Wearable Proximity Sensor with Adaptive Human Recognition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current proximity detection devices, such as those using short range radar, have limited detection ranges and inability to discriminate between real and false threats, leading to inadequate warning times and false alarms, making them ineffective for detecting threats from behind, especially in scenarios like correctional officer assaults.
Innovation Solution
A wearable device utilizing a high frame rate digital camera with advanced image processing algorithms for real-time threat detection and human recognition software to identify approaching threats from up to 500 feet, providing multiple warning options and secure data storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If short range radar is used for threat detection, then the device can detect approaching objects, but the detection range is limited to only 100 meters maximum
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces radar technology with optical camera-based detection systems. The camera captures visual images of approaching threats, and image processing algorithms analyze these images to detect and track threats. This substitution enables extended detection ranges beyond radar's 100-meter limitation while providing sufficient warning time through early visual detection of threats from greater distances.
2Reliability
If radar technology is used for threat detection, then the device can detect approaching objects, but it cannot discriminate between real threats and false positives such as birds
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces radar's electromagnetic wave detection with optical camera-based visual detection. Image processing algorithms analyze visual characteristics such as shape, size, movement patterns, and human-specific features to distinguish real threats from false positives like birds. This substitution dramatically improves threat discrimination accuracy and reduces false alarm rates by leveraging visual intelligence rather than raw radar returns.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces image processing algorithms as an intermediary between the camera sensor and threat detection. These algorithms process visual data to identify human-specific characteristics, filter out non-threat objects like birds, and confirm genuine threats before triggering alarms. This intermediary processing layer eliminates the false positive problem inherent in raw radar detection.
3Loss of time
If the detection range is extended to 500 feet, then warning time is increased, but the device complexity increases with advanced image processing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex radar systems with camera-based detection paired with image processing algorithms. While image processing is computationally intensive, modern processors can handle this complexity efficiently. The system extends detection range to 500 feet by leveraging the camera's ability to capture visual data from distant threats and using algorithms to track and analyze approaching objects, providing extended warning time without requiring overly complex hardware.
Data Source
AI summary
A wearable proximity warning device is provided that uses a novel method of processing images from a high frame rate digital camera to detect human threats from behind and determine if there are any approaching threats by using novel pixel counting and threat detection analysis algorithms. The device is worn on the back of the body either by use of a belt clip or with chest straps. The user may use select from a variety of warning options from the device including audible warning tones, device vibration or smartphone SMS/MMS text messaging. Stored video is saved by the device and may be periodically uploaded to secure cloud storage. The device contains a rechargeable battery that may be recharged using a USB port. The device uses adaptive human recognition that switches between facial recognition detection mode and body recognition detection mode depending on distance of the threat from the user.