Motion detection apparatus employing millimeter wave detector

[0001] This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/281,209, filed Apr. 3, 2001 and entitled MILLIMETER WAVE HUMAN MOVEMENT DETECTOR, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

[0002] The present invention relates to motion detection systems and methods generally which are useful for example in intrusion detection, access control, and energy management.

[0003] Detection and imaging of millimeter wave electromagnetic radiation, e.g. radiation having a wavelength between approximately 0.05 mm and 10 mm, is known.

[0004] The following patents are believed to represent the current state of the art:

[0005] U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,815,113; 5,555,036; 5,530,247; 5,202,692; 5,182,564 and 4,510,622.

[0006] The present invention seeks to provide an improved system and method for motion detection which are useful for example in intrusion detection, access control, and energy management.

[0007] There is thus provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention a motion detection apparatus including an incoherent detector, including at least one sensing element, operative to detect receipt of radiation having a wavelength between 0.05 mm and 10 mm from multiple fields of view, and a motion detector receiving an output of the incoherent detector and providing a motion detection output indicating receipt of radiation from an object moving between the multiple fields of view.

[0008] There is also provided in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention an intrusion detection system including an incoherent detector operative to detect receipt of radiation having a wavelength between 0.05 mm and 10 mm and an intrusion detector receiving an output of the incoherent detector and providing an intrusion detection output indicating receipt of radiation from an object whose intrusion is sought to be detected.

[0009] There is further provided in accordance with yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention an access control system including an incoherent detector operative to detect receipt of radiation having a wavelength between 0.05 mm and 10 mm and an access control detector receiving an output of the incoherent detector and providing an access control Output indicating receipt of radiation from an object.

[0010] There is also provided in accordance with still another preferred embodiment of the present invention an energy management system including an incoherent detector operative to detect receipt of radiation having a wavelength between 0.05 mm and 10 mm and an energy management detector receiving an output of the incoherent detector and providing an energy management output indicating receipt of radiation from an object.

[0011] There is further provided in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention a method for motion detection including detecting receipt of radiation having a wavelength between 0.05 mm and 10 mm from multiple fields of view, utilizing an incoherent detector, including at least one sensing element, receiving an output of the incoherent detector and providing a motion detection output indicating receipt of radiation from an object moving between the multiple fields of view.

[0012] There is yet further provided in accordance with yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention a method for intrusion detection including detecting receipt of radiation having a wavelength between 0.05 mm and 10 mm, utilizing an incoherent detector, receiving an output of the incoherent detector and providing an intrusion detection output indicating receipt of radiation from an object whose intrusion is sought to be detected.

[0013] There is also provided in accordance with still another preferred embodiment of the present invention a method for access control including detecting receipt of radiation having a wavelength between 0.05 mm and 10 mm, utilizing an incoherent detector, receiving an output of the incoherent detector and providing an access control output indicating receipt of radiation from an object.

[0014] There is further provided in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention a method for energy management including detecting receipt of radiation having a wavelength between 0.05 mm and 10 mm, utilizing an incoherent detector, receiving an output of the incoherent detector and providing an energy management output indicating receipt of radiation from an object.

[0015] Preferably, the motion detector provides the motion detection output indicating receipt of radiation from the object at at least two different times having at least a predetermined time relationship therebetween.

[0016] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the incoherent detector is operative to detect radiation emitted by a human. Additionally, the motion detector is operative to sense differences between radiation received from humans and from other objects and to provide the motion detection output at least partially based on the differences. Alternatively, the motion detector is operative to sense differences between radiation received from humans and from pets and to provide the motion detection output at least partially based on the differences.

[0017] Preferably, the motion detector is operative to sense differences between radiation received from humans and from other objects by comparing the amplitude of received radiation. Alternatively, the motion detector is operative to sense differences between radiation received from humans and from other objects by comparing characteristics of received radiation. Additionally or alternatively, the motion detector is operative to sense differences between radiation received from humans and from other objects by comparing patterns of received radiation. Alternatively, the motion detector is operative to sense differences between radiation received from humans and from other objects by comparing shapes of received radiation. Additionally, the motion detector is operative to sense differences between radiation received from humans and from other objects by comparing the amplitude of received radiation at multiple wavelengths over time.

[0018] In accordance with another preferred embodiment, the apparatus also includes at least one optical element upstream of the incoherent detector. Preferably, the at least one optical element includes at least one lens. Alternatively, the at least one optical element includes at least one reflector. Additionally or alternatively, the at least one optical element includes at least one waveguide. In accordance with another preferred embodiment, the at least one optical element includes a plurality of optical elements, each operative at a different wavelength range.

