Security Strap Tamper Detection for Wearable Computers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current offender location monitoring systems, including smartwatches, lack effective tamper and removal prevention and detection features, posing a challenge in ensuring continuous tracking of individuals on probation or parole.
Innovation Solution
A wearable computer system utilizing a security strap with a microcontroller, conductor, and RFID tag that monitors and interrupts an electrical signal or identification sequence, notifying a supervising authority if the strap is cut or removed, thereby enhancing tamper and removal detection capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a smartwatch is used for offender location monitoring, then the device can provide GPS tracking and wireless communication capabilities, but the smartwatch lacks tamper and removal detection features
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the monitoring system into two separate components: a smartwatch that provides GPS tracking and wireless communication, and a separate security strap that provides tamper and removal detection. This segmentation allows each component to specialize in its function while working together as an integrated system, resolving the contradiction between versatility and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The security strap acts as an intermediary component between the offender and the monitoring authority. It includes a conductor that detects removal attempts and a transmitter that communicates status to the smartwatch, which then relays information to authorities. This intermediary structure adds reliable detection capability without compromising the smartwatch's versatility.
2Reliability
If a security strap with conductor and microcontroller is added to detect removal, then tamper detection capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the detection function into an independent security strap module, the invention avoids complicating the smartwatch design. The strap contains only the necessary components for detection (conductor, microcontroller, transmitter, battery), while the smartwatch maintains its existing functionality. This segmentation reduces overall system complexity compared to integrating all functions into a single device.
Solution Approach 2:
The security strap is designed as a universal component that can be attached to various smartwatch models, making the detection system adaptable to different devices without requiring custom integration for each smartwatch type. This multi-functionality approach reduces complexity by using standardized components.
3Strength
If the conductor is made difficult to cut with strong material, then tamper prevention is improved, but ease of manufacture decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The conductor is designed to provide electrical feedback that detects when it has been cut or interrupted. Rather than relying solely on making the material physically difficult to cut, the system uses the conductor's electrical properties to sense tampering. This feedback mechanism allows the use of more manufacturable materials while maintaining security through detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces reliance on mechanical strength (making the conductor physically difficult to cut) with an electrical detection system. The microcontroller monitors the conductor's electrical state, and when interruption is detected, the system triggers an alarm. This substitution allows easier manufacturing while maintaining or improving tamper detection effectiveness.
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 prevents and detects attempts to remove the monitoring device, ensuring continuous location tracking and enhancing public safety by immediately notifying authorities of any tampering or removal attempts.
Implementation Method 1
The conductor has a first end and a second end. The microcontroller is programmed to monitor an electrical signal of the conductor
Implementation Method 2
a security strap transmitter in communication with the smartwatch; a security strap receiver in communication with the smartwatch
Data Source
AI summary
Offender location tracking devices have evolved to a point where they are wearable computers. Modern smartwatches are also wearable computers and can be used as offender tracking devices; however, they have the limitation of not being able to detect if they are being tampered with or are removed. A novel security band of the present invention can be used in conjunction with a commercially available smartwatch. The security band of the present invention is able to detect if it is cut or removed and is able to wirelessly notify a smartwatch or optional smartphone. The notification is then relayed to a monitoring center or supervising authority using a cellular telephone network or other wireless communication method.