Audio-based occupancy detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing occupancy detection systems face challenges in efficiently determining indoor occupancy without relying on numerous sensors, especially in large areas like homes, where it is costly and difficult to implement sensors in every room, and there is a need for accurate detection to optimize HVAC systems and alert during emergencies.
Innovation Solution
An audio-based occupancy detection system using machine learning algorithms to differentiate between person-originated and non-person-originated audio signals, leveraging random noise within a home to determine occupancy, which can be communicated to HVAC, security, and fire detection systems, and can be implemented using cloud computing or locally via wireless methods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sensors are installed in every room to detect occupancy, then occupancy detection accuracy is improved, but system cost and installation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple audio signal processing functions into a single occupancy detection system. The processor integrates audio signal reception, analysis, and occupancy determination in one device, eliminating the need for multiple separate sensors in different rooms. This merging approach maintains detection accuracy while reducing installation complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The occupancy detection system is designed to serve multiple functions: it can detect occupancy in various rooms, control HVAC systems, and provide emergency alerts. By making the system universal, the patent reduces the need for specialized sensors in each room, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive coverage.
2Device complexity
If audio-based detection is used instead of sensors, then system cost and installation complexity are reduced, but detection reliability may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical sensors with an audio-based detection system that uses microprocessors to analyze sound waves. This substitution eliminates the need for complex sensor installations while maintaining reliable occupancy detection through sophisticated audio signal processing algorithms.
Solution Approach 2:
The audio-based system uses existing audio infrastructure (microphones, speakers) already present in modern buildings for HVAC control and other purposes. By leveraging these existing components, the system reduces installation complexity while maintaining reliability through intelligent audio analysis algorithms.
Data Source
AI summary
In embodiments of the disclosure, an occupancy detector includes a processor operable to perform processor operations that include receiving audio signals from a plurality of sources; performing analysis on the audio signals; and, based at least in part on a result of the analysis performed on the audio signals, making a determination of the audio signals that resulted from an action of a person located within an indoor area-under-evaluation.