SYSTEM FOR MONITORING AND CONTROLLING SPEED OF A VEHICLE

Abstract

ABSTRACT The present invention relates to a system (1000) for monitoring and controlling the speed of the vehicle using external electromagnetic field. The system (1000) disclosed in the present invention comprises sensing device (100), control unit (200) and electromagnetic device (300). The sensing device used to collect the data of the vehicle’s speed, and transmit the data to the control unit (200), which is further connected to the electromagnetic device (300), and thereby triggers the electromagnetic device (300), accordingly.

Specification

Description:SYSTEM FOR MONITORING AND CONTROLLING SPEED OF A VEHICLE

FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[001] The present invention relates to the systems for road safety. More specifically, the present invention relates to a system for monitoring and controlling the speed of a vehicle.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[002] Roadways is important means for transportation as it provides people to commute across a wide range of locations. However, it is associated with a high number of incidents of crashes and accidents, where large vehicles report a number of crash incidents on public roads. Hence, the chances of the accidents are comparatively higher in the roadways than in the other modes of transportation.

[003] Conventional road safety systems, such as static signs, mirrors, and manual traffic controls, are inadequate for real-time monitoring, leading to delayed driver reactions and poor accident prevention, especially in low-visibility conditions and on sharp curves. Additionally, basic vehicle control systems lack advanced features like automatic braking and predictive alerts for oncoming vehicles.

[004] The factors responsible for such accidents may be over-speeding, road features for example sharp turns, construction on-going, driver experience, driver's inability to take decision.

[005] Another major cause of the accident is over speeding of the vehicles than the set maximum speed-limit in the respective jurisdiction. Therefore, the number of the accidents are increasing year by year. The situation can be understood by comparison of the data available for the road accidents in 2021 and in 2022. The result shows that the number of accidents is increased in 2022 by 18 % due to over-speed of the vehicle only. Other factors are also responsible for the road accidents and need to be addressed.

[006] However, the number of accidents due to over-speed are more than the number of accidents due to the other factors such as road features, on-going construction.

[007] In hilly areas, sharp turns, steep curves, and sudden road changes significantly increase the risk of accidents. Conventional road safety mechanisms are unable to efficiently mitigate overspeeding in such regions, resulting in higher accident rates year after year. The limitations in these systems highlight the need for a more advanced approach to real-time speed control and monitoring.

[008] Therefore, there is a need to develop a system which can mitigate the challenges and monitor the speed of the vehicle when reaches beyond the maximum speed limit in such hilly regions. Further, there is a need to develop a system for real-time controlling the speed of the vehicle to limit the number of accidents.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[009] The present invention solves the aforementioned problems and provides a system for monitoring and controlling the speed of a vehicle in real-time, particularly on sharp U-turns, steep curves, and hilly terrains.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to provide a system for an automatic speed reduction using an electromagnetic field when vehicles exceed a predefined speed limit.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a system to improve visibility and driver alertness by sharing speed information between vehicles on either side of the road.

[0012] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide an intelligent traffic control and signal enforcement for safer driving and pedestrian protection.

[0013] It is still another object of the present invention is to reduce the number of accidents caused by overspeeding in hazardous areas through automated speed control mechanisms.

[0014] The present invention provides a solution for monitoring and controlling vehicle speed in hazardous terrains, particularly in hilly regions, sharp U-turns, steep curves, and other challenging road conditions. The system according to the present invention addresses the critical need for enhanced road safety by integrating real-time speed detection, automatic braking mechanisms, and driver alert systems, powered by an electromagnetic field-based control mechanism.

[0015] The system as per the present invention operates the three core components, namely, sensing device, control unit, and electromagnetic device.

[0016] The sensing device detect the speed of vehicles, the control unit processes the speed data and compare the same with predefined limits, and electromagnetic device is activated to reduce the vehicle speed in case the limit is exceeded.

[0017] In one embodiment of the present invention, a system for monitoring and controlling the speed of a vehicle is provided, comprising a sensing device for collecting the speed data of the vehicle, a control unit in connection with sensing device to receive the said data, and an electromagnetic device in connection with the control unit, thereof can be triggered and activated by the control unit when the speed of the vehicle is more than the maximum permissible limit.

[0018] The system for controlling and monitoring the speed of a vehicle according to the present invention, comprises the sensing device wherein, the sensing device have further components such as sensor and communication module. The sensors are used to sense the speed of the vehicles and collect the data transfer this data to the control unit, whereas the communication module establish the connection between the control unit and the sensing device.