[0019] In accordance with yet another preferred embodiment, the apparatus also includes intrusion detection circuitry receiving an input from an output from the motion detector and providing an intrusion detection output based at least partially thereon. Alternatively, the apparatus includes access control circuitry receiving an input from an output from the motion detector and providing an access control circuit output based at least partially thereon. Additionally or alternatively, the apparatus also includes energy management circuitry receiving an input from an output from the motion detector and providing an energy management output based at least partially thereon.

[0020] In accordance with yet another preferred embodiment, the apparatus also includes an illuminator providing radiation having a wavelength between 0.05 mm and 10 mm into a protected region which is viewed by the incoherent detector. Alternatively, the apparatus also includes an active detector operative to detect receipt of radiation having a wavelength between 0.05 mm and 10 mm.

[0042] Reference is now made to FIG. 1, which is a simplified pictorial illustration of an intrusion detection system employing millimeter wave motion detection in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. As seen in FIG. 1, there is preferably provided a motion detection system particularly, but not exclusively, useful for intrusion detection and including at least one incoherent detector 100 operative to detect receipt of radiation having a wavelength between 0.05 mm and 10 mm from multiple spaced fields of view, here designated 102, 104, 106 and 108.

[0043] As will be described hereinbelow, a suitable incoherent detector 100 is a PY55 CM Series Detector, commercially available from Goodrich Corporation, 100 Wooster Heights Rd, Danbury, Conn. 06810 U.S.A. This incoherent detector 100 is preferably located within a housing 10 incorporating radiation input optics, such as a lens array 112, which defines the multiple spaced fields of view 102–108. The lens array 112 may be formed of polyethylene, TEFLON R, or POLY IR R materials, commercially available from Fresnel Technologies, Inc. of 101 West Morningside Drive, Fort Worth, Tex. 76110 U.S.A.

[0044] The incoherent detector 100 preferably outputs to motion detector circuitry 114, which typically includes a microprocessor and provides a motion detection output 116, which may be provided to an alarm indicator 118. The motion detection output 116 preferably indicates receipt of radiation from an object whose motion is sought to be detected, preferably a human 120. The radiation is received preferably at at least two different times having at least a predetermined time relationship therebetween. Preferably the detection of radiation at at least two different times is produced by motion of the human through multiple spaced fields of view, as shown.

[0045] It is appreciated that the system and methodology illustrated in FIG. 1 may operate based on detection of radiation in the wavelength range of between 0.05 mm and 10 mm emitted by a human or other object. Alternatively or additionally, the system and methodology illustrated in FIG. 1 may operate based on detection of radiation in the wavelength range of between 0.05 mm and 10 mm reflected by the human or other object. In such a case, a suitable illuminator 122 may be provided to enhance the amount of reflected radiation.

[0046] It is noted that a particular feature of the present invention is that the detected radiation in the wavelength range of between 0.05 mm and 10 mm is capable of passing through many objects. Accordingly, the detector 100, its housing 110 and the detector circuitry 114 may be hidden from ordinary view, as by being located behind a picture 124 or other object.

[0047] Reference is now made to FIG. 2, which is a simplified pictorial illustration of the intrusion detection system of FIG. 1 in a somewhat different environment, which illustrates that the detected radiation in the wavelength range of between 0.05 mm and 10 mm is capable of passing through floors, ceilings and walls of buildings. Accordingly, the detector 100, its housing 110 and the detector circuitry 114 may be located at a single location within a building and nevertheless provide intrusion detection throughout the building.

[0048] Reference is now made to FIG. 3A, which is a simplified pictorial illustration of a dual mode intrusion detection system employing millimeter wave motion detection in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. As seen in FIG. 3A, there is preferably provided a motion detection system particularly, but not exclusively, useful for intrusion detection and including at least one incoherent detector 200 operative to detect receipt of radiation having a wavelength between 0.05 mm and 10 mm from multiple spaced fields of view, here designated 202, 204 and 206. As will be described hereinbelow, a suitable incoherent detector 200 is a PY55 CM Series Detector, commercially available from Goodrich Corporation, 100 Wooster Heights Rd, Danbury, Conn. 06810 U.S.A.

[0049] In the embodiment of FIG. 3A, there is also provided at least one additional incoherent detector 220 operative to detect receipt of radiation having a wavelength in a range other than the range of between 0.05 mm and 10 mm from multiple spaced fields of view, here designated 222, 224 and 226. Detector 220 is typically operative to detect receipt of radiation having a wavelength between 0.1 mm and 0.5 mm, alternatively between 0.01 and 0.1 mm, or further alternatively between 0.001 and 0.015 mm.

