FOOT BOARD TRAVEL PREVENTING APPARATUS AND A METHOD THEREOF

Abstract

The present invention relates to an apparatus for preventing foot boarding in public transport buses, aimed at enhancing passenger safety and reducing accident risks. It comprises twelve load sensors (16) positioned at the front and rear steps to detect foot boarding behaviour, a speed sensor (15) that activates the system when the bus is in motion, two cameras (13) for real-time video monitoring, and two speakers (14) for issuing audible warnings. A display unit (12) enables the driver to monitor footboard areas, while a control unit (17) processes data from the sensors and cameras, triggering warnings and, if necessary, reducing the bus's speed or stopping it. The system also includes a host controller interface (31) that transmits images of passengers who continue to footboard after warnings to the authorities via the network (21) for enforcement action.

Specification

Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[001] The present invention relates to the field of transportation safety. Particularly, the present invention provides an apparatus and a method for preventing unsafe foot boarding behaviour in public transports such as buses and the like. More particularly, the present invention incorporates sensor-based technology, real-time monitoring, and automated alert systems to enhance passenger's safety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[002] Foot boarding is a pervasive and dangerous issue that affects public transport systems in many parts of the world, particularly in India and other densely populated regions. Buses are a primary mode of transport for millions of peoples, and the high demand for public transportation often exceeds the available capacity, especially during peak hours. This results in overcrowded buses where many passengers, unable to find space inside the vehicle, resort to standing on the footboard or hanging from the doors while the bus is in motion.

[003] The consequences of foot boarding are particularly severe in buses, where the vehicle's size, movement dynamics, and frequent stops create a high-risk environment. Passengers clinging to the exterior of the bus on the footboard are highly exposed to the dangers of falling off, especially when the vehicle accelerates, decelerates suddenly, or navigates through turns and uneven roads. These incidents can lead to serious injuries, permanent disabilities, or fatalities. Furthermore, the risk of accidents is exacerbated in congested city streets where buses must negotiate heavy traffic, leading to unpredictable stops and starts.

[004] From a legal and operational standpoint, foot boarding also presents challenges for bus operators and transport authorities. Transport companies and public transit systems are frequently held accountable for accidents involving foot boarding, creating legal liabilities and financial consequences. In addition to endangering the passengers involved, foot boarding disrupts the safe boarding and alighting of others, leading to delays in bus schedules and inefficient transport services. Foot boarders often block the doors or occupy the external areas of the bus, making it difficult for others to enter or exit, further contributing to the crowding problem.

[005] Various attempts have been made to address the issue, such as public awareness campaigns, stricter enforcement of rules, and the installation of barriers near doors. However, these measures have been insufficient to fully prevent foot boarding, especially when buses are overcrowded or passengers are in a rush. Current systems lack real-time detection and preventive mechanisms that can stop foot boarding before it becomes a safety threat. Bus drivers are often unaware of the presence of foot boarders, particularly when the vehicle is crowded, and may unintentionally drive the bus while passengers are still in unsafe positions.
[006] One of the prior arts IN202141004626, for preventing foot boarding in public transport typically use microcontrollers and infrared sensors to detect passengers standing on the bus steps. When foot boarding is detected, a buzzer alerts the driver and passengers, and if the situation persists for over 10 minutes, a message is sent to authorities via a GSM module. However, these systems face limitations, such as delayed response times, sensor malfunctions, and lack of immediate enforcement action. Additionally, they rely heavily on audible alarms without providing real-time visual feedback for drivers to make timely decisions.

[007] Given the limitations of existing prior art, there is a critical need for an advanced system that can detect foot boarding behavior in real-time and prevent the vehicle from moving until the situation is addressed. Such a system must be capable of automatically identifying when passengers are standing on the footboard, alerting the driver and passengers, and triggering corrective actions such as stopping or slowing the bus. By implementing a comprehensive foot boarding prevention system, public transportation can become significantly safer, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring the well-being of all passengers.