[0019] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, a system having the electromagnetic device is provided, which further comprises communication unit, alarm unit, and an electromagnetic coil. The communication unit establishes the connection between the control unit and electromagnetic device.

[0020] In still another embodiment of the present invention, the control unit first triggers an alarm via alarm unit of the electromagnetic device, thereafter the control unit triggers the electromagnetic coils to get activated and generate an electromagnetic field.

[0021] In another embodiment of the present invention, the system automatically stops the generation of the electromagnetic field when the vehicle's speed reached within the permissible range.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0022] While the specification concludes with claims that particularly point out and distinctly claim the invention, it is believed that the advantages and features of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following more detailed description of expressly disclosed exemplary embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The drawings and detailed description which follow are intended to be merely illustrative of the expressly disclosed exemplary embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention as set forth in the appended claims. In the drawings:

[0023] Fig. 1 illustrates a system for monitoring and controlling the speed of the vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Fig. 2 illustrates implementation of the system according to the present invention, in real-life example.

[0025] Fig. 3 illustrates another example of implementation of the system according to the present invention.

[0026] Fig. 4 illustrates the system and its component involved in reduction of vehicle's speed as per the example shown in Fig. 3.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS
System (1000)
Sensing device (100)
Sensor (101)
Communication module (102)
Control unit (200)
Electromagnetic device (300)
Communication module (301)
Alarm unit (302)
Electromagnetic coil (303)

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0027] The exemplary embodiments described herein detail for illustrative purposes are subject to many variations in the structure and design. It should be emphasized, however, that the present invention is not limited to a system used for monitoring and controlling of the speed of the vehicle. It is understood that various omissions and substitutions of equivalents are contemplated as circumstances may suggest or render expedient, but these are intended to cover the application or implementation without departing from the spirit or scope of the claims of the present invention. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

[0028] The use of terms "including," "comprising," or "having" and variations thereof herein are meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items.

[0029] Further, the terms, "an" and "a" herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced items.

[0030] The present invention provides a system for monitoring and controlling the speed of a vehicle to enhance vehicle safety in hazardous areas. The system integrates real-time speed monitoring, speed control, and communication between vehicles. The system consists of key components that work in tandem to ensure smooth and safe navigation of vehicles, particularly in hilly and high-risk terrains such as sharp U-turns, steep curves, and low-visibility zones.

[0031] The maximum permissible speed limit of the vehicle may be different for the different regions as well as for different road features such as sharp U-turn and straight roads. In plane regions, there is not so much difficulty in driving in U-turn, however, in hilly region driving and maintaining speed within a permissible limit becomes difficult. In addition to this, the vehicle's maximum permissible speed limit can also be decided by other factors such as presence of public facilities like pedestrian crossing, schools, hospitals.

[0032] Fig. 1 illustrates the system for monitoring and controlling the speed of the vehicle when the vehicle's speed exceeds the maximum permissible speed-limit for the particular region (also referred to as pre-determined threshold), in this case it is sharp U-turn in hilly region.

[0033] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the system (1000) comprises a sensing device (100), a control unit (200) in connection with the sensing device, and an electromagnetic device (300) in connection with the control unit.

[0034] The sensing device (100) plays a critical role in the overall operation of the system, where the primary function of the sensing device (100) being, detection of the real-time speed of vehicles as they approach hazardous zones like sharp U-turns, steep inclines, or areas with poor visibility. The data collected by the sensing device serves as the foundation upon which the system makes decisions regarding speed control, driver alerts, and the activation of the electromagnetic braking mechanism. This real-time input is essential for ensuring that the control unit (200) can accurately assess traffic conditions and respond swiftly to potential risks.

[0035] The sensing device (100) includes an infrared (IR) sensor (101) and a communication module (102). The IR sensor (101) detects the speed of vehicles by emitting infrared light and measuring the time it takes for the light to reflect off moving vehicles. The reflection time allows the sensor to calculate the vehicle's speed with high accuracy.

[0036] IR sensors are highly efficient in various environmental conditions. They can detect vehicles in low-visibility situations such as fog, rain, or night time driving, making them ideal for challenging terrains where traditional visual-based sensors might fail. The IR sensor is particularly useful in detecting the speed of vehicles entering sharp curves, steep slopes, or pedestrian zones where immediate intervention is necessary to prevent accidents.

