Gunshot-Triggered Lighting and Noise Device for Shooter Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gunshot detection systems in large buildings often suffer from false alarms due to acoustic and infrared sensor interference, and there is a need for rapid shooter localization, occupant warning, and building lockdown in the event of an actual gunshot incident.
Innovation Solution
A system incorporating software-controlled cameras, lighting, and mechanical locks, which activate upon gunshot detection to identify, distract, and isolate the shooter, while providing safe passage information to occupants and alerting law enforcement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If acoustic and infrared sensors are used for gunshot detection, then detection capability is improved, but false alarms increase due to sensor interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple detection modalities (acoustic sensors, infrared sensors, and video analytics) into an integrated system. The software correlates data from all sensors to confirm genuine gunshots, reducing false alarms caused by individual sensor interference while maintaining high detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses software that continuously analyzes sensor inputs and provides feedback to distinguish true gunshots from false alarm sources. The correlation algorithm adjusts based on patterns recognized from multiple sensor readings, improving reliability without sacrificing detection precision.
2Speed
If multiple cameras are activated throughout the building, then shooter localization speed is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The camera system serves multiple functions: shooter detection, tracking, and identification. The same cameras used for security monitoring are repurposed for active shooter response, reducing the need for dedicated equipment while maintaining rapid localization capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The software automatically processes video feeds from multiple cameras, performs analytics to identify the shooter, and tracks movement without requiring manual intervention. This automation reduces operational complexity while maintaining high localization speed.
3Measurement precision
If lighting is activated to illuminate areas, then shooter identification capability is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting system activates only periodically when a gunshot is detected, rather than remaining continuously on. This intermittent operation provides sufficient illumination for shooter identification while dramatically reducing overall energy consumption compared to continuous lighting.
Solution Approach 2:
The system activates lighting in specific localized areas where the shooter is detected or suspected, rather than illuminating the entire building. This targeted approach maintains identification capability while minimizing energy consumption by limiting illumination to only necessary zones.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If mechanical locks are activated for building lockdown, then occupant protection is improved, but loss of time for evacuation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The building is divided into secure zones and evacuation zones. Mechanical locks are activated only in areas where occupants need protection, while other areas remain unlocked to allow rapid evacuation. This segmentation enables simultaneous protection and evacuation without compromising either objective.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides advance warning to occupants before full lockdown is enacted, allowing them to begin evacuation or seek shelter in advance. This preliminary alert reduces the effective loss of time by preparing occupants before the actual lockdown occurs.
Data Source
AI summary
A device to provide lighting and noise disturbances in an active shooter environment is described that will alert both the occupants of the building, but also allow the image of the shooter to be captured and then hopefully isolate the shooter as quickly as possible. The device would also allow all exits and entrances of the building to be locked to prevent or restrict the movement of the shooter within the building, but at the same time allow the occupants of the building to flee the building.