A THERMAL IMAGING-DRIVEN VENTILATION SYSTEM FOR LOCKED VEHICLES

Abstract

The invention discloses a thermal imaging-driven ventilation system for locked vehicles, wherein said system (100) comprising a thermal imaging system (20) to detect body heat signatures of humans or animals, a controller unit (40) to process signals and assess lock and window status, a window control mechanism (60) to partially open windows for ventilation, and an optional alert mechanism (80) to notify the vehicle owner. The system ensures occupant safety by preventing suffocation or heatstroke, operating in a low-power mode, and offering adaptability for integration across various vehicle types.

Specification

Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION:
The field of the invention pertains to automotive safety systems, focusing on a thermal imaging-based ventilation control mechanism for passenger vehicles. This system is designed to detect the presence of humans or animals in locked vehicles and ensure adequate ventilation to prevent suffocation or heat-related health risks.

BACKGROUD OF THE INVENTION:
Background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.
In modern times, vehicles have become an indispensable part of daily life, offering convenience, mobility, and comfort. However, alongside these benefits, they also pose significant safety risks, especially for passengers inadvertently left inside locked vehicles. Incidents involving children, pets, and even adults being trapped inside vehicles are alarmingly common, with tragic outcomes such as suffocation or heatstroke. These occurrences are exacerbated in regions with extreme climates, where temperatures inside a parked vehicle can escalate rapidly, turning it into a life-threatening environment within minutes.
Traditional solutions to address this issue, such as manual checks, audible alarms, or reminder systems, have proven to be insufficient in mitigating these risks. While some vehicles are equipped with basic safety features that alert the driver if a door or window is ajar, there is no comprehensive mechanism that ensures passenger safety in situations where the vehicle is locked and the interior becomes dangerously overheated. Additionally, many existing systems rely on visual confirmation or manual intervention, which may fail in critical scenarios where immediate action is required to prevent harm.
The problem is particularly severe in cases involving children or pets, who are often unable to express distress effectively. Infants left in car seats or pets confined to the backseat may remain unnoticed until the situation becomes dire. Studies have shown that the interior temperature of a vehicle parked in the sun can rise by 20°C within just 10 minutes, even if the windows are slightly open. This rapid temperature increase can lead to dehydration, hyperthermia, and ultimately fatal outcomes if timely action is not taken.
Furthermore, many vehicle owners underestimate the dangers of leaving passengers in a locked car, assuming that cracking a window or parking in the shade is sufficient to mitigate the risk. However, these measures often fall short, as they do not provide adequate ventilation or account for the variability of weather conditions. This has created an urgent need for a more reliable and automated solution to address the growing safety concerns associated with locked vehicles.
Recent advancements in thermal imaging technology have opened new possibilities for addressing this problem. Thermal imaging systems, capable of detecting heat signatures, can offer a robust solution by identifying the presence of humans or animals inside a vehicle. Unlike conventional sensors that rely on motion or sound, thermal imaging can detect even a stationary occupant by capturing their body heat, making it a reliable option for ensuring safety in locked vehicles.
Integrating thermal imaging with ventilation control systems represents a significant leap forward in automotive safety. By leveraging this technology, it is possible to create a system that not only detects the presence of a living being inside a vehicle but also takes proactive measures to ensure their safety. Such a system would eliminate the dependency on manual intervention and provide an automated response to potentially life-threatening situations.
Present invention builds on the premise that safety systems should be both preventive and corrective. It is designed to detect a living being inside a locked vehicle, assess the environmental conditions, and take immediate action to ensure adequate ventilation. By partially opening a window, the system provides a flow of fresh air, reducing the risk of suffocation or heatstroke. This automated response ensures that the safety of the occupants is prioritized, even in the absence of the driver or vehicle owner.
One of the key challenges addressed by present invention is the need for continuous monitoring without draining the vehicle's battery or compromising its security. The thermal imaging system operates in a low-power mode, ensuring energy efficiency while maintaining constant vigilance. Additionally, the system is designed to prevent unauthorized access to the vehicle, with the window only partially opening to allow ventilation without exposing the interior to theft or external elements.
Another critical aspect of present invention is its adaptability to various vehicle types and configurations. The system can be integrated into cars, trucks, or even public transport vehicles, ensuring widespread applicability. Its modular design allows it to be retrofitted into existing vehicles or incorporated into new models during the manufacturing process. This versatility makes it an ideal solution for addressing the diverse safety needs of the automotive industry.