[0050] Detectors 200 and 220 are preferably located within a housing 230 incorporating radiation input optics, such as a lens array 232, which defines the multiple spaced fields of view 202–206 and 222–226. As a further alternative, a single detector may be employed with plural parallel arranged input radiation filters.

[0051] The incoherent detectors 200 and 220 preferably output to motion detector circuitry 234, which typically includes a microprocessor and provides a motion detection output 236, which may be provided to an alarm indicator 238. The motion detection output 236 preferably indicates receipt of radiation from an object whose motion is sought to be detected, preferably a human 240, at at least two different times having at least a predetermined time relationship therebetween and at two different wavelength ranges. Preferably the detection of radiation at at least two different times is produced by motion of the human through multiple spaced fields of view.

[0052] It is appreciated that the system and methodology illustrated in FIG. 3A may operate at least partially based on detection of radiation emitted by and/or reflected from a human or other object and passing through visually opaque objects.

[0053] Reference is now made to FIG. 3B, which is a simplified pictorial illustration of a dual mode intrusion detection system employing millimeter wave motion detection in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. As seen in FIG. 3B, there is preferably provided a motion detection system particularly but not exclusively useful for intrusion detection and including at least one incoherent detector 250 operative to detect receipt of radiation having a wavelength between 0.05 mm and 10 mm from multiple spaced fields of view, here designated 252, 254 and 256. As will be described hereinbelow, a suitable incoherent detector 250 is a PY55 CM Series Detector, commercially available from Goodrich Corporation, 100 Wooster Heights Rd, Danbury, Conn. 06810 U.S.A.

[0054] In the embodiment of FIG. 3B, there is also provided at least one active coherent detector 260 such as a microwave detector operative to transmit and detect radiation having a frequency in the range of 0.5–30 gigahertz. Alternatively or additionally, the active coherent detector 260 may be an active millimeter wave detector or any other suitable active detector such as an optical detector.

[0055] Detectors 250 and 260 are preferably located within a housing 270 incorporating an antenna 272 for coherently transmitting and receiving radiation as well as radiation input optics, such as a lens array 274, which defines the multiple spaced fields of view 252–256.

[0056] The detectors 250 and 260 preferably output to motion detector circuitry 276, which typically includes a microprocessor and provides a motion detection output 278, which may be provided to an alarm indicator 280. The motion detection output 278 preferably indicates receipt of radiation from an object whose motion is sought to be detected, preferably a human 282, at at least two different times having at least a predetermined time relationship therebetween and at two different wavelength ranges. Preferably the detection of radiation at at least two different times is produced by motion of the human through multiple spaced fields of view.

[0057] It is appreciated that the system and methodology illustrated in FIG. 3B may operate at least partially based on detection of radiation emitted by and/or reflected from a human or other object and passing through visually opaque objects.

[0058] Reference is now made to FIG. 4, which is a simplified pictorial illustration of a motion detection system employing millimeter wave motion detection in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 shows an environment including multiple sources of radiation in the range of between 0.05 mm and 10 mm. At a first time, designated A, a pet and a heater in a room both emit radiation in the range of between 0.05 mm and 10 mm. At a later time, designated B, a thief enters the room.

[0059] As in the embodiment of FIG. 1, there is preferably provided a motion detection system particularly, but not exclusively, useful for intrusion detection and including at least one incoherent detector 400 operative to detect receipt of radiation having a wavelength between 0.05 mm and 10 mm from multiple spaced fields of view, here designated 402, 404, 406 and 408.

[0060] As will be described hereinbelow, a suitable incoherent detector 400 is a PY55 CM Series Detector, commercially available from Goodrich Corporation, 100 Wooster Heights Rd, Danbury, Conn. 06810 U.S.A. This incoherent detector 400 is preferably located within a housing 410 incorporating radiation input optics, such as a lens array 412, which defines the multiple spaced fields of view 402–408.

[0061] The incoherent detector 400 preferably outputs to motion detector circuitry 414, which typically includes a microprocessor and provides a motion detection output 416, which may be provided to an alarm indicator 418.

[0062] The output of incoherent detector 400 includes a signal whose amplitude, shape and pattern are characteristic of the radiation detected thereby at any given time. Thus, as shown in FIG. 4, at time A, the output signal includes signal portions, which are labeled to identify them with the pet and the heater.

