Smart flooring can help predict the future
One of the most rewarding parts of Scanalytics is when a customer conceives of their own unique idea on how our underlying technology can power new applications.
By way of background, here’s what Scanalytics is all about:
Scanalytics is leading the translation of sophisticated occupancy data into valuable insights on space utilization and energy efficiency by leveraging the taken-for-granted fact that where buildings, there are floors. And, every building that has ever been, and every one that ever will be constructed, will have a floor. With Scanalytics, now floors can share insights into our movements.
Our system is comprised of a patented three-component platform:
Spatial science: the new frontier
No matter their business or building focus, customers almost always surprise Scanalytics with innovative ideas for a new application for smart flooring. It reminds us how creative humans are especially after they have been “primed” on functionalities of an existing product. Spatial science is a new frontier that has innumerate possibilities. We’re working on turning the floor into a computational substrate for creative humans like you to make these possibilities come to life.
Murder, she wrote
For a unique twist, we wanted to expand on one of the most interesting conversations we’ve had around leveraging spatial intelligence. (Plus who isn’t a little curious about crime? 15 years of CSI can’t be wrong.) A few years ago our CEO met with a prison psychologist who spent his time observing inmate behaviors in order to operate a safer and more intelligent environment.
Get Busy Living, or Get Busy Dying
Once he was introduced to the concept of smart flooring and its data potential, here are the applications he wanted to see
Predictive Behavioral Analytics: Utilize the concept of predictive analytics in behavioral science. By analyzing the movement patterns of inmates, the technology could identify deviations from normal routines that might indicate brewing tension or planning of disruptive activities. This could involve changes in movement patterns, unusual gatherings, or reduced activity in certain areas.
Social Network Analysis (SNA): SNA can be used to identify key players or groups within the prison population. By mapping the frequent interactions and movements of inmates, the technology could highlight the social structure within the prison, potentially identifying leaders or influencers who might play a role in organizing group activities, including riots.
Routine Activity Theory: This criminology theory suggests that for a crime to occur, three elements must be present: a motivated offender, a suitable target, and the absence of a capable guardian. The technology could help in identifying scenarios where these elements converge, especially by monitoring areas where supervision is minimal.
Crowd Dynamics and Movement Patterns: Understanding how crowds form and move can be crucial in a prison setting. The technology could be used to analyze patterns of movement that lead to crowding or potential conflict zones. For instance, identifying areas where inmates tend to congregate and the times these gatherings occur could be vital in preempting riots or fights.
Stress and Agitation Detection: Incorporate research on behavioral indicators of stress and agitation. Changes in movement speed, erratic movements, or increased pacing could indicate heightened stress levels among inmates, potentially signaling an impending conflict.
Case Studies and Historical Data: Reference historical instances of prison riots and disturbances. Analyze these events to see if there were detectable patterns or movements that could have served as early warning signs.
Integration with Other Security Measures: The technology can be integrated with existing security systems, like CCTV cameras, to provide a comprehensive security solution. For instance, if our sensors detect unusual activity, cameras in the area could be automatically directed to monitor these locations more closely.
Training and Empowerment of Prison Staff: The technology can be used to train prison staff to recognize early warning signs of unrest and how to respond effectively. This could include simulations based on data collected by the sensors.
Stay tuned for more unique applications for Smart Flooring! Email us at info@scanalyticsinc.com with your comments and ideas, too.
