Dynamic monitoring system for controlling the position of a pet inside a car and vehicle.

Description

1 / 11 Dynamic monitoring system for controlling the position of a pet inside a car and vehicle. FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of the automotive industry, focusing more specifically on the development of a dynamic pet position control system, also widely known by the expression pet, employing seat sensors to monitor its position and control the adjustment of the window opening gap next to the seat occupied by the pet, without the need for human intervention for this adjustment. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The relationship between pets, particularly dogs, and the automotive industry dates back to the early 1950s, when the concept of pet ownership began to gain traction in American and European homes. With the increasing number of dogs in households, family trips, including car rides, began to include pets. At that time, there was little focus on safety conditions during animal transport, and it was common for dogs to travel loose inside vehicles, causing discomfort for the animals and significant risks of distraction for the occupants, particularly the driver.The beginning of awareness about animal safety inside vehicles dates back to the 1970s, coinciding with the rise of the concept of vehicle safety itself and early studies on the use of seat belts and child car seats, although without a specific focus on pet transportation, with the use of simple crates or improvised nets to restrict the space occupied by pets. In the 1990s, there was a significant global increase in the number of pets in homes, with a growing appreciation for their well-being and the consequent development of safer and more comfortable solutions for transporting dogs. In the early 2000s, specialized products for transporting pets in automobiles emerged, such as car seats, adjustable seat belts, and booster seats. With increased demand, these products began to attract the attention of the automotive industry, which started incorporating these safety solutions into vehicle design.The 2010s brought even greater concern about pet safety in vehicles, with the arrival of regulations and the introduction of new technologies, such as... Petition 870250013607, dated 19 / 02 / 2025, p. 8 / 22 2 / 11 The requirement for safe pet transport in vehicles. Currently, the relationship between the increase in pets, especially dogs, and the automotive industry is characterized by a growing concern for animal welfare. The industry offers a diverse range of products, from seat belts and car seats to transport systems that can be easily installed in vehicles. Major automakers also continue to incorporate new safety features, such as specific compartments for animals and easy-to-clean materials, considering both the protection of dogs and their comfort during rides. Furthermore, awareness campaigns have helped to publicize the importance of transporting dogs safely, not only to ensure the animal's comfort but also to prevent accidents. Many drivers today consider the animal's safety as a priority as the safety of human occupants.However, one of the most relevant aspects of dog safety when transported in vehicles has been highlighted: the risk of pets, especially dogs, leaning out of partially open windows, which can lead to falls or accidental injuries. This behavior becomes more dangerous when the vehicle is in motion or during sudden stops. Even when securely restrained by a seatbelt or other means, pets can still press against the door or lean against the window, potentially causing damage to the internal mechanisms or the door window over time. Furthermore, drivers often struggle to monitor pets while concentrating on the road, leading to increased distraction and potential safety risks. Current solutions, such as manual window adjustments, rely entirely on the driver's awareness and reaction time, which may not be sufficient in critical moments.

[0003] Searching the state of the art patent literature, the following documents were found:

[0004] Document US20240217305 describes a method for a pet mode in a vehicle, implemented by the vehicle's control module. It involves detecting the presence of an animal inside the vehicle using an internal sensor capable of identifying weight, movement, or sound, and identifying the climate zone occupied by the animal based on this data. The system adjusts various controllable components, including the opening and closing of windows, to ensure the animal's safety. In addition, other systems Petition 870250013607, dated 19 / 02 / 2025, page 9 / 22 3 / 11 Air conditioning, lighting, and security are managed to create a safe and comfortable environment for the pet.

[0005] Document WO2023036415 describes a method, system, and software for adapting the environment inside the cabin of a parked vehicle. The method includes monitoring the passenger cabin, determining a parameter that indicates their well-being, and adjusting the cabin environment based on that parameter. This adjustment may involve opening one or more windows, but the windows are opened only in a limited way to ensure the safety of passengers, such as children or pets, preventing them from exiting the vehicle through the openings.

[0006] Document CN117341616 describes a control method for an intelligent pet mode in an automobile, focusing on features such as manual or automatic activation of the mode based on predefined conditions. Among the adjustable parameters, the method emphasizes the control of the car's windows and sunroofs, allowing them to open or close as needed to maintain a comfortable environment. By dynamically adjusting the operational state of components such as windows, active noise reduction, air conditioning, air purification, pet cabin controls, and car lighting, the system ensures the comfort and safety of pets during the trip, as well as helping to calm their emotions.

