GB2597094A

GB2597094A - Cargo space unauthorised human occupant detection and alerting system

Info

Publication number: GB2597094A
Application number: GB2010887.4A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Jan Piekos Andrew; Andrew Piekos John; Crawford Ian
Original assignee: Csmonitors Ltd
Current assignee: Csmonitors Ltd
Priority date: 2020-07-15
Filing date: 2020-07-15
Publication date: 2022-01-19
Also published as: GB202010887D0

Abstract

A system that monitors a cargo space 301 of e.g. a truck 302 and provides an alert when one or more people e.g. intruders, refugees 303 are identified. The system has one or more sensors 102 dependent upon the monitoring requirements of the cargo space, and may include CO2, pressure, optical, infra-red, sound, humidity, temperature, motion and thermal imaging, and/or door 106 sensors. The sensors data are processed by a unit within the cargo space and communicate with a remote centre that can monitor and control the system. The processor may have an illuminated SOS help button 105, back up battery power, GPS 110, memory storage, and a video camera, speaker and microphone for live two-way monitoring / communication of the cargo space. A pre-recorded message may also be triggered or played to deter an intruder. The system may be activated automatically or manually by an authorised user; or activated automatically when a geo-fence boundary has been crossed. When the system is activated an alert will be automatically generated should the cargo space doors be opened, or the SOS help button activated. An alert/warning may be sent by email, SMS to users e.g. driver of a truck.

Description

Title: Cargo Space Unauthorised Human Occupant Detection and Alerting System. DESCRIPTION [0001] The invention relates to a system which facilitates the monitoring of a cargo space using a combination of different types of sensor in an intelligent sensor array which are wholly, severally or individually capable of identifying human presence within a range of cargo space types.

A processor is coupled to each sensor in the sensor array and arranged to control and monitor each sensor and receive and process the data obtained thereby and determine any human presence. Augmented functionality is provided by the processor which is coupled to a cellular telecommunications module which allows data to be transmitted to and from a software application hosted in the cloud. The software application further processes and manages the data and facilitates two-way communication of data between the sensor array, processor, a Monitoring Control Centre computer, a Transport Control Centre computer and remote Cellular Handheld Devices.

[0002] The global nature of trade requires movement of goods across international borders. Cargo spaces in all manner of vehicles and vessels provide the means for that global supply. These cargo spaces are not usually designed for the carriage of human beings but there may be reasons why they are sometimes found to contain an unauthorised human presence, most typically being that the person is: - A modern slave A refugee - An economic migrant [0003] These often desperate individuals may be acting entirely on their own initiative or they may have been placed into the cargo space as the result of the efforts of organised criminal gangs specialising in human trafficking. They are likely to believe that they are protecting their own best interests and will have a strong motivation to avoid detection, especially at border controls or in the case of a goods vehicle, by its driver. In some cases a driver may even be complicit either through bribery, threat or other interest in the criminal activity and in such cases the driver is likely to be aware of the human presence within the cargo space.

[0004] The consequences are usually serious but can sometimes be horrific: In October 2019, 39 young people died of suffocation in the rear of a goods vehicle so used.

- Transport and logistics companies face a civil penalty of £2000 for each person so carried. The company vehicle may be seized until the penalty has been paid - The driver may be detained for questioning and could face prosecution if implicated.

The vehicle is often damaged and in the case of refrigerated goods vehicles this is usually includes the refrigeration unit.

There may be damage to or partial loss of any goods carried but this is likely to include the total loss of any perishable goods [0005] Monitoring the cargo space for an unauthorised human presence(s) is an obvious solution. There are however, many different types of cargo space and the effectiveness of current types of monitoring solutions is affected by the physical specifications of the identified cargo space and even other factors such as the possible complicity of a driver, in the case of a vehicle. The sensor array enables operation in a wide variety of cargo space types and remote monitoring provides transparency for transport managers.

Detailed Description

[0006] An embodiment of the invention is explained in greater detail with reference to drawings as follows. The identical parts are designated with the identical references on each drawing.

[0007] Figure 1 shows the Sensor Array Monitoring Unit schematic diagram. [0008] Figure 2 shows the Sensor Array Monitoring System Infrastructure.

[0009] Figure 3 shows a Typical Installation of the Cargo Space Sensor Array Monitoring System in a Truck Cargo Space.

[0010] A Sensor Array 101 is comprised of a combination of different types of sensor 102 in an intelligent sensor array which are wholly, severally or individually capable of identifying human presence 303 the cargo space 301.

[0011] In the embodiment in Figure 3, the cargo space is within a truck 302. There are a wide variety of cargo spaces such as an aircraft, ship, train, road vehicle or container.

[0012] A Sensor Array 101 is linked to a processor 103 located in the Sensor Array Monitoring Unit Housing 104.

[0013] The processor 103 monitors each sensor of the sensor array and uses intelligent algorithms including the rate of change of conditions and the frequency of occurrence in order to initiate a Human Presence Alert and reduce the risk of false alerts. The use of an array of different sensors any the analysis of the combined data is crucial in determining the presence of an unauthorised human.

