Automated device for stabilizing and locking heavy vehicles

Abstract

An automated heavy vehicle stabilization and locking device, comprising: i) a frame 101 with a first and a second plate 201 connected to each other via a motorized hinge 202 and initially in a stowed state, the body being manually positioned by a user near a heavy vehicle; ii) an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 102, installed above the frame 101 and connected to a processor to capture and process multiple images of the environment or to capture the dimensions of the vehicle's wheels, wherein an integrated microcontroller connected to the imaging unit 102, based on the captured wheel dimensions, actuates the hinge 202 to tilt and extend the second plate 201 over the first plate 201 in order to impede the movement of the vehicle; iii) an ultrasonic sensor integrated into the second plate 201 to detect the thickness of the tire, wherein the microcontroller connected to the ultrasonic sensor actuates a pair of L-shaped hydraulically actuated rods 103 attached to the second plate 201 to extend and firmly grip the rim section of the wheel; iv) a laser sensor integrated on one of the rods 103 to determine the presence of a gap within the rim section, wherein, upon successful determination of the gap, the microcontroller instructs the rods 103 to move towards each other and actuates an electromagnetic locking unit located on the tip section of the rod 103 to securely lock the rim and maintain stability and safety by effectively preventing unintentional movement of the vehicle; and v) a biometric scanner integrated into the second plate 201 to retrieve a fingerprint of the user placed on the scanner for the purpose of user authentication, wherein the microcontroller compares the retrieved print with a pre-loaded print stored in a database connected to the microcontroller and, if the retrieved fingerprint matches, the microcontroller disables the locking unit, followed by a re-actuation of the rod 103 to retract to its home position to unlock the vehicle.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an automated stabilizing and locking device for heavy vehicles, capable of providing the vehicle with stability and security against unintentional movement and securing the vehicle on inclined surfaces. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] A vehicle provides a convenient and flexible means of transportation that allows people to travel to work, school, shopping, appointments, and social events. The vehicle provides comfort and privacy, especially in incline or when traveling with bulky items or multiple passengers. When parked on an incline, there is often a risk of the vehicle moving forward or backward. Therefore, people need a device that stops the vehicle and allows it to move forward and backward when the car is parked.

[0003] Traditionally, the wheels are secured to the tires with chocks, typically made of wood or rubber, to prevent the vehicle from rolling. However, applying chocks requires an additional step to stabilize the vehicle, which can be time-consuming. Another traditional method is to use jack stands, where the vehicle is raised with a jack and then supported with stands placed beneath the frame. However, setting up jack stands requires physical effort, especially if the vehicle is heavy or multiple stands are required. If the vehicle is not lifted properly or the jack stands are not positioned correctly, there is a risk that the vehicle will collapse or tip over.There is therefore a need to develop an innovative tool that is more time-efficient and consistent than traditional methods and meets the changing needs of today's world. Furthermore, wheel theft is a serious problem, especially for vehicles left parked in unattended areas for extended periods. A set of wheels can be stolen within minutes by any burglar armed with a wrench and a jack. Since there are so many different types of wheel locks available, installing one can significantly deter potential burglars.

[0004] US3993167A discloses the present invention in relation to a wheel chock for use in restraining the movement of a stationary vehicle, the wheel chock comprising a rigid body of resiliently flexible material, preferably rubber, having a ground-engaging surface and a generally concave wheel-engaging surface, these surfaces forming a tapered portion therebetween, and the body having at least one aperture extending therein such that when the wheel-engaging surface engages the wheel of the vehicle, the material is forced into the apertures, whereby the wheel-engaging surface substantially closely follows the shape of the circumference of the wheel. While US'167 discloses an invention relating to a wheel chock for use in restraining the movement of a stationary vehicle, the invention lacks the ability to alert the surroundings of the unauthorized user of the vehicle.