[0007] In summary: the first prior art document describes a pet mode in a vehicle, where sensors detect the presence and location of an animal, and the system adjusts windows, air conditioning, lighting, and safety features to ensure the animal's safety and comfort; the second document describes a method for adapting the environment inside the cabin of a parked vehicle, monitoring the well-being of passengers, including the controlled opening of windows to prevent passengers, such as children or pets, from leaving the vehicle, ensuring their safety; and the third document describes a control method for an intelligent pet mode in an automobile, with manual or automatic activation that adjusts windows, sunroofs, and other components to maintain a comfortable and safe environment for the pet during travel.

[0008] Thus, considering the state-of-the-art solutions, it is evident that none of them has been able to solve the technical problem associated with the automated adjustment of windows based on the movements of a pet, meeting different needs. Petition 870250013607, dated 19 / 02 / 2025, page 10 / 22 4 / 11 of these behaviors. It should be noted that none of the previous points address or provide sufficient lessons to devise an adequate solution to this problem.

[0009] In view of the points presented, the importance and urgency of a technical solution capable of overcoming the current gap in this technical field is clear. Taking these points into account, the present invention aims to offer a favorable solution to the problems previously presented. OBJECTIVES OF THE INVENTION

[0010] The present invention, in a first objective, aims to provide an automated adjustment of window opening based on the movements of a pet present in the vehicle.

[0011] Another objective of the invention is to provide an automated window opening adjustment that can be activated by means of a button or through the vehicle's infotainment system.

[0012] Another objective of the present invention is to provide an automated window opening adjustment with customized opening limits through settings in the vehicle's infotainment system.

[0013] Another objective of the present invention is to provide an automated window opening adjustment with return to the original window opening position, after a time interval configurable by the automobile manufacturer, after the pet returns to its seated position.

[0014] Another objective of the present invention is to prevent the pet from remaining pressed against the door or leaning against the window of the vehicle, causing damage to its internal mechanisms. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0015] In this way, the present invention solves such problems of the prior art by means of a dynamic pet position monitoring system defined by the electro-electronic interface between a usual weight-based seat sensor positioned on the vehicle seat, a safety restraint control module or supplementary restraint control module, and a programmable activation unit, which may be represented by the audio control unit or the infotainment unit provided in the vehicle's dashboard. The communication between the weight-based seat sensor and the safety restraint / supplementary restraint control module may Petition 870250013607, dated 19 / 02 / 2025, page 11 / 22 5 / 11 communication occurs via a wired connection or via a LIN signal, an acronym for Local Interconnect Network, which defines a commonly used communication protocol in current automotive vehicles and based on a bus network for electric linear actuators of non-critical components, such as electric window adjustments, seats, temperature control, and others. The data generated by the limitation control module is sent to the programmable activation unit via a CAN signal, an acronym for Controller Area Network, which defines a message-based protocol designed for generic electronic control units, such as the audio control unit or the infotainment unit, to communicate reliably and with priority.

[0016] The system raises the vehicle window corresponding to the seat occupied by the pet after detecting a reduction in weight in that seat, the value of which is configured by the vehicle manufacturer.

[0017] The sequence of steps for the operation of the dynamic control system is as follows: a) the user must select, using the programmable activation unit, whether it is the audio control unit or the infotainment unit, which seat the pet is located in, from the options of front right seat, rear right seat or rear left seat; b) the dynamic control feature will be available when the window corresponding to the selected seat is leaving an open gap of at least 70%, this value being configurable by the vehicle manufacturer; c) with the dynamic control feature activated, and the pet outside the seat, the open gap of the window automatically changes to 50%, this value being configurable by the vehicle manufacturer;d) If the vehicle does not provide a discrete weight value for the pet via the CAN network, the dynamic position control may still operate within a predefined weight range. In this scenario, if the animal is leaning against the door, the system may no longer detect its presence in the seat, interpreting it as absence. As a result, the window will go up. However, for the system to work this way, the pet's weight must be sufficient to activate the seat sensor when the pet is seated; e) The window corresponding to the seat occupied by the pet returns to its original open position when the seat sensor detects the pet's presence, after an interval without significant weight variation, such as 60 seconds after detecting the nominal weight; Petition 870250013607, dated 19 / 02 / 2025, page 12 / 22 6 / 11 without significant variation, and this value can be configured by the manufacturer. This helps avoid constant activation of the dynamic control.

