Vehicle-to-vehicle communication system

Description

Vehicle-to-vehicle communication system OBJECT OF THE INVENTION The invention, as the title of this descriptive document states, is a vehicle-to-vehicle communication system. It is an innovation that offers advantages previously unknown within current technologies. TECHNICAL SECTOR The present invention falls within the field of physics, in the subclass of signaling, especially in traffic control systems, specifically in traffic control systems for road vehicles that correspond to the classification that respond to signals coming from another vehicle, for example, from a rescue vehicle. STATE OF THE ART The present invention arises from the observation that, in normal driving, drivers do not have a direct, structured and immediate means to communicate with the vehicles around them, beyond conventional signals that may be ambiguous or insufficient. In many situations it would be convenient to transmit warnings, apologies, thanks or preventive notices in a clear and standardized way; however, current systems do not contemplate a specific channel of direct messaging between vehicles based on the rapid selection of predefined events and their transmission over short distances. In daily practice, when faced with unforeseen maneuvers, approaching incidents, or encountering risky situations, the driver only has limited resources that do not always allow him to accurately express his intention or adequately anticipate the danger. Furthermore, although there are electronic devices integrated into vehicles, these are not designed to establish direct vehicle-to-vehicle communication through structured and contextualized messages. Accordingly, the present invention provides a vehicle-to-vehicle communication system that enables the sending and receiving of notifications regarding traffic events via a short- or medium-range wireless link, generating immediate, perceptible alerts. This facilitates clearer and safer interaction on the road, while also introducing a preventive safety feature that anticipates relevant situations without relying on external infrastructure. Currently, there is no known existence of any vehicle-to-vehicle communication system that presents structural and constitutive technical characteristics equal or similar to those described in this descriptive report, as claimed. DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The object of the present invention is the creation of a vehicle-to-vehicle communication system that provides a notable innovation within its field of application in the current state of the art, the characterizing details that make it possible being conveniently included in the final claims that accompany this description. The invention relates to a vehicle-to-vehicle communication system comprising, in each vehicle, an electronic unit configured to be installed inside the vehicle and including a user interface for quick selection of traffic events accessible to the driver, a short- or medium-range wireless communication system (up to one hundred meters, for example) configured to transmit and receive signals relating to traffic events between vehicles located in physical proximity, a warning system arranged in the electronic unit configured to generate an immediate perceptible warning from the signal received from another vehicle, and a power supply system configured to connect to the vehicle's power socket. This invention addresses the need in daily driving for a direct and immediate means of communication between nearby vehicles, overcoming the limitations of traditional signals, which do not always clearly convey warnings, apologies, or cautionary notices. This reduces ambiguity in the interpretation of maneuvers, improves understanding between drivers, and fosters clearer and safer real-time interaction. Furthermore, the system is particularly advantageous in urban and interurban environments where frequent maneuvers or unforeseen situations occur, as it allows for anticipating risks, warning of incidents, and communicating driving intentions in a standardized way. In addition, it can act as a preventive safety measure by generating noticeable alerts about relevant situations in the immediate surroundings, helping to improve driver reaction time and cooperation on the road. The electronic unit is envisioned to comprise a housing with a display and a control element selected from either a rotary knob or selection buttons. These buttons are configured to allow navigation through the interface and selection of a driving event, thus facilitating simple and intuitive interaction by the driver. This configuration can help reduce the attention time required to make a selection, promoting efficient use under normal driving conditions. Furthermore, the display can be an LCD screen, allowing for clear visualization of transmitted or received information under varying lighting conditions. This enables alerts to be perceived immediately, improving the system's readability and communicative effectiveness. Similarly, the electronic unit's warning system may include speakers for emitting audible alerts and a microphone for sound pickup, complementing the visual signal with an audible signal that reinforces the perception of the messages received. This arrangement can be useful for ensuring that the driver receives the information even when not looking at the display, increasing the effectiveness of the warning. Furthermore, the interface may include a memory that stores a set of preconfigured traffic events, comprising at least warnings, acknowledgments, apologies, or yielding the right-of-way, allowing for the rapid selection of standardized messages associated with common driving situations. Consequently, structured communication is facilitated, reducing interpretive ambiguity between vehicles in close proximity. Similarly, the wireless communication system can include a short-range, local, vehicle-to-vehicle link, such as radio frequency based on wireless local area protocols, enabling the immediate transmission of contextual information between nearby vehicles without the need for external infrastructure. This feature can help ensure that received messages are linked to the actual traffic situation in the immediate vicinity. Geolocation, using a geolocation module such as GPS, can be used to determine whether the received signal is intended for the vehicle or from a vehicle on another road. For example, this discrimination can take into account the received signal (a braking signal is of particular interest to vehicles behind). The warning system can include visual and / or audible signals indicating traffic events and preventive road safety warnings, such as the presence of broken-down vehicles or road hazards, generating a direct sensory signal that allows drivers to anticipate potentially relevant situations. This reinforces the system's preventative function and promotes more informed driving. The power supply system may include a DC connection cable and a USB plug configured to connect to a vehicle's power outlet via a voltage adapter, enabling continuous power supply while driving. This ensures stable operation of the unit and compatibility with different vehicle configurations. It may also include a rechargeable battery for independent operation if the power outlet is being used by another device. Furthermore, the interface is designed to be integrated into the vehicle's existing electronic system and operated using vehicle controls, such as buttons on the steering wheel or instrument panel. This allows the driver to select driving events using the vehicle's standard controls, facilitating a natural interaction with the system without the need for additional devices. Similarly, the interface can be configured to run on an external mobile device, such as a smartphone, via a software application, with the electronic unit configured to communicate with that mobile device wirelessly, such as via Bluetooth. This arrangement allows the mobile device to act as an interaction platform for the driver while the electronic unit performs the functions of transmitting and receiving signals between vehicles. In this context, the electronic unit can be installed anywhere in the vehicle, even hidden, allowing for discreet integration of the system into the vehicle's interior without interfering with the layout of the cabin elements or requiring the visible installation of additional components. Furthermore, the electronic unit may include a configuration system designed to store vehicle identification data, comprising at least the license plate, make, model, and color. In this way, each vehicle can transmit identifying information associated with the recorded traffic event, facilitating the recognition of the transmitting vehicle by other system users. Similarly, the interface can be configured to display multiple nearby vehicles, each identified by its unique identifier, and allow the selection of one of these vehicles as the recipient of a traffic message. Consequently, targeted communication between specific vehicles is enabled when several vehicles equipped