[008] plays a crucial role in healthcare by aiding in the recovery and rehabilitation of individuals suffering from various musculoskeletal disorders, injuries, or post-surgery recovery. It is especially beneficial for those experiencing mobility challenges, pain, or muscle weakness. The importance of physiotherapy has increased as it offers non-invasive treatment options that improve the range of motion, flexibility, and strength, while reducing pain and stiffness. Regular physiotherapy sessions can also help in preventing complications, enhance circulation, and promote healing. As the global population ages and the incidence of lifestyle-related diseases rises, the demand for effective physiotherapy continues to grow, offering patients a means to regain functional independence and improve their quality of life.

[009] Leg diseases and disabilities often require physiotherapy to restore or enhance mobility and reduce pain. Conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ligament injuries commonly affect the knee and ankle joints, causing pain and limiting movement. Other conditions like stroke, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson's disease can lead to muscle weakness, coordination problems, and spasticity in the lower limbs. Physiotherapy is also vital in the rehabilitation of individuals with fractures, post-surgical recovery of joint replacements, or ligament reconstructions. Patients suffering from diabetic neuropathy, which affects the nerves in the legs, may experience numbness, making physiotherapy essential to maintain balance and prevent falls. Overall, physiotherapy addresses a wide range of leg-related conditions, ensuring that patients can regain strength, mobility, and function.
[010] Currently, various apparatus and devices are employed for physiotherapy, especially for leg rehabilitation. Manual therapy techniques such as stretching and joint mobilization are often used by therapists. However, advanced machines like Continuous Passive Motion (CPM) devices are widely used in clinical settings to provide controlled and repetitive movements of the knee or ankle joint without active effort from the patient. Motorized exercise bikes, leg press machines, and balance trainers are also commonly used to strengthen the muscles and improve joint mobility. Despite these advancements, most existing apparatuses require the presence of a trained therapist, limiting the patient's autonomy and the convenience of at-home treatments.

[011] The Chinese patent CN110169893B discloses a lower limb rehabilitation training robot designed to address issues of large volume, complex structure, and heaviness often found in conventional rehabilitation devices. The apparatus includes separate left and right leg training units that are mirror-symmetrical in design. Each unit features a position adjusting device, hip joint training device, thigh adjusting device, knee joint training device, crus adjusting device, pedal plate, and a physical therapy device. While this system offers a comprehensive range of lower limb rehabilitation exercises and can be paired with upper limb devices, its primary drawback lies in its limited user control and customization. Despite claims of comfort and compactness, the structure still requires significant space and manual adjustment, which reduces its practicality for at-home use.

[012] The Korean patent KR101360325B1 discloses a knee joint exercise device and method, comprising a seat where the user sits, a first support for securing the thigh, and a second support for supporting the calf. The two supports are connected and controlled by a driving mechanism that rotates the second support, facilitating knee movement. The device includes a movement change sensor that detects alterations in motion and a control unit that adjusts the driving force based on these changes to ensure proper rehabilitation. While the device offers a functional solution for knee rehabilitation by automatically adjusting the force during movement, its limitation lies in its focus solely on the knee joint. Additionally, the device requires preset controls and lacks real-time adaptability for the patient's needs.

[013] There is a growing need for an apparatus that can effectively treat both knee and ankle joint conditions, as these joints are often interrelated in movement and function. Patients with mobility issues, arthritis, or injuries affecting these joints require comprehensive rehabilitation that targets both areas simultaneously to ensure proper recovery. Traditional rehabilitation methods often focus on just one joint, limiting the overall effectiveness of treatment. Furthermore, the availability of a user interface device with various operation and control modes is crucial, as it allows patients to independently manage their therapy sessions. Such an interface enables them to select different modes of treatment, adjust intensity levels, and track their progress without the constant need for a therapist's supervision. This level of autonomy not only enhances patient convenience but also ensures that therapy can be personalized based on real-time needs and comfort, leading to more efficient and tailored rehabilitation.