[0018] The weight-based seat sensor can be any type encompassing load cells, such as pressure sensors, resistive sensors, piezoelectric sensors, capacitive sensors, and strain gauge sensors.

[0019] The system uses a weight histogram generated by the seat sensors to estimate the pet's weight. This histogram represents the distribution of detected values ​​over time. Because measurements can fluctuate due to the pet's movements, the system focuses on the highest values ​​recorded in the histogram to calculate an average. This approach helps minimize errors caused by temporary fluctuations and ensures that the weight estimate is based on moments when the pet is fully seated, providing greater accuracy for the dynamic control functionality.

[0020] The present invention comprises the vehicle to which the dynamic pet position control system described herein is applied.

[0021] All the technical features of this patent application will be immediately recognized and appreciated by those skilled in the art. These features will be detailed further below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0022] The present invention will be described in more detail after the presentation of the figures, which contain a preferred configuration. The figures show: Figure 1 is a schematic view of the electrical architecture of the proposed system. Figure 2 is a flowchart illustrating the operational steps of the proposed system.

[0023] The reference elements present in the figures are: weight seat sensor 10; wire connection 11; LIN signal 12; RCM restraint safety control module or SRS supplementary restraint control module; CAN signal 13; UAP programmable activation unit; ACU audio control unit; IVI infotainment unit; and DCM door control module. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0024] Before the invention is described in detail, it should be understood that it is not limited to the specific component parts of the apparatus described, since such components may vary. It should also be understood that the terminology used herein Petition 870250013607, dated 19 / 02 / 2025, page 13 / 22 7 / 11 is for descriptive purposes only and is not intended to be limiting. It should be noted that, as used in the descriptive report, claims and summary presented, the singular forms a, an, and thea include singular and / or plural referents, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, it should be understood that, in the case of parameter ranges delimited by numerical values ​​being provided, the ranges are considered to include those limiting values.

[0025] It should also be understood that the modalities disclosed herein should not be understood as individual modalities that are unrelated to each other. The characteristics discussed with one modality should also be disclosed in connection with other modalities shown herein. If, in one case, a specific characteristic is not disclosed with one modality but with another, the person skilled in the art would understand that this does not necessarily mean that the characteristic is not intended to be disclosed with the other modality. The person skilled in the art would understand that the essence of this request is to disclose the characteristic also for the other modality, but that only for the sake of clarity and to keep this descriptive report to a manageable volume, this has not been done.

[0026] Furthermore, all the concepts and elements presented here are easily understood by those skilled in the art, and are not limited to the terminology defined here.

[0027] The present invention comprises a dynamic pet position control system inside an automotive vehicle comprising the electronic interfacing between a usual weight seat sensor 10 positioned on the vehicle seat, an RCM safety restraint control module or SRS supplementary restraint control module, a DCM door control module and a UAP programmable activation unit, which may be represented by the ACU audio control unit or the IVI infotainment unit, provided in the vehicle's dashboard.

[0028] Communication between the weight seat sensor 10 and the RCM limitation control module can occur via a wired connection 11 or via an LIN signal 12.

[0029] The data generated by the RCM or SRS module is sent to the UAP programmable activation unit via a CAN 13 signal. Petition 870250013607, dated 19 / 02 / 2025, page 14 / 22 8 / 11

[0030] The system raises the vehicle window corresponding to the seat occupied by the pet after detecting a reduction in weight in that seat, the value of which is configured by the vehicle manufacturer.