[0005] US20050226705A1 discloses the present invention in relation to a wheel chock device having a chock body for chocking a tire of a vehicle, such as a semi-trailer, prior to loading or unloading the trailer by a tractor at a docking station. When correctly positioned, the chock body prevents the vehicle from moving away from the docking station during the loading or unloading operation. Such movement poses a potential hazard to the load being loaded or unloaded, to the equipment used to perform the loading / unloading operations, and to the operator of that equipment. The chock housing contains a sensor mounted on or embedded within the housing that is capable of detecting a properly chocked tire. The sensor is electrically connected to a microcontroller programmed to control a display, such as aA visual light or audible alarm that alerts the operator of the equipment at the docking station whether the vehicle driver has properly chocked the tires. US '705 does disclose an invention relating to a wheel chock device with a wedge element for chocking a vehicle tire. However, the invention does not guarantee stability and safety, particularly on inclined surfaces, to prevent the vehicle from moving unintentionally.

[0006] Conventionally, there are many devices capable of stabilizing the heavy vehicle. However, these devices are unable to warn the surrounding community of the unauthorized user of the vehicle, nor are they capable of securing the vehicle in place to maintain its position.

[0007] In order to overcome the above-mentioned disadvantages, there is a need in the field of engineering to develop a device capable of ensuring stability and safety to prevent the vehicle from moving unintentionally, and at the same time warn the surrounding community of the unauthorized user of the vehicle to protect the vehicle from the unauthorized user. OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The main object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a device capable of securing the tires of a vehicle in place to keep the vehicle in position, particularly on inclined surfaces.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device capable of ensuring stability and safety to prevent the vehicle from moving unintentionally and to prevent the theft of vehicles.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device capable of alerting the surrounding community when unauthorized access to the vehicle is detected, thereby protecting the vehicle from the unauthorized user.

[0012] The foregoing and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon closer examination of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The present invention relates to an automated stabilizing and locking device for heavy vehicles, capable of ensuring the stability and safety of the vehicle to prevent the vehicle from moving unintentionally and securing the vehicle in place to keep the vehicle in position on inclined surfaces.

[0014] According to one embodiment of the present invention, an automated heavy vehicle stabilization and locking device comprises a frame having first and second plates connected to each other via a motorized hinge and initially in a stowed state; an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit installed above the frame and connected to a processor to detect the dimensions of the vehicle's wheels; the motorized hinge to tilt and extend the second plate over the first plate; an ultrasonic sensor integrated on the second plate to detect the thickness of the tire; the ultrasonic sensor actuates a pair of L-shaped hydraulically actuated rods mounted on the second plate to extend and firmly grip the rim portion of the wheel; a laser sensor integrated on one of the rods;to determine the presence of a gap within the rim portion, an electromagnetic locking unit arranged on the tip portion of the rod to lock the rim in a secure manner, a biometric scanner integrated on the second plate to retrieve the user's fingerprint placed on the scanner with a view to user authentication.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of suction units are configured below the first plate to attach the frame to the surface in a secured manner, a motorized drawer assembly is integrated into each of the plates to increase / decrease the dimensions of the plates in accordance with the detected dimensions of the wheel to secure the vehicle in place, an alarm unit is installed above the frame to inform people around the vehicle about the unauthenticated user, a motorized ball joint is installed between the rod and the second plate to maintain the orientation of the rod with respect to the surface, a battery is connected to the device to power electrical and electronically operated components connected to the device.

[0016] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations may be possible which would fall within the scope of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will be better understood from the following description, the appended claims and the accompanying drawings, in which: Fig. 1 shows an isometric view of an automated heavy vehicle stabilization and locking device; and Fig. Figure 2 shows a rear view of the proposed devices. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] The following description contains the preferred best mode of carrying out an embodiment of the present invention. It will be apparent from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to the illustrated embodiments, but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be considered as illustrative and not restrictive. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is intended to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0019] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms “comprising,” “comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with “including,” “with,” and “characterized by”) may be replaced by the respective partially closed terms “consisting essentially of,” “consists essentially of,” and the like, or the respective closed terms “consisting of,” “consists of,” and the like.

[0020] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” refer to both the singular and the plural unless it is expressly stated that only the singular is meant.

[0021] The present invention relates to an automated stabilizing and locking device for heavy vehicles, capable of ensuring stability and safety, particularly on inclined surfaces, to prevent the vehicle from moving unintentionally and also to alert the surrounding community of the unauthorized user of the vehicle.