[014] In light of the limitations of existing physiotherapy devices and the need for more comprehensive, patient-controlled rehabilitation, the present invention aims to provide an advanced solution. The proposed apparatus is designed to address both knee and ankle joint rehabilitation in a single system, offering a fully automated physiotherapy chair equipped with a user-friendly interface. The integration of multiple operation modes ensures that the device can cater to a variety of patient needs, from gentle passive movements for initial recovery stages to more intensive exercises for advanced rehabilitation. By allowing patients to adjust settings and monitor their progress through the interface, the invention empowers them to engage in self-guided therapy, reducing dependency on therapists and facilitating at-home treatment. This innovation not only improves the effectiveness of physiotherapy but also offers a more accessible and convenient solution for individuals with joint mobility challenges.

OBJECTIVE OF THE INVENTION
[015] The main objective of the present invention is to provide an apparatus and a method to prevent foot boarding of passengers in public transports.

[016] Another objective of the present invention is to enhance passenger safety by detecting foot boarding using weighing means and image processing technology.

[017] Yet another objective of the present invention is to provide an sensing means and control unit to monitor the movement of the public transport for example, Bus and cross checking the foot boarding passengers.

[018] Yet another objective of the present invention is to facilitate real-time monitoring using cameras and speakers and promptly alert the driver for immediate response.

[019] Still another objective of the present invention is to automatically alert relevant authorities by transmitting images if foot boarding persists.


SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[020] The following presents a simplified summary of the invention in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the invention. This summary is not an extensive overview of the present invention or delineates the scope of the invention. Its sole purpose is to present some concept of the invention in a simplified form as a prelude to a more detailed description of the invention presented later.

[021] The present disclosure introduces a system for preventing foot boarding in public transport. The following summary offers a basic understanding of some aspects of the claimed subject matter. It is not an exhaustive overview and is not intended to highlight key or critical elements or to define the scope of the claimed subject matter. Its sole purpose is to present certain concepts in a simplified form as an introduction to the detailed description that follows.

[022] According to the main aspects of the present invention, it provides a system designed to prevent and deter foot boarding behavior in public transport buses, with a focus on enhancing passenger safety and ensuring compliance with transportation regulations. Foot boarding, the act of standing on the steps or hanging onto the exterior of a moving bus, poses significant safety risks. To address this, the present invention integrates multiple technologies into a single safety system, ensuring both real-time detection and corrective actions.

[023] According to another aspect of the present invention, a system for preventing foot boarding in public transport comprises a control unit operatively connected to a display unit, camera units, speakers, a speed sensor, and load sensors within a bus, all linked to a host controller interface through a network. The load sensors consist of two sensors installed at each of the front and rear steps of the bus. The speed sensor activates the system when the bus is in motion. Cameras and speakers are installed at the front and rear of the bus to capture live footage of the footboard area and issue audible warnings when foot boarding is detected. The display unit provides the driver with real-time visual alerts and camera footage. The control unit processes sensor data and triggers alerts or vehicle interventions when foot boarding is detected while the bus is in motion. Additionally, the host controller interface facilitates the transmission of images of passengers to the bus authorities through the network.

[024] The system operates seamlessly to ensure that the driver is alerted in real-time, and corrective actions, such as warnings or even stopping the bus, can be taken promptly. The combination of sensors and cameras ensures accurate detection of foot boarding behaviour, while the communication system helps enforce safety regulations by reporting offenders. This system is designed to enhance overall public transport safety, reduce the risk of accidents, and promote safer passenger behaviour.
BRIEF DECRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[025] The above and other aspects, features, and advantages of certain exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be more apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:

[026] Figure 1 illustrates the system for preventing foot boarding in the public transport in accordance with the main aspect of the invention.

[027] Figure 2 illustrates the bottom view of the public transport, displaying load sensors positioned at the front and back of the steps, in accordance with the present invention.

[028] Figure 3 represents an exploded view of a public transport in accordance with the present invention.

[029] Figure 4 shows a front elevation view of the public transport in accordance with the aspect of the present invention.

[030] Figure 5 shows the block diagram of the system for foot boarding according to the present invention.

