Development of a Fall Detection System with Microsoft Kinect

Falls are the leading cause of injury and death among older adults in the US. Computer vision systems offer a promising way of detecting falls. The present paper examines a fall detection and reporting system using the Microsoft Kinect sensor. Two algorithms for detecting falls are introduced. The first uses only a single frame to determine if a fall has occurred. The second uses time series data and can distinguish between falls and slowly lying down on the floor. In addition to detecting falls, the system offers several options for reporting. Reports can be sent as emails or text messages and can include pictures during and after the fall. A voice recognition system can be used to cancel false reports.