[0022] Referring to Fig. 1 and Fig.2, an isometric view and a rear view of an automatic heavy vehicle stabilization and locking device are shown, including a frame 101 having first and second plates 201, a motorized hinge 202 disposed between the plates 201, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 102 installed above the frame 101, a pair of L-shaped hydraulically actuated rods 103 mounted on the second plate 201, a plurality of suction units 104 configured below the first plate 201, an alarm unit 203 installed above the frame 101, and a motorized drawer assembly 105 integrated into each of the plates 201.

[0023] The device disclosed here consists of a frame 101 with first and second plates 201 connected by a motorized hinge 202 and initially in a stowed state. The frame 101 is manually positioned by a user near a heavy vehicle. The frame 101 serves as the main structure and is made of strong and lightweight materials such as hardened steel and aluminum alloys. These materials provide the necessary strength while keeping the weight of the device manageable and ensuring a long service life. The motorized hinge 202 is an element that connects the two plates 201 and allows angular movement around a fixed rotation axis while simultaneously preventing translations and rotations around the other two axes.

[0024] Furthermore, a plurality of suction units 104 are arranged beneath the first plate 201 to securely attach the frame 101 to the surface. The suction units create a partial negative pressure within the suction units 104 when pressed over the surface, forcing air out of the units as a negative pressure is created within the suction area. At the same time, the atmospheric pressure outside the suction units 104 pushes the low-pressure area within the suction cups downward to create a negative pressure that adheres the surface and secures the first plate 201 to the surface, thereby securely picking up the first plate 201 above the surface.

[0025] After the frame 101 is attached to the surface, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 102 is mounted above the frame 101 and connected to a processor to capture and process multiple images of the environment. The artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 102 consists of the processor and a camera, which, when activated, captures multiple images of the environment, which are transmitted to the processor. The processor further processes the received images using encrypted artificial intelligence protocols. Based on the processed images, the microcontroller detects the dimensions of the vehicle's wheels.

[0026] The camera consists of a lens and a digital camera sensor. The camera lens captures all the light rays bouncing around the vehicle's wheels and uses the lenses to focus them on a single point to create a sharp image. When all these light rays bounce back and meet on the digital camera sensor, a digital image of the environment is created by performing various operations such as preprocessing, feature extraction, and classification, which are then passed on to the processor.The processor further extracts all the necessary information from the digital images and transmits it to the microcontroller connected to the device, which further processes the information shared by the processor to detect the dimensions of the wheel, and accordingly, the microcontroller actuates the hinge 202 to tilt and insert the second plate 201 over the first plate 201 to obstruct the movement of the vehicle.

[0027] After the second plate 201 is placed on the first plate 201, an ultrasonic sensor integrated into the second plate 201 detects the thickness of the tire. The ultrasonic sensor works by emitting ultrasonic waves and then measuring the time it takes these waves to rebound after hitting the tire's surface. The ultrasonic sensor consists of two main parts: a transmitter and a receiver that detects the tire's thickness. The transmitter sends a short ultrasonic pulse toward the tire's surface, which travels through the air at the speed of sound and is reflected back to the transmitter as an echo once the pulse hits the tire. The transmitter then detects the echo reflected from the tire's surface, and the sensor performs calculations based on the time interval between the transmitted signal and the reception of the echo to determine the tire's thickness.The acquired data is sent in signal form to the microcontroller, whereupon the microcontroller actuates a pair of L-shaped, hydraulically actuated rods 103 mounted on the second plate 201 to firmly grip the rim portion of the wheel.

[0028] The pair of L-shaped, hydraulically actuated rods 103 are driven by a hydraulic unit consisting of a hydraulic cylinder, a hydraulic compressor, a hydraulic valve, and a piston, which work together to enable the required extension / retraction of the rod 103. The microcontroller actuates the valve to allow hydraulic fluid to flow from the compressor into the cylinder; the hydraulic fluid builds pressure against the piston, causing it to push and extend. The piston is connected to the second plate 201, and due to the applied pressure, the second plate 201 extends. Similarly, the microcontroller retracts the second plate 201 by closing the valve, causing the piston to retract. The microcontroller controls the extension / retraction to firmly grip the rim area of ​​the wheel.

