NIT Rourkela patents a smart intruder detection system using thermal imaging and gait recognition to enhance security in complex environments
OdishaPlus Bureau
National Institute of Technology Rourkela has secured a patent for an advanced surveillance system that detects unauthorised individuals in restricted areas using thermal imaging and gait recognition technology.
Developed by a research team led by Samit Ari from the Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, the system identifies individuals based on their unique walking patterns, enabling automated and non-intrusive monitoring in large and complex building environments.
The patented technology, titled “Unauthorized Person Detection using Thermal Imaging and Gait Recognition for Intra-Building Security,” addresses limitations of conventional CCTV systems, which rely heavily on manual monitoring and are prone to human error, especially in low-light conditions or across multiple cameras.
Built at an estimated cost of ₹1.90 lakh with support from the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), the system uses thermal imaging to accurately detect human presence even in darkness or poor visibility. It compares an individual’s gait with a database of authorised users and flags any mismatch as a potential security threat.
The prototype integrates three thermal cameras linked to a central server, allowing it to track movement across multiple checkpoints, store temporary data on unidentified individuals, and maintain records for forensic analysis.
Researchers say the system can significantly reduce reliance on manual surveillance while improving response time and accuracy in threat detection. It is expected to find applications in academic institutions, corporate campuses, defence establishments, and high-security industrial facilities.
The team is now seeking industry partners to facilitate real-world deployment of the technology.
