Abstract: The system and method for an access control system using a smart optical sensor to determine whether or not access to a physical location is required. The smart optical sensor can be a stand-alone unit or as a complement to existing access control systems by providing advanced analytics for determining the direction and/or speed of objects in the vicinity of a physical location. The system then takes appropriate action, which can include automatically unlocking and/or opening a door.

Abstract: The system and method for detecting duress using a proximity card comprising at least one transponder and a switch. The switch configured to activate with the user's touch. The switch comprising a thermistor, a piezoelectric sensor, an exposed electrode, a capacitive sensor, or the like, which is located on the proximity card. The switch is configured to modify the signal form a first transponder, or activate a second transponder, thereby sending a duress signal. If a duress pattern is recognized, then the system notifies another party of the situation, or sets a system flag.