may comprise at least one selected from the group of an image sensor, an ordinary camera, a thermal camera, a night vision camera, an infrared (IR) motion detection sensor, a sonar sensor, a radar, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, gateway module 202 may be disposed at an exemplary predetermined distance of exemplary sensor nodes such that an exemplary detecting unit is capable of monitoring and / or observing monitoring zone 204. In an exemplary embodiment, monitoring zone 204 may comprise an exemplary region enclosing gateway module 202 and sensor nodes (e.g., 206, 208, 210, 240, 242) of corresponding sensor network 200.

[0027] In an exemplary embodiment, with further reference to FIG.2, each sensor node (e.g., 206, 208, 210, 240, 242) may comprise a plurality of passive sensors capable of detecting an exemplary disturbance event locally occurred within sensing range (e.g., 212, 214, 216, 244) of corresponding sensor nodes (206, 208, 210, 240, respectively). In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary sensing range of an exemplary sensor node may refer to an exemplary region within which an exemplary event may be detected by respective passive sensors such that an exemplary disturbance event may trigger an exemplary signal change inrespective passive sensors. In an exemplary embodiment, each passive sensor of sensor node (e.g., 206, 208, 210, 240, 242) may have an exemplary sensing range within which an exemplary event may be detected such that an exemplary event may trigger an exemplary signal change in respective passive sensor, consequently sensing range (e.g., 212, 214, 216, 244) of corresponding sensor node (206, 208, 210, 240, respectively) may refer to a common region of exemplary sensing ranges (i.e., a common region where exemplary sensing ranges of corresponding passive sensors of a sensor node, may overlap).

[0028] In an exemplary embodiment, with further reference to FIG. 2, sensor nodes (e.g.,206, 208, 210, 240, 242) may communicate with each other and with gateway module 202 of corresponding sensor network within monitoring zone 204. In an exemplary embodiment, sensor nodes with overlapping sensing ranges may be communicatively coupled to each other via an exemplary wireless network and / or exemplary communication cables (e.g., as depicted by bidirectional arrows 224, 226, 244, 250 in FIG.2). In an exemplary embodiment, each sensor node (e.g., 206, 208, 210, 240, 242) may be communicatively coupled to gateway module 202 via an exemplary wireless network and / or exemplary communication cables (e.g., as depicted by bidirectional arrows 218, 220, 222, 246 in FIG. 2). In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary wireless network and / or communication cables may allow sensor nodes (e.g., 206, 208, 210, 240, 242) to directly transmit exemplary data packets or exemplary inputs to each other and to gateway module 202.

[0029] In an exemplary embodiment, with further reference to FIG.2, an exemplary wireless network may refer to any wireless network through which sensor nodes (e.g., 206, 208, 210, 240, 242) may be capable of communicating to each other and to gateway module 202 of corresponding sensor network 200 according to a proprietary or standard wireless mesh network protocol such as IEEE 802.15.4, ISA 100.11a, IPV6, etc. In an exemplaryembodiment, exemplary communication cables may refer to any communication cables through which sensor nodes (e.g., 206, 208, 210, 240, 242) may be capable of communicating to each other and to gateway module 202 of corresponding sensor network 200 according to a proprietary or standard wire-based connection protocols such as CAN (Controller Area Network), Ethernet, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary wireless network and / or exemplary communication cables may transmit information throughout an exemplary sensor network, wherein sensor nodes (e.g., 206, 208, 210, 240, 242) and gateway module 202 may also receive required power from an exemplary wireless network and / or exemplary communication cables.

[0030] In an exemplary embodiment, with further reference to FIG.2, an exemplary perimeter surveillance system may further comprise central control module 228 providing an exemplary interface between gateway module 202 and external devices 238 so that any performance of sensor network 200 may be monitored remotely by a user. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary perimeter surveillance system may comprise a plurality of exemplary sensor networks distributed along perimeter 130 of area 132, wherein each sensor network may comprise a plurality of exemplary sensor nodes and an exemplary gateway module. In an exemplary embodiment each sensor network may communicate with central control module 228 via corresponding gateway module such that an exemplary user may use external devices to monitor and interact with exemplary sensor networks.

[0031] In an exemplary embodiment, central control module 228 may comprise network interface 230, alarm unit 232, GUI unit (Graphical User Interface) 234, and CPU (Central Processing Unit) 236. In an exemplary embodiment, external devices 238 may comprise exemplary computing devices such as personal computer (PC), laptop computer, cell phone, server, and etc. In an exemplary embodiment, central control module 228 may communicateto gateway module 202 via link 227 and network interface 230 and to external devices 238 via network 239 and network interface 230. In an exemplary embodiment, link 227 may be a Radio Frequency (RF) link and network 239 may comprise at least one selected from the group of wireless and wire-based networks such as the internet, an intranet, a local area network (LAN), etc. In an exemplary embodiment, once exemplary data packets or exemplary inputs received at gateway module 202 is transmitted to central control module 228 via link 227, exemplary data packets or exemplary inputs may be received at network interface 230 and processed at CPU (Central Processing Unit) 236 to be prepared for transmission to various other units at central control module 228 such as GUI unit (Graphical User Interface) 234, and alarm unit 232.