The invention also considers the psychological and emotional impact of such incidents on vehicle owners. Losing a pet or child to heatstroke in a locked car is a traumatic experience that can leave lasting scars. By providing a reliable safety net, this system not only protects the physical well-being of the occupants but also offers peace of mind to vehicle owners. Knowing that their vehicle is equipped with a technology that can detect and respond to potential risks alleviates the anxiety associated with leaving the car unattended.
Moreover, the system can be enhanced with additional features to further improve its functionality. For instance, integrating an alert mechanism that notifies the vehicle owner through a smartphone app when the system is activated ensures that they are aware of the situation in real-time. This feature allows for prompt action, such as unlocking the vehicle remotely or contacting emergency services if needed. The system can also be configured to generate an audible alarm, drawing the attention of passersby to the vehicle and potentially averting a crisis.
In terms of implementation, the thermal imaging system is strategically positioned within the vehicle to maximize its coverage area. It continuously scans the interior for heat signatures, ensuring that no occupant is overlooked. The controller unit processes the data received from the thermal imaging system, assessing the status of the vehicle's locks and windows to determine the appropriate response. The window control mechanism, activated by the controller unit, ensures that at least one window is partially opened to provide ventilation.
The invention is designed to operate seamlessly, with minimal input required from the vehicle owner. Once installed, it functions autonomously, activating only when necessary. This eliminates the need for constant monitoring or manual adjustments, making it a convenient and user-friendly solution for enhancing vehicle safety. The system is also highly durable, capable of withstanding the rigors of daily use and varying environmental conditions.
Therefore, present invention addresses a critical gap in automotive safety by providing a comprehensive solution to prevent suffocation and heatstroke in locked vehicles. Its integration of thermal imaging technology with ventilation control ensures a reliable and automated response to potentially life-threatening situations. By prioritizing the safety of passengers and offering peace of mind to vehicle owners, this system represents a significant advancement in the field of automotive safety. Its adaptability, energy efficiency, and user-friendly design make it a valuable addition to any vehicle, setting a new standard for occupant protection.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION:
The prime object of the invention is to provide a thermal imaging-driven ventilation system for locked vehicles that ensures the safety of humans or animals inadvertently left inside by detecting their presence and automatically initiating ventilation to prevent suffocation or heatstroke.
Another object of the invention is to integrate a thermal imaging system capable of detecting body heat signatures of living beings, even when they are stationary, ensuring a reliable and accurate detection system that works irrespective of occupant movement.
Yet another object of the invention is to automatically control the vehicle's windows based on the detection of occupants, allowing at least one window to partially open to maintain adequate airflow while ensuring security by limiting the window's opening to a safe extent.
Still another object of the invention is to provide an energy-efficient solution that operates continuously when the vehicle is locked without significantly draining the battery, making it suitable for prolonged use in all types of vehicles.
A further object of the invention is to offer adaptability for integration into a wide range of vehicles, including cars, trucks, and public transport systems, and to allow for retrofitting in existing vehicles as well as incorporation into newly manufactured ones.
An additional object of the invention is to incorporate an optional alert mechanism that notifies the vehicle owner via a smartphone or generates an audible alarm when the system is activated, enhancing situational awareness and enabling prompt action.
Another significant object of the invention is to prevent unauthorized access or theft while providing ventilation, ensuring that the partially opened windows maintain the vehicle's security and protect its interior from external elements.
Yet another object of the invention is to ensure continuous monitoring of the vehicle's interior, allowing the system to deactivate ventilation actions if the detected individual exits the vehicle or if the vehicle is unlocked, providing a seamless and intelligent safety mechanism.
Still another object of the invention is to alleviate the emotional and psychological burden on vehicle owners by offering a reliable safety feature that prevents tragic incidents involving suffocation or heatstroke in locked vehicles, thereby providing peace of mind.
A final object of the invention is to design a system that operates autonomously, requiring minimal input from the vehicle owner, while maintaining a user-friendly interface and durable construction for long-term use under varying environmental conditions.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:
The invention relates to a thermal imaging-driven ventilation system for locked vehicles that addresses critical safety concerns by preventing suffocation or heatstroke for individuals inadvertently left inside. The system utilizes advanced thermal imaging technology to detect the presence of humans or animals in a vehicle and responds by ensuring adequate ventilation through the partial opening of windows. This autonomous safety mechanism provides a comprehensive solution to a long-standing issue in automotive safety.
