Radio Tomographic Occupancy Detection via Interference Temperature
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing occupancy detection methods, such as motion detectors and cameras, fail to accurately detect presence in still or motionless individuals and areas with blind spots, and violate privacy, especially in low-light conditions.
Innovation Solution
A system using radio-equipped devices and sensors to determine an interference temperature and radio tomographic map, allowing for accurate occupancy detection without invading privacy, even in low-light conditions, by measuring RF energy and signal strengths across an area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If motion detectors such as PIR detectors are used for occupancy detection, then the detection method is simple and cost-effective, but the detection accuracy deteriorates when occupants are motionless or in blind spots
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the detection task into multiple independent components: multiple radio sensors are distributed throughout the area, each monitoring specific zones. By segmenting the detection coverage across multiple sensors positioned at different locations, the system eliminates blind spots while maintaining relative simplicity of individual sensor units.
Solution Approach 2:
Radio sensors perform multiple functions simultaneously: they detect occupancy through RF signal analysis, provide location information through signal strength measurement, and operate effectively in all lighting conditions. This multi-functionality replaces the need for separate motion detectors and camera systems.
2Measurement precision
If cameras are used for occupancy detection, then visual detection capability is improved, but privacy is violated and low-light detection capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces optical detection (cameras) with electromagnetic detection (radio frequency sensors). RF sensors detect occupancy through signal interactions with objects and people without capturing visual information, thereby maintaining detection capability while eliminating privacy concerns associated with camera surveillance.
3Device complexity
If motion detectors are used for occupancy detection, then the system is simple to implement, but detection reliability deteriorates when occupants remain still for extended periods
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses RF signals as an intermediary between the sensor and the occupant. Rather than directly detecting motion through infrared or mechanical means, the radio sensors detect changes in the RF environment caused by the presence of occupants, including those who are motionless. This indirect detection method maintains simplicity while improving reliability for stationary subjects.
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 detects occupancy in areas with blind spots and in low-light conditions without violating privacy, improving energy management by accurately determining presence through interference temperature and radio tomographic mapping.
Implementation Method 1
Each radio sensor can measure a strength of a signal received from each of the other radio sensors
Implementation Method 2
determine an interference temperature associated with a number of radio equipped devices located in an area at a point in time
Data Source
AI summary
Devices, methods, and systems for occupancy detection are described herein. One or more device embodiments include a memory and a processor. The processor is configured to execute executable instructions stored in the memory to determine an interference temperature associated with a number of radio equipped devices located in an area at a point in time, determine a radio tomographic map associated with the area at the point in time, and determine whether the area is occupied at the point in time based on the determined interference temperature and the determined radio tomographic map.