Fall protection tether monitoring system

Abstract

A fall protection tether monitoring system features a network-connected camera attached to a worker's harness, capturing video or static images to monitor a back D-ring and safety rope. Images and data are transmitted to a remote server via wireless networks. Image processing for object detection on the server verify proper safety rope attachment. A mobile app tracks safety metrics, compliance history, and provides safety content. Remote monitoring is enabled through a user interface on smart devices and workstations, allowing real-time and historical data review. The system includes fall detection via an accelerometer, temperature sensors, GNSS tracking, and alerts for improper rope connections, enhancing worker safety and compliance while reducing the need for in-person checks and potential OSHA fines.

Description

FALL PROTECTION TETHER MONITORING SYSTEMRELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority benefit to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 668,594 filed July 8, 2024, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 728,597 filed December 5, 2024, both of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] This disclosure relates generally to fall protection systems and more particularly to camera monitoring for fall protection.BACKGROUND INFORMATION

[0003] Traditional fall detection systems utilize sensors to detect falls and alert safety personnel, and job site cameras mounted in fixed positions to monitor construction projects. These previous systems are not ideal for fall prevention, particularly at temporary job sites where the work only lasts for a single day or in situations where workers are working solo or on pitched roofing where fixed position cameras cannot see the entire work area.SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0004] A network-connected camera for fall protection monitoring includes a housing attachable to shoulder strap webbing of a full body fall protection harness. The camera captures image data with a downward- and back-facing field of view to monitor a back D- ring and safety rope attachment. It transmits the data to a remote server via a wireless communications device. The camera may include an accelerometer to detect falls, a temperature sensor, a GNSS receiver, air quality sensor, and a rechargeable battery. It can capture audio data and transmit it along with image data, and it may capture images at predetermined intervals set by a remote monitoring system. The disclosed network- connected camera is coupled to the worker’s body, providing a more accurate and immediate view of the safety conditions.

[0005] A fall protection tether monitoring system comprises the network-connected camera, a remote server to receive the image data, a wireless communication device, and a remote monitoring interface for real-time and historical data monitoring by safety professionals. The system may include a mobile application for displaying safety metrics and compliance history, artificial intelligence (Al) and machine learning (ML) algorithms for data processing, and alert systems for improper safety rope attachment or fall events.

[0006] Al refers to computational methods and systems that mimic human decisionmaking and reasoning to perform tasks such as recognition, classification, or prediction. In the context of the fall protection tether monitoring system, Al is used to interpret image data, sensor inputs, and environmental conditions in order to detect safety compliance or potential hazards without direct human oversight.

[0007] ML is a subset of Al that involves training computer models to learn patterns from data and make predictions or decisions based on new inputs. In this application, machine learning algorithms are trained on datasets of images and sensor data to recognize whether a safety rope is properly attached to a back D-ring, to identify the presence of safety equipment (e.g., lanyards, hooks), or to assess worker posture and motion indicative of a fall. The system may also learn from historical data to improve detection accuracy over time and predict conditions that precede fall events.

[0008] Together, Al and ML enable the system to perform real-time analysis of captured images and sensor signals, generate alerts for non-compliance or unsafe events, and provide predictive insights that improve workplace safety and reduce reliance on manual safety checks.

[0009] A method for remote monitoring of fall protection involves capturing video or images using the network-connected camera, transmitting the data to a remote server, and providing a remote monitoring interface for safety professionals. The method includes processing data with Al, machine vision, and machine learning, displaying safety metrics via a mobile application, setting image capture intervals, detecting falls with an accelerometer, storing data locally if needed, and analyzing data to identify safety trends and predict accidents, enhancing overall worker safety and compliance with regulations.

[0010] An advantage of the disclosed embodiments is saving lives by ensuring that fall protection users are accountable at all times. This enhanced accountability fosters safer work practices, which can significantly reduce the incidence of injuries on job sites. By lowering the risk of falls and related accidents, the disclosed embodiments can help businesses reduce workers’ compensation costs and decrease injury rates on both large and small construction sites. Additionally, it enables workers to operate alone or in remote areas while still being able to alert safety professionals if a fall occurs, maintaining accountability even when direct supervision is not possible. Finally, this system minimizes the need for in- person safety checks, thereby reducing the likelihood of OSHA fines.

