Optical Tamper Detection Strap with Interfering Element
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
House arrest systems face challenges in securely attaching monitoring devices to individuals, leading to potential tampering and false negative tamper detection issues, which compromise the effectiveness of monitoring.
Innovation Solution
A monitoring system comprising a strap with an optical path and a male connector that includes an optical bridge, along with an interfering element that blocks light transmission when the connector is not inserted, ensuring accurate tamper detection by preventing false negatives.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a monitoring device is attached to an individual using a strap with optical detection, then tamper detection capability is provided, but false negative detection occurs when the connector is removed
Solution Approach 1:
The interfering element is positioned to preemptively block the optical path before any tampering can occur. When the male connector is removed, the interfering element automatically moves into position to block light transmission, preventing false negative readings by ensuring the optical detection system registers a blocked path as the expected state during removal
Solution Approach 2:
The interfering element acts as an intermediary component between the male connector and the optical detection system. It mediates the optical signal transmission by selectively blocking or allowing light passage based on the connector's position, thereby translating mechanical connector state into optical detection signals
2Measurement precision
If the optical path is kept open for detection, then monitoring accuracy is improved, but light transmission cannot be blocked when connector is removed
Solution Approach 1:
The interfering element is designed to dynamically change its position based on the mechanical state of the male connector. It moves between blocking and non-blocking positions in response to connector insertion and removal, allowing the system to adapt its optical transmission state to match the intended operational states
3Ease of operation
If the male connector is removed from the opening, then strap security is reduced, but optical detection cannot distinguish between removal and tampering
Solution Approach 1:
The interfering element is pre-positioned to automatically block the optical path when the male connector is removed, creating a predetermined optical state that distinguishes legitimate removal from unauthorized tampering. This preliminary positioning ensures the detection system can differentiate between intentional connector removal and malicious interference
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 effectively secures monitoring devices and reduces false negative tamper detection by ensuring the interfering element blocks light transmission only when the connector is removed, thus enhancing the reliability of monitoring systems for individuals and assets.
Implementation Method 1
The interfering element is operable to block light transmitted along the optical path when the male connector is not inserted in the opening
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is related to monitoring movement, and in particular to systems and methods for securing a monitoring device to a monitor target.