Idaho Patent of the Month – March 2025
Safeguard Equipment has developed a new wearable device that could reshape safety standards for utility and energy workers. This compact detector identifies energized conductors and alerts users before they reach dangerous proximity.
Adaptive Alerts for Real-World Conditions
Traditional voltage detectors often rely on fixed thresholds, which can lead to frequent false alarms. In contrast, this device continuously monitors electrical data and compares changes over time. Based on those comparisons, it adjusts its sensitivity. As a result, alerts become more accurate and less disruptive.
The device issues different notifications—light, sound, or both—depending on the risk level. For example, a rising voltage may trigger one alert, while a stable or falling voltage may cancel it or issue another. This dynamic system helps users better understand their environment.
Direction and Wearability Matter
One standout feature is its directional sensing. The device not only detects danger but also shows the user where it’s coming from. That extra awareness allows for faster, safer decisions. Moreover, the detector clips easily onto clothing or gear, offering protection without added bulk.
Saving Lives with Smarter Tech
Each year, over 130 people in the U.S. die from electrical incidents. Despite existing safety tools, risks remain high. This new device could help change that. By combining real-time analysis with smart notifications, Safeguard’s invention brings both clarity and confidence to high-risk job sites.
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