[0037] The communication module (102) is responsible for transmitting the speed data from the IR sensor to the control unit (200). It ensures that the system functions in real-time, allowing the control unit to process and react to the data immediately. The communication module (102) uses wired or wireless communication technologies, depending on the installation environment and system design. For example, wireless communication might be preferable in complex terrains where installing cables is challenging.

[0038] The communication module also facilitates vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication, which allows nearby vehicles to share speed information, enhancing overall road safety.

[0039] The control unit (200) is the central processing hub of the system according to the present invention. It receives real-time data from the sensing device and uses this information to make critical decisions regarding vehicle speed control, driver alerts, and the activation of the electromagnetic braking system. The control unit's role is essential in ensuring that the system functions smoothly, providing timely and accurate responses to potential hazards, such as overspeeding vehicles in hazardous terrains like sharp U-turns and steep curves.

[0040] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the control unit comprises a processing unit for handling all the computations. In one embodiment, an Arduino Uno microcontroller or a similar microcontroller system may be used as a processing unit. The processing unit processes the speed data collected by the sensing device and compares it to the pre-set speed limit for the specific road section or hazardous zone.

[0041] The processing unit operates using pre-programmed algorithms that determine whether the vehicle's speed exceeds the pre-determined threshold, and if so, initiates corrective actions, including driver alerts and speed reduction through the electromagnetic device.

[0042] The control unit (200) comprises memory to store speed limits for different sections of the road, environmental conditions, or historical data for long-term use. The memory stores pre-defined speed thresholds for various road types, such as sharp U-turns, steep inclines, and pedestrian crossings, allowing the system to adapt to different conditions.

[0043] The memory is also used to log data from the sensing device, allowing the system to track and analyze traffic patterns over time.

[0044] The control unit includes a communication interface that connects with the sensing device (100) and the electromagnetic device (300). This interface facilitates the real-time transmission of speed data from the sensing device and ensures timely activation of the electromagnetic braking system when needed.

[0045] It also supports communication with external systems, such as central traffic management centers or vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) communication protocols, allowing for integrated traffic monitoring and control.

[0046] The control unit, upon receiving speed data from the sensing device, compares the detected speed with the pre-set speed threshold for that road segment. If the vehicle's speed exceeds the allowable limit, the control unit triggers an alert and initiates speed control measures.

[0047] The control unit also processes and reacts to speed data in real-time ensures that overspeeding vehicles are immediately controlled before they can pose a danger to themselves or other road users.

[0048] Depending on environmental conditions or specific road hazards, the control unit adjusts the speed threshold to accommodate for fog, rain, or traffic congestion, ensuring safe and efficient road use under varying conditions.

[0049] The electromagnetic device (300) is responsible for physically reducing the speed of overspeeding vehicles in a controlled and smooth manner. Upon activation by the control unit (200), the electromagnetic device generates a magnetic field that interacts with the vehicle to decelerate it gradually, avoiding sudden braking that could cause skidding or loss of control, especially on hazardous terrains.

[0050] A communication unit connects the electromagnetic device to the control unit (200). It receives commands from the control unit to activate the electromagnetic coils (303) when a vehicle exceeds the speed limit.

[0051] The communication unit ensures that the electromagnetic device only activates when necessary, and deactivates as soon as the vehicle's speed is within the safe limit.

[0052] The electromagnetic device also includes an alarm unit to provide an immediate, audible or visual warning to the driver when their vehicle is overspeeding. The alarm system can include LED lights, buzzers, or other notification mechanisms to alert the driver.

[0053] This warning system serves as a preemptive alert before the electromagnetic field engages, giving the driver a chance to slow down voluntarily before the system intervenes.

[0054] The core component of the electromagnetic device is the set of electromagnetic coils that generate a magnetic field when activated. This magnetic field interacts with the vehicle, particularly its metallic components, to create resistance and gradually reduce the vehicle's speed.

[0055] The strength of the electromagnetic field can be adjusted based on the vehicle's weight, speed, and the severity of the terrain. For example, larger vehicles such as trucks may require a stronger magnetic field, while smaller passenger cars need a less intense field.

[0056] The electromagnetic coils provide a smooth and controlled reduction in vehicle speed, which is essential for maintaining stability, especially on dangerous terrains like steep inclines or sharp curves.