[0032] In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary data packets or exemplary inputs received at network interface 230 may carry exemplary data about an exemplary disturbance event, sensor node performance, real-time sensor signal, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary data packets or exemplary inputs may be converted into exemplary visual data for transmission to GUI unit 234. In an exemplary embodiment, GUI unit 234 may be configured to illustrate exemplary visual data on an exemplary display or screen. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary display or screen may be disposed on-site, at an exemplary protected area, or may be an exemplary display or screen of external devices 238 used remotely by an exemplary user. In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary visual data illustrated on an exemplary display or screen may comprise an exemplary landscape view of an exemplary protected area in combination with exemplary graphical elements to illustrate exemplary locations corresponding to exemplary sensor nodes.

[0033] In an exemplary embodiment, visual data illustrated on an exemplary display or screen may be continually updated by exemplary data packets or exemplary inputs received atnetwork interface 230 in real time. In an exemplary embodiment, if sensor node 208 detects an exemplary disturbance event, sensor node 208 may transmit exemplary data packets or exemplary inputs to gateway module 202, wherein exemplary data packets or exemplary inputs may be transmitted to network interface 230, converted to visual data and forwarded to GUI unit 234. In an exemplary embodiment, GUI unit 234 via an exemplary display or screen may depict an exemplary distinctive graphical element corresponding to sensor node 208 to warn an exemplary user that an exemplary disturbance event occurred within sensing range 214. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary distinctive graphical element may refer to an exemplary graphical element whose an exemplary aspect such as colour, shape, size, brightness, etc., has been changed (with respect to an exemplary default state) to indicate that an exemplary disturbance event occurred.

[0034] In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary graphical elements may correspond to exemplary selectable options comprising sensor data histogram at each sensor node, sensor node performance, real time sensor data, etc. to allow an exemplary user monitor and interact with visual data displayed on an exemplary display or screen. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary user may modify, change or update various parameters of an exemplary perimeter surveillance system via GUI unit 234 such as updating software, changing disturbance event detection algorithm, modifying sensing range of an exemplary sensor node, modifying predetermined input thresholds required to activate an exemplary warning action, etc.

[0035] FIG. 3 illustrates a sensor network 300 of a perimeter surveillance system, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, sensor network 300 may comprise at least three sensor nodes including first sensor node 318, second sensor node 328, and third sensor node 332 disposed successivelyalong perimeter (e.g., 130 of area 132), wherein first sensor node 318 disposed at a distance of corresponding preceding and succeeding sensor nodes (i.e., second sensor node 328 and third sensor node 332) such that respective sensing ranges of first sensor node 318, second sensor node 328, and third sensor node 332 may overlap.

[0036] In an exemplary embodiment, with further reference to FIG. 3, sensor network 300 may further comprise gateway module 302 disposed at an exemplary predetermined distance of first sensor node 318, second sensor node 328, and third sensor node 332 such that detecting unit 306 at gateway module 302 may monitor and / or observe first sensor node 318, second sensor node 328, and third sensor node 332. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary predetermined distance may be determined based on an exemplary sensing or detecting range of detecting unit 306. In an exemplary embodiment, detecting unit 306 may comprise an exemplary camera, wherein an exemplary predetermined distance may be determined based on various camera features such as an exemplary camera detecting range and / or an exemplary camera resolution, etc.

[0037] In an exemplary embodiment, with further reference to FIG.3, each of first 318, second 328, and third sensor nodes 332 may comprise exemplary passive sensors, an exemplary connectivity unit, an exemplary processing unit, and an exemplary power source. In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary passive sensors at each of first 318, second 328, and third sensor nodes 332 may be capable of detecting an exemplary disturbance event when an exemplary disturbance event locally occurs within an exemplary sensing range of corresponding sensor nodes 318, 328, 332. In an exemplary embodiment, detecting an exemplary disturbance event that locally occurs within an exemplary sensing range of sensor node (e.g., first sensor node 318) may trigger an exemplary signal change in corresponding passive sensors (e.g., 322).

[0038] In an exemplary embodiment, first sensor node 318 may refer to an exemplary sensor node which may detect an exemplary disturbance event first. Accordingly, second sensor node 328 and third sensor node 332 may refer to preceding and succeeding sensor nodes whose sensing ranges overlap with first sensor node 318, that are successively disposed at a distance of first sensor node 318 such that first sensor node 318 may be disposed between second sensor node 328 and third sensor node 332.

[0039] In an exemplary embodiment, with further reference to FIG.3, first sensor node 318 may comprise passive sensors 322, connectivity unit 320, processing unit 324, and power source unit 326. In an exemplary embodiment, each passive sensor of passive sensors 322 at first sensor node 318 may be capable of detecting an exemplary disturbance event when an exemplary disturbance event locally occurs within an exemplary sensing range of corresponding passive sensor such that an exemplary event may trigger an exemplary signal change in corresponding passive sensor, consequently sensing range of first sensor node 318 may refer to a common region of exemplary sensing ranges of passive sensors 322 (i.e., a common region where exemplary sensing ranges of passive sensors 322 at first sensor node 318, may overlap).

