NCJ Number
215987
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 54 Issue: 9 Dated: September 2006 Pages: 52-53,55-56,58
Date Published
September 2006
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article describes the technology and functions of the Unity Eye Beam post mount spotlight, which sounds an alarm when it detects motion in a targeted area, such as the opening of a driver's door during a traffic stop.
Abstract
The practical value of the Eye Beam is as an alarm for possibly threatening or escape actions during a vehicle stop at times when an officer is distracted while writing a citation or operating the patrol car's computer. The Eye Beam essentially provides an extra pair of eyes that can prevent the officer from being caught off-guard. The Eye Beam would be used during a traffic stop, aimed by the officer at the driver's door after coming to a stop and before exiting the patrol car. When the laser is broken by motion in the targeted area, an alarm sounds in conjunction with flashing LED lights, alerting the officer to movement. The technology was developed by Unity Manufacturing, along with Trico. The Eye Beam consists of a sensor mounted on the spotlight that emits three laser beans that are powered by Trico SideEyes technology. The laser beams are invisible to the naked eye and can be aimed with the spotlight mechanism. The laser beams have a range of up to 35 feet and a width of 40 inches. The sensor is housed on top of the spotlight in a casing that protects it from the elements. Unity suggests that when using the Eye Beam for a traffic stop, the officer should aim the spotlight at the driver's side door of the vehicle being stopped, so that the beam can detect both the driver's door opening and the vehicle pulling away; however, the beam can be aimed at any stationary object.