By the early 21st century, what did the patent landscape show the focus had shifted toward?
Answer
Complex data acquisition systems to capture subtle behavioral changes.
Patent filings from the early 21st century reveal a distinct evolution in engineering focus away from the simple mechanical or signaling aspects of early alert systems. Researchers and engineers began concentrating their efforts on designing highly integrated solutions. These newer patents detailed methods for remote supervision involving combinations of specialized hardware and software intended to collect complex data streams. The aim was to move beyond simple alerts to systems capable of capturing and analyzing subtle shifts in an individual's daily behavior or physiological status for more nuanced oversight.

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