with the system are in close proximity. Similarly, the interface may include a voice recognition system configured to allow activation and message sending via the driver's voice commands. This functionality can facilitate the use of the system without manual manipulation, helping to reduce distractions while driving. Finally, the wireless communication system can also be configured to receive signals from traffic infrastructure or road management systems, such as electronic signage, connected signage, or traffic authority communication systems. In this way, the system can incorporate information from external infrastructure and transform it into alerts perceptible to the driver, expanding the system's information capabilities beyond direct vehicle-to-vehicle communication. To use the vehicle-to-vehicle communication system, the user must install the electronic unit inside the vehicle and connect it to the corresponding power outlet, ensuring its proper functioning while driving. In those embodiments where the interface is run via a software application on an external mobile device or is integrated into the vehicle's electronic system, the user can interact with the system through these control methods. Once in circulation, the user must select, through the control system or by voice commands, the circulation event they wish to communicate, resulting in the automatic sending of the notification to the vehicles located in proximity or, if applicable, to the selected recipient vehicle. Similarly, when the system receives a signal from another vehicle or traffic management infrastructure, the user must heed the perceptible warning generated, thus allowing an immediate interpretation of the information received and acting accordingly according to the traffic situation. EXPLANATION OF THE FIGURES To complete the description being made and in order to help in the better understanding of the characteristics of the invention, this descriptive report is accompanied, as an integral part thereof, by some figures in which, for illustrative and non-limiting purposes, the following has been represented. Figure 1 illustrates the electronic unit of the vehicle-to-vehicle communication system. Figure 2 shows the vehicle-to-vehicle communication system in an operational situation during vehicle traffic on a road. PREFERRED EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION The vehicle-to-vehicle communication system comprises, in each vehicle, an electronic unit (1) configured for installation inside the vehicle, in a location visible and accessible to the driver without interfering with driving. The electronic unit (1) integrates a user interface (2) for quick selection of traffic events, accessible to the driver, allowing for the immediate selection of a traffic event without prolonged interaction. The system also incorporates a wireless communication system (3) configured to transmit and receive signals related to traffic events between vehicles in close physical proximity, enabling a direct exchange of contextual traffic information.The electronic unit (1) also includes an audible and / or visual warning system (4) configured to generate an immediate perceptible warning from the received signal, transforming the signal into an understandable indication without requiring complex interpretation by the driver. The assembly is powered by an electrical power supply system (5) normally configured to connect to the vehicle's power outlet, providing continuous operation while driving. In a preferred embodiment, the electronic unit (1) comprises a housing with a display and a control element selected from a rotary knob and selection buttons configured to allow scrolling through the interface (2) and the selection of a traffic event, establishing an intuitive operation that reduces the attention time required by the driver and allows the execution of the order by means of a single mechanical gesture. Preferably, the display consists of an LCD screen, providing clear visibility of warnings under varying lighting conditions and allowing for immediate reading from the driving position. This screen may be touch-sensitive. Preferably, the warning system (4) of the electronic unit (1) comprises speakers intended to emit acoustic warnings and a microphone intended for sound capture, so that the warnings are perceived in addition to the visual one and perception is ensured even when the driver does not direct his gaze towards the electronic unit (1). Typically, the electronic unit (1) comprises a memory, accessible via the interface (2), which stores a set of pre-configured traffic events comprising at least warning, thanks, apology or yielding of way, allowing the transmission of standardized driving states and reducing interpretive ambiguity between drivers. Generally, the wireless communication system (3) comprises a direct vehicle-to-vehicle link of short range and local broadcast, such as radio frequency based on local area wireless protocols, establishing immediate communication between nearby vehicles without the intervention of external infrastructures and guaranteeing the contextual relevance of the transmitted information. Alternatively, the warning system (4) comprises light and / or sound signals indicating traffic events and preventive road safety warnings, such as the presence of broken-down vehicles or incidents on the road, generating a direct perceptual signal that anticipates risk situations and reduces the driver's reaction time. Generally, the power supply system (5) comprises a DC connection cable and a USB plug configured to connect to the vehicle's power socket via a voltage adapter, ensuring compatibility with different vehicles and stable power supply during continuous system operation. In another preferred embodiment, the interface (2) is configured to be integrated into the vehicle's own electronic system, and can be operated by means of vehicle control controls on the dashboard or other parts of the passenger compartment, such as buttons arranged on the steering wheel or control panel, allowing the driver to select driving events without the need to manipulate additional devices and maintaining interaction within the vehicle's usual control elements. In another embodiment, the interface (2) is configured to run on an external mobile device, such as a smartphone, by means of a specific computer application, the electronic unit (1) being configured to communicate with said mobile device by means of wireless communication, such as Bluetooth, so that the mobile device acts as an interaction platform with the driver while the electronic unit (1) performs the functions of transmitting and receiving the communication signals between vehicles. Preferably, when the interface (2) is implemented by means of a computer application on an external mobile device, the electronic unit (1) can be installed anywhere in the vehicle, even hidden, allowing for discreet installation of the system without altering the aesthetics of the passenger compartment or requiring additional visible space inside the vehicle. Preferably, the electronic unit (1) comprises a configuration system intended to store identifying data of the vehicle comprising at least the registration number, make, model and color of the vehicle, allowing each transmitting unit to transmit identifying information associated with the vehicle from which the traffic event originates. Preferably, the interface (2) is configured to display a plurality of nearby vehicles identified by their respective identifying data and to allow the selection of one of these vehicles as the recipient of a traffic message, enabling targeted communication between specific vehicles when several vehicles equipped with the system are in physical proximity. In another preferred modality, the interface (2) comprises a voice recognition system configured to allow activation and sending of messages by means of voice commands from the driver, allowing interaction with the system without the need to remove the hands from the steering wheel and reducing distraction while driving. Preferably, the wireless communication system (3) is also configured to receive signals from traffic infrastructure or road management systems, such as electronic signaling devices, connected signage or traffic authority communication systems, allowing the electronic unit (1) to receive information from such infrastructure and transform it into notices perceptible to the driver, extending the informational range of the system beyond direct vehicle-to-vehicle communication. Having sufficiently described the nature of the present invention, as well as the manner of putting it into practice, it is not considered necessary to make its explanation more extensive so that any expert in the field may understand its scope and the advantages that derive from it, it being noted that, within its essentiality, it may be put into practice in other modes of embodiment that differ in detail from the one indicated as an example, and which will also achieve the protection sought provided that its fundamental principle is not altered, changed or modified.

