A system for detecting a child in blind spots around buses by using body capacitance is disclosed in this proposal. Analysis is done to demonstrate the feasibility of coupling a low voltage 50 KHz excitation signal through the pavement and earth, then to a detection electrode positioned such that the body capacitance of a child in the signal path causes a discernible level change. Signal processing topology for a functional system is pro- posed, and research required to specify performance and de-sign requirements is detailed.