[0011] Additional aspects and advantages will be apparent from the following detailed description of embodiments, which proceeds with reference to the accompanying drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] To easily identify the discussion of any particular element or act, the most significant digit or digits in a reference number refer to the figure number in which that element is first introduced.

[0013] FIG. l is a block diagram of a fall protection tether monitoring system in accordance with one embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a worker wearing a fall protection harness having an attached network-connected camera for the fall protection tether monitoring system of FIG.1 in accordance with one embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 3 is a picture obtained from the network-connected camera in accordance with one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 4 is a front isometric view of the network-connected camera in accordance with one embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 5 is a rear isometric view of the network-connected camera in accordance with one embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 6 is a bottom isometric view showing the network-connected camera woven or clipped onto shoulder strap webbing in accordance with one embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the network-connected camera in accordance with one embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 8 is an isometric view of another network-connected camera in accordance with one embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 9 is an isometric view of the network-connected camera of FIG. 8 with its housing shown as transparent.

[0022] FIG. 10 is an isometric view of a quick-release mount shown in FIG. 8.

[0023] FIG. 11 is a partly exploded isometric view showing another version of a quickrelease mount.

[0024] FIG. 12 is an isometric view of a network-connected camera assembly in accordance with one embodiment.

[0025] FIG. 13 is an exploded view of the network-connected camera assembly of FIG. 12 showing internal electronic components and structural elements in accordance with one embodiment.

[0026] FIG. 14 is a block diagram of a software architecture in accordance with one embodiment.

[0027] FIG. 15 is a screenshot of a remote monitoring user interface in accordance with one embodiment.

[0028] FIG. 16 is a flowchart of a process for remote monitoring of fall protection in accordance with one embodiment.

[0029] FIG. 17 is a block diagram showing components of a fall protection tether monitoring system in accordance with one embodiment.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0030] FIG. 1 shows an overview of a fall protection tether monitoring system 100 designed to ensure the safety of workers, like worker 102 shown on a roof 104, who are required to wear fall protection harnesses. Fall protection tether monitoring system 100 utilizes a battery-powered network-connected camera 106 attached to a harness strap or webbing (see, e.g., FIG. 2) on the back of worker 102 with a downward- and back-facing field of view 108 positioned to monitor compliance with OSHA standards when working over six feet off the ground. For instance, downward- and back-facing field of view 108 ensures all relevant areas are monitored (see, e.g., FIG. 3), and a safety rope 110 is clearly visible.

[0031] Network-connected camera 106 captures video or static images (with optional audio) that are transmitted to a remote server 112 via an integrated wireless communications device. In some embodiments, the data is transmitted through a wireless personal area network (WPAN) connection 114 (e.g., Bluetooth) to user equipment 116, such as a smartphone having a mobile app 118. Mobile app 118 is used by worker 102 to track their safety metrics, compliance history, and safety scores. It also provides access to a video library of safety content and compares safety records across a company and nationally, creating a competitive SafetyScore. This comprehensive system enhances worker safety and compliance with OSHA standards by integrating advanced monitoring and analytical capabilities.

[0032] In other embodiments, data from network-connected camera 106 is sent via a cellular wireless wide area network (WWAN) connection 120 facilitated by a cellular access system 122. Alternatively, data is uploaded through a wireless local area network (WLAN) connection 124 via a Wi-Fi router 126 and associated networking equipment including terrestrial or non-terrestrial networking equipment.

[0033] The data is uploaded to remote server 112 over an internet connection 128. If no network connection is available, network-connected camera 106 or mobile app 118 stores the data locally and uploads it when a connection is re-established.

[0034] In some embodiments, remote server 112 processes the data using image processing techniques such as Al and machine learning to ensure safety rope 110 connectors are properly attached. Automatic detection of items visible in downward- and back-facing field of view 108 are optionally identified by optical codes or color markings to improve Al detection, in some embodiments. Remote server 112, in other embodiments, may also perform machine vision and recognition techniques (e.g., pattern detection) to detect whether safety rope 110 is attached.