An inventive aspect of the invention is to provide a thermal imaging system capable of detecting body heat signatures of living beings inside a locked vehicle, ensuring accurate detection even in cases where the occupant is stationary or unable to signal distress. This ensures that the system is reliable under all conditions.
Another inventive aspect of the invention is to provide an automated ventilation control system that responds to the presence of occupants by partially opening at least one window. This feature maintains the airflow necessary to prevent suffocation or overheating while ensuring the vehicle's interior security and minimizing exposure to external elements.
Yet another inventive aspect of the invention is to integrate a controller unit that processes signals from the thermal imaging system, assesses the status of the vehicle's locks and windows, and intelligently manages the ventilation process. This autonomous operation eliminates the need for manual intervention, offering a seamless user experience.
Still another inventive aspect of the invention is to incorporate an energy-efficient design that enables the system to operate continuously when the vehicle is locked, without significantly depleting the vehicle's battery. This makes the system suitable for extended use in various climatic conditions and ensures its practicality for real-world applications.
A further inventive aspect of the invention is to provide an optional alert mechanism that can notify the vehicle owner through a smartphone app or generate an audible alarm when the system is triggered. This feature enhances situational awareness and allows for prompt action to address the safety concern.
Another inventive aspect of the invention is to provide a system that adapts to various vehicle types and configurations, ensuring compatibility with cars, trucks, and public transport systems. The modular design facilitates retrofitting in existing vehicles as well as integration into newly manufactured ones, broadening its applicability.
Yet another inventive aspect of the invention is to ensure that the system stops the ventilation action if the detected individual exits the vehicle or if the vehicle is unlocked. This intelligent monitoring and control enhance the system's safety and efficiency by adapting to real-time changes in the situation.
Still another inventive aspect of the invention is to enhance vehicle security by ensuring that the window opening for ventilation is limited to a safe extent. This prevents unauthorized access to the vehicle while maintaining sufficient airflow to safeguard the occupants.
A final inventive aspect of the invention is to provide a user-friendly and durable system that requires minimal maintenance. The robust design ensures long-term functionality under varying environmental conditions, making it a reliable and practical solution for automotive safety.
This invention represents a significant advancement in vehicle safety systems by combining cutting-edge thermal imaging technology with intelligent ventilation control to address a critical need for occupant protection in locked vehicles.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS:
The accompanying drawings illustrate various embodiments of "A Thermal Imaging-Driven Ventilation System for Locked Vehicles," highlighting key aspects of its components and operation. These figures are intended for illustrative purposes to aid in understanding the invention and are not meant to limit its scope.
FIG. 1 depicts a block diagram of a thermal imaging-driven ventilation system for locked vehicles, showing its key components, including the thermal imaging sensor, controller unit, and window control mechanism, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
The drawings provided will be further described in detail in the following sections. They offer a visual representation of the system's components, operational flow, and integration into a vehicle, helping to clarify and support the detailed description of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION:
In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, and it is to be understood that the embodiments may be combined, or that other embodiments may be utilized and that structural and logical changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.
The present invention is described in brief with reference to the accompanying drawings. Now, refer in more detail to the exemplary drawings for the purposes of illustrating non-limiting embodiments of the present invention.
As used herein, the term "comprising" and its derivatives including "comprises" and "comprise" include each of the stated integers or elements but does not exclude the inclusion of one or more further integers or elements.
As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, reference to "a device" encompasses a single device as well as two or more devices, and the like.
As used herein, the terms "for example", "like", "such as", or "including" are meant to introduce examples that further clarify more general subject matter. Unless otherwise specified, these examples are provided only as an aid for understanding the applications illustrated in the present disclosure, and are not meant to be limiting in any fashion.
As used herein, the terms ""may", "can", "could", or "might" be included or have a characteristic, that particular component or feature is not required to be included or have the characteristic.
Exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which exemplary embodiments are shown. These exemplary embodiments are provided only for illustrative purposes and so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those of ordinary skill in the art. The invention disclosed may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein.
Various modifications will be readily apparent to persons skilled in the art. The general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Moreover, all statements herein reciting embodiments of the invention, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass both structural and functional equivalents thereof. Additionally, it is intended that such equivalents include both currently known equivalents as well as equivalents developed in the future (i.e., any elements developed that perform the same function, regardless of structure). Also, the terminology and phraseology used is for the purpose of describing exemplary embodiments and should not be considered limiting. Thus, the present invention is to be accorded the widest scope encompassing numerous alternatives, modifications and equivalents consistent with the principles and features disclosed. For purpose of clarity, details relating to technical material that is known in the technical fields related to the invention have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure the present invention.
