Modified speed bump system for greater road safety

Abstract

A modified speed bump system (10) for increased road safety, consisting of: a slotted box-shaped rubber threshold with a non-slip surface and small drainage holes for water drainage in the event of rain; a multitude of triboelectric (15) nanogenerators (TENGs) embedded in the speed bump, with a PET plate on top and a steel plate at the bottom, which generates electricity when driven over and supplies the system with power; at least one reflector with integrated acoustic sensors along the edges of the speed bump. These acoustic sensors detect the sound of emergency vehicles crossing the speed bump and send a signal to nearby traffic systems to clear the way for the emergency vehicles; a piercing mechanism (20) on one side of the threshold, which is designed to puncture vehicles traveling in the wrong direction, thus damaging the vehicles' tires and preventing drivers from traveling in the wrong direction; The speed bump has an energy storage system such as a battery or supercapacitor that stores the electricity generated by the TENGs and powers the reflectors, acoustic sensors, and communication systems.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of traffic safety and traffic management. More specifically, it is a multifunctional speed bump system that increases road safety, regulates traffic for vehicles traveling in the wrong direction. Reflectors make the speed bump visible, and generate renewable energy. The system features a non-slip surface, drainage holes, and a spike mechanism for spiking vehicles traveling in the wrong direction. Additionally, the system incorporates triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) that harvest energy as they pass through. This energy powers integrated reflectors and acoustic sensors to detect vehicles traveling in the wrong direction and transmit the information to the surrounding traffic system. BACKGROUND

[0002] Road safety and traffic management are central concerns of modern transport systems. While conventional speed bumps are used for speed control, they are not multifunctional and often contribute to inefficiencies such as increased traffic congestion and limited integration into intelligent transport systems. Furthermore, the energy generated during traffic flow is a renewable energy source that remains unused in many places.

[0003] In emergencies, delays in opening traffic to emergency vehicles can have serious consequences and result in significant damage. This highlights the need for a system that enables faster traffic opening in an emergency. Wrong-way driving also leads to accidents and injuries on both the current and wrong-way routes. This innovation helps prevent wrong-way driving. The innovation addresses these challenges by developing a multifunctional speed bump system that not only reduces speed but also generates renewable energy using triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs). The system stores the harvested energy to power embedded components, including acoustic sensors for detecting emergency vehicles, and transmits the information to the surrounding traffic system.Thanks to water drainage holes and a non-slip surface, it ensures safety and usability even in adverse weather conditions. OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[0004] The main objective of this invention is to develop a speed bump that not only fulfills its traditional function of slowing down vehicles but also incorporates modern technologies for added benefits. By using rubber for flexibility and durability, the speed bump is designed to withstand the weight and impact of passing vehicles while providing a non-slip surface for added safety. The integrated drainage holes help drain rainwater and prevent vehicle skidding. Inside this speed bump are TENGs (Total Energical Engs), the top made of PET and the bottom made of steel. These are connected to a battery or supercapacitor while the vehicle drives over them, generating electricity. The electricity generated by the TENGs can be used for acoustic sensors and communication devices. They can also be used to power streetlights.The reflectors with acoustic sensors play a crucial role in detecting emergency vehicles, ensuring traffic systems can react quickly and clear the way for emergency vehicles. The speed bump also features a safety device to prevent vehicles traveling in the wrong direction. This prevents violations, increases road safety, and contributes to accident prevention. This invention aims to create a safer and more efficient traffic management system while contributing to sustainability by generating electricity and promoting smart road infrastructure. SUMMARY

[0005] This invention presents a multifunctional speed bump designed to increase road safety, improve traffic management, and generate renewable energy. It is made of durable rubber in a slotted box shape and features a non-slip surface that prevents vehicles from slipping, especially in wet conditions. The design also incorporates small drainage holes that allow rainwater to drain away, ensuring the safety and functionality of the roadway even during the rainy season.

[0006] Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) are integrated into the speed bump, generating electricity when vehicles pass through. These consist of two plates: a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plate (top) and a steel plate (bottom). When the speed bump is passed, the pressure exerted by passing vehicles generates mechanical energy, which is then converted into electrical energy. This energy is stored in a battery or supercapacitor and serves as a sustainable power source for the system's various functions.

[0007] One of the most important innovations of this speed bump is the integration of acoustic sensors into the reflector. These sensors detect the noise of emergency vehicles. Once the emergency vehicle is detected, the system communicates with nearby traffic control systems to enable rapid traffic clearance. This feature ensures faster passage of emergency vehicles and improves response times in critical situations.

[0008] In addition, the speed bump features a safety mechanism to increase traffic safety. One side of the speed bump consists of spikes that stop vehicles from straying from the wrong path, effectively preventing violations and accidents.