[0057] The alarm unit alerts drivers before the electromagnetic field engages, allowing them to take manual action if desired. This dual approach of alert and intervention ensures that the system does not take over unnecessarily, giving drivers a chance to self-correct.

[0058] The electromagnetic device can adjust its field strength depending on the vehicle type, ensuring that heavy vehicles like trucks and buses receive enough braking force without overwhelming lighter vehicles like passenger cars.

[0059] The sensing device can be configured in multiple embodiments to suit various road conditions, vehicle types, and infrastructure limitations. The embodiments focus on different types of sensors, sensor arrangements, and additional functionalities.

[0060] In an alternate embodiment of the present invention, the system includes a dual-sensor setup with proximity sensors, wherein the IR sensor (101) is paired with additional proximity sensors to enhance the accuracy of vehicle detection and speed calculation. The proximity sensors can use ultrasonic or laser technology to measure the distance between the sensing device and the vehicle, which provides more accurate speed and size estimations.

[0061] In such case, there is an increased accuracy in speed detection, especially in areas with variable vehicle sizes (e.g., cars vs. trucks).

[0062] In an alternate embodiment of the present invention, a set of license plate recognition cameras are integrated alongside the IR sensor (101). The license plate recognition system allows the sensing device to identify individual vehicles and log their speeds. This can be useful for enforcement purposes, where vehicles that consistently overspeed can be flagged for further action.

[0063] In another alternate embodiment of the present invention, for regions where power supply and wiring infrastructure may be limited, the sensing device can be configured as a solar-powered, wireless unit. The IR sensor and communication module are powered by solar panels, and the data is transmitted wirelessly to the control unit (200).

[0064] The sensing device can also be integrated with external traffic management systems or vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) communication systems. This allows the device to share speed and traffic data with central traffic control authorities, enabling broader traffic flow management and real-time adjustment of speed limits based on congestion levels.

[0065] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the control unit is integrated with Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) communication, allowing the control unit to communicate with other vehicles and infrastructure. It can share speed data, traffic conditions, and potential hazards with nearby vehicles, improving overall road safety.

[0066] In hilly areas with sharp U-turns, conventional safety measures such as road signs, speed bumps, or mirrors often fail to adequately prevent accidents due to the challenging nature of the terrain. Drivers may have limited visibility and insufficient reaction time, particularly when vehicles are traveling at high speeds. The smart speed control system addresses these challenges by using a combination of real-time speed monitoring, automated speed reduction, and communication between vehicles to improve safety.

[0067] In an example, Vehicle A is traveling at a high speed as it approaches a sharp U-turn on a hilly road (as shown in Fig. 2). The system's components work together to ensure that the vehicle's speed is brought under control, minimizing the risk of the vehicle losing control or skidding off the road.

[0068] At step 1, as Vehicle A approaches the U-turn, the IR sensor (101) in the sensing device (100) detects its speed. The IR sensor uses infrared light to measure the vehicle's speed with high accuracy, unaffected by low-visibility conditions such as fog, rain, or darkness, which are common in hilly areas. The sensor immediately sends this speed data to the Control Unit (200) via the communication module (102) for further processing.

[0069] At Step 2, the control unit compares the real-time speed data of Vehicle A with the pre-set speed threshold for the U-turn. For example, the permissible speed for navigating the U-turn might be set at 30 km/h, but Vehicle A is detected traveling at 60 km/h.

[0070] Recognizing that the vehicle is overspeeding and could be at risk of losing control, the control unit initiates a two-part response: triggering an alarm and activating the electromagnetic device to slow the vehicle.

[0071] At Step 3, the alarm unit (302) of the electromagnetic device (300) is triggered, which provides an immediate audible and/or visual alert to the driver of Vehicle A. The alert might be in the form of a loud buzzer or flashing LED lights on the road or dashboard, signaling the driver that they are approaching the U-turn at an unsafe speed.

[0072] This serves as a warning, giving the driver an opportunity to decelerate manually. If the driver does not reduce speed in response to the alarm, the system proceeds to the next step.

[0073] At Step 4, if the speed of Vehicle A remains above the safe threshold after the alarm is triggered, the control unit activates the electromagnetic coils (303) within the electromagnetic device (300).

[0074] The electromagnetic coils generate a magnetic field that interacts with Vehicle A as it passes through the danger zone. This field creates resistance that gradually slows the vehicle, reducing its speed to within the permissible limit, such as from 60 km/h down to 30 km/h.