[031] Figure 6 illustrates a process flow executed by the system preventing food boarding, in accordance with the aspect of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[032] The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to the bibliographical meanings, but, are merely used by the inventor to enable a clear and consistent understanding of the invention. Accordingly, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following description of exemplary embodiments of the present invention are provided for illustration purposes only and not for the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[033] The present invention relates to an apparatus for preventing foot boarding in public transport vehicles, particularly buses, by integrating a combination of load sensors and alert mechanisms. The present invention aims to detect unsafe passenger behavior, specifically foot boarding, and provide real-time alerts to ensure the safety of both passengers and drivers. Figure 1 illustrates the Safety system apparatus (11) for preventing foot boarding in the public transport in accordance with the main aspect of the invention. Figure 2 illustrates the bottom view of the bus (1), displaying two load sensors positioned at the front and back of each step, in accordance with the present invention. Said bus (1) comprising of a display unit (12), camera unit (13), a speaker unit (14), speed sensor (15) and plurality of load cell sensors (16) installed at the bus steps, all interconnected through a control unit (17) that processes real-time data and activates alerts or corrective actions when foot boarding is detected.
[034] Figure 3 represents an exploded view or sectional perspective view of a bus interior in accordance with the present invention. According to the embodiment of the present invention, said speaker unit (14) serves as an audible alert mechanism, automatically triggered when foot boarding is detected. This unit issues a loud warning to alert both passengers and the driver of the unsafe behavior. The speaker system can be configured to deliver alerts both inside and outside the bus, ensuring that foot boarders are prompted to move into a safer position. Said camera unit (13) is strategically placed near the bus doors and steps to provide real-time video surveillance of the footboard area. This camera captures footage whenever foot boarding is detected, providing the driver with a live visual feed. The camera is also capable of recording the event for post-incident review, allowing transport authorities to assess and address unsafe practices.

[035] Figure 4 shows a front view of the public transport in accordance with the aspect of the present invention. Said display unit (12) located in the driver's cockpit, is an interface that provides visual notifications and real-time video from the camera unit (13). When foot boarding is detected, the display unit shows a visual alert, along with live footage from the steps or footboard area, allowing the driver to quickly assess the situation and take necessary action. Said control unit (17) is the central processor of the system, responsible for collecting and analyzing data from the load cell sensors, speed sensor, camera unit, and other components. When the control unit detects foot boarding while the vehicle is in motion, it automatically activates the speaker unit to issue a warning and sends visual alerts to the driver via the display unit. In more advanced configurations, the control unit can also take direct action by reducing the bus's speed or bringing it to a halt if the foot boarding persists.

[036] Figure 5 illustrates a block diagram of a system for preventing foot boarding in public transport vehicles according to the present invention. The bus (1) is equipped with load sensors (16) on each step, with a total of twelve sensors, consisting of two sensors on each of the front and back steps. Said load cell sensors (16) are positioned at the steps of the bus to detect the weight or pressure exerted by passengers standing or hanging on the footboard. These sensors are designed to monitor any abnormal load on the steps, signaling the presence of passengers in unsafe positions when the bus is in motion. The sensors are highly sensitive, ensuring that even minimal pressure changes can be detected, allowing for accurate monitoring of foot boarding behavior. Said speed sensor (15) continuously monitors the speed of the bus, ensuring that the system is only activated when the bus is in motion. The speed sensor works in conjunction with the load cell sensors to confirm that foot boarding is occurring while the vehicle is moving, a scenario that poses significant risks to passenger safety.

[037] Yet another embodiment of the present invention, in the event that foot boarding persists after an audible warning has been issued, the system initiates an automated escalation process. The camera units (13) will capture images of the passenger who continues to stand on the footboard. These images are then transmitted via the network (21) to both the bus authorities and the driver through the host controller interface (31). This interface supports network connectivity, allowing for the efficient transfer of data and video footage, which can be used for monitoring and analyzing foot boarding behavior. By enhancing communication and data sharing, said host controller interface plays a vital role in improving the overall safety and operational efficiency of public transport systems, enabling prompt responses to unsafe passenger behavior and aiding in enforcement actions by authorities.

