Smart alarm system recognises attempted break-ins
Scientists have developed a smart alarm that can set of an alarm system that recognises any attempt to break in, by detecting temperature changes or vibrations on windows in real time – leaving burglars with no chance. The window panes of jewellery stores, art galleries and banks are protected by alarm and fitted with security glass. However, the pane or part thereof has to break before the alarm is triggered.
Conventional security glass contains metal threads that tear in the event of mechanical damage, activating the alarm. If a cutting torch or a drill is used to damage the glass, conventional systems react either too late or not at all. Burglars exploit this weakness and use a drill or a blowtorch instead of a hammer. Researchers at Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft in Germany developed a smart anti-burglary protection system that overcomes this problem.
The new system quickly and dynamically records thermal and mechanical stresses from external causes. Even a gentle knock against the security glass or manipulation through the use of a flame is enough to trigger the alarm. The external force applied to the pane changes its mechanical characteristics, and the system detects this change. This method of monitoring glass panes is based on …read more