Each of the appended claims defines a separate invention, which for infringement purposes is recognized as including equivalents to the various elements or limitations specified in the claims. Depending on the context, all references below to the "invention" may in some cases refer to certain specific embodiments only. In other cases, it will be recognized that references to the "invention" will refer to subject matter recited in one or more, but not necessarily all, of the claims.
All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., "such as") provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element essential to the practice of the invention.
Various terms as used herein are shown below. To the extent a term used in a claim is not defined below, it should be given the broadest definition and persons in the pertinent art have given that term as reflected in printed publications and issued patents at the time of filing.
Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member can be referred to and claimed individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements found herein. One or more members of a group can be included in, or deleted from, a group for reasons of convenience and/or patentability. When any such inclusion or deletion occurs, the specification is herein deemed to contain the group as modified thus fulfilling the written description of all groups used in the appended claims.
With reference to FIG. 1,
The thermal imaging-driven ventilation system for locked vehicles is an innovative safety mechanism designed to address the critical need for preventing suffocation and heatstroke in occupants inadvertently left inside locked vehicles. This system combines advanced thermal imaging technology with intelligent control mechanisms to provide an automated, reliable, and effective solution for maintaining a safe environment inside the vehicle when it is locked.
The system includes a thermal imaging system installed within the vehicle's interior. This component plays a vital role in detecting the presence of humans or animals by capturing body heat signatures. Unlike conventional sensors, which often rely on motion or sound, this thermal imaging system ensures accurate detection, even if the occupant is stationary or unable to signal distress. The strategic placement of the thermal imaging system, such as on the dashboard, ceiling, or another suitable location, maximizes its coverage and accuracy, allowing it to scan the entire interior of the vehicle effectively.
Once the thermal imaging system detects a body heat signature, the information is transmitted to a controller unit. The controller is a sophisticated processing unit that evaluates the data received from the thermal imaging system and checks the status of the vehicle's locks and windows. If the vehicle doors are locked and all windows are closed, the controller activates the window control mechanism. This mechanism is designed to partially open one or more windows to a predetermined extent, ensuring proper ventilation while maintaining the security of the vehicle. By allowing just enough airflow to prevent suffocation or overheating, the system provides an immediate response to a potentially life-threatening situation without compromising the safety of the vehicle's interior.
The window control mechanism utilizes the vehicle's existing electronic window system, making the solution adaptable for retrofitting into older vehicles as well as integration into newly manufactured ones. This feature ensures that the system can be widely adopted across various vehicle types, including cars, trucks, and public transport vehicles. The adaptability of the system allows manufacturers and users to incorporate it seamlessly into their vehicles without requiring extensive modifications.
In addition to its ventilation capabilities, the system is equipped with an alert mechanism. This optional feature notifies the vehicle owner when the system is triggered. Notifications can be sent via a smartphone application or other connected devices, providing real-time updates on the situation. Alternatively, the alert mechanism can generate an audible alarm, drawing the attention of nearby individuals and ensuring prompt action. This added layer of communication enhances the system's functionality and provides peace of mind to the vehicle owner by keeping them informed about the safety of their vehicle's occupants.
To ensure energy efficiency, the system operates in a low-power mode when the vehicle is locked. This feature allows the thermal imaging device and controller unit to function continuously without significantly draining the vehicle's battery. This is particularly important for prolonged monitoring periods, ensuring the system remains operational under all conditions without affecting the overall performance of the vehicle.
The controller unit is also programmed to deactivate the ventilation system under specific conditions. For example, if the detected individual exits the vehicle or if the vehicle is unlocked, the system automatically stops the ventilation action. This intelligent monitoring and control prevent unnecessary activation of the system, enhancing its efficiency and ensuring that it only operates when required. The system's ability to adapt to real-time changes in the vehicle's environment ensures optimal performance and reduces the risk of false activations.
Another critical feature of the thermal imaging-driven ventilation system is its ability to distinguish between humans, animals, and inanimate objects. This capability is achieved through advanced processing algorithms embedded in the thermal imaging system and controller unit. By identifying the unique heat signatures of living beings, the system minimizes the chances of false triggers, ensuring that the ventilation mechanism is activated only when necessary.