[0029] Furthermore, the motorized ball joint is mounted between the L-shaped, hydraulically actuated rod 103 and the second plate 201 to maintain the alignment of the rod 103 with respect to the surface. The ball joint includes a microcontroller-driven motor that generates electrical current, a spherical element, and a socket. The ball is freely movable within the socket. The motor rotates the ball in various directions controlled by the microcontroller, which also commands the motor to precisely position the ball. The microcontroller also controls the motor to generate electrical current, which rotates within the joint to enable movement to maintain the alignment of the rod 103 with respect to the surface.

[0030] Based on the wheel dimensions captured by the imaging unit 102, the microcontroller actuates a motorized drawer assembly 105 integrated into each of the plates 201, which are actuated by the microcontroller to increase / decrease the dimensions of the plates 201. The motorized drawer assembly 105 disclosed herein is installed in each of the plates 201, which overlap with a slide unit. Upon actuation of the drawer assembly 105 by the microcontroller, the motor in the slide unit begins to rotate a shaft-coupled wheel clockwise, imparting movement to the slider in the drawer assembly 105 to extend the plates 201 to secure the vehicle in place, particularly on inclined surfaces or during loading / unloading operations.

[0031] During loading / unloading operations, a laser sensor is integrated into one of the bars 103 to detect the presence of a gap in the rim part. The laser sensor consists of a transmitter and a receiver and works on the principle of measuring the time delay between the laser beam traveling to the gap within the rim part and back. The sensor emits a light toward the surface of the gap in the rim part, and when the laser beam hits the surface of the gap in the rim part, the beam is reflected back to the sensor's receiver. When the sensor detects the reflected beam, the sensor precisely measures the time it takes for the laser beam to travel to the surface of the gap within the rim part and return from there.The sensor that detects the presence of a gap within the rim part and the calculated gap within the rim part are then converted into an electrical signal in the form of current and sent to the microcontroller.

[0032] After receiving the signals, the microcontroller instructs the rod 103 to extend toward each other and actuates an electromagnetic locking unit located at the tip of the rod 103 to securely lock the rim and maintain stability and safety. The electromagnetic locking mechanism works by generating a magnetic field when energized, which attracts an electromagnet and an armature plate 201 strongly enough to securely lock the rim, effectively preventing unintentional movement of the vehicle.

[0033] Additionally, a biometric scanner is integrated into the second plate 201. When the user wishes to enter the vehicle, they must place their finger on the scanner to create a fingerprint for user authentication. The biometric scanner consists of a minutiae. When the user places their finger on the scanner, the scanner scans the minutiae of the finger pressed against the plate 201. The scanned images are transmitted to the microcontroller, which compares the entered biometric impressions with the data stored on a server to perform user authentication.The microcontroller compares the retrieved fingerprint with a pre-fed fingerprint stored in a database connected to the microcontroller. If the retrieved fingerprint matches, the microcontroller deactivates the locking unit, followed by a further actuation of the rod 103 to retract it to its original position and unlock the vehicle. If the microcontroller determines that the retrieved fingerprint does not match the pre-fed fingerprint, the microcontroller activates an alarm unit 203 installed above the frame 101 to inform persons in the vicinity of the vehicle of the unauthenticated user.

[0034] Finally, a battery (not shown in the diagram) is connected to the device to power all the electrical and electronic components necessary for its proper operation. The battery is connected to the microcontroller and supplies it with direct current (DC). The microcontroller then sends this current to the specific electrical or electronic components, depending on the sequence of operations, so they can effectively perform their respective functions.