[0009] Overall, this invention offers an intelligent, energy-efficient solution to improve road safety, manage emergency response more effectively, and generate sustainable energy, creating a safer and smarter road infrastructure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

[0010] The further objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Fig. shows the top view of the intelligent rubber speed bump system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0011] The depiction of certain features of the invention in some drawings and not in others is for convenience only. Each feature may be combined with any or all other features in accordance with the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0012] The invention relates to a multifunctional speed bump system that increases traffic safety, facilitates the passage of emergency vehicles, and generates power for integrated sensors and communication systems. This innovative speed bump system eliminates the need for external power sources by harnessing the energy from vehicles passing over it. The generated energy is also used for street lighting. The system includes triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs), reflectors with acoustic sensors, a piercing mechanism for puncturing wrong-way vehicles, and drainage holes for draining rainwater.

[0013] The rough surface and water drainage of the speed bump ensure road safety. The surface of the speed bump is made of rubber and grooves. It prevents vehicles from skidding, especially in wet conditions. The rough surface prevents skidding and thus helps prevent accidents. Additionally, small holes or grooves are incorporated into the rubber. These serve to drain water from the surface of the speed bump. This prevents water from accumulating on the surface during rain, thus reducing the risk of slipping and skidding. The box-shaped structure of the speed bump with its slots supports water drainage.

[0014] The rough surface of the speed bump improves grip and ensures vehicle stability when crossing or driving through. By incorporating structures such as grooves, ridges, or a gritty surface into the material—typically rubber or rubber composite—the surface increases friction between the tire and the speed bump. This friction prevents vehicles from skidding, especially in wet conditions. And it helps improve safety for drivers. The rough surface also alerts drivers to slow down when approaching the speed bump, making them more aware of their speed. The rough surface helps prevent accidents, maintain vehicle control, and increase safety for all road users.

[0015] The water drainage function of the speed bump prevents water from accumulating and ensures that the speed bump can be safely driven over, especially during rain. Small perforations or slits in the structure of the speed bump allow rainwater to drain away, preventing water from collecting on the surface and becoming slippery. These drainage holes direct water away from the speed bump and prevent it from accumulating on the surface. This efficient water management system also protects the speed bump from water damage and ensures its longevity. This feature keeps the speed bump functional and safe even in adverse weather conditions. Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) are innovative devices that convert mechanical energy, such as pressure or movement created by a vehicle passing over it, into electrical energy using the triboelectric effect and electrostatic induction.The triboelectric effect occurs when two different materials come into contact. When two plates come into contact, an electron exchange occurs, causing one material to become positively charged and the other negatively charged. The two materials then separate. This creates an electrical charge that is converted into electricity. In speed bumps, TENGs are integrated into the structure of the speed bump to harness the mechanical energy generated when driving over it.

[0016] When a vehicle passes over the speed bump, tire pressure compresses the rubber of the speed bump. This also compresses the polyethylene terephthalate (PET) top layer, bringing it into contact with the steel base layer. This interaction generates an electrical charge that is converted into electricity. The electricity generated by the TENGs can be stored in a battery or supercapacitor within the speed bump. This stored energy can power various embedded systems, such as reflectors that improve visibility or acoustic sensors that detect the sound of emergency vehicles. The acoustic sensors can transmit the detected sound information to nearby traffic systems, helping to clear the way for emergency vehicles.

[0017] The use of TENGs in the speed bump makes it self-sufficient, as it captures and stores the energy from passing vehicles, eliminating the need for an external power source. The energy generated by the TENGs not only powers these systems but also contributes to a more sustainable and cost-effective solution, as the technology requires minimal maintenance and has no ongoing operating costs. We can also use the energy to power streetlights. By incorporating TENGs into the design, we are not dependent on non-renewable resources for power generation, as they are a renewable resource. The ability to generate the power required for vehicles ourselves is a major advantage of this innovation. And the use of TENGs in road traffic is a great innovation.

[0018] The job of the reflector in the speed bump is to make the speed bump visible and ensure that it is clearly visible to motorists at night or in low-light conditions. Reflectors play a key role in improving safety by making the speed bump more visible and preventing vehicles from accidentally hitting it at high speed. The reflectors are strategically integrated into the edges or surface of the speed bump and reflect the light from vehicle headlights. This reflection helps to identify speed bumps and provides a clear view of them, giving drivers early warning and urging them to slow down. In addition to improving safety at night, reflectors also help reduce the risk of accidents by ensuring that the speed bump is visible even in bad weather conditions such as fog or rain.These reflectors draw their energy from the TENGs present in the speed bump and do not rely on external power sources. This makes them efficient and safe and helps reduce vehicle speed.