[038] Figure 6 illustrates a process flow executed by the system for preventing foot boarding in public transports, in accordance with the aspect of the present invention. The apparatus (11) starts to initiate the when the bus (1) begins to move, said speed sensor (15) activates, and said load cell sensors (16) at the bus steps start monitoring for any unusual load that indicates the presence of passengers on the footboard. If the load cell sensors detect any pressure exceeding a preset threshold while the bus is moving, the system identifies a foot boarding incident. Upon detecting foot boarding, said control unit (17) immediately triggers said speaker unit (14), issuing an audible warning both inside and outside the bus. Said camera unit (13) is also activated to capture live footage of the footboard area. Said display unit (12) provides the driver with real-time visual alerts and camera footage, enabling the driver to verify the incident. The driver receives a visual notification on the display unit, indicating the exact location of the foot boarding incident. The driver can visually monitor the situation and take appropriate actions, such as slowing down or stopping the vehicle. In more advanced configurations, the control unit is programmed to automatically reduce the vehicle's speed or bring it to a complete halt if the foot boarding continues despite the warnings. This ensures that the bus does not proceed while passengers are still in unsafe positions.

[039] The video footage from the camera unit is stored in the control unit for later review. Transport authorities or bus operators can analyse this data to improve safety measures and address recurring foot boarding behaviour. Furthermore, the system incorporates a host controller interface (31) that facilitates the transmission of images via the network (21). If foot boarding continues for more than 30 seconds, the captured images are automatically sent to both the bus authorities and the driver through said host controller interface (31), providing real-time updates. This capability enhances safety enforcement by enabling immediate response from authorities and supporting the driver in making informed decisions during the travel.
, Claims:WE CLAIM:
1. A foot board travel preventing apparatus (11) for public transport vehicles, comprising a control unit (17) that is operatively connected to a display unit (12), camera units (13), speakers (14), a speed sensor (15), and load sensors (16) within a bus (1), all linked to a host controller interface (31) through a network (21);
- wherein said load sensors (16) consist of two sensors installed at each of the front and rear steps of the bus;
- wherein said speed sensor (15) that activates the system when the bus is in motion;
- wherein said cameras (13) and said speakers (14) are installed at the front and rear of the bus for capturing live footage of the footboard area and to issue audible warnings when foot boarding is detected;
- wherein said display unit (12) for providing the driver with real-time visual alerts and camera footage;
- wherein said control unit (17) processes sensor data and triggers alerts or vehicle interventions when foot boarding is detected while the bus is in motion;
- wherein said host controller interface (31) facilitates the transmission of images of passengers to the bus authorities through the network (21).

2. The apparatus (11) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said load sensors (16) at the front and back steps are configured to detect pressure variations caused by passengers standing on the footboard, differentiating between normal boarding and foot boarding behaviour.

3. The apparatus (11) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said speed sensor (15) activates the system only when the bus (1) is in motion, preventing unnecessary alerts when the bus is stationary.

4. The apparatus (11) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said control unit (17) is configured to trigger the speaker units (14) to issue an audible warning and also automatically reduce the bus's speed or bring the vehicle to a halt if persistent foot boarding is detected.

5. The apparatus (11) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said host controller interface (31) enables real-time communication of images and incident reports to bus authorities via network (21) activated by control unit (17) for enforcement actions.

6. A method for preventing foot boarding in a private transport, comprising the steps of;
- Initiating the footboard monitoring apparatus (11) when the bus started moving;
- detecting the presence of passengers standing on the footboard using load sensors (16) at the front and back steps;
- monitoring vehicle speed with a speed sensor (15);
- issuing audible warnings through speaker units (14) when foot boarding is detected;
- providing real-time visual alerts captured by the cameras (13) to the driver through the display unit (12);
- reducing or halting the bus's movement through a control unit (17) if foot boarding persists;
- transmitting the image of the passenger to authorities through host controller interface (31) via the network (21) if the passenger remains on the footboard after warnings.

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