[0035] The present invention best functions in the following manner, where the frame 101, as disclosed in the invention, is secured to the first and second plates 201 via the motorized hinge 202 and initially in a stowed state. The frame 101 is manually positioned by the user near the heavy vehicle. To detect the dimensions of the vehicle's wheels, the artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 102 is installed over the frame 101 and connected to the processor. After detecting the wheel dimensions, the hinge 202 is actuated to tilt and unfold the second plate 201 over the first plate 201 to impede the movement of the vehicle. In addition, the ultrasonic sensor is integrated on the second plate 201 to detect the thickness of the tire.The microcontroller connected to the ultrasonic sensor then actuates the pair of L-shaped, hydraulically actuated rods 103 mounted on the second plate 201 to firmly grip the rim portion of the wheel. Based on the firm grip of the rim portion of the wheel, the laser sensor integrated into one of the rods 103 determines the presence of a gap within the rim portion. Upon successful determination of the gap, the microcontroller commands the rods 103 to move toward each other and actuates the electromagnetic locking unit located at the tip portion of the rod 103 to securely lock the rim and maintain stability and safety by effectively preventing unintentional movement of the vehicle.To authenticate the user, the biometric scanner integrated into the second plate 201 is used to retrieve the fingerprint of the user placed on the scanner. The microcontroller compares the retrieved fingerprint with the pre-loaded fingerprint stored in the database connected to the microcontroller. If the retrieved fingerprint matches, the locking unit is deactivated, followed by a renewed actuation of the rod 103 to retract it to its original position to unlock the vehicle. The plurality of suction cups 104 are arranged below the first plate 201 to firmly connect the frame 101 to the surface.Furthermore, each of the plates 201 incorporates a motorized drawer assembly 105, which is controlled by the microcontroller to increase / decrease the dimensions of the plates 201 according to the detected wheel dimensions, in order to secure the vehicle in place, particularly on inclined surfaces or during loading / unloading operations. If the microcontroller detects that the retrieved print does not match the previously input print, the microcontroller activates an alarm unit 203 installed above the frame 101 to inform persons in the vicinity of the vehicle of the unauthenticated user. In addition, the motorized ball joint mounted between the rod 103 and the second plate 201 is controlled by the microcontroller to maintain the orientation of the rod 103 with respect to the surface.

[0036] Although the scope of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not intended to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternative embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] US 3993167A

[0004] US 20050226705A1

[0005]

Claims

[1] An automated heavy vehicle stabilization and locking device comprising: i) a frame 101 having first and second panels 201 connected by a motorized hinge 202 and initially in a stowed state, the body being manually positioned by a user near a heavy vehicle; ii) an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 102 installed above the frame 101 and connected to a processor for capturing and processing multiple images of the surroundings and for detecting the dimensions of the vehicle's wheels, respectively, wherein a built-in microcontroller connected to the imaging unit 102 actuates the hinge 202 based on the detected wheel dimensions to tilt and extend the second plate 201 over the first plate 201 to obstruct the movement of the vehicle; iii) an ultrasonic sensor integrated into the second plate 201 for detecting the thickness of the tire, wherein the microcontroller connected to the ultrasonic sensor actuates a pair of L-shaped hydraulically actuated rods 103 attached to the second plate 201 to extend and firmly grip the rim portion of the wheel; iv) a laser sensor integrated on one of the rods 103 to determine the presence of a gap within the rim portion, wherein, upon successful determination of the gap, the microcontroller instructs the rods 103 to move towards each other and actuates an electromagnetic locking unit arranged on the tip portion of the rod 103 to securely lock the rim and maintain stability and safety by effectively preventing unintentional movement of the vehicle; and v) a biometric scanner integrated into the second plate 201 for retrieving a fingerprint of the user placed on the scanner for user authentication, wherein the microcontroller compares the retrieved print with a pre-fed print stored in a database connected to the microcontroller, and upon match of the retrieved fingerprint, the microcontroller deactivates the locking unit, followed by a renewed actuation of the rod 103 to retract to its initial position to unlock the vehicle. [2] The apparatus of claim 1, wherein a plurality of suction units 104 are disposed below the first plate 201 to securely attach the frame 101 to the surface. [3] Device according to claim 1, wherein a motorized drawer assembly 105 is integrated into each of the plates 201, which is actuated by the microcontroller to increase / decrease the dimensions of the plates 201 in accordance with the detected dimensions of the wheel in order to secure the vehicle in place, in particular on inclined surfaces or during loading / unloading operations. [4] The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, in the event that the microcontroller determines that the retrieved print does not match the pre-fed print, the microcontroller actuates an alarm unit 203 installed above the frame 101 to inform persons in the vicinity of the vehicle of the unauthenticated user. [5] The device of claim 1, wherein a motorized ball joint is mounted between the rod 103 and the second plate 201, which is actuated by the microcontroller to maintain the orientation of the rod 103 with respect to the surface. [6] The device of claim 1, wherein a battery is connected to the device to power electrical and electronically operated components connected to the device.

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