Infrared Thermal Imaging for Embedded Child Presence Detection System: Feasibility and Performance Evaluation

In the automotive industry, regulations and standards mandate that Child Presence Detection (CPD) systems must be installed. Most current CPD systems utilize radar or visible cameras to identify the presence or absence of objects based on bio-signals or movement information. However, these systems cannot determine if an emergency situation, such as heatstroke, occurs as the temperature inside the vehicle rises. In this paper, we propose an architecture for a thermal imaging-based CPD system that can perform simultaneous object detection, recognition, and status assessment, while also monitoring the internal environment of the vehicle. We further evaluate the feasibility of this thermal imaging-based CPD system in meeting the performance requirements outlined by regulations and standards for in-cabin use.