[0063] At time B, the output signal includes additional signal portions, which are characteristic of motion of the thief and are labeled accordingly.

[0064] It is a particular feature of the present invention, that the signal portions which are characteristic of motion of a human may be distinguished from those characteristic of a pet by at least one and preferably more than one of the following signal characteristics: amplitude, shape and pattern.

[0065] It is seen that amplitude thresholding alone might not be able to distinguish a signal portion 450, characteristic of a jumping pet, from signal portions 452 and 454, characteristic of human motion. Shape analysis, does however distinguish signal portion 450, which is narrow, from signal portions 452 and 454, which are significantly wider.

[0066] Similarly, pattern analysis, which measures elapsed time between signal portions, identifies signal portions 452 and 454 as indicating human motion, since their time relationship corresponds to the usual speed of human motion across at least partially spatially separated fields of view.

[0067] It is appreciated that the system and methodology illustrated in FIG. 4 may operate at least partially based on detection of radiation emitted by and/or reflected from a human or other object and passing through visually opaque objects.

[0068] Reference is now made to FIG. 5, which is a simplified partially pictorial, partially block diagram illustration of a motion detection system employing millimeter wave motion detection in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention of the type shown in FIG. 1. As seen in FIG. 5, incoherent detector 100 (FIG. 1) views a human 120 (FIG. 1) through an opaque material 508 and lens array 112, which defines the multiple spaced fields of view 102–108, as in FIG. 1.

[0069] As shown in FIG. 5, the incoherent detector 100 “sees” the human without his clothing or other accouterments. The output of incoherent detector 100 is preferably output via an amplifier 502 and an analog-to-digital converter 504 to a microprocessor 506, which are all part of motion detector circuitry 114 shown in FIG. 1. According to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the functionalities of the amplifier 502 and of the analog-to-digital converter 504 may be provided by the microprocessor 506. In such case the amplifier 502 and the analog-to-digital converter 504 may be obviated. The microprocessor 506 preferably provides an alarm indicating motion detection output 116, as seen in FIG. 1.

[0070] Reference is now made to FIG. 6, which is a simplified partially pictorial, partially block diagram illustration of a motion detection system employing millimeter wave motion detection in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention of the general type shown in FIG. 3A. As seen in FIG. 6, incoherent detectors 600 and 620, which may be associated with respective filters 622 and 624, view a human 640 (FIG. 3A) through respective lens arrays 652 and 654, each of which define multiple spaced fields of view 662–666 and 672–676.

[0071] As shown in FIG. 6, the incoherent detector 600 “sees” the human without his clothing or other accouterments. The incoherent detector 620, which here is assumed to be a passive infrared detector, sees the human to the extent that he is not masked by his clothing and by an umbrella 680 which he may be carrying.

[0072] The outputs of incoherent detectors 600 and 620 are preferably output via respective amplifiers 692 and 693 and respective analog-to-digital converter 696 and 697 to a microprocessor 698, which are all part of motion detector circuitry 234 of FIG. 3A. According to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the functionalities of the amplifiers 692 and 694 and of the analog-to-digital converters 696 and 697 may be provided by the microprocessor 698. In such case the amplifiers 692 and 694 and the analog-to-digital converters 696 and 697 may be obviated. The microprocessor 698 preferably provides an alarm indicating motion detection output 236, as seen in FIG. 3A.

[0073] Reference is now made to FIG. 7, which is a simplified partially pictorial, partially block diagram illustration of a motion detection system employing millimeter wave motion detection in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention of the general type shown in FIG. 3A. As seen in FIG. 7, incoherent detectors 700 and 720, which may be associated with respective filters 722 and 724, view a human 740 through a common lens array 750, which defines multiple spaced fields of view 762–766.

[0074] The outputs of incoherent detectors 700 and 720 are preferably output via respective amplifiers 792 and 793 and respective analog-to-digital converters 796 and 797 to a microprocessor 798, which are all part of motion detector circuitry 234 (FIG. 3A). According to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the functionalities of the amplifiers 792 and 794 and of the analog-to-digital converters 796 and 797 may be provided by the microprocessor 798. In such case the amplifiers 792 and 794 and the analog-to-digital converters 796 and 797 may be obviated. The microprocessor 798 preferably provides an alarm indicating motion detection output 236, as seen in FIG. 3A.

[0075] Reference is now made to FIG. 8, which is a simplified partially pictorial, partially block diagram illustration of a motion detection system employing millimeter wave motion detection in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention of the general type shown in FIG. 3A. As seen in FIG. 8, an incoherent detector array 800, which may be associated with a filter 820, views a human 840 through a common lens 850.