[0035] If safety rope 110 is not connected properly, remote server 112 triggers network- connected camera 106 to emit an audible alert. Other options to alert worker 102 include triggering a push notification on mobile app 118.

[0036] Fall protection tether monitoring system 100 allows for remote monitoring by safety professionals using smart devices 130, like tablets and phones, or using workstation remote monitoring 132. These devices can access real-time data and historical records through internet connections 134, providing a comprehensive view of worker safety status. A SaaS application presents a user interface 136 that enables an employer or monitor person 138 to set parameters for photo capture intervals and monitor the status of all connected devices. Additional details of user interface 136 and monitoring reports are described later with reference to FIG. 15.

[0037] Remote server 112 may also implement a cloud platform to integrate other public data sets. For instance, temperature information may be aggregated from public weather website APIs. Similarly, forecasting of rain or other inclement weather (tornados, excessive heat, etc.) may be provided to employer or monitor person 138. Location and height detection data is aggregated from public map APIs and topographic features (including buildings).

[0038] In some embodiments, network-connected camera 106 includes GNSS for location tracking. GNSS is a generic term for a group of satellites that send timing and position data from orbit, and GPS is one example of a system that can provide this location data. Accurate GNSS location may be used to determine whether worker 102 is on roof 104, based on Google maps and topography maps (including buildings). When worker 102 is detected on roof 104, network-connected camera 106 is triggered to turn on, since fall protection tether monitoring system 100 detects that it is off the ground or over six feet high.

[0039] Some other embodiments include an accelerometer to detect falls or activate network-connected camera 106. For instance, network-connected camera 106 is able to turn on during motion or when the system detects that it is off the ground or over six feet high.Thus, with an optional accelerometer, network-connected camera 106 enters sleep mode to conserve battery and wakes up based on motion (or at predetermined intervals).

[0040] In yet other embodiments, network-connected camera 106 includes a temperature sensor to monitor ambient heat. The temperature data is also tracked (e.g., at remote server 112) to ensure compliance with heat-related regulations.

[0041] FIG. 2 shows in greater detail a rooftop worksite 200 in which worker 102 is wearing a full body harness 202. Full body harness 202 includes a back D-ring 204 and shoulder strap webbing 206. Woven onto shoulder strap webbing 206 are distal end slots 208 of a housing 210 for network-connected camera 106.

[0042] The position of housing 210 is adjustable along a length of shoulder strap webbing 206 for comfort and to avoid inadvertent impact from back D-ring 204 or a scaffold hook 212 of a shock-absorbing lanyard 214. Furthermore, housing 210 is impact and temperature resistant and waterproof in all operating construction temperatures ranging from 0° F to 140° F. In some embodiments, housing 210 includes lens-protecting protrusions, examples of which are shown and described later with reference to FIG. 4.

[0043] As shown in FIG. 2, downward- and back-facing field of view 108 is positioned so that network-connected camera 106 captures images of back D-ring 204 with attached scaffold hook 212 of shock-absorbing lanyard 214. In some embodiments, image data may also show safety rope 110, carabiner 216, rope grab 218, scaffold hook 220, or roof anchor 222.

[0044] FIG. 3 shows an example image from network-connected camera 106. In this example, rooftop worksite 300 in downward- and back-facing field of view 108 includes another worker 302 and the items discussed previously, such as safety rope 110, rope grab 218, shock-absorbing lanyard 214, scaffold hook 212 hooked to a back D-ring (not shown), shoulder strap webbing 206, and one of distal end slots 208.

[0045] FIG. 4 shows in greater detail a front side of housing 210 for network-connected camera 106. Housing 210 and distal end slots 208 are roughly the same width as that of shoulder strap webbing 206 (FIG. 2). An edge of a strap is placed into openings 402 of each distal end slot 208 to clip or weave the front and back of housing 210 onto shoulder strap webbing 206.

[0046] Housing 210 also features a camera lens aperture 404 located in a protective recess 406 between lateral protrusions 408. Lateral protrusions 408 and protective recess 406 protect camera lens aperture 404 from inadvertent impacts from back D-ring 204, e.g., when it or scaffold hook 212 flip up during a fall. Lateral protrusions 408 also have inner surfaces410 that angle away from camera lens aperture 404 so as to avoid occluding downward- and back-facing field of view 108.