[0031] The sequence of steps for the operation of the dynamic control system is as follows: a) the user must select, with the aid of the programmable activation unit UAP, either the audio control unit ACU or the infotainment unit IVI, which seat the pet is located in, from the options of front right seat, rear right seat or rear left seat; b) the dynamic control feature will be available when the window corresponding to the selected seat is leaving an open gap of at least 70%, this value being configurable by the vehicle manufacturer; c) with the dynamic control feature activated, and the pet being outside the seat, an electrical signal is sent to the DCM to raise the window and from there to the respective electric motor and the open gap of the window automatically becomes 50%, this value being configurable by the vehicle manufacturer;d) If the vehicle does not provide a discrete weight value for the pet via the CAN 13 signal, the dynamic position control may still operate within a predefined weight range. In this scenario, if the animal is leaning against the door, the system may no longer detect its presence in the seat, interpreting it as absence, and as a result, the window will roll up. However, for the system to function in this way, the pet's weight must be sufficient to activate the seat sensor 10 when the pet is seated;(e) The window corresponding to the seat occupied by the pet returns to its original open position when seat sensor 10 detects the pet's presence, and a signal is sent to the DCM and from there to the electric motor of the corresponding electric window after an interval without significant weight variation, such as 60 seconds after detecting the nominal weight without significant variation. This value can be configured by the manufacturer to avoid constant activation of the dynamic control.

[0032] The weight-based seat sensor 10 can be any type encompassing load cells, such as pressure sensors, resistive sensors, piezoelectric sensors, capacitive sensors, and strain gauge sensors.

[0033] The system uses a weight histogram generated by the seat sensors 10 to estimate the pet's weight. This histogram represents the distribution of Petition 870250013607, dated 19 / 02 / 2025, page 15 / 22 9 / 11 values ​​detected over time. Because measurements can fluctuate due to the pet's movements, the system focuses on the highest values ​​recorded in the histogram to calculate an average. This approach helps minimize errors caused by temporary fluctuations and ensures that the weight estimate is based on moments when the pet is fully seated, providing greater accuracy for the dynamic control functionality.

[0034] The present invention relates to a vehicle comprising the dynamic control system as defined by the present invention. The present invention differs from the prior art in that it practically and functionally solves the technical problem associated with the automated adjustment of windows based on the movements of the pet, catering to different pet behaviors, offering greater safety and convenience during journeys undertaken with the pet present.

[0035] Unlike existing solutions that rely on manual adjustments or basic safety restraints, the proposed system dynamically monitors a pet's position and automatically responds to prevent risky behaviors such as leaning out of open windows. Even when a dog is restrained by a seatbelt or similar means, an open window can still encourage the animal to lean or press against the door. This not only increases the risk of damage to the door interior due to repeated pressure but also poses a safety concern if the dog becomes overly excited or agitated. By automatically raising the window when the dog leans, the system minimizes these risks and reduces the likelihood of injury, making it a practical enhancement for pet-friendly vehicles.Economically, the invention caters to the growing market of pet owners who prioritize safety and convenience for their pets. With an increasing number of vehicles offering specific pet-friendly features, this system provides a competitive advantage by addressing a distinct yet significant need. It represents a valuable addition to modern vehicles, appealing to a demographic willing to invest in advanced features for the well-being of their pets.

[0036] The sustainability of the proposed system is highly likely due to increasing trends in pet ownership and the prioritization of pet safety. As more people treat pets as members of the family, Petition 870250013607, dated 19 / 02 / 2025, page 16 / 22 With the growing number of families, the demand for advanced vehicle features that cater to their well-being is expected to increase. This system addresses a specific safety concern, making it a valuable addition to modern vehicles. The solution is adaptable and can evolve alongside new technologies, such as enhanced seat sensors and smarter IVI infotainment systems, ensuring its relevance in future vehicle designs. Furthermore, its customizable features allow it to accommodate various vehicle types and pet behaviors, increasing its longevity. Potential regulations focusing on animal safety inside vehicles may also contribute to its widespread adoption. Laws in some regions already require pets to be restrained during vehicle travel, and a greater emphasis on minimizing risks such as falls or injuries due to open windows could boost demand for solutions like this.Overall, the system proposed in this invention combines immediate practicality with the flexibility to adapt to emerging trends and regulations, ensuring its long-term viability in the automotive market.

[0037] From the main embodiment disclosed and described in detail herein and the non-exhaustive examples of alternative embodiments described, various alterations, additions, and even additional forms of alternative embodiments may be made without departing from the scope or the totality of the subject matter disclosed in the present invention.

[0038] All the technical characteristics of the different embodiments disclosed in this patent application will be immediately recognized and appreciated by those skilled in the art.

