3D Gunshot Localization via Distributed Acoustic Sensing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing gunshot detection systems are inadequate for protecting electrical substations, as they fail to accurately detect, localize, and track gunshots in 3D space, and lack real-time tracking and AI-driven analysis capabilities to assess damage and respond effectively.

Innovation Solution

An integrated Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS) system that uses fiber optic cables as continuous acoustic sensors to detect and triangulate gunshot origins in 3D space, combined with AI algorithms for real-time tracking, damage assessment, and threat analysis.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional gunshot detection systems are used, then basic detection capability is provided, but 3D localization precision and real-time tracking capability are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improve3D localization precisionVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple detection functions (acoustic detection, 3D localization, real-time tracking, and damage assessment) into a single integrated DFOS system. The fiber optic cable serves as both the sensing medium and the transmission medium, merging detection, localization, and tracking capabilities that would traditionally require separate systems, thereby achieving high measurement precision without proportionally increasing device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The fiber optic cable in the DFOS system performs multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as an acoustic sensor for gunshot detection, a localization system for 3D positioning, and a tracking mechanism for real-time monitoring. This multi-functionality allows the system to achieve comprehensive capabilities including 3D localization precision and real-time tracking without requiring multiple separate devices

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If basic detection systems are deployed, then coverage area is established, but real-time damage assessment and AI-driven analysis capabilities are lacking

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedamage assessment accuracyVSAvoidAI-driven analysis capability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSExtent of automation

Solution Approach 1:

The system incorporates AI-driven analysis that continuously processes acoustic signals and provides real-time feedback on gunshot detection, localization, and damage assessment. The AI algorithms analyze the acoustic signatures, correlate them with equipment responses, and provide automated damage assessments, enabling the system to achieve high reliability through continuous intelligent monitoring and adaptive decision-making

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical or manual damage assessment methods with AI-driven acoustic analysis. Instead of physical inspection or manual evaluation, the system uses machine learning algorithms to analyze acoustic signals, automatically determine damage levels, and assess equipment status, thereby achieving reliable damage assessment through intelligent automation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Reliability

If comprehensive monitoring is implemented, then security coverage is enhanced, but response time to threats may increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity coverageVSAvoidresponse time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The DFOS system performs preliminary action by continuously monitoring acoustic signals and pre-positioning the fiber optic sensing network throughout the substation before any threat occurs. The system maintains constant readiness state with all sensors active and AI algorithms primed, enabling immediate detection and response to gunshots without requiring activation or setup time when a threat emerges

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system ensures continuous monitoring of all substation areas through the distributed fiber optic sensing network, which operates uninterrupted to detect acoustic signals at any location. The AI-driven analysis runs continuously to process signals in real-time, maintaining unbroken surveillance coverage that enables immediate response to threats without gaps or delays in detection

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

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

The system provides comprehensive substation security by precisely detecting and tracking gunshots, assessing real-time damage, and enabling immediate remedial actions, thereby enhancing infrastructure security and setting a new benchmark for substation protection.

Implementation Method 1

Utilizing Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS) technology, the systems and methods according to the present disclosure precisely detect and triangulate the origin of gunshots in three-dimensional space

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDistributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS):

Implementation Method 2

the systems and methods according to the present disclosure precisely detect and triangulate the origin of gunshots in three-dimensional space

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAcoustic wave propagation: Sound

Data Source

PatentUS20250147144A13D gunshot localization, tracking, and ai enhanced system for substation security
Publication Date: 2025.05.08 NEC LABORATORIES AMERICA INC
  • US20250147144A1 patent drawing
  • US20250147144A1 patent drawing
  • US20250147144A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Integrated DFOS systems and methods for 3D gunshot, localization, and tracking utilizing Artificial Intelligence enhanced (AI-enhanced) systems and methods for infrastructure security including electrical substations. Our systems and methods provide a comprehensive solution for substation security enhancement, integrating 3D gunshot localization, real-time tracking, and AI-driven analysis. Utilizing Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS) technology, our systems and methods precisely detect and triangulate the origin of gunshots in three-dimensional space. The trajectory of a bullet is determined, providing insights into the direction and potential target within the substation. Al algorithms discern between various acoustic events and provide identification of genuine threats. Upon detecting a potential gunshot, our system automatically correlates related acoustic events, such as the noise of a nearby vehicle, offering context and aiding in threat assessment. Our AI-enhanced system evaluates acoustic signals to determine real-time equipment damage resulting from gunshots, ensuring immediate remedial actions and anticipate potential future incidents.