[0047] FIG. 4 also shows that housing 210 includes a charging port 412 for charging an internal battery. In some embodiments, the battery is designed to last multiple working days, ensuring continuous monitoring.

[0048] FIG. 5 shows a rear side of housing 210. In this example, a data port 502 is accessible on the rear side. Data port 502 may include a USB-C connector or other types of ports.

[0049] FIG. 6 shows network-connected camera 106 attached to shoulder strap webbing 206. Shoulder strap webbing 206 has a portion that extends between distal end slots 208 and confronts a bottom surface of housing 210.

[0050] FIG. 7 shows an exploded view of network-connected camera 106. In this example, housing 210 includes a cover 702 and a base 704, which are joined using fasteners 706. Inside housing 210 are a SIM module 708 for cellular network communications (or other wireless communications device), an image capture device 710 (e.g., a digital camera and optics), and a circuit board 712 for associated circuitry and processor.

[0051] FIG. 8 shows a network-connected camera 800, according to another embodiment. In this example, network-connected camera 800 is designed for plastic injection molding.

[0052] Network-connected camera 800 is attached to shoulder strap webbing 206, which is sandwiched between an upper strap clamp 802 and a lower strap clamp 804. Upper strap clamp 802, lower strap clamp 804, and a mounting plate 806 collectively provide for a quick-release mount 808 that clamps onto straps and webbing approximately 2.5 inches wide (but may be bigger or smaller).

[0053] As described later with reference to FIG. 9-FIG. 11, upper strap clamp 802 includes a V-mount slot to receive mounting plate 806 that is fastened to housing 810. Housing 810 is compact to reduce snagging and contains a camera lens 812 that is flush with a font face 814, and a charge port cover 816 for covering a USB connectors and power switch, in some embodiments. Continuous power is also provided by a solar cell 818 mounted on an exposed surface of housing 810.

[0054] FIG. 9 shows additional contents within housing 810. For instance, network- connected camera 800 includes a rechargeable battery 902 with a two-week battery life and a SIM module 904, as well as other components that are similar to those described previously. For instance, network-connected camera 800 may include a shake-to-wakesensor so that the electronics remain in deep sleep when not in motion. Other sensors may include GPS, temperature, accelerometer, or other sensors.

[0055] FIG. 9 also shows that quick-release mount 808 includes a release tab 906. Release tab 906 is recessed in protective bosses 908 so as to prevent inadvertent release.

[0056] FIG. 10 shows in greater detail quick-release mount 808 with mounting plate 806 removed. In this example, quick-release mount 808 includes a mounting alignment wedge 1002 that slides into a wedge-shaped guide 1004, i.e., a V-mount machined from aluminum. As mounting alignment wedge 1002 slides into wedge-shaped guide 1004, its latch catch 1006 latches against an upward depending latch 1008. Latch 1008 is then releasable by depressing release tab 906 such that mounting alignment wedge 1002 can with withdrawn from wedge-shaped guide 1004.

[0057] FIG. 11 shows another version of quick-release mount 808 in which mounting alignment wedge 1002 is integrally formed with mounting plate 806.

[0058] FIG. 12 shows another example of a network-connected camera 1200 in accordance with one embodiment. Network-connected camera 1200 includes an external cap housing 1202 coupled to a base 1204, forming the primary protective housing for the internal components.

[0059] The lower portion of the assembly features a mount adapter male 1206 mated with a mount adapter female 1208, which together form a quick-release mount system 1210. This quick-release system provides both secure attachment and convenient field-serviceability, ideal for mounting the camera on harnesses, helmets, or fixed structures.

[0060] Beneath the mount adapters, a clamp plate 1212 provides structural support and secure attachment to wearable gear. Clamp plate 1212 forms the lower support surface of the mounting stack-up and interfaces with internal fasteners to secure the housing assembly to the adapter system.

[0061] A press-fit light pipe 1214 is embedded within cap housing 1202 to transmit light from internal indicator LEDs to the exterior surface for quick reference to operational states such as power, GPS lock, or connectivity. This allows for external visibility of status indicators (e.g., power, connectivity, or recording status) without compromising the device’s environmental seal.