Claims

1. A vehicle-to-vehicle communication system, characterized in that it comprises an electronic unit (1) inside a vehicle and includes a user interface (2) for selecting traffic events, a short- or medium-range wireless communication system (3) between vehicles, a warning system (4) arranged in the electronic unit (1) configured to generate an immediate perceptible warning from the received signal, and a power supply system (5).

2. A vehicle-to-vehicle communication system according to claim 1, characterized in that the electronic unit (1) comprises a housing with a display and a control element selected from a rotary knob and selection buttons.

3. A vehicle-to-vehicle communication system according to claim 2, characterized in that the display consists of an LCD screen. 4.Vehicle-to-vehicle communication system according to claim 1, characterized in that the electronic unit (1) comprises a microphone.

5. Vehicle-to-vehicle communication system according to claim 1, characterized in that the wireless communication system (3) comprises a short-range, local-broadcast, direct vehicle-to-vehicle link, such as radio frequency based on wireless local area protocols.

6. Vehicle-to-vehicle communication system according to claim 1, characterized in that the power supply system (5) comprises a DC connection cable and a USB plug configured to connect to the vehicle's power socket.

7. Vehicle-to-vehicle communication system according to claim 1, characterized in that the interface (2) forms part of the vehicle's electronic system. 8.Vehicle-to-vehicle communication system according to claim 1, characterized in that the interface (2) is configured to run on an external mobile device.

9. Vehicle-to-vehicle communication system according to claim 1, characterized in that the interface (2) comprises a voice recognition system.

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