[0039] It is expressly provided that all combinations of elements that perform the same function substantially in the same way to achieve the same results as the elements now claimed are within the scope of the present invention. Finally, it should be noted that the scope of protection of the present invention covers other possible variations, not being limited solely by the content of the claims alone, including possible equivalents.

[0040] Please note that the drawings presented are not necessarily to scale, being merely conceptual in nature. Nevertheless, it is expressly provided that all combinations of elements that perform the same function Petition 870250013607, dated 19 / 02 / 2025, page 17 / 22 11 / 11 substantially in the same way to achieve the same results as the elements now claimed are within the scope of the present invention. Finally, it should be noted that the scope of protection of the present invention covers other possible variations, not being limited solely by the content of the claims alone, including possible equivalents. Petition 870250013607, dated 19 / 02 / 2025, page 18 / 22

Claims

1 / 2 Claims 1. Dynamic monitoring system for controlling the position of a pet inside an automotive vehicle, characterized by comprising the electronic interface between a usual weight-based seat sensor (10) positioned on the vehicle seat, a safety restraint control module (RCM) or supplementary restraint control module (SRS), a door control module (DCM) and a programmable activation unit (UAP), which may be represented by the audio control unit (ACU) or the infotainment unit (IVI), provided in the vehicle's dashboard.

2. Dynamic monitoring system for controlling the position of a pet inside an automotive vehicle, according to claim 1, characterized in that the communication between the seat weight sensor (10) and the safety restraint control module (RCM) or supplementary restraint control module (SRS) occurs by means of a wired connection (11) or by means of an LIN signal (12).

3. Dynamic monitoring system for controlling the position of a pet inside an automotive vehicle, according to claim 1, characterized in that the data generated by the restraint safety control module (RCM) or supplementary restraint control module (SRS) are sent to the programmable activation unit (UAP) via a CAN signal (13).

4. Dynamic monitoring system for controlling the position of a pet inside an automotive vehicle, according to claim 1, characterized in that the system raises the vehicle window corresponding to the seat occupied by the pet after detecting a reduction in weight in said seat, the value of this weight reduction being configured by the vehicle manufacturer.

5. Dynamic monitoring system for controlling the position of a pet inside an automotive vehicle, according to claim 1, characterized by comprising the following operating steps: a) the user must select, with the aid of the programmable activation unit (PAU), whether it is the audio control unit (ACU) or the infotainment unit (IVI), which seat the pet is located in, among the options of front right seat, rear right seat or rear left seat; b) the dynamic control feature will be available when the window corresponding to the selected seat is leaving an open gap of at least 70%, this value being configurable by the vehicle manufacturer;c) With the dynamic control feature activated, and the pet out of the seat, an electrical signal is sent to the DCM to raise the window and from there to the respective electric motor and the window opening automatically goes to 50%, this value being configurable by the vehicle manufacturer; d) If the vehicle does not provide a discrete weight value for the pet via the CAN signal (13), the dynamic position control may still operate within a predefined weight range, in which case, if the animal is against the door, the system may no longer detect its presence in the seat, interpreting it as absence and as a result, the window will rise, however, for the system to work in this way, the weight of the pet must be sufficient to activate the seat sensor (10) when the pet is seated;(ee) the window corresponding to the seat occupied by the pet returns to its original open position when the seat sensor (10) detects the presence of the pet and a signal is sent to the DCM and from there to the electric motor of the corresponding electric window after an interval without significant weight variation, for example, 60 seconds after the detection of the nominal weight without significant variation, this value being configurable by the manufacturer in order to avoid constant activation of the dynamic control.

6. Dynamic monitoring system for controlling the position of a pet inside an automotive vehicle, according to claim 1, characterized in that the seat weight sensor (10) is any type encompassing load cells, such as pressure sensors, resistive sensors, piezoelectric sensors, capacitive sensors and strain gauge sensors.

7. Dynamic monitoring system for controlling the position of a pet inside an automotive vehicle, according to claim 1, characterized by using a weight histogram generated by the seat sensors (10) to estimate the weight of the pet.

8. Motor vehicle, characterized by comprising the dynamic monitoring system defined in claim 1. Petition 870250013607, dated 19 / 02 / 2025, pp. 20 / 22

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