[0019] The spinning mechanism integrated into the speed bump prevents drivers from taking the wrong route. This mechanism is designed to puncture the tires of vehicles traveling in the wrong direction. If someone takes the wrong route, their tire will be punctured by the rotating movements of the speed bump. The spinning mechanism works by integrating sharp or pointed elements placed along one side of the speed bump. When a vehicle comes from the wrong direction, these elements contact the vehicle's tires. The purpose of the skid is not to cause a tire blowout, but to alert the driver of the violation and prompt them to stop or correct their driving. The skid function is triggered by vehicle movement and can be activated as soon as the vehicle touches the speed bump.This effectively prevents drivers from driving in the wrong direction. This doesn't mean a penalty, but simply ensures they stay on the correct route. This mechanism is strategically placed so that only vehicles attempting to violate traffic laws or misuse the speed bump (e.g., driving in the wrong direction) are affected. The sharp elements of the speed bump are designed to cause just enough tire damage to prevent further misuse of the road infrastructure.

[0020] However, they are not intended to cause damage beyond a temporary inconvenience, such as a flat tire, which would require the driver to stop and remedy the situation. This helps prevent accidents that can be caused by wrong-way drivers and the people affected by them. In addition to preventing mishaps among wrong-way drivers, the rotating infrastructure serves as a visible and tactile reminder for drivers, ensuring they stay in the correct lane. It ensures correct traffic behavior, which is especially important in areas with high pedestrian traffic where safety is a top priority. The integration of the rotating mechanism into the overall design of the speed bump is intended to work together with other elements such as reflectors and TENGs.Through its deterrent effect, it helps reduce accidents, improve road safety, and ensure that vehicles stay in the correct lane. To draw attention to turning, a sign should be placed a few meters before the speed bump to avoid damage and to help vehicles stay in the correct lane after seeing the sign. The sensor integrated into the speed bump plays an important role in traffic management and safety, particularly through its ability to detect emergency vehicles. The sensor in the speed bump is an acoustic sensor that listens for specific sound frequencies associated with emergency vehicles, such as ambulance sirens, fire engines, etc. When the sensor detects the sound of an emergency vehicle, it triggers a communication system that can relay this information to nearby traffic control systems, such as traffic lights.

[0021] This allows the traffic system to react and clear the way for the emergency vehicle, for example, by turning the traffic light green or opening barriers. This prevents emergency vehicles from having to slow down, stop, or wait. Every frequency of the emergency vehicle is transmitted to the acoustic sensor so that it can detect its noise.

[0022] The acoustic sensor is powered by triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs), which generate energy as vehicles pass through. The triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) are integrated into the speed bump, eliminating the need for an external power source. When the speed bump is crossed, the TENGs generate electrical energy, which is stored in a battery or supercapacitor. This stored energy powers the sensor and the communication system, allowing the sensor to remain operational even without an external power supply.

[0023] The acoustic sensor is designed to be highly sensitive to the sound frequencies emitted by emergency vehicles while filtering out background noise from normal traffic. This prevents wrong-way drivers from crossing. This allows the sound of a passing emergency vehicle to be precisely identified and reported to the traffic management system in a timely manner.

[0024] By installing such sensors, the speed bump not only serves road safety but also actively contributes to improving response times, thus making the roads safer and more efficient for everyone. It ensures that emergency vehicles are not stopped. The information transmission mechanism of the speed bump is important for traffic flow and ensures that emergency vehicles can pass congested areas quickly and safely. When the acoustic sensor detects the sound of a passing emergency vehicle, it collects the necessary information to communicate with nearby traffic systems, such as traffic lights. This communication helps clear the path for the emergency vehicle by adjusting traffic lights or activating road control measures, thus ensuring that the emergency vehicle is not stopped.

[0025] The information transfer process begins when the acoustic sensor detects a sound signature associated with an emergency vehicle's siren. The sensor processes this signal and sends a message to the traffic management system. This information transfer typically occurs via wireless communication methods such as radio frequency (RF) signals, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth, depending on the existing infrastructure and requirements.

[0026] Once the information is transmitted, the traffic control system receives the signal and takes appropriate action. For example, the system can switch the traffic lights on the access roads to the emergency vehicle to green so it can negotiate intersections more efficiently. Barriers or gates can also be raised, or traffic signs can be adjusted to give the emergency vehicle right of way.

[0027] The energy required for information transmission is supplied by the battery or supercapacitor in the speed bump area. This stores the electrical energy generated by the triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) embedded in the speed bump area. These TENGs convert the mechanical energy of passing vehicles into electrical energy, which is then used to power the sensor and the communication system. Because the energy is harvested from the passing vehicles, the system remains self-sufficient and does not rely on external power sources. This makes it cost-effective and reliable. This information transfer helps traffic management systems respond dynamically and efficiently to the needs of emergency vehicles. This ultimately reduces delays and improves public safety.With its integrated acoustic sensors and energy harvesting technology, the speed bump becomes an integral part of the intelligent traffic system, improving both safety and traffic flow.