[0040] In an exemplary embodiment, gateway module 302 may comprise connectivity unit 304, detecting unit 306, data storage unit 308, GUI unit (Graphical User Interface) 309, Control & Processing Unit (C & P Unit) 310, and alarm unit 311. In an exemplary embodiment, gateway module 302 may be communicatively coupled to first sensor node 318, second sensor node 328, and third sensor node 332 via an exemplary wireless network and / or exemplary communication cables (e.g., as depicted by bidirectional arrows 312, 314, and 316 in FIG. 3). In an exemplary embodiment, first sensor node 318 may be communicatively coupled to second sensor node 328, and third sensor node 332 via an exemplary wireless network and / orexemplary communication cables (e.g., as depicted by bidirectional arrows 330, 334 in FIG. 3).

[0041] In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary data packets or exemplary inputs from a plurality of exemplary sensor nodes may be received at connectivity unit 304 and processed at CPU (Central Processing Unit) 236 to be prepared for transmission to various other units at gateway module 302 such as GUI unit (Graphical User Interface) 309, and alarm unit 311. In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary data packets or exemplary inputs received at connectivity unit 304 may carry exemplary data about an exemplary disturbance event, sensor node performance, real-time sensor signal, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary data packets or exemplary inputs may be converted into exemplary visual data for transmission to GUI unit 309. In an exemplary embodiment, GUI unit 309 may be configured to illustrate exemplary visual data on an exemplary display or screen. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary display or screen may be disposed on-site, at an exemplary protected area, or may be an exemplary display or screen of exemplary external devices used remotely by an exemplary user. In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary visual data illustrated on an exemplary display or screen may comprise an exemplary landscape view of an exemplary protected area in combination with exemplary graphical elements to illustrate exemplary locations corresponding to exemplary sensor nodes.

[0042] In an exemplary embodiment, visual data illustrated on an exemplary display or screen may be continually updated by exemplary data packets or exemplary inputs received at connectivity unit 304 in real time. In an exemplary embodiment, if sensor node (e.g., 318, 328, 332) detects an exemplary disturbance event, sensor node (e.g., 318, 328, 332) may transmit an exemplary existence indication of an exemplary disturbance event or exemplary inputs received from corresponding sensor node to gateway module 302, wherein an exemplaryexistence indication of an exemplary disturbance event or exemplary inputs may be transmitted to connectivity unit 304, converted to visual data and forwarded to GUI unit 309. In an exemplary embodiment, GUI unit 309 via an exemplary display or screen may depict an exemplary distinctive graphical element corresponding to sensor node (e.g., 318, 328, 332) to warn an exemplary user that an exemplary disturbance event occurred within sensing range of sensor node (e.g., 318, 328, 332). In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary distinctive graphical element may refer to an exemplary graphical element whose an exemplary aspect such as colour, shape, size, brightness, etc., has been changed (with respect to an exemplary default state) to indicate that an exemplary disturbance event occurred.

[0043] In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary graphical elements may correspond to exemplary selectable options comprising sensor data histogram at each sensor node, sensor node performance, real time sensor data, etc. to allow an exemplary user monitor and interact with visual data displayed on an exemplary display or screen. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary user may modify, change or update various parameters of an exemplary perimeter surveillance system via GUI unit 309 such as updating software, changing disturbance event detection algorithm, modifying sensing range of an exemplary sensor node, modifying predetermined input thresholds required to activate an exemplary warning action, etc.

[0044] In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary wireless network and / or exemplary communication cables within sensor network 300 may be established through respective connectivity units (e.g., 304, 320) of gateway module 302, first sensor node 318, second sensor node 328, and third sensor node 332. In an exemplary embodiment, respective connectivity units (e.g., 304, 320) of gateway module 302, first sensor node 318, second sensor node 328, and third sensor node 332 may comprise an exemplary transceiver, and exemplarycommunication ports such as Input / Output (I / O) ports, modem, Ethernet port, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary transceiver may comprise an exemplary Radio Frequency (RF) transceiver. In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary I / O ports may comprise at least one selected from the group of digital I / O ports, and analog I / O ports. In an exemplary embodiment, connectivity unit 320 at firs sensor node 318 may communicate to passive sensors 322 via exemplary I / O ports of connectivity unit 320.

[0045] In an exemplary embodiment, connectivity unit 304 at gateway module 302 may communicate to detecting unit 306 via exemplary I / O ports of connectivity unit 304. In an exemplary embodiment, connectivity unit 304 may receive exemplary data from detecting unit 306 and may transmit exemplary data to control & processing unit 310 to be prepared for transmission to various other units at gateway module 302 (e.g., data storage unit 308) or to exemplary external devices, or an exemplary central control module. In an exemplary embodiment, data storage unit 308 at gateway module 302 may comprise exemplary sets of data corresponding to exemplary disturbance events capable of being compared to exemplary inputs received from first 318, second 328, and third sensor nodes 332 to confirm that an exemplary disturbance event is an exemplary threat activity. In an exemplary embodiment, data storage unit 308 at gateway module 302 may comprise exemplary sets of data corresponding to exemplary possible threat activities capable of being compared to exemplary data received from detecting unit 306 to confirm that an exemplary threat activity has occurred or may be occurring.

