Contraband Detection Using Mobile Device Sensors in Correctional Facilities
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Solution Overview
Problem
Correctional facilities face challenges in detecting and controlling contraband devices, such as small cellular devices and drones, due to advances in communication technology and the limitations of conventional search methods and jamming technologies.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing a combination of mobile devices, fixed monitoring devices, and a contraband monitoring center to detect, monitor, and intervene with unauthorized communications and drone activity within correctional facilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional search techniques (walk through detectors, manual metal detectors, physical pat-down searches) are used to detect contraband devices, then the search process is simple and non-intrusive, but small cellular devices can avoid detection due to their small size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical search techniques (metal detectors, physical pat-downs) with electronic detection systems. Mobile devices with cameras and sensors are used to detect contraband devices electronically, substituting mechanical detection methods with optical and electronic sensing capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection parameters by using multiple sensors (cameras, microphones, accelerometers, GPS) on mobile devices to detect contraband. Instead of relying on a single mechanical parameter, the system uses multiple physical parameters (visual, acoustic, motion, location) to improve detection precision.
2Reliability
If jamming devices or managed access devices are used to prevent unauthorized cellular devices, then contraband device usage is blocked, but public use of cellular phones is interfered with when visiting or passing by the facility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the detection and control function from the facility infrastructure and places it on individual mobile devices carried by authorized personnel. Instead of a facility-wide jamming system, individual devices perform localized detection and reporting, removing the need for blanket signal interference.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces mobile devices as intermediaries between authorized personnel and the detection task. These devices mediate the security function by being carried only where needed, allowing detection without creating facility-wide interference zones that affect public cellular use.
3Reliability
If facility-wide jamming signals are transmitted to block contraband devices, then unauthorized communications are prevented, but energy consumption increases and public cellular service is disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic scanning and detection actions by mobile devices instead of continuous jamming signals. Authorized personnel periodically move through facilities with detection-capable devices, performing intermittent checks rather than maintaining constant signal interference, thereby reducing overall energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies detection resources partially and selectively to areas and times when contraband risk is highest, rather than applying facility-wide jamming continuously. Mobile devices are deployed to specific locations and activated when needed, providing sufficient security control without the excessive energy consumption of blanket coverage.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides details of a system and method for detecting and monitoring a contraband device including communication devices and drones/UAVs by utilizing a combination of mobile devices, fixed monitoring devices, and a contraband monitoring center. The mobile devices include smart phones or tablets that are borrowed, rented, or purchased by an inmate from a correctional facility. These mobile devices are configured to detect, monitor, and intervene in the communications of target devices. Further, the mobile devices are configured to communicate with fixed monitoring devices located throughout the correctional facility in performing intervention operations. The contraband monitoring center may also be utilized in the coordination, monitoring, and intervention of target devices.