[0062] A USB-C connector 1216 is exposed along one side of the housing for charging or data transfer, and is recessed to minimize accidental damage. A wide-angle, 200-degree lens 1218 is positioned within a protective recess 1220 that shields lens 1218 from direct impacts, while maintaining a clear field of view.

[0063] Lateral protrusions 1222 flank the protective recess 1220, further reinforcing impact resistance and deflecting stray objects that may strike the lens area. An upper protrusion 1224 extends over the top of the lens assembly to shield it from debris or rainfall and helps preserve the camera’s visibility in adverse weather.

[0064] As described previously, the geometry of lateral protrusions 1222 and upper protrusion 1224 includes inner surfaces that angle away from the camera lens aperture, thereby avoiding occlusion of the downward- and back-facing field of view. This design ensures that the lens maintains an unobstructed view of critical safety areas such as the back D-ring and safety rope attachment points when mounted to a worker’s harness.

[0065] FIG. 13 is an exploded view of network-connected camera 1200, showing internal structural and electronic components in accordance with one embodiment. External cap housing 1202 and base 1204 enclose and protect internal electronics 1302, which include components for imaging, sensing, power management, and wireless communication.

[0066] Internal electronics 1302 are built around a multi-layer printed circuit board (PCB) that integrates a central processing unit, wireless communication modules, and peripheral interface circuitry. A battery pack 1304, such as a rechargeable lithium-ion 18650 2-cell pack, provides multi-day operational power and is securely mounted within the enclosure for shock resistance.

[0067] A GNSS antenna 1306 is positioned near the top of the housing to enable reliable satellite reception for geolocation tracking. The antenna is coupled to a GNSS receiver on the PCB, which collects timing and location data for transmission to a remote monitoring server.

[0068] A PCB-mounted camera module 1308 includes a digital image sensor (e.g., CMOS) and associated optics configured to capture a 200-degree wide-angle field of view. The image sensor may also include onboard processing for encoding video or still frames, and can optionally capture audio via a MEMS microphone (not shown).

[0069] Mount adapter male 1206 and mount adapter female 1208 are shown disassembled to illustrate their interfacing geometry. Together, they form a secure, quick-release mount system 1210 designed for easy engagement and reliable retention in rugged environments. Mount adapter male 1206 slides into mount adapter female 1208 along a pair of complementary angled surfaces, which may be configured as dovetail profiles to enhance alignment and shear resistance. These surfaces guide the components into a locked position and prevent unintended lateral movement. The angled geometry increases surface contact area, improving mechanical stability and resistance to vibration or shifting during use.

[0070] On the underside of mount adapter male 1206 is a release tab 1310, a flexible, cantilevered extension that allows for manual, tool-free disengagement of the mount. When the adapter is inserted along the dovetail track, a latch bump 1312 on the lower surface of release tab 1310 engages a latch catch 1314 formed within the internal structure of mount adapter female 1208. This engagement creates a secure mechanical interlock that resists accidental release due to vibration or impact. Pressing downward on release tab 1310 deflects latch catch 1314 from latch bump 1312, allowing mount adapter male 1206 to slide free from the mount interface.

[0071] Finally, a retainer 1316 provides a mechanical hold on the internal subassemblies, including the battery and PCB, ensuring vibration resistance and positional alignment during field use.

[0072] FIG. 14 illustrates an example software architecture 1400 for fall protection tether monitoring system 100. As indicated previously, network-connected camera 106 is responsible for capturing images at predefined intervals and transmitting them to an FTP server 1402 via FTP 1404. In addition to image capture, network-connected camera 106 is capable of providing environmental data, including GPS coordinates, temperature readings, and IMU and motion-based fall detection data, which are transmitted along with the images to remote server 112.

[0073] Remote server 112 processes all incoming data and ensures that images and sensor readings are properly validated before further analysis. FTP server 1402 serves as the initial data repository, facilitating secure storage and access for further processing. From FTP server 1402, data is transmitted through a messaging system 1406 to an image rectifier 1408.