[0046] In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary wireless network and / or exemplary communication cables may transmit information throughout an exemplary sensor network 300, wherein first sensor node 318, second sensor node 328, third sensor node 332, and gateway module 302 may also receive exemplary required power from an exemplary wireless networkand / or exemplary communication cables. In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary required power at first sensor node 318 received from an exemplary wireless network and / or exemplary communication cables may be stored in power source unit 326. In an exemplary embodiment, power source unit 326 at first sensor node 318 may comprise an exemplary battery such as Lithium, Alkaline, Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH), Lithium-Ion, Lithium-Polymer battery, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary battery may be capable of being charged or recharged using renewable energies such as solar and wind energies. In an exemplary embodiment, power source unit 326 may comprise exemplary energy harvesting units such as solar cells, thermoelectric harvesting unit, Piezoelectric harvesting unit, etc., to harness energy from the environment and charge an exemplary battery of power source unit 326.

[0047] In an exemplary embodiment, with further reference to FIG.3, detecting unit 306 may comprise an exemplary active sensor. In an exemplary embodiment, detecting unit 306 may comprise at least one selected from the group of an image sensor, an ordinary camera, a night vision camera, a thermal camera, an infrared (IR) motion detection sensor, a sonar sensor, a radar, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, passive sensors (e.g., 322) at each sensor node (e.g., first sensor node 318) may comprise at least one selected from the group of an acoustic sensor, a vibration sensor, a seismic sensor, fire detectors (e.g., flame detector, smoke detector, etc.), weather sensors (e.g., temperature, humidity, wind direction, wind speed, air pressure sensors, etc.), etc. In an exemplary embodiment, each sensor node may comprise at least acoustic and seismic sensors, while various other passive sensors may be embedded to an exemplary sensor node with respect to characteristics of an exemplary environment surrounding a corresponding exemplary sensor node (e.g., an exemplary sensor node disposed near an exemplary environment with a probability of fire occurrence, may comprise various fire detectors in addition to acoustic and seismic sensors). In an exemplary embodiment, “passive sensors” mayrefer to sensors consuming less power than active sensors and emit zero or near to zero electromagnetic radiation which is not detectable by corresponding devices (e.g., radars), while “active sensors” may refer to sensors that use more power, whose electromagnetic radiations may be detected by corresponding devices (e.g., radars).

[0048] In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary passive sensors at exemplary sensor node may update a plurality of exemplary inputs, received from an exemplary environment within an exemplary sensing range of corresponding sensor node, continually or at an exemplary predefined frequency. In an exemplary embodiment, passive sensors 322 at first sensor node 318 may update exemplary first inputs, received from an exemplary environment within an exemplary sensing range of first sensor node 318, continually or at an exemplary predefined frequency. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary predefined frequency may be equal to 600 kHz.

[0049] In an exemplary embodiment, connectivity unit 320 may receive exemplary first inputs from passive sensors 322 regularly at an exemplary predefined frequency and may transmit exemplary first inputs to processing unit 324 to be prepared for transmission to various other units at first sensor node 318 or to gateway module 302. In an exemplary embodiment, processing unit 324 may compare exemplary first inputs to a plurality of predefined input thresholds associated with an exemplary disturbance event. In an exemplary embodiment, processing unit 324 at first sensor node 318 may be configured to adopt an exemplary on-board or an exemplary external data storage into which exemplary predefined input thresholds with corresponding disturbance events may be stored. In an exemplary embodiment, first sensor node 318 may compare exemplary first inputs to exemplary predefined input thresholds associated with an exemplary disturbance event. In an exemplary embodiment, if at least one of exemplary first inputs meets or exceeds corresponding exemplary predefined inputthresholds, first sensor node 318 may transmit an existence indication of an exemplary disturbance event or exemplary inputs to gateway module 302 in response to a comparison of exemplary first inputs to exemplary predefined input thresholds associated with an exemplary disturbance event.

[0050] In an exemplary embodiment, gateway module 302 may be configured to receive a plurality of exemplary second inputs from second sensor node 328, and a plurality of exemplary third inputs from third sensor node 332 in response to the comparison of exemplary first inputs to corresponding exemplary predefined input thresholds. In an exemplary embodiment, gateway module 302 may be further configured to perform an exemplary data fusion process on exemplary first, second, and third inputs through control & processing unit 310. In an exemplary embodiment, control & processing unit 310 at gateway module 302 may communicate an exemplary order to detecting unit 306 in response to an exemplary output of an exemplary data fusion process via connectivity unit 304.

[0051] In an exemplary embodiment, “data fusion process” may refer to an exemplary reasoning or decision-making process through which exemplary data and / or information (that may be fuzzy, imprecise or paradoxical, with different degrees of uncertainty) may be managed and combined together in order to increase certainty factor of interpretation of exemplary data and / or information during an exemplary reasoning or decision-making process. In an exemplary embodiment, during an exemplary data fusion process various rules and theories for combining data and / or information may be used. In an exemplary embodiment, Probability Theory, Theory of Belief Functions, Fuzzy Logic Theory, and Theory of Plausible & Paradoxical Reasoning or a combination thereof may be applied during an exemplary data fusion process. In an exemplary embodiment, extensions of Probability Theory, Theory of Belief Functions, Fuzzy Logic Theory, and Theory of Plausible & Paradoxical Reasoning or acombination thereof may be applied during an exemplary data fusion process. In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary data and / or information may be captured from various sensor nodes (e.g., first, second, and third sensor nodes) of an exemplary sensor network to be managed and combined at corresponding gateway module.