The system also includes a manual override option, allowing the vehicle owner to customize or disable its operation as needed. This feature provides flexibility and ensures that the system can be tailored to meet individual preferences and requirements. For instance, the manual override can be used in situations where the owner prefers to maintain full control over the vehicle's windows or when specific safety protocols need to be followed.
Designed for durability and user-friendliness, the thermal imaging-driven ventilation system requires minimal maintenance and can withstand varying environmental conditions. Its robust construction ensures long-term functionality, making it a reliable solution for enhancing vehicle safety. The system operates autonomously, requiring little to no input from the vehicle owner once installed. This seamless integration into the vehicle's existing systems ensures that the solution is convenient and hassle-free.
The thermal imaging-driven ventilation system is particularly valuable in addressing the dangers of extreme temperatures inside locked vehicles. Studies have shown that the interior temperature of a vehicle can rise dramatically within minutes, even with windows slightly open. This rapid temperature increase can lead to dehydration, hyperthermia, and potentially fatal outcomes, especially for vulnerable occupants such as children or pets. By providing a proactive and automated response, this system effectively mitigates these risks, ensuring the safety of all occupants.
The versatility of the system extends to its application across different vehicle models and configurations. It can be integrated into personal vehicles, commercial fleets, and even public transport systems, ensuring a broad impact on occupant safety. Its modular design allows it to be installed during the manufacturing process or retrofitted into existing vehicles, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
The thermal imaging-driven ventilation system also addresses the emotional and psychological concerns of vehicle owners. Incidents involving suffocation or heatstroke in locked vehicles can have devastating consequences, leaving lasting trauma for those involved. By providing a reliable safety mechanism, this system not only protects the physical well-being of the occupants but also offers peace of mind to vehicle owners, ensuring that their loved ones or pets are safe at all times.
Therefore, the thermal imaging-driven ventilation system for locked vehicles represents a significant advancement in automotive safety. Its integration of thermal imaging technology, intelligent control mechanisms, and energy-efficient operation ensures a reliable and effective solution for preventing suffocation and heatstroke in locked vehicles. With features such as automated ventilation, real-time alerts, and the ability to distinguish between living beings and inanimate objects, the system sets a new standard for occupant protection. Its adaptability, durability, and user-friendly design make it a valuable addition to any vehicle, enhancing safety and providing peace of mind for vehicle owners worldwide.

Working of the invention: The thermal imaging-driven ventilation system for locked vehicles operates through a coordinated interaction of its key components: a thermal imaging device, a controller unit, a window control mechanism, and an optional alert mechanism. Together, these components ensure the detection of occupants inside a locked vehicle and provide adequate ventilation while maintaining security. The following is a detailed explanation of how the system works:
The system is activated when the vehicle is locked, and the thermal imaging device begins its operation. This device continuously scans the vehicle's interior for body heat signatures, detecting the presence of humans or animals. The thermal imaging device is strategically placed, typically on the dashboard, ceiling, or another location within the vehicle, to ensure maximum coverage and accuracy. It uses advanced sensors to differentiate between living beings and inanimate objects, thereby minimizing false triggers.
When a body heat signature is detected, the thermal imaging device sends a signal to the controller unit. The controller acts as the system's processing hub, analyzing the data from the thermal imaging device to confirm the presence of a human or animal. Simultaneously, it evaluates the status of the vehicle's door locks and windows to determine whether the vehicle is locked and whether all windows are closed.
If the vehicle is locked and the windows are closed, the controller unit initiates the ventilation process by activating the window control mechanism. This mechanism is designed to partially open one or more windows to a predetermined extent, ensuring sufficient airflow into the vehicle. The extent of the window opening is carefully calibrated to provide ventilation while maintaining security, preventing unauthorized access to the vehicle.
The system continues to monitor the vehicle's interior conditions even after the ventilation mechanism is triggered. If the detected individual exits the vehicle or if the vehicle is unlocked, the controller unit deactivates the ventilation process, returning the windows to their original closed position. This real-time adaptability ensures that the system operates only when necessary, conserving energy and preventing unnecessary activation.
An optional alert mechanism enhances the system's functionality by notifying the vehicle owner when the ventilation system is triggered. This notification can be sent via a smartphone application or other connected devices, allowing the owner to respond promptly. Alternatively, the alert mechanism can generate an audible alarm, drawing attention to the situation and enabling nearby individuals to assist if needed.