[0074] In some embodiments, image rectifier 1408 rotates or reorients images to a consistent aspect ratio (e.g., portrait mode) so they match the input expectations of a machine learning model 1410. Image rectifier 1408 may perform resizing, cropping, or normalization to standardize image dimensions and color ranges. It can run integrity checks to detect corrupted or incomplete image files. Image rectifier 1408 also optionally performs basic enhancements (e.g., contrast adjustment, denoising) to improve model detection accuracy. These steps ensure that every image passed to machine learning model 1410, via a messaging system 1412, is in a valid, consistent, and analyzable format, thus improving the accuracy and reliability of rope detection or other safety assessments.

[0075] ML model processing 1410 uses a custom-trained machine learning model. In some embodiments, this model analyzes images to determine whether a safety rope isproperly secured. The model is trained using a fine-tuned ResNet-50 neural network, leveraging hand-annotated training datasets collected from real-world job sites. The system continuously improves through the collection of new images, enhancing detection accuracy over time.

[0076] After processing, analysis results are transmitted via a messaging system 1414 to a data storage and aggregation 1416, which is a cloud-based loT management system. Data storage and aggregation 1416 is responsible for aggregating and storing all incoming safety data, including image analysis results, compliance metrics, and worker activity logs. The processed data is stored in a PostgreSQL database (not shown), enabling historical tracking, compliance verification, and predictive safety analytics.

[0077] To facilitate real-time monitoring and user interaction, data storage and aggregation 1416 exposes a RESTful HTTP API 1418, which allows external applications to access and display safety data. A React-based website 1420 serves as a primary interface for safety professionals, providing a graphical dashboard that displays the status of all monitored devices, recent safety alarms, and historical compliance data. Through this web interface, users can view live safety metrics, receive real-time alerts, and remotely verify ladder security and worker compliance.

[0078] The system is designed to generate automatic alarms whenever a missing safety rope, incorrect ladder positioning, or hazardous worker behavior is detected. These alarms are logged within data storage and aggregation 1416 and made accessible through React- based website 1420 for immediate review by safety personnel. Additionally, the system supports user management functionalities, allowing administrators to create new users, validate login credentials, and assign monitoring roles.

[0079] By leveraging cloud-based Al processing, loT connectivity, and machine vision techniques, the monitoring system provides an automated, data-driven approach to workplace safety enforcement. The combination of real-time image capture, ML-based safety verification, and remote monitoring capabilities ensures that all ladder and fall protection setups are compliant with OSHA regulations, reducing the risk of accidents and enhancing worker safety.

[0080] FIG. 15 shows an example of user interface 136. Initially, under a setup menu 1502, fall protection tether monitoring system 100 is set up based on the company’s desired parameters of how often photos are taken. Setup menu 1502 may be used for adding or removing users and devices, moving people / devices between teams, and changing what information is displayed on the dashboard.

[0081] Under an all crew monitoring window 1504, all the connected devices are tracked in an application that the company uses for safety monitoring. This allows the company or a safety professional to see the status and location on a map.

[0082] An individual crew monitoring window 1506 shows workers on a particular crew and whether they are active, elevated (e.g., atop a roof), and properly wearing full body harness 202 that is attached to shock-absorbing lanyard 214 and safety rope 110. It also shows an aerial view of the job site.

[0083] An individual worker monitoring window 1508 shows additional details for an employee. This window includes a complete log of safety entries and compliance history.

[0084] An all alarms monitoring window 1510 shows a list of any safety issues throughout the company. Here, real-time reports are collected concerning whether ropes are currently connected safely in real-time or in intervals. Battery health is indicated, and other details are available. The application stores data from users that can be analyzed to determine safety trends across the industry and predict the probability of possible accidents. The application rates and compares the safety records of the users to everyone in their company and national users, thus creating a SafetyScore. The application allows workers to compete and earn prizes, including money and travel vouchers for safety.

[0085] FIG. 16 shows a process 1600 for remote monitoring of fall protection. In block 1602, process 1600 captures video or static images of a fall protection setup using a network-connected camera, the network-connected camera being attached to a harness worn by a worker, the network-connected camera having a field of view oriented to capture images of a back D-ring and attached safety rope. In block 1604, process 1600 transmits the captured images and data from the network-connected camera to a remote server via a wireless communication network. In block 1606, process 1600 provides a remote monitoring interface for safety professionals to remotely monitor real-time data and historical records via the remote monitoring interface.