[0052] FIG. 4 illustrates charts 400 depicting sensor node inputs (e.g., 402, 404, 406) received at first, second and third sensor nodes with respect to time 408, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, passive sensors (e.g., SI, S2) at an exemplary first, second, and third sensor node (e.g., first sensor node 318, second sensor node 328, and third sensor node 332 illustrated in FIG.3) may receive a plurality of exemplary inputs (e.g., 410, 416, 422, 428, 432, 436) from an exemplary environment continually or at an exemplary predefined frequency. Once an exemplary disturbance event occurs within an exemplary sensing range of an exemplary first sensor node, a plurality of first inputs (associated with an exemplary disturbance event, e.g., 410, 416) from passive sensors SI, S2 may meet or exceed corresponding input thresholds (e.g., input thresholds 412, 418) at point 414 and point 420, respectively.

[0053] In an exemplary embodiment, passive sensors (e.g., SI, S2) at each sensor node may be selected from the group of an acoustic sensor, a vibration sensor, a seismic sensor, fire detectors (e.g., flame detector, smoke detector, etc.), weather sensors (e.g., temperature, humidity, wind direction, wind speed, air pressure sensors, etc.), etc., with respect to characteristics of an exemplary environment surrounding an exemplary perimeter (e.g., perimeter 130 shown in FIG.l), more specifically with respect to characteristics of an exemplary environment around a corresponding sensor node (e.g., an exemplary sensor node disposed near an exemplary environment with a probability of harmful or hazardous gas emission, may comprise various gas sensors in addition to acoustic and seismic sensors).

[0054] In an exemplary embodiment, “disturbance event” may refer to any event that is detectable by exemplary passive sensors at an exemplary sensor node when “disturbance event” occurs within an exemplary sensing range of an exemplary sensor node (e.g., wind blowing, vehicle transport, animal or human intrusion, etc.). In an exemplary embodiment, “disturbance event” may comprise an exemplary threat activity or an exemplary non-threat activity. In an exemplary embodiment, “threat activity” may refer to any activity against which an exemplary area (e.g., area 132 shown in FIG.l) may be protected (e.g., intrusion of animals to an exemplary protected farm may be interpreted as an exemplary threat activity, while for an exemplary perimeter surrounding facilities such as buildings, military bases, construction sites, etc., intrusion of unauthorized people may be interpreted as an exemplary threat activity). In an exemplary embodiment, “non-threat activity” may refer to any activity that isn’t included in threat activities such as wind blowing, debris hitting, etc.

[0055] In an exemplary embodiment, predefined input thresholds (e.g., 412, 418, 424, 430, 434, 438) may be determined with respect to characteristics of an exemplary environment surrounding an exemplary protected area (e.g., area 132 shown in FIG.l) in combination with various parameters associated with an exemplary disturbance event such as frequency, amplitude, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, each disturbance event may be defined by an exemplary input threshold at a single time (e.g., input threshold 412 at time tl), an exemplary input threshold at different times (e.g., input threshold 412 at time tl and t2) exemplary input thresholds at a single time (e.g., input thresholds 412 and 418 at time tl), exemplary input thresholds at different times (e.g., input thresholds 412 and 418 at time tl and t2).

[0056] In an exemplary embodiment, once an exemplary disturbance event occurs within an exemplary sensing range of an exemplary first sensor node, passive sensors (SI, S2) at an exemplary first sensor node may receive a plurality of first inputs (410, 416, respectively) thatmeet or exceed corresponding input thresholds (412, 418, respectively). In an exemplary embodiment, when passive sensor SI at an exemplary first sensor node (e.g., first sensor node 318 shown in FIG.3) meets input threshold 412 at time tl and / or passive sensor S2 at an exemplary first sensor node meets input threshold 418 within predetermined time period between tl and t2, an exemplary first sensor node may transmit an existence indication of an exemplary disturbance event or exemplary inputs to corresponding gateway module (e.g., gateway module 302 shown in FIG.3).

[0057] In an exemplary embodiment, gateway module (e.g., gateway module 302 shown in FIG.3) may receive second inputs (422, 428) from passive sensors SI and S2 disposed at an exemplary second sensor node, and third inputs (432, 436) from passive sensors SI and S2 disposed at an exemplary third sensor node in response to an exemplary existence indication of an exemplary disturbance event. In an exemplary embodiment, second inputs (422, 428) or third inputs (432, 436) may meet or exceed corresponding input thresholds (e.g., second input 422 meets input threshold 424 at point 426) when an exemplary disturbance event occurs within exemplary sensing ranges of corresponding sensor nodes. In an exemplary embodiment, second inputs (422, 428) or third inputs (432, 436) may not meet or exceed corresponding input thresholds (e.g., second input 428 and third inputs (432, 436) don’t meet respective input thresholds (430, 434, 438)) when an exemplary disturbance event doesn’t occur within exemplary sensing ranges of corresponding sensor nodes. In an exemplary embodiment, in order to confirm that an exemplary disturbance event is an exemplary threat activity, gateway module (e.g., gateway module 302 shown in FIG.3) may perform a data fusion process on first inputs (410, 416), second inputs (422, 428), and third inputs (432, 436). In an exemplary embodiment, if data fusion output 440 meets or exceeds at least one of a plurality of exemplary threat activity thresholds, gateway module (e.g., gateway module 302 shown in FIG.3) mayinterpret that an exemplary disturbance event is an exemplary threat activity. In an exemplary embodiment, if data fusion output 440 meets or exceeds at least one of a plurality of exemplary threat activity thresholds, gateway module (e.g., gateway module 302 shown in FIG.3) may communicate an exemplary order to detecting unit (e.g., detecting unit 306 shown in FIG.3) in response to data fusion output 440.

