Athena Claims Its AI Security Camera Platform Can Detect Coronavirus
Athena Security’s AI utilizes thermal cameras to screen for people with an elevated body temperature, one of the first signs of coronavirus infection.
(Image Credit: Athena Security)
AUSTIN, Texas — Athena Security is an AI surveillance startup that created a platform it claims can stop threats before they happen. The latest threat detection it has added is for COVID-19, the coronavirus that is quickly spreading across the globe.
According to the company’s website, “Our Fever Detection COVID-19 Screening System is now a part of our platform along with our gun detection system which connects directly to your current security camera system to deliver fast, accurate threat detection — including guns, knives, and aggressive action. Our system can also alert you to falls, accidents and unwelcome visitors.”
Athena says its AI platform utilizes a NVIDIA 2080 RTX graphics card and computer vision to continuously monitor every camera frame for threats such as a gun being pulled out, hands in the air or someone being punched.
When it comes to detecting coronavirus, “Athena watches the thermal camera for people with elevated body temperature. Fever and dry cough are the first two signs of coronavirus infection, and fever is a quantitative way to rapidly screen large numbers that walk by the camera without friction,” the company says.
Once a person with an elevated temperature is detected, Athena will send a real-time video feed to security staff, an administrator or whomever the user designates.
Athena says its platform can send alerts to a user’s VMS and integrate with access control or other systems with an API, available by request.
The company is aiming its coronavirus detection at schools, corporations, retail organizations, industrial companies and other industries that are putting workplace safety measures in place to help prevent the spread of the virus.
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About the Author
Steve Karantzoulidis, Web/Senior Editor
Steven A. Karantzoulidis is the Web Editor for Security Sales & Integration. He graduated from the University of Massachusetts Amherst with a degree in Communication and has a background in Film, A/V and Social Media.
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I don’t think it can work appropriately. Based on the description, this is only IR camera that shows body temperature (not core) and requires clarification by the real thermometer. There no AI and accuracy, just assumption based on not so accurate IR temperature probe. I am sure that this is more like a “snake oil” or scam than a real service.
I will believe it works when I see it actually work. Too many variables. Even it it is able to detect a person, it will certainly require secondary screening to validate the initial read.
It would be great if SS&I could get a sample unit and test. Otherwise, it could just be a press release with COVID-19 as a keyword…
While I like the technology, and the innovation in the video space, I have concerns for our company and potential customers that taking the temperature of a person, without their written consent, may be considered a medical procedure and a violation of HPPA laws. Would be interested in hearing from legal or health professionals on this topic.
It’s a scam. See the article at IPVM.com for proof.