[0028] This modified speed bump is a multifunctional system designed to improve traffic flow, generate renewable energy, increase safety, and support the deployment of emergency vehicles. The speed bump is made of durable rubber and is box-shaped with slots and small holes for water drainage. This structure ensures that the speed bump can withstand the weight of passing vehicles. It also allows for efficient water drainage during rain, thus preventing accidents even in potentially hazardous areas such as flooding or slippery surfaces.

[0029] Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) are integrated into the speed bump to harness the mechanical energy generated when the vehicle drives over the speed bump. When vehicle tires compress the rubber surface, friction between the rubber and the steel base generates electricity. The TENGs convert this mechanical energy into electrical energy using the triboelectric effect, which involves the transfer of electrical charges between materials as they come into contact and separate. This energy is then stored in a battery or supercapacitor within the speed bump, which powers the system's other components. The top of the speed bump is covered with a non-slip surface made of grippy material. This provides good grip when driving over it and reduces the risk of skidding, especially in wet conditions.The edges of the speed bump are equipped with reflectors, making it more visible to drivers at night or in low-light conditions. Additionally, the speed bump features acoustic sensors integrated into the reflectors. These sensors detect the sound frequencies of emergency vehicles such as ambulances or fire engines. As soon as an emergency vehicle's siren is detected, the acoustic sensors transmit this information to the nearby traffic light. This allows traffic to be cleared more quickly and efficiently so that emergency vehicles can pass. This system ensures that vehicles do not have to stop or wait.

[0030] On one side of the speed bump is a sling structure designed to puncture vehicles traveling in the wrong direction or violating traffic laws, thus reducing the speed of the vehicles. The puncture structure damages the tires of vehicles traveling in the wrong direction. This serves both as a deterrent to inappropriate driving and as a safety feature that keeps vehicles in the correct lane.

[0031] The battery or supercapacitor in the speed bump stores the electricity generated by the TENGs. The TENGs power reflectors, acoustic sensors, and communication devices, such as signals. This renewable energy reduces the need for external power sources and makes the system more sustainable. The design also takes weather conditions into account. The small drainage holes allow rainwater to drain away, preventing water from accumulating on the surface. The rubber and steel materials ensure the durability of the speed bump, which can withstand both vehicle impact and external influences.

[0032] This modified speed bump is an innovative system that combines energy generation, traffic management for emergency vehicles, and traffic violation prevention. The TENGs generate electricity from passing vehicles. The generated energy is then stored in a battery or supercapacitors and used to power reflectors and sensors, eliminating the need for external power sources. The speed bump helps direct emergency vehicle traffic by detecting sirens and relaying the information to nearby traffic lights. It also provides safety measures by preventing vehicle skidding and discouraging wrong-way drivers. This innovative approach not only improves the functionality of speed bumps but also benefits the public in many ways.

Claims

[1] A modified speed bump system (10) for increased road safety, consisting of: a slotted box-shaped rubber threshold with a non-slip surface and small drainage holes for water drainage in the event of rain; a multitude of triboelectric (15) nanogenerators (TENGs) embedded in the speed bump, with a PET plate on top and a steel plate at the bottom, which generates electricity when driven over and supplies the system with power; at least one reflector with integrated acoustic sensors along the edges of the speed bump. These acoustic sensors detect the sound of emergency vehicles crossing the speed bump and send a signal to nearby traffic systems to clear the way for the emergency vehicles; a piercing mechanism (20) on one side of the threshold, which is designed to puncture vehicles traveling in the wrong direction, thus damaging the vehicles' tires and preventing drivers from traveling in the wrong direction; The speed bump has an energy storage system such as a battery or supercapacitor that stores the electricity generated by the TENGs and powers the reflectors, acoustic sensors, and communication systems. [2] A modified speed bump system for increased traffic safety according to claim 1, wherein the power generated by the TENGs powers the acoustic sensors and reflectors and is also used to communicate or transmit information about the arrival of emergency vehicles to nearby traffic systems. [3] Modified speed bump system for increased traffic safety according to claim 1, wherein the reflectors and acoustic sensors can be operated independently and without external power sources and use the power stored in the energy storage system (battery). [4] A modified speed bump system for improving traffic safety according to claim 1, wherein the rotating mechanism punctures the tires of vehicles traveling in the wrong direction, thus helping to prevent accidents caused by traffic violations. [5] A modified speed bump system for increased traffic safety according to claim 1, wherein the anti-skid surface of the speed bump serves to ensure safe crossing and prevent the vehicle from skidding in all weather conditions. [6] A modified speed bump system for increased road safety according to claim 1, wherein the TENGs generate electricity from the mechanical energy generated when driving over the speed bump, which electricity is stored in a battery or a supercapacitor and used when needed.

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