[0058] FIG. 5 illustrates a flowchart of a threat activity detecting process 500, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, threat activity detecting process 500 may comprise: receiving exemplary Nth sensor node data (step 502); verifying if exemplary predefined input thresholds reached? (step 504); transmitting exemplary (N-l)th and (N+l)th sensor node data to an exemplary gateway module (step 506); performing an exemplary data fusion process at an exemplary gateway module (step 508); verifying if an exemplary output of an exemplary data fusion process indicates an exemplary threat activity? (step 510); powering on an exemplary detecting unit (step 512); processing exemplary data received from exemplary detecting unit (step 514); verifying if exemplary data match exemplary threat activities? (step 516); activating an exemplary warning action (step 518).

[0059] In an exemplary embodiment, with respect to FIG.5, any number (N+l) of exemplary sensor nodes may be implemented in an exemplary sensor network, wherein each sensor node may include a plurality of exemplary passive sensors which are capable of detecting an exemplary disturbance event when an exemplary disturbance event occurs within an exemplary sensing range of corresponding sensor nodes . In an exemplary embodiment, “Nth sensor node” may refer to an exemplary sensor node which may detect an exemplary disturbance event first. In an exemplary embodiment, “(N- l)th sensor node” and “(N+l)th sensor node” may refer to any sensor nodes determined by an exemplary user. In an exemplaryembodiment, “(N-l)th sensor node” and “(N+l)tb sensor node” may refer to any sensor nodes disposed within corresponding sensor network. In an exemplary embodiment, “(N-l)th sensor node” and “(N+l)th sensor node” may refer to preceding and succeeding sensor nodes whose sensing ranges overlap with “Nth sensor node”, and are successively disposed at a distance of “Nth sensor node” such that “Nth sensor node” may be disposed between “(N-l)th sensor node” and “(N+l)th sensor node” along an exemplary perimeter.

[0060] In further detail with respect to step 502, step 502 may include receiving exemplary Nth sensor node data continually or at an exemplary predefined frequency from an exemplary environment that surrounds an exemplary Nth sensor node. In an exemplary embodiment, when an exemplary disturbance event occurs within an exemplary sensing range of an exemplary Nth sensor node, an exemplary disturbance event may trigger an exemplary signal change in an exemplary Nth sensor node data. In an exemplary embodiment, Nth sensor node data may be received at Nth sensor node. In an exemplary embodiment, Nth sensor node data may be received or transmitted to corresponding gateway module.

[0061] In an exemplary embodiment, step 504 may include verifying whether an exemplary Nth sensor node data meet or exceed exemplary predefined input thresholds associated with an exemplary disturbance event. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary Nth sensor node may be configured to compare exemplary Nth sensor node data to exemplary predefined input thresholds. In an exemplary embodiment, corresponding gateway module may be configured to compare exemplary Nth sensor node data to exemplary predefined input thresholds. In an exemplary embodiment, if exemplary Nth sensor node data don’t meet or exceed exemplary predefined input thresholds at step 504, an exemplary disturbance event may be interpreted as an exemplary non-threat activity (e.g., wind blowing, debris hitting, etc.) so threat activity detecting process 500 may proceed at step 502. In an exemplary embodiment, ifexemplary Nth sensor node data meet or exceed exemplary predefined input thresholds, an exemplary disturbance event may be interpreted as an exemplary threat activity (e.g., unauthorized intrusion, etc.). In an exemplary embodiment, step 504 may further include transmitting an exemplary existence indication of an exemplary threat activity to an exemplary gateway module via an exemplary wireless network or exemplary communication cables or a combination thereof.

[0062] In an exemplary embodiment, in order to reduce power consumption of an exemplary perimeter surveillance system, any communication between exemplary sensor nodes and an exemplary gateway module in corresponding sensor network may be restricted by powering off an exemplary wireless network or preventing exemplary data transfer through exemplary communication cables until an exemplary sensor node (e.g., Nth sensor node) detects an exemplary threat activity. In an exemplary embodiment, when an exemplary sensor node (e.g., Nth sensor node) detects an exemplary threat activity, an exemplary wireless network may be turned on and / or communication cables may start to transfer exemplary data without restriction.

[0063] In an exemplary embodiment, corresponding gateway module may receive extra data from various sensor nodes within corresponding sensor network to confirm if an exemplary disturbance event is an exemplary threat activity. In an exemplary embodiment, in order to reduce exemplary false detections (i.e., incorrectly detecting an exemplary non-threat activity as an exemplary threat activity so activating an exemplary warning action) step 506 may include transmitting exemplary (N-l)th and (N+l)th sensor node data received within an exemplary predefined time period (e.g., predefined time period between tl and t2, shown in FIG. 4) in response to an exemplary existence indication of an exemplary threat activity or Nth sensor node data to an exemplary gateway module.

