Texas-based Athena Security is looking to help public places use thermal imaging and computer vision to detect people potentially carrying the coronavirus. Called Fever Detection for COVID-19, the system combines infrared cameras and an algorithm to detect people who have a temperature higher than 100 degrees. One of the most common symptoms of the virus is a fever.

Cameras scan 12 points on the head including the inner eye which is the most accurate for temperature readings. According to the company, the measurements are within a half-degree of accuracy. The system includes a browser-based dashboard and a mobile app. It can also be easily integrated into other security systems.

“So when someone comes into a business or an airport, you want to detect fevers to protect employees and customers. We automatically send a discreet alert so customers don’t have to have someone stationed at every doorway watching people come in,” said Lisa Falzone, co-founder, and CEO of Athena Security.

credit: Athena Security

Athena AI Cameras Originally Used to Spot Guns

To help protect privacy, the Athena system blurs faces on the recorded AI camera footage. It tracks thermal images and does not display a person’s race or ethnicity. As far as price goes, the system costs $7,100 with an additional $100 per month per camera.

Athena Security’s original use for their system was to spot concealed weapons and identify people by temperature. Customers include schools, Fortune 500 companies, and the U.S. Air Force. They quickly made the new system in the wake of the global health threat.

Athena feels the Fever Detection platform could be useful in retail and office settings helping to make sure people do not come in when they may be sick. The tech could also be used in polling stations during the November elections. The company plans to discuss the platform with local governments around the globe.

Source: Tech Republic

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