To ensure energy efficiency, the system operates in a low-power mode, which allows the thermal imaging device and controller unit to function continuously without significantly draining the vehicle's battery. This feature is particularly important for prolonged monitoring periods, ensuring that the system remains operational even in extreme weather conditions.
The system also includes a manual override option, which allows the vehicle owner to disable or customize its operation. This feature provides flexibility and ensures that the system can be tailored to meet specific needs or preferences. For example, the manual override can be used to adjust the window opening settings or to deactivate the system entirely if desired.
By integrating these components and processes, the thermal imaging-driven ventilation system effectively addresses the dangers of suffocation and heatstroke in locked vehicles. Its automated operation, energy efficiency, and adaptability make it a practical and reliable solution for enhancing vehicle safety.

ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION:
The prime advantage of the invention is to provide a reliable, automated ventilation system for locked vehicles that prevents suffocation or heatstroke, ensuring the safety of humans or animals inadvertently left inside.
Another advantage of the invention is its ability to detect body heat signatures accurately using a thermal imaging system, offering consistent performance even when occupants are stationary or unable to signal distress.
Yet another advantage of the invention is its integration with the vehicle's existing window control mechanisms, allowing for seamless retrofitting in older models and straightforward incorporation into newly manufactured vehicles.
Still another advantage of the invention is its low-power operation mode, enabling continuous monitoring without significantly draining the vehicle's battery, making it practical for long-term use in all conditions.
A further advantage of the invention is the inclusion of an optional alert mechanism that notifies vehicle owners via smartphone applications, providing real-time updates and enabling immediate action to address potential risks.
Another advantage of the invention is its adaptability to different vehicle types, including cars, trucks, and public transport systems, ensuring broad applicability across the automotive sector.
Yet another advantage of the invention is the intelligent deactivation feature, which stops the ventilation process when the vehicle is unlocked or the occupant exits, enhancing energy efficiency and operational precision.
Still another advantage of the invention is its ability to distinguish between living beings and inanimate objects, minimizing false activations and ensuring the system only operates when genuinely required.
A final advantage of the invention is its user-friendly design, requiring minimal maintenance and offering a manual override option for customization, making it suitable for diverse user needs and preferences.
, Claims:CLAIM(S):
We Claim:
1. A thermal imaging-driven ventilation system for locked vehicles (100), comprising:
a. a thermal imaging system (20) installed in the vehicle interior to detect the presence of a human or animal based on body heat signatures;
b. a controller unit (40) configured to process signals from the thermal imaging system and assess the status of the vehicle's door locks and windows;
c. a window control mechanism (60) activated to partially open a window if all doors are locked and the thermal imaging system detects a human or animal inside the vehicle;
d. an alert mechanism (80) that notifies the vehicle owner or generates an audible alarm when the system is triggered.
2. The thermal imaging-driven ventilation system of claim 1, wherein the window control mechanism (60) is configured to open one or more windows to a predetermined extent sufficient to allow ventilation while maintaining vehicle security.
3. The thermal imaging-driven ventilation system of claim 1, wherein the thermal imaging system is positioned on the dashboard, ceiling, or another suitable location within the vehicle to maximize coverage and detection accuracy.
4. The thermal imaging-driven ventilation system of claim 1, wherein the controller unit (40) is programmed to deactivate the ventilation system when the detected human or animal exits the vehicle or when the vehicle is unlocked.
5. The thermal imaging-driven ventilation system of claim 1, wherein the alert mechanism (80) sends notifications to the vehicle owner via a smartphone application or other connected devices.
6. The thermal imaging-driven ventilation system of claim 1, wherein the system operates in a low-power mode to ensure continuous monitoring without significantly draining the vehicle's battery.
7. The thermal imaging-driven ventilation system of claim 1, wherein the system is configured for integration into different vehicle types, including cars, trucks, and public transport vehicles.
8. The thermal imaging-driven ventilation system of claim 1, further comprising a manual override option to allow the vehicle owner to disable or customize the system's operation as required.
9. The thermal imaging-driven ventilation system of claim 1, wherein the window control mechanism uses the vehicle's existing electronic window system, making it adaptable for retrofitting into existing vehicles.
10. The thermal imaging-driven ventilation system of claim 1, wherein the thermal imaging system can distinguish between humans, animals, and inanimate objects to prevent false activation of the ventilation mechanism.

Documents