[0086] In some embodiments, process 1600 optionally includes processing the transmitted data using Al and ML to verify proper attachment of the safety rope and connectors. For example, image data received at the remote server may be analyzed using a trained model to detect the presence or absence of a scaffold hook or verify if the back D-ring is properly tethered.

[0087] In some implementations, the method further includes displaying safety metrics, compliance history, and safety scores on a mobile application operating on user equipment.The mobile application may present personalized data for the worker or aggregated metrics for a team.

[0088] In certain embodiments, the method also includes setting parameters for image capture intervals. For instance, a safety professional using the monitoring interface may configure how often the network-connected camera captures images or video based on environmental conditions or work shift schedules.

[0089] The method may also include detecting fall events using an onboard accelerometer in the network-connected camera and triggering image capture and alerts upon detection of rapid motion or free fall. This reactive capability helps ensure that fall events are captured and communicated in real-time.

[0090] In scenarios where network connectivity is unavailable, the method can further include storing the captured data locally, either on the camera or a paired mobile application, and uploading the data to the remote server once connectivity is restored.

[0091] Finally, the method may include analyzing the stored or transmitted data to identify safety trends and predict potential accidents. This analysis may involve pattern recognition over historical image data, sensor readings, and compliance scores to proactively improve safety outcomes.

[0092] FIG. 17 is a block diagram illustrating components 1700 of a computing architecture used in a fall protection tether monitoring system 100, according to some example embodiments. Components 1700 include both wearable device circuitry 1702 and a remote server 1704, each configured to execute machine-readable instructions for capturing, processing, and transmitting fall safety data.

[0093] Wearable device circuitry 1702 includes processors 1706, memory / storage devices 1708, and communication resources 1710, all interconnected via a data bus 1712. These components collectively enable on-body detection, image capture, and wireless transmission of safety-related data.

[0094] Processors 1706, such as processors 1714 and 1716, may include CPUs, DSPs, or Al accelerators that execute safety-related instructions 1718 stored locally or received from remote systems. The processors operate in conjunction with memory / storage devices 1708 to run key software routines, such as fall detection logic, image capture routines, and safety event alert logic.

[0095] Communication resources 1710 support data exchange over wired or wireless protocols, such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or cellular LTE, and enable connectivity between the wearable camera and external systems.

[0096] The wearable circuitry interfaces with one or more peripheral sensors 1720, including a GNSS module, accelerometer, and temperature sensor. These components provide location data, motion detection, and environmental measurements that feed into system logic for determining worker safety status. Instructions 1718 executed by or sent to these peripherals may include routines for triggering image capture based on motion or for recording temperature compliance data.

[0097] Data is transmitted via a network 1722 to remote server 1704, which processes and stores incoming safety information. Remote server 1704 includes databases 1724 for storing historical safety data, compliance logs, and annotated images, as well as processor 1726 for executing cloud-based instructions 1728 such as Al-based rope connection detection or safety trend analytics.

[0098] The illustrated system architecture enables real-time monitoring, data storage, and intelligent alerting by combining wearable sensor hardware with cloud-based analytics infrastructure. Accordingly, components 1700 support the methods and systems described throughout this disclosure for detecting fall protection hazards, tracking safety metrics, and ensuring compliance with safety protocols in construction and industrial environments.

[0099] In light of this disclosure, skilled persons will appreciate that many changes may be made to the details of the above-described embodiments without departing from the underlying principles of the invention. The scope of the present invention should, therefore, be determined only by claims and equivalents.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A network-connected camera for fall protection monitoring, comprising: a housing attachable to shoulder strap webbing of a full body fall protection harness; an image capture device within the housing, configured to capture image data, the image capture device having a downward- and back-facing field of view oriented to monitor a back D-ring and safety rope attachment of the full body fall protection harness; and a wireless communications device within the housing, configured to transmit the captured image data to a remote server.

2. The network-connected camera of claim 1, further comprising an accelerometer within the housing, configured to detect falls and trigger the capture of image data upon detecting a fall event.

3. The network-connected camera of claim 1, in which the wireless communications device is configured to transmit the captured image data to the remote server via at least one of: a wireless personal area network (WPAN) connection, a cellular wireless wide area network (WWAN) connection, or a wireless local area network (WLAN) connection.

