WithYou: A Privacy-Protected Falls Detection Camera

Integrating Safety and Companionship into Bathroom Design

WithYou is a unique and innovative design that aims to prevent falls and provide timely assistance in the event of an accident. With a simple and friendly appearance, it seamlessly integrates into the bathroom environment, ensuring the safety and well-being of the elderly.

Traditional cameras in bathrooms are not universally accepted due to privacy concerns. WithYou solves this problem by using a depth camera for human posture detection while protecting privacy. It detects falls and promptly notifies emergency contacts and medical personnel, minimizing the harm to the elderly.

One of the standout features of WithYou is its interactive light system. When an approach is detected, the light turns on and flows, providing a sense of security and companionship. In case of danger, the light changes accordingly, giving the user a clear prompt and reassurance.

WithYou also includes a speaker, through which doctors can provide professional guidance for the elderly. This feature ensures that immediate medical advice is available, further enhancing the safety and well-being of the users.

The design team behind WithYou focused on creating a device that seamlessly integrates into the home environment. The algorithm used in WithYou utilizes depth mapping for human posture prediction, heatmap for background segmentation, and temporal and spatial information for behavior understanding and human posture judgment.

Users can easily set up emergency contacts and preferences through the accompanying app. After a fall, WithYou immediately notifies the designated emergency contacts, ensuring that help arrives as quickly as possible.

The WithYou project started in January 2021 and was completed in January 2022 in Shanghai. The design team faced several challenges, including data privacy and user acceptance. To address these challenges, they used a depth camera and developed corresponding algorithms to ensure the privacy of the users' data. Additionally, the team focused on creating a design that would be accepted and embraced by users.

WithYou has received recognition for its innovative design. It was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Security, Safety, and Surveillance Products Design category in 2022. This award recognizes the practicality, innovation, and adherence to industry best practices demonstrated by WithYou.

WithYou, with its privacy-protected falls detection capabilities and interactive features, is a significant step towards ensuring the safety and well-being of the elderly. By seamlessly integrating into the bathroom environment, it provides a sense of security and companionship, making it an invaluable addition to any home.