A young Usk inventor has created a facial-scanning system to help protect vulnerable and elderly people, despite being just thirteen years old.
Freddie Howells, a pupil at Caerleon Comprehensive School in Newport, developed the technology himself after learning of his great aunt Pat’s battle with dementia.
The system uses facial recognition software to scan a visitors face and compare the information to a database which then matches the data.
Freddie told the BBC the technology he developed is for use at the front door, with elderly, disabled, and those living with dementia of particular focus because it the need for a key for entry.
The young inventor explained that he built the technology with safety in mind. Explaining that a motion sensor first triggers a camera placed on the door, this takes a photo of the visitor’s face which is then checked against a database of recognised faces. If the system recognises the face, the visitor will be prompted to scan an ID tag. If both match up, the system opens the door.
Freddie told The Chronicle he got to work on the system so he could help his great aunt who has dementia.
“I developed the system because my Great Aunt Pat who’s 88 lives at home alone and has dementia.
“Our problem was that she kept on letting in random strangers and would never remember when people had visited.”
Freddie said he hoped his invention would also make elderly people feel more secure in their homes, and less prone to unwanted visitors.
The teenager’s achievements have not gone unnoticed. Last week, Freddie’s invention earned its nomination at the Big Bang Fair in Birmingham, which he later won the prestigious Young Engineer of the Year.
The Big Bang Competition recognises and rewards young people’s achievements in all areas of science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM), whilst providing them with the opportunity to build their skills and confidence in project-based work.
Head of IT, and Freddie’s IT teacher at Caerleon Comprehensive, Dr Craig Jenkins, praised his pupil’s achievements.
"Freddie’s home security system for people suffering with dementia is heartfelt and intelligent in equal measure. His invention illustrates the importance of STEM in schools in preparing our students to solve real-world problems. I feel very fortunate to teach such a talented student."
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