[0076] The outputs of incoherent detector array 800 are supplied to a signal multiplexer 860 and thence via an amplifier 862 and an analog-to-digital converter 864 to a microprocessor 866, which are all part of motion detector circuitry 234 of FIG. 3A. According to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the functionalities of the amplifier 862 and of the analog-to-digital converter 864 may be provided by the microprocessor 866. In such case the amplifier 862 and the analog-to-digital converter 864 may be obviated. The microprocessor 866 preferably provides an alarm indicating motion detection output 236, as seen in FIG. 3A.

[0077] Reference is now made to FIGS. 9A, 9B and 9C, which illustrate three alternative embodiments of motion detector systems employing millimeter wave motion detection in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9A, which corresponds to the embodiment of FIG. 6, shows the use of two detectors 900 and 902, each viewing a protected area through a respective lens array, here designated 904 and 906, each of which defines multiple spaced fields of view, here designated 910, 912 & 914 and 920, 922 and 924.

[0078] FIG. 9B, which corresponds to the embodiment of FIG. 7, shows the use of two detectors 930 and 932, each viewing a protected area through a common lens array 934 which defines multiple spaced fields of view, here designated 940, 942 & 944.

[0079] FIG. 9C, which corresponds to the embodiment of FIG. 8, shows the use of an array 950 of detectors, viewing a protected area through a common lens 954. Each sensing element 956 of detector array 950 defines a field of view through the lens 954.

[0080] Reference is now made to FIGS. 10A, 10B and 10C, which are simplified illustrations of three alternative embodiments of detector arrangements employed in millimeter wave motion detectors constructed and operative in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10A shows a detector 958, such as an incoherent detector employed in any of the embodiments of the present invention, mounted onto a printed circuit board without use of a waveguide. FIG. 10B shows a generally conical waveguide 960 surrounding a detector 962. FIG. 10C shows a pair of planar waveguides 964 and 966 adjacent opposite sides of a detector 968. It is appreciated that any suitable waveguide configuration or orientation may be employed in any of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0081] Reference is now made to FIGS. 11A, 11B and 11C, which are simplified illustrations of three alternative embodiments of detectors employed in millimeter wave motion detectors constructed and operative in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11A shows a single sensing element 970 within a package 972, mounted onto a printed circuit board. FIG. 11B shows a pair of sensing elements 974 located within the same package 976, mounted onto a printed circuit board. FIG. 11C shows a pair of detector packages 978 and 980, each containing a single sensing element 982, being mounted onto a printed circuit board.

[0082] Reference is now made to FIG. 12, which is a simplified partially pictorial, partially block diagram illustration of a specific motion detection system employing millimeter wave motion detection in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention of the type shown in FIGS. 1 and 5. As seen in FIG. 12, an incoherent detector 100 (FIG. 1) views a human 120 (FIG. 1) through lens array 112 (FIG. 1), which defines the multiple spaced fields of view 102–108 (FIG. 1).

[0083] As shown in FIG. 12, the incoherent detector 100, which is preferably a PY55 CM Series Detector, commercially available from Goodrich Corporation, 100 Wooster Heights Rd, Danbury, Conn. 06810 U.S.A., is seen to comprise a filter 1200 disposed in front of a DLATGS millimeter wave detector 1202 which is interconnected with an amplifier and a resistor within a package and outputs to a pre-amplifier 1204, preferably of the PAPY series, commercially available from Goodrich Corporation, 100 Wooster Heights Rd, Danbury, Conn. 06810 U.S.A. The pre-amplifier 1204 preferably outputs to a microprocessor having an integrated ADC 1206, preferably a PIC16C711, commercially available from Microchip Technologies, Inc. of Chandler, Ariz.

[0084] Reference is now made to FIG. 13, which is a simplified illustration of a detector output produced by motion of an object through multiple spaced fields of view in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention. As seen in FIG. 13, an object 1300, such as a human, passes through multiple spaced fields of view defined by a lens array 1302 and an incoherent detector 1304, operative to detect receipt of radiation having a wavelength between 0.05 mm and 10 mm.

[0085] It is seen that the object 1300 moves into and out of one of the fields of view, here designated zone 1, into a region lying outside the fields of view and thence into another of the fields of view, here designated zone 2 and thence onward. The output of the incoherent detector 1304 is shown and labeled for correspondence with the presence of the object in the various fields of view.

