Access Hatch Intrusion Detection Using Multi-Sensor Signal Analysis

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing access solutions for underground and surface civil engineering infrastructure can only detect the opening of access hatches but fail to prevent unauthorized intrusions, leaving infrastructure vulnerable during the intrusion process.

Innovation Solution

An access device equipped with sensors and a communication module that analyzes sensor signals to detect intrusion attempts, allowing for immediate alerts and measures such as shutting down communication networks or stopping water flow, and includes a multiprotocol communication system for secure data transmission.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If access hatches are installed for infrastructure control and maintenance, then infrastructure accessibility is improved, but infrastructure security deteriorates due to potential intrusion points

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinfrastructure accessibilityVSAvoidinfrastructure security
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The device performs preliminary detection of intrusion attempts through sensor monitoring before actual intrusion occurs. The analysis module continuously analyzes sensor signals to detect signs of intrusion attempts, enabling early warning and preventive action while maintaining necessary access points for infrastructure operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Measurement precision

If sensor-based detection systems are implemented to monitor hatch status, then intrusion detection capability is improved, but the system can only detect hatch opening not actual intrusion attempts

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveintrusion detection capabilityVSAvoiddetection system sophistication
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The detection system is segmented into multiple independent sensor units (vibration sensors, acoustic sensors, temperature sensors) that each monitor specific parameters. The analysis module integrates signals from these segmented sensors to comprehensively detect intrusion attempts, achieving high detection precision without requiring a single complex detection mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically analyzes sensor signals by evaluating multiple parameters (vibration frequency, acoustic patterns, temperature changes) and their correlations over time. This dynamic analysis enables detection of intrusion attempts based on behavioral patterns rather than static threshold detection, improving precision while maintaining manageable system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If rapid response measures are implemented upon intrusion detection, then infrastructure security is improved, but response time and system reaction speed must be optimized

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinfrastructure securityVSAvoidresponse time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The device implements continuous feedback through real-time sensor monitoring and immediate signal analysis. When intrusion attempts are detected, the system provides instant feedback by triggering alerts and enabling rapid response measures. This closed-loop feedback system minimizes response time while maintaining high security reliability through continuous monitoring and immediate action capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables rapid detection and response to unauthorized access attempts, ensuring continuous infrastructure security by promptly alerting and enabling immediate countermeasures.

Implementation Method 1

a sensor positioned in the chamber beneath the hatch and adapted to detect an acoustic signal emitted at the sensor and reflected by the hatch

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAcoustic reflection: Echo

Implementation Method 2

The access device may include a shock or vibration sensor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVibration detection: Vibration

Implementation Method 3

The access device may include a shock or vibration sensor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectShock detection: Impact Force

Implementation Method 4

The access device may include an acoustic sensor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAcoustic detection: Sound

Implementation Method 5

The access device may include a temperature sensor or an optical sensor capable of detecting thermal radiation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThermal radiation detection: Thermal Radiation

Data Source

PatentEP3821408B1Device for accessing an underground or surface civil engineering infrastructure, comprising an intrusion detection device
Publication Date: 2026.02.25 EJ EMEA
  • EP3821408B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3821408B1 patent drawingFigure 2~3

AI summary

The invention relates to a device for accessing an underground or surface civil engineering infrastructure, comprising a hatch (1) for access to a chamber. It comprises at least one sensor capable of measuring a variable representative of a mechanical or thermal action on the hatch (1) and of delivering a signal corresponding to the measured variable, and an analysis module configured for analysing the signal so as to detect therein, on the basis of the change over time of the measured variable, information characteristic of an attempted intrusion into the chamber . If such information is detected, an attempted intrusion alert is generated. The access device comprises a communication module (3) capable of transmitting said attempted intrusion alert.