[0064] In an exemplary embodiment, with further reference to FIG.5, in order to increase an exemplary certainty factor of interpretation of exemplary Nth, (N-l)th, and (N+l)th sensor node data (i.e. decreasing false detections and increasing an exemplary certainty factor of correctly detecting an exemplary disturbance event), step 508 may include performing an exemplary data fusion process at an exemplary gateway module. In an exemplary embodiment, various data fusion methods and theories such as Probability Theory, Theory of Belief Functions, Fuzzy Logic Theory, Theory of Plausible & Paradoxical Reasoning, etc., or a combination thereof may be applied during an exemplary data fusion process.

[0065] In an exemplary embodiment, step 510 may include verifying whether an exemplary output of an exemplary data fusion process indicates that an exemplary disturbance event is an exemplary threat activity. In an exemplary embodiment, if an exemplary output of an exemplary data fusion process doesn’t match exemplary threat activity thresholds, threat activity detecting process 500 may proceed at step 502. In an exemplary embodiment, if an exemplary output of an exemplary data fusion process matches exemplary threat activity thresholds, gateway module may communicate an exemplary order to power on an exemplary detecting unit (step 512) to confirm that an exemplary threat activity has occurred or may be occurring so that exemplary false detections may be reduced. In an exemplary embodiment, step 510 may further include estimating an exemplary location of an exemplary threat activity based on Nth, (N-l)th, and (N+l)th sensor nodes data received at an exemplary gateway module.

[0066] In an exemplary embodiment, if at least two of exemplary Nth, (N-l)th, and (N+l)th sensor nodes indicate an exemplary disturbance event, corresponding gateway module may decide that an exemplary disturbance event is a non-threat activity (e.g., wind blowing, debris hitting, etc.). In an exemplary embodiment, if any one of exemplary Nth, (N-l)th, and (N+l)th sensor nodes indicates an exemplary disturbance event, corresponding gateway modulemay decide to power on an exemplary detecting unit to monitor and / or observe an exemplary location based on exemplary sensor nodes data to check whether an exemplary threat activity has occurred or may be occurring.

[0067] In an exemplary embodiment, step 512 may include powering on an exemplary detecting unit, such as an exemplary camera, to monitor and / or observe exemplary Nth, (N-l)th, and (N+l)th sensor nodes and / or an exemplary estimated location of an exemplary threat activity (based on Nth, (N-l)th, and (N+l)th sensor nodes data received at an exemplary gateway module) to confirm that an exemplary activity has occurred or may be occurring. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary detecting unit may be capable of receiving exemplary data (e.g., capturing exemplary pictures or recording exemplary videos of an exemplary estimated location corresponding to an exemplary threat activity) and transmitting exemplary data to an exemplary gateway module to be processed.

[0068] In an exemplary embodiment, step 514 may include transmitting exemplary data from an exemplary detecting unit to an exemplary gateway module to process exemplary data and confirm if an exemplary threat activity occurred or may be occurring. In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary data received from an exemplary detecting unit, such as an exemplary camera, may be processed based on various image processing methods. In an exemplary embodiment, step 516 may include verifying whether exemplary data received from an exemplary detecting unit matches exemplary threat activity thresholds or exemplary threat activity data sets. In an exemplary embodiment, if exemplary data received from an exemplary detecting unit don’t match exemplary threat activity thresholds or exemplary threat activity data sets, threat activity detecting process 500 may proceed at step 502.

[0069] In an exemplary embodiment, when an exemplary camera (performs as detecting unit) captures images and / or records videos from an exemplary estimated location(corresponding to an exemplary threat activity), various processes may be performed on exemplary data (e.g., images, videos, etc.) received from an exemplary camera. In an exemplary embodiment, if exemplary data received from an exemplary camera don’t match exemplary threat activity data sets (i.e., various images or videos associated with living beings (humans, animals, etc.,), objects, etc., that are defined as a threat (their intrusion to an exemplary protected area are prohibited)), said exemplary data may be saved and classified as non-threat activities. In an exemplary embodiment, if exemplary data received from an exemplary camera match exemplary threat activity data sets, said exemplary data may be saved and classified to update exemplary threat activity data sets.

[0070] In an exemplary embodiment, if exemplary data received from an exemplary detecting unit matches exemplary threat activity thresholds, an exemplary gateway module may activate an exemplary warning action at step 518. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary warning action may comprise at least one selected from the group of triggering an exemplary audible alarm, switching on an exemplary lighting module, communicating to authorities, sending massages to clients. In an exemplary embodiment, threat activity detecting process 500 may be continually performed.

[0071] While the foregoing has described what are considered to be the best mode and / or other examples, it is understood that various modifications may be made therein and that the subject matter disclosed herein may be implemented in various forms and examples, and that the teachings may be applied in numerous applications, only some of which have been described herein. It is intended by the following claims to claim any and all applications, modifications and variations that fall within the true scope of the present teachings.

[0072] Unless otherwise stated, all measurements, values, ratings, positions, magnitudes, sizes, and other specifications that are set forth in this specification, including in the claims thatfollow, are approximate, not exact. They are intended to have a reasonable range that is consistent with the functions to which they relate and with what is customary in the art to which they pertain.

[0073] The scope of protection is limited solely by the claims that now follow. That scope is intended and should be interpreted to be as broad as is consistent with the ordinary meaning of the language that is used in the claims when interpreted in light of this specification and the prosecution history that follows and to encompass all structural and functional equivalents. Notwithstanding, none of the claims are intended to embrace subject matter that fails to satisfy the requirement of Sections 101, 102, or 103 of the Patent Act, nor should they be interpreted in such a way. Any unintended embracement of such subject matter is hereby disclaimed.