[0086] More particularly, it is seen that when the object is located at location A, entirely outside of zone 1, the output signal of incoherent detector 1304 lies generally between upper and lower amplitude thresholds. When the object moves across location B, partially entering zone 1, the output signal of incoherent detector 1304 reaches a positive peak and exceeds the upper threshold. When the object moves across location C, entirely within zone 1, the output signal of incoherent detector 1304 lies generally between upper and lower amplitude thresholds. When the object moves across location D, partially leaving zone 1, the output signal of incoherent detector 1304 reaches a negative peak and exceeds the lower threshold. When the object is located at location E, the output signal of incoherent detector 1304 lies between the upper and lower amplitude thresholds.

[0087] The foregoing pattern is repeated for each crossing of a field of view.

[0088] It is appreciated that the motion detector circuitry, such as circuitry 114 (FIG. 1), is preferably operative to analyze the output of the incoherent detector 1304 and to determine the time separation between peaks, here designated T, and to correlate the time separation with the usual speed of travel of a human; to determine the amplitude of the peaks relative to the upper and lower thresholds and to correlate the amplitude with the amount of radiation normally emitted or reflected by a human; and to determine the time duration of the exceedance of the upper and lower thresholds by the peaks and to correlate this duration with the size and speed of the human.

[0089] The foregoing parameters are some of the parameters employed in accordance with the present invention for distinguishing sensed motion of humans from other sensed motion and other environmental phenomena.

[0090] Reference is now made to FIG. 14, which is a simplified illustration of a detector output produced by motion of an object through multiple spaced fields of view in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the invention. As seen in FIG. 14, an object 1400, such as a human, passes through a field of view defined by a lens 1402 and a detector array 1404, operative to detect receipt of radiation having a wavelength between 0.05 mm and 10 mm.

[0091] It is seen that the object 1400 moves into and out of the field of view seen by a sensing element 1406, here designated zone 1, into a region lying outside the fields of view and thence into the field of view seen by a sensing element 1408, here designated zone 2 and thence onward. The outputs of the sensing elements 1406, 1408 and 1410 are shown and labeled for correspondence with the presence of the object in the various fields of view.

[0092] More particularly, it is seen that when the object is located at location A, entirely outside of zone 1, the output signal of sensing element 1406 lies generally between upper and lower amplitude thresholds. When the object moves across location B, partially entering zone 1, the output signal of sensing element 1406 reaches a positive peak and exceeds the upper threshold. When the object moves across location C, entirely within zone 1, the output signal of sensing element 1406 lies generally between upper and lower amplitude thresholds. When the object moves across location D, partially leaving zone 1, the output signal of sensing element 1406 reaches a negative peak and exceeds the lower threshold. When the object is located at location E, the output signal of incoherent detector array 1404 lies between the upper and lower amplitude thresholds.

[0093] The foregoing pattern is repeated for each crossing of a field of view of a sensing element.

[0094] It is appreciated that the motion detector circuitry, such as circuitry 114 (FIG. 1), is preferably operative to analyze the output of the incoherent detector array 1404 and to determine the time separation between peaks, here designated T, and to correlate the time separation with the usual speed of travel of a human, to determine the amplitude of the peaks relative to the upper and lower thresholds and to correlate the amplitude with the amount of radiation normally emitted or reflected by a human; and to determine the time duration of the exceedance of the upper and lower thresholds by the peaks and to correlate this duration with the size and speed of the human.

[0095] The foregoing parameters are some of the parameters employed in accordance with the present invention for distinguishing sensed motion of humans from other sensed motion and other environmental phenomena.

[0096] Reference is now made to FIGS. 15A, 15B and 15C, which are simplified illustrations of three different incoherent detector outputs useful in understanding the operation of a preferred embodiment of the invention. Turning to FIG. 15A, there is shown a waveform characteristic of the motion of a human between fields of view. Two positive peaks, here designated 1500 and 1502 are seen to exceed positive amplitude thresholds respectively designated by reference numerals 1504 and 1506. A negative peak, here designated by reference numeral 1508, is seen to exceed negative amplitude thresholds respectively designated by reference numerals 1510 and 1512. The peaks are characteristic of the radiation emitted or reflected by a human. The two positive peaks are spaced by a time duration T, characteristic of human walking motion.

[0097] FIG. 15A also shows details of the shape of a peak, here peak 1500. It is seen that the peak 1500 has a rise time between thresholds 1506 and 1504, designated rt, a width of t, where it crosses the threshold 1504, a maximum height above the threshold 1504 of h and a fall time between thresholds 1504 and 1506, designated ft. Parameters rt, t, h and ft are preferably employed by the motion detector to distinguish motion of a human from motion of other objects, such as pets.

