Abstract: The present disclosure describes a system, device, and method for assisting a user to avoid contacting surfaces with their mobile device. An environment is sensed with one or more electronic sensors. The sensor readings are analyzed. Information is then provided to a user based on the analyzed sensor readings. The sensors may be configured so their sensor cones cross at a midpoint. Readings from the sensor(s) may be grouped according detection zone(s) corresponding to one or more areas about a mobile device. A computing module may control a feedback module according to detection zone readings. The feedback module may comprise an indicator for each detection zone. The indicator may be a vibration motor. The indicator may be a light. The computing module may set the colour of a light and/or control the vibrations based on the proximity of surfaces detected within the corresponding detection zone.

Abstract: A system for detecting and responding to emergency events includes a plurality of local emergency detection and response units positioned in a local area. Each unit includes one or more local sensing agents and a local detection manager. Each local sensing agent is operable to detect emergency events by a change in a given emergency factor in the local area and to convey data representative of the change in the emergency factor to a detection manager which is operable to receive the data and to assign a value to the emergency factor according to the data. A central location controller unit and/or the local emergency detection and response unit are operable for classifying the assigned value of the emergency function to form an assigned value classification and for initiating the local emergency event response agent to implement a response protocol according to the assigned value classification.