[0014] The processor 103 is linked to an SOS Help Push Button Switch 105. This allows a human in the cargo space to activate the Human Presence Alert and summon external help and assistance. For reasons of safety and protection, this function will be active at all times.

[0015] The processor 103 is linked to cargo space door sensors/interlocks 106. This allows the doors to the cargo space to be monitored by the processor and an Alert initiated if the doors are opened whilst in System Active status.

[0016] A Cellular Communication Module 107 allows the processor to communicate with a cloud-based software application 201. A Cellular Communication Antenna 108 is located remotely.

[0017] The processor 103 is linked to a GPS module 108 (Global Positioning Satellite system) which provides real-time location data of the cargo space. A GPS Antenna 110 is located remotely.

[0018] A loudspeaker and microphone 111 allows two-way communication with the cargo space 301 from a Monitoring Control Centre User 203, a Transport Control Centre User 207 and a Remote Authorised User 211. This is linked to the Processor 103.

[0019] An Audible and Visual Alarm 112 may be initiated in the event of an Alert. This is linked to the Processor Module.

[0020] The Vehicle Lights Interface Module 113 allows the vehicle lights (e.g in the case of a Truck) to be used as an additional external indication of an Alert. This is linked to the Processor 103.

[0021] The User Interface 114 is linked to the processor 103 and allows the Sensor Array Monitoring System in the cargo space to be interrogated and configured by an authorised user. This may be used in activities such as system configuration, commissioning or fault finding.

[0022] The Power Supply with Battery Backup 115 provides a connection to the cargo space power supply and provides a battery backup for periods when the cargo space power supply is not available. This is linked to the Processor 103.

[0023] Referring to Figure 2, the Sensor Array Monitoring Unit located in the cargo space communicates via cellular communications to a cloud-based software application 201.

[0024] There can be many instances of cargo spaces 301 and the cloud-based software application 201. Data can be stored in databases 212 for future retrieval and analysis. The Monitoring Control Centre 202 may monitor the cargo spaces belonging to many different client companies each with their own Transport Control Centre 206. Each sensor array Monitoring Unit is individually addressable, and access is restricted by each client company to designated authorised control centres and users. Communications and data are encrypted.

[0025] A computer 204 displaying a virtual dashboard 205 is located in a Monitoring Control Centre 202 and is observed by a Monitoring Control Centre User 203. The Monitoring Control Centre User 203 can receive a Human Presence Alert and monitor the cargo space via the Sensor array Monitoring Unit. The Monitoring Control Centre User 203 can initiate further actions such as informing the Transport Control Centre User, a Remote Authorised User and/or the relevant law enforcement agencies.

[0026] A computer 208 displaying a virtual dashboard 209 is located in a Transport Control Centre 206 and is observed by a Transport Control Centre User 207. The Transport Control Centre User 207 can receive a Human Presence Alert and monitor the cargo space via the Sensor array Monitoring Unit. The Transport Control Centre User 207 can initiate further actions such as informing the Monitoring Control Centre User, a Remote Authorised User and/or the relevant law enforcement agencies.

[0027] A Cellular Handheld Device 212 displaying a virtual dashboard 213 is located in a Remote Location 210 and is observed by a Remote User 211 such as, in this embodiment, the truck driver. In one embodiment, the Remote User 211 is authorised to receive a Human Presence Alert and monitor the cargo space via the Sensor array Monitoring Unit. The Remote User 211 can initiate further actions such as informing the Monitoring Control Centre User, Transport Control Centre User and/or the relevant law enforcement agencies.

[0028] The Virtual Dashboards 205, 209 and 213 can have the same or different configurations of access to the sensor array unit 301.

[0029] The Virtual Dashboards 205, 209 and 213 can receive Alerts and monitoring data from multiple Sensor Array Monitoring Units. Each Virtual Dashboard can be configured individually to display, monitor and control data from and to the Sensor Array Monitoring Unit 301. The Virtual Dashboard can configure the system status of the Sensor Array Monitoring Unit 301.

[0030] In one embodiment, the Remote User 211 may receive a Human Presence Alert only after it has been processed and passed on manually from the Transport Control Centre User 207. Additionally, the Remote User 211 may not have the authorisation to change the Sensor Array Monitoring Unit Status.

[0031] When a Human Presence Alert is received, the user can investigate the situation further by looking at a live or recorded video from the cargo space and looking at the other monitoring data to determine the next actions to take.

[0032] Alert notifications may be sent by email, sms or other messaging application to a Remote User such as the transport manager and other pre-identified persons, such as the driver of the vehicle in the case of a truck cargo space. All video audio and other sensor information will be retained for subsequent review and possible evidential use.

[0033] Monitoring data and Alert history is stored in a cloud-based database 212 for later retrieval and analysis if required.