[0098] Turning to FIG. 15B, there is shown a waveform not characteristic of the motion of a human between fields of view. A single relatively low hill, here designated 1514, is seen to exceed both first and second positive amplitude thresholds 1504 and 1506 and is characteristic of gradual environment changes or very slow movements of objects in a protected volume.

[0099] FIG. 15B also shows details of the shape of hill 1514. It is seen that the hill has a rise time between thresholds 1506 and 1504, designated rt, a width of t, where it crosses the threshold 1504, a maximum height above the threshold 1504 of h and a fall time between thresholds 1504 and 1506, designated ft. Parameters rt, t, h and ft are preferably employed by the motion detector to distinguish motion of a human from gradual environmental changes or very slow motion of objects within the protected volume.

[0100] Turning to FIG. 15C, there is shown a waveform characteristic of the motion of a human into a field of view, which motion is then terminated. A single relatively flat plateau, here designated 1520, is seen to exceed amplitude threshold 1504.

[0101] FIG. 15C also shows details of the shape of plateau 1520. It is seen that the plateau 1520 has a rise time, designated rt1, between amplitude thresholds 1506 and 1504 and a further rise time, designated rt2, above threshold 1504 and a height h above threshold 1504. Parameters rt1, rt2 and h are preferably employed by the motion detector to distinguish continuing motion of a human from stopped motion of a human within the protected volume.

[0102] Reference is now made to FIG. 16, which is a simplified flowchart illustrating operation of a processor employed in the embodiment of FIGS. 5 & 8. As seen in FIG. 16, with additional reference to FIGS. 15A–15C, the thresholds 1504, 1506, 1510 and 1512 and other predetermined parameters are initially set.

[0103] An inquiry is made every unit time, typically once per 20 milliseconds, as to whether the output of the incoherent detector currently exceeds either of thresholds 1504 and 1512.

[0104] If the output of the incoherent detector does not currently exceed either of thresholds 1504 and 1512, a negative threshold exceedance output is provided.

[0105] If the output of the incoherent detector currently exceeds either of thresholds 1504 and 1512, an inquiry is then made as to whether the duration over which either of the thresholds 1504 and 1512 has been continuously exceeded, lies within a predetermined range of durations corresponding to the width t (FIG. 15A). Unless and until this occurs, a negative duration range output is provided.

[0106] If the output of the incoherent detector did cross either of thresholds 1504 and 1512 and has a width t which is within a predefined range of widths, an event counter is incremented. When the event counter reaches a predetermined count, an alarm output is provided. Until the event counter reaches the predetermined count, a negative event count exceedance output is provided.

[0107] Each time any one of the following outputs—negative threshold exceedance output, negative duration range output or negative event count exceedance output—is received, an inquiry is made as to whether at least a predetermined time, typically 5 times T (FIG. 15A), has elapsed since the preceding incrementing or decrementing of the event counter. If such a predetermined time has elapsed, the event counter is decremented towards zero.

[0108] Reference is now made to FIGS. 17A and 17B, which, taken together, form a simplified flowchart illustrating operation of a processor employed in the embodiment of FIGS. 6 & 7. As seen in FIGS. 17A and 17B, with additional reference to FIGS. 15A–15C, the thresholds 1504, 1506, 1510 and 1512 and other predetermined parameters are initially set for each incoherent detector. It is appreciated that different incoherent detectors may have the same or different thresholds.

[0109] An inquiry is made every unit time, typically once per 20 milliseconds, as to whether the output of each of the two incoherent detectors 600 and 620 (FIG. 6) currently exceeds either of their respective thresholds 1504 and 1512.

[0110] If the output of either incoherent detector does not currently exceed either of its thresholds 1504 and 1512, a negative threshold exceedance output is provided by that incoherent detector.

[0111] If the output of either incoherent detector currently exceeds either of its thresholds 1504 and 1512, an inquiry is then made as to whether the duration, over which either of the thresholds 1504 and 1512 has been continuously exceeded, lies within a predetermined range of durations corresponding to the width t (FIG. 15A). It is appreciated that each of the incoherent detectors 600 and 620 may have the same or a different characteristic width t. Unless and until this occurs, a negative duration range output is provided.

[0112] If the outputs of both incoherent detectors did cross either one of their respective thresholds 1504 and 1512 and have widths t which are within their respective predefined range of widths, an inquiry is made as to the extent of the overlap of their widths t in time. It is appreciated that the predetermined range of widths for each incoherent detector may be the same or different.