4. The network-connected camera of any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a temperature sensor within the housing, configured to monitor environmental conditions and include temperature data with the captured image data.

5. The network-connected camera of any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a GNSS receiver within the housing, configured to provide location data along with the captured image data.

6. The network-connected camera of any one of claims 1 to 5, in which the image capture device is further configured to capture audio data, and the wireless communications device is configured to transmit the captured audio data to the remote server along with the image data.

7. The network-connected camera of claim 1, in which the housing includes lens-protecting protrusions to safeguard the image capture device from impact.

8. The network-connected camera of claim 1, further comprising a rechargeable battery within the housing, configured to power the camera for multiple working days on a charge.

9. The network-connected camera of claim 1, in which the image capture device is configured to capture image data at predetermined intervals set by a remote monitoring system.

10. A fall protection tether monitoring system, comprising: a network-connected camera configured to be attached to a harness worn by a worker, the camera having a field of view oriented to capture image data of the harness attached to a safety rope; a remote server configured to receive the image data from the network-connected camera; a wireless communication device for receiving the image data from the network- connected camera; and a remote monitoring interface accessible for remote monitoring, enabling safety professionals to monitor real-time data and historical records.

11. The fall protection tether monitoring system of claim 10, further comprising a mobile application executable on user equipment, configured to receive and display safety metrics, compliance history, and safety scores based on the image data received by the remote server.

12. The fall protection tether monitoring system of claim 10, in which the network- connected camera further comprises an accelerometer configured to detect falls and trigger the capture of image data upon detecting a fall event.

13. The fall protection tether monitoring system of claim 10, in which the remote server processes the image data using artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms to verify proper attachment of the safety rope to the harness.

14. The fall protection tether monitoring system of any one of claims 10 to 13, further comprising a temperature sensor within the network-connected camera, configured to monitor environmental conditions and transmit temperature data along with the image data to the remote server.

15. The fall protection tether monitoring system of any one of claims 10 to 14, in which the network-connected camera further comprises a GNSS module configured to provide location data along with the image data to the remote server.

16. The fall protection tether monitoring system of claim 10, in which the remote monitoring interface includes an alert system configured to notify safety professionals of improper safety rope attachment or detected fall events.

17. The fall protection tether monitoring system of claim 10, in which the network- connected camera is configured to capture image data at predetermined intervals set by the remote server or the remote monitoring interface.

18. The fall protection tether monitoring system of claim 10, in which the remote monitoring interface allows safety professionals to adjust the parameters for image data capture and monitor the status of all connected devices in real-time.

19. The fall protection tether monitoring system of claim 10, further comprising a rechargeable battery within the network-connected camera, configured to power the camera for multiple working days on a single charge.

20. A method for remote monitoring of fall protection, comprising: capturing video or static images of a fall protection setup using a network-connected camera, the network-connected camera being attached to a harness worn by a worker, the network-connected camera having a field of view oriented to capture images of a back D- ring and attached safety rope; transmitting the captured images and data from the network-connected camera to a remote server via a wireless communication network; and providing a remote monitoring interface for safety professionals to remotely monitor real-time data and historical records via the remote monitoring interface.

21. The method for remote monitoring of claim 20, further comprising processing, by the remote server, the transmitted data using Al and machine learning to verify proper attachment of the safety rope and connectors.

22. The method for remote monitoring of claim 20, further comprising displaying, by a mobile application, safety metrics, compliance history, and safety scores on user equipment used by a worker wearing the network-connected camera.

23. The method for remote monitoring of claim 20, further comprising setting parameters for image capture intervals.

24. The method for remote monitoring of claim 20, further comprising detecting, by the network-connected camera, falls using an accelerometer within the camera and triggering image capture and alerts upon fall detection.

25. The method for remote monitoring of claim 20, further comprising storing, by the network-connected camera or mobile application, data locally if no network is available, and uploading the stored data once a connection is re-established.

26. The method for remote monitoring of claim 20, further comprising analyzing the stored data to identify safety trends and predict potential accidents, thereby enhancing overall worker safety and compliance with safety regulations.

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