Motion detector
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This article does not cite any references or sources. (March 2007) |
A motion detector is a device that detects moving objects, particularly people. A motion detector is often integrated as a component of a system that automatically performs a task or alerts a user of motion in an area. Motion detectors form a vital component of security, automated lighting control, home control, energy efficiency, and other useful systems.
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Overview [edit]
An electronic motion detector contains a motion sensor that transforms the detection of motion into an electric signal. This can be achieved by measuring optical changes in the field of view. Most motion detectors can detect up to 15 – 25 meters (40–80ft).
A motion detector may be connected to a burglar alarm that is used to alert the home owner or security service after it detects motion. Such a detector may also trigger a red light camera. Motion detectors have found great application in domestic and commercial applications. Some of these applications include motion-activated outdoor lighting systems, motion sensor street lamps and motion sensor lanterns.
Sensors [edit]
There are four types of sensors used in motion detectors spectrum:
- Passive infrared (passive)
- Senses body heat. No energy is emitted from the sensor, thus the name "passive infrared" (PIR).
- Ultrasonic (active)
- Sends out pulses of ultrasonic waves and measures the reflection off a moving object.
- Microwave (active)
- Sensor sends out microwave pulses and measures the changes due to reflection off a moving object. Similar to a police radar gun.
- Tomographic Motion Detector (active)
- Senses disturbances to radio waves as they travel through an area surrounded by mesh network nodes. Has the ability to detect over complete areas because it can sense through walls and obstructions.
Dual-technology motion detectors [edit]
Many modern motion detectors use a combination of different technologies. While combining multiple sensing technologies into one detector can help reduce false triggering, it does so at the expense of reduced detection probabilities and increased vulnerability. For example, many dual-tech sensors combine both a PIR sensor and a microwave sensor into one unit. In order for motion to be detected, both sensors must trip together. This lowers the probability of a false alarm since heat and light changes may trip the PIR but not the microwave, or trees may trigger the microwave but not the PIR. If an intruder is able to fool the PIR or microwave, however, the sensor will not detect. Dual-tech sensors are only as strong as their weakest link.
Often, PIR technology will be paired with another model to maximize accuracy and reduce energy usage. PIR draws less energy than microwave detection, and so many sensors are calibrated so that when the PIR sensor is tripped, it activates a microwave sensor. If the latter also picks up an intruder, then the alarm is sounded. As interior motion detectors do not ‘see’ through windows or walls, motion-sensitive outdoor lighting is often recommended to enhance comprehensive efforts to protect your property.
False alarms are those usually caused by technical errors such as electrical and mechanical failures. Nuisance alarms are system activations not commonly caused by attackers or intruders but rather from wind blown debris, animals, insects and foliage.
See also [edit]
- Heat detector
- Motion controller for video game consoles
- Motion detection
- Pickup (music technology)
- Remote camera
- Smoke detector