[0074] Except as stated immediately above, nothing that has been stated or illustrated is intended or should be interpreted to cause a dedication of any component, step, feature, object, benefit, advantage, or equivalent to the public, regardless of whether it is or is not recited in the claims.

[0075] It will be understood that the terms and expressions used herein have the ordinary meaning as is accorded to such terms and expressions with respect to their corresponding respective areas of inquiry and study except where specific meanings have otherwise been set forth herein. Relational terms such as first and second and the like may be used solely to distinguish one entity or action from another without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions. An element proceeded by “a” or “an” does not, without further constraints, preclude the existence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises the element.

[0076] The Abstract of the Disclosure is provided to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not beused to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in the foregoing Detailed Description, it may be seen that various features are grouped together in various implementations. This is for purposes of streamlining the disclosure, and is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed implementations require more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive subject matter lies in less than all features of a single disclosed implementation. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separately claimed subject matter.

[0077] While various implementations have been described, the description is intended to be exemplary, rather than limiting and it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that many more implementations and implementations are possible that are within the scope of the implementations. Although many possible combinations of features are shown in the accompanying figures and discussed in this detailed description, many other combinations of the disclosed features are possible. Any feature of any implementation may be used in combination with or substituted for any other feature or element in any other implementation unless specifically restricted. Therefore, it will be understood that any of the features shown and / or discussed in the present disclosure may be implemented together in any suitable combination. Accordingly, the implementations are not to be restricted except in light of the attached claims and their equivalents. Also, various modifications and changes may be made within the scope of the attached claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A perimeter surveillance system, comprising: a plurality of sensor networks distributed along a perimeter of an area, wherein each of the plurality of sensor networks comprise: a plurality of sensor nodes comprising: a first sensor node capable of detecting a disturbance event when the disturbance event locally occurs within a sensing range of the first sensor node; a second sensor node communicatively coupled to the first sensor node and disposed at a distance of the first sensor node such that the sensing range of the first sensor node overlaps a sensing range of the second sensor node, the second sensor node capable of detecting the disturbance event when the disturbance event locally occurs within the sensing range of the second sensor node; and a third sensor node communicatively coupled to the first sensor node and disposed at a distance of the first sensor node such that the sensing range of the first sensor node overlaps a sensing range of the third sensor node, the third sensor node capable of detecting the disturbance event when the disturbance event locally occurs within the sensing range of the third sensor node; and a gateway module communicatively coupled to the plurality of sensor nodes and disposed at a predetermined distance of the plurality of sensor nodes, the gateway module comprising a detecting unit capable of monitoring the plurality of sensor nodes, the gateway module is configured to : receive a plurality of first inputs from the first sensor node in response to an occurrence of the disturbance event; compare the plurality of first inputs to a plurality of predefined input thresholds associated with the disturbance event;receive a plurality of second inputs from the second sensor node, and a plurality of third inputs from the third sensor node in response to a comparison of the plurality of first inputs to a plurality of predefined input thresholds associated with the disturbance event; perform a data fusion process on the plurality of first, second, and third inputs; and communicate an order to the detecting unit in response to an output of the data fusion process.

2. The perimeter surveillance system of claim 1, wherein the first sensor node is communicatively coupled to the second sensor node and the third sensor node via at least one selected from the group of a wireless network and a plurality of communication cables.

3. The perimeter surveillance system of claim 1, wherein the gateway module is communicatively coupled to the plurality of sensor nodes via at least one selected from the group of a wireless network and a plurality of communication cables.

4. The perimeter surveillance system of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of sensor nodes comprises a plurality of passive sensors.

5. The perimeter surveillance system of claim 4, wherein the plurality of passive sensors comprises at least one selected from the group of an acoustic sensor, a vibration sensor, a seismic sensor, a fire detector, and a weather sensor.

6. The perimeter surveillance system of claim 1, wherein the detecting unit comprises at least one selected from the group of an image sensor, and a camera.

7. The perimeter surveillance system of claim 1, wherein the detecting unit comprises at least one selected from the group of a sonar sensor, and a radar.

8. The perimeter surveillance system of claim 1, wherein the gateway module is further configured to determine if the disturbance event indicates a threat activity in response to the output of the data fusion process meeting or exceeding at least one of a plurality of threat activity thresholds.

9. The perimeter surveillance system of claim 1, wherein the gateway module further comprises a data storage unit configured to store the plurality of predefined input thresholds associated with the disturbance event and the plurality of threat activity thresholds associated with the threat activity.

10. The perimeter surveillance system of claim 1, wherein the gateway module is further configured to activate a warning action in response to an output of the detecting unit meeting or exceeding at least one of the plurality of threat activity thresholds.

11. The perimeter surveillance system of claim 10, wherein the warning action comprises at least one selected from the group of triggering an audible alarm, switching on a lighting module, communicating to authorities, and sending massages to clients.

12. The perimeter surveillance system of claim 1 further comprising a graphical user interface illustrating locations of the plurality of sensor nodes and the gateway module.

13. The perimeter surveillance system of claim 12, wherein the graphical user interface is capable of illustrating a location of the threat activity with a distinctive graphical element.

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