[0075] The electromagnetic device ensures a smooth deceleration, avoiding the risks associated with sudden braking, such as skidding or loss of control, particularly on the steep or slippery surfaces often found in hilly areas.

[0076] At Step 5, as Vehicle A is slowed down, its speed data is shared with other vehicles in the vicinity, particularly Vehicle B, which may be approaching the U-turn from the opposite direction or is following behind on the same side of the road.

[0077] Through vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication, the speed of Vehicle A is displayed to the driver of Vehicle B. For instance, Vehicle B might see a visual alert on its dashboard or a road-side display indicating that a fast-moving vehicle is approaching the U-turn.

[0078] This advanced notice allows the driver of Vehicle B to prepare for the potential hazard, either by reducing their speed preemptively or taking a more cautious approach to the curve. In areas with blind spots, this communication is particularly valuable as it helps drivers anticipate oncoming traffic that they might not otherwise see.

[0079] At Step 6, if multiple vehicles are approaching the same hazardous curve, the system can monitor and manage the speed of each vehicle independently. In the case where both Vehicle A and Vehicle B are approaching the U-turn from opposite directions, the system ensures that both vehicles are made aware of each other's presence.

[0080] For instance, while Vehicle A is being slowed down by the electromagnetic device, Vehicle B may also receive alerts and modify its speed, even if it is within the speed limit, to ensure that both vehicles navigate the U-turn safely.

[0081] The system prevents dangerous situations where vehicles might collide at the turn due to misjudged speed or poor visibility, offering a coordinated and safe driving experience for all road users.


[0082] The system's effectiveness is demonstrated in multiple scenarios, as depicted in Fig. 3(a-d). These scenarios illustrate how vehicles, such as Vehicle A and Vehicle B, navigate hazardous terrains with the assistance of the smart speed control mechanism:

[0083] Fig. 3(a): Vehicle A approaches a sharp curve at an unsafe speed, and the system detects the speed breach. The electromagnetic device is activated, reducing the vehicle's speed gradually as it enters the curve.

[0084] Fig. 3(b): As Vehicle A slows down, the system displays its speed to Vehicle B, approaching from the opposite direction, ensuring that both vehicles are aware of each other's presence.

[0085] Fig. 3(c): The electromagnetic device continues to regulate the speed of Vehicle A until it exits the curve, while Vehicle B safely enters the zone.

[0086] Fig. 3(d): Both vehicles navigate the hazardous zone safely, with the system ensuring that each vehicle's speed is controlled and that communication between the vehicles prevents potential collisions.

[0087] Advantages of the present invention include, but not limited to:
1. Accident Prevention
2. Automated and Gradual Speed Reduction
3. Improved Driver Awareness
4. Real-time Monitoring

[0088] The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. Those skilled in the art will recognize that other implementations consistent with the disclosed embodiments are possible. The above detailed description and the examples described therein have been presented for the purposes of illustration and description only and not for limitation. For example, the operations described can be done in any suitable manner. The methods can be performed in any suitable order while still providing the described operation and results. It is therefore contemplated that the present embodiments cover any and all modifications, variations, or equivalents that fall within the scope of the basic underlying principles disclosed above and claimed herein.
, Claims:We Claim:

1. A system (1000) for monitoring and controlling speed of a vehicle, the system comprising:
a sensing device (100) to detect the speed of the vehicle and collect data;
a control unit (200) in connection with the sensing device, and configured to receive the data and compare the data with a predetermined threshold; and
an electromagnetic device (300) in connection with the control unit (200),
wherein the electromagnetic device (300) is activated by the control unit (200) when the speed of the vehicle exceeds the predetermined threshold and an electromagnetic field is generated to reduce the speed of vehicle.

2. The system (1000) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the sensing device (100) further comprises a sensor (101) to detect the speed of a vehicle, and a communication module (102) enabling the connection of the sensing device (100) with the control unit (200).

3. The system (1000) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the electromagnetic device (300) further comprises communication unit (301), an alarm unit (302), and electromagnetic coils (303).

4. The system (1000) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the communication unit (301) enables a connection between the electromagnetic device (300) and control unit (200).

5. The system (1000) as claimed in claim 3, wherein control unit (200) triggers the alarm unit (302) and the electromagnetic coils to generate an electromagnetic field.

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