Human presence and motion detection through electrostatic sensing

Human motion detection is essential in a wide range of applications. In view of the advantages of non-contact sensing, high sensitivity, fast response, simple installation and low cost, electrostatic sensors in different sizes and arrangements have been developed for human motion detection recently. This paper evaluates for the first time the performance of electrostatic sensors for human presence and motion detection. Experimental tests were conducted to obtain and analyse sensor signals of typical walking and stepping motions. The effects of sensor location, ambient conditions and the subject under test on the sensor output are quantified through systematic experimental testing.