Claims

CLAIMS[0034] The cargo space is fitted with sensors in a sensor array. The sensor array is comprised of one or more types of sensors selected to meet the monitoring requirements of different cargo spaces. The sensor types include, but are not exclusive to, the following: CO2 sensor(s) - Optical sensor(s) Pressure sensor(s) - Infra-red motion sensor(s) Microwave motion detection sensor(s) Sound monitor sensor(s) Humidity sensor(s) Temperature sensor(s) - Motion detection video camera(s) Thermal Imaging detection sensors(s) The sensors in the sensor array are connected to the processor by wired or wireless connections.The sensors in the sensor array may be located within the Sensor Array Monitoring Unit Housing or remotely within the cargo space.[0035] The sensor array, processor and associated modules comprise the Sensor Array Monitoring Unit located in the cargo space. The Sensor Array Monitoring Unit, cloud-based software application and the Control Centres comprise the Sensor Array Monitoring System.[0036] The sensors generate data which is managed through a processor. This enables the feeds from the sensor array to be configured in such a way as to maximise the capacity for detection of human presence at the same time minimising the risks of false activation.[0037] The processor will manage the sensor array and will communicate with a cloud-based application using cellular telecommunication connectivity. It is augmented by the following additional functionality: Illuminated SOS Help push-button (with reset key) Built in re-chargeable battery to provide battery backup in the event of loss of cargo space power GPS location sensor operating in real time Video camera(s) incorporating infrared functionality and memory storage Loudspeaker and Microphone to facilitate two-way communication from a remote user to a cargo space occupant.Pre-recorded audible message(s) [0038] The cloud-based software application has a virtual dashboard on a user computer which is configured for use by the Monitoring Control Centre User and Transport Control User (For example a Client Company or a company Transport Manager). The dashboard views will enable a Human Presence Alert, other System Alerts to be displayed and the interrogation of the sensor data.The dashboard will also enable the system to be set to one of the following states: - System Powered ON -System Inactive: The processor will not send alerts to the cloud in response to detection of persons in the cargo space unless the SOS notification button has been pressed.- System Powered ON-System Active: The processor may be set to System Active either by an instruction sent from the virtual dashboard or alternatively because it has crossed a 'geo-fence'. Once set to System Active, the processor will send alerts to the cloud-based application in accordance with the configuration settings specifying the desired sensitivity of the sensor array.- System Powered OFF-System Alert: In the event that there is a loss of power to the system, it will use its battery reserves to send an Alert Notification. This would be acted on by the Transport Control Centre User ( eg: the client's transport manager) if it is in a System Inactive state and also the Monitoring Control Centre User if it is in a System Active state.[0039] The sensor array can be placed in the System Active state either automatically or manually by an authorised user.Automatic enabling of the System Active state would include crossing a geo-fence boundary.When the system is in the System Active state, the cargo space will appear in a list of actively monitored systems accessible from the central control dashboard. This system can then be interrogated remotely to access the totality of monitoring data it collects.[0040] The transport management client will similarly see all its active vehicles in the client dashboard and will be able to access summary information including information about any alerts. It will be able to remotely activate or deactivate units on its account.[0041] When a Human Presence Alert is generated by the processor, it will display on the dashboard of the Monitoring Control Centre User and/or the Transport Control Centre User and prompt further investigation. This may include reviewing the cargo space sensor array data and monitoring the live or recorded video and audio feeds from the cargo space.The dashboard will allow users to speak directly to, and hear from, any occupants in the cargo space in real time. A pre-recorded message may also be triggered which may be repeated in different languages whenever an alert is generated, before it has been actioned by the transport manager or the central control.It is believed that occupants will be deterred from remaining in the vehicle and this early intervention may prevent significant damage to the vehicle and harm or loss to the cargo.[0042] The Sensor Array Monitoring System is configured to produce a Human Presence Alert only where there is a reasonable degree of certainty that the cargo space has been compromised by an unauthorised human presence.The processor will monitor each sensor of the sensor array and use intelligent algorithms including the rate of change of conditions and the frequency of occurrence in order to initiate a Human Presence Alert and reduce false alerts.The system will capture and record video for each detection but will only initiate a Human Presence Alert after multiple detections in order to reduce false alerts.[0043] In order to initiate a Human Presence Alert, the processor will monitor conditions including the following: raised CO2 levels (outside normal operating conditions) temperature changes (for refrigerated cargo space this may be an indication of a failed cooling system or possible interference by an unauthorised human presence) humidity levels outside normal operating conditions - sensor array motion detections [0044] A Human Presence Alert will be initiated immediately by conditions including any of the following: - cargo space doors opened when the system is in System Active state (single occurrence initiates an Alert) SOS Help Button activation (single occurrence initiates an Alert) [0045] Simultaneous warning notifications may be sent by email, sms or other messaging application to a Remote User such as the transport manager and other pre-identified persons, such as the driver of the vehicle in the case of a truck cargo space. All video audio and other sensor information will be retained for subsequent review and possible evidential use.[0046] In the event of any loss of network service, all alerts occurring during that period will be re-sent to the cloud-based software application as soon as the network service is restored. An active unit that has lost network service for an extended period will be highlighted on the Monitoring Control Centre dashboard and on the Transport Control Centre dashboard. The monitoring user may wish to review last location and alert history to ascertain whether the loss of service is explicable (boarded ferry or entered channel tunnel) and determine what action to take.