[0113] If exceedance of at least a predetermined measure of overlap in time of the widths t of the outputs of the incoherent detectors 600 and 620 is found to exist, an event counter is incremented. When the event counter reaches a predetermined count, an alarm output is provided. Until the event counter reaches the predetermined count, a negative event count exceedance output is provided. Unless and until such measure of overlap exists, a negative overlap exceedance output is provided.

[0114] Each time any one of the following outputs—negative threshold exceedance output, negative duration range output, negative overlap exceedance output or negative event count exceedance output—is received, an inquiry is made as to whether at least a predetermined time, typically 5 times T (FIG. 15A), has elapsed since the preceding incrementing or decrementing of the event counter. If such a predetermined time has elapsed, the event counter is decremented towards zero.

[0115] Reference is now made to FIGS. 18A and 18B, which, taken together, form a simplified flowchart illustrating operation of a processor employed in the embodiment of FIG. 3B. As seen in FIGS. 18A and 18B, with additional reference to FIGS. 15A–15C, the thresholds 1504, 1506, 1510 and 1512 and other predetermined parameters are initially set for incoherent detector 250 and for coherent detector 260 (FIG. 3B). It is appreciated that different detectors may have the same or different thresholds.

[0116] An inquiry is made every unit time, typically once per 20 milliseconds, as to whether the output of each of the two detectors 250 and 260 (FIG. 3B) currently exceeds either of their respective thresholds 1504 and 1512.

[0117] If the output of either detector does not currently exceed either of its thresholds 1504 and 1512, a negative threshold exceedance output is provided by that detector.

[0118] If the output of either detector currently exceeds either of its thresholds 1504 and 1512, an inquiry is then made as to whether the duration, over which either of the thresholds 1504 and 1512 has been continuously exceeded, lies within a predetermined range of durations corresponding to the width t (FIG. 15A). It is appreciated that each of the incoherent detectors 250 and 260 may have the same or a different characteristic width t. Unless and until this occurs, a negative duration range output is provided.

[0119] If the outputs of both detectors did cross either one of their respective thresholds 1504 and 1512 and have widths t which are within their respective predefined range of widths, an inquiry is made as to the extent of the overlap of their widths t in time. It is appreciated that the predetermined range of widths for each detector may be the same or different.

[0120] If exceedance of at least a predetermined measure of overlap in time of the widths t of the outputs of the detectors 250 and 260 is found to exist, an event counter is incremented. When the event counter reaches a predetermined count, an alarm output is provided. Until the event counter reaches the predetermined count, a negative event count exceedance output is provided. Unless and until such measure of overlap exists, a negative overlap exceedance output is provided.

[0121] Each time any one of the following outputs—negative threshold exceedance output, negative duration range output, negative overlap exceedance output or negative event count exceedance output—is received, an inquiry is made as to whether at least a predetermined time, typically 5 times T (FIG. 15A), has elapsed since the preceding incrementing or decrementing of the event counter. If such a predetermined time has elapsed, the event counter is decremented towards zero.

[0122] Reference is now made to FIG. 19, which is a simplified pictorial illustration of an access control system constructed and operative in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. As seen in FIG. 19, motion detection apparatus 1900 of the type shown and described hereinabove with reference to any of FIGS. 1–18 may be employed for access control.

[0123] The motion detection apparatus 1900 preferably comprises an incoherent detector operative to detect receipt of radiation having a wavelength between 0.05 mm and 10 mm. Access control circuitry 1902, typically embodied in a remote computer, receives an input from an output from the motion detector and provides an access control circuit output based at least partially thereon. The access control circuit output may be supplied to a door lock mechanism 1904 for selectably opening or locking a door or other access device.

[0124] Reference is now made to FIG. 20, which is a simplified pictorial illustration of an energy management system constructed and operative in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. As seen in FIG. 20, motion detection apparatus 2000 of the type shown and described hereinabove with reference to any of FIGS. 1–18 may be employed for energy management.

[0125] The motion detection apparatus 2000 preferably comprises an incoherent detector operative to detect receipt of radiation having a wavelength between 0.05 mm and 10 mm. Energy management circuitry 2002, typically embodied in a remote computer, receives an input from an output from the motion detector and provides an energy management circuit output based at least partially thereon. The access control circuit output may be supplied to lights 2004 and air conditioning apparatus 2006 for selectable operation thereof.

[0126] It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited by what has been particularly shown and described hereinabove. Rather the scope of the present invention includes both combinations and subcombinations of the various features described hereinabove as well as variations and modifications which would occur to persons skilled in the art upon reading the specification and which are not in the prior art.