Belt fastening monitoring system

Abstract

Seat belt fastening monitoring system. A seat belt fastening monitoring system (10) comprising at least one fastening sensor (60, 60') for said seat belt; at least one secondary unit (40, 40') connected to said fastening sensor and comprising a wireless transmitter (44) configured to wirelessly transmit said seat belt fastening status; a main unit (20) comprising a wireless receiver (22) configured to receive said seat belt fastening status; a geolocation module (24) configured to determine vehicle positioning data (xp) and / or vehicle speed data (vp); and an alerting device (26) configured to emit at least one alert signal based on the seat belt fastening status received by the receiver and based on the vehicle positioning data and / or vehicle speed data provided by the geolocation module. Figure for abbreviation: Fig. 1.

Description

Title of the invention: System for supervising the fastening of a seat belt Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of systems for monitoring the fastening of seat belts in a vehicle. These systems allow a user, in particular the driver of the vehicle, to ensure that the seat belts of the seats occupied by a passenger are properly fastened. Such systems are particularly suitable for monitoring the fastening status of the seat belts in a car, a utility vehicle or a public transport vehicle such as a coach or a bus. Monitoring the fastening status of the seat belts improves passenger safety by allowing the driver to know at any time whether the passengers are correctly fastened. Prior art

[0002] Vehicle seat belt fastening monitoring systems are known which are add-on systems configured to be installed in a vehicle. These monitoring systems comprise a plurality of sensors configured to be mounted on the seats and making it possible to collect seat belt fastening information. These sensors communicate with a module independent of the vehicle electronics, for example with a smartphone. The module then emits visual or audible alert signals making it possible to warn the user of a failure to fasten a seat belt in an occupied seat.

[0003] A disadvantage of these systems is that they do not have access to the vehicle's internal data, such as its travel speed, the distance traveled, or whether the engine is on or off. Consequently, the warning signals are emitted regardless of the operating mode, travel speed or position of the vehicle. In particular, the warning signals are emitted even if the vehicle is stationary, or if it is traveling at low speed, which is not very relevant and can be annoying and cause annoyance to the vehicle's occupants.

[0004] Another disadvantage of these systems is that they implement communication technologies between the module and the sensors which are not permanent so that the connection between the latter is regularly interrupted.

[0005] Belt fastening monitoring systems are also known which are directly integrated into the vehicle. Sensors positioned near the seats make it possible to determine the belt fastening status. The sensors communicate via a wired network with a vehicle control unit, which allows in particular to display on the dashboard warning signals associated with the state of fastening of the seat belts. The vehicle control unit makes it possible in particular to condition the emission of warning signals on the speed of the vehicle, its position and / or its movement.

[0006] A disadvantage of these integrated supervision systems according to the prior art is that they cannot be used to supervise the fastening status of the seats of converted vehicles in which additional seats are added outside the factory, after the vehicle is manufactured. While these systems can be installed and operated by vehicle manufacturers, they cannot, however, be used by a vehicle converter. Statement of the invention

[0007] An aim of the present invention is to propose a system for monitoring the fastening of the seat belts of a vehicle which overcomes the aforementioned drawbacks.

[0008] To do this, the invention relates to a system for monitoring the fastening of at least one belt associated with a seat of a vehicle, said belt being able to take a fastened state and an unfastened state, the system comprising: - at least one buckle sensor configured to detect a buckle state of said belt; - at least one secondary box connected to said buckle sensor, the secondary box comprising a wireless transmitter configured to wirelessly transmit said belt buckle status provided by the buckle sensor; - a main box configured to be positioned near the vehicle dashboard and comprising: a wireless receiver configured to receive said belt fastening status transmitted by the transmitter of the secondary box; a geolocation module configured to determine vehicle positioning data and / or vehicle speed data; and an alert device configured to emit at least one alert signal based on the belt fastening status received by the receiver and based on the positioning data and / or the vehicle speed data provided by the geolocation module.

[0009] The supervision system according to the invention makes it possible to supervise the fastening of one or more seat belts of the vehicle, each being associated with one of the seats of the vehicle. The supervision system allows a user, in particular the driver of the vehicle, to obtain information, for example visual or audible, relating to the fastening status of one or more seat belts of the vehicle.

[0010] The supervision system is particularly suitable for supervising the looping seat belts of a car, a utility vehicle or even a public transport vehicle, such as a coach or a bus.

[0011] By buckled state is meant a buckled state or an unbuckled state. The belt is considered in the buckled state when the belt buckle is properly inserted and connected to the connecting base, also called a peduncle, attached to the seat. The belt is considered unbuckled when the belt buckle is not connected to the connecting base attached to the seat.

[0012] Preferably, but not limited to, the system comprises a plurality of buckle sensors, each being associated with the seat belt of one of the seats and being configured to detect a buckle state of the corresponding belt.

[0013] The buckle sensor may be a sensor integrated into the connection base, itself fixed to the seat, a sensor integrated into the belt buckle or even a sensor separate from the connection base and the belt buckle. The sensor is configured to deliver data relating to the buckle state of the belt of the seat with which it is associated. In a non-limiting manner, the buckle sensor may be a position sensor. The buckle sensor is advantageously configured to detect a change in the buckle state of the belt.

[0014] The loop sensor communicates with the secondary housing, via wired communication or via wireless communication. In a non-limiting manner, and without departing from the scope of the invention, the loop sensor can be integrated into the secondary housing.

[0015] Without departing from the scope of the invention, several loop sensors can be connected to a single secondary box. Said secondary box is then capable of processing the loop states detected by all of the loop sensors connected to it.

[0016] Preferably, but not limited to, the secondary housing is mounted on the seat. One advantage is that the seat and the housing can be installed together in the vehicle. Alternatively, the secondary housing can be mounted next to the seat.

[0017] The secondary housing advantageously comprises an electronic card. Preferably, said at least one secondary housing comprises a computer configured to process the data provided by the loop sensor. The computer advantageously communicates with said wireless transmitter.

[0018] Preferably, the supervision system comprises a plurality of secondary boxes, each of said secondary boxes being associated with one of the seats of the vehicle, and with the corresponding belt.

[0019] The wireless transmitter allows information, including the seat belt fastening status, to be transmitted wirelessly to the main unit.

[0020] The use of a wireless transmitter allows for easy, off-site integration of the monitoring system into a vehicle. This makes it possible, in particular, to avoid the installation in the vehicle of wires connecting the secondary box(es) and the main box located near the dashboard.

[0021] Preferably, said wireless transmitter is configured to transmit an identifier specific to the secondary box taking the form of an address associated with the secondary box. Said address is preferably a unique address making it possible to identify and discriminate said secondary box. This address allows the secondary box to be keyed.

[0022] Preferably, said wireless transmitter is configured to transmit to the main box data relating to the charge level of an electric battery supplying the secondary box.

[0023] The wireless transmitter is advantageously configured to wirelessly transmit signals comprising at least said corresponding seat belt fastening state. The wireless transmitter is advantageously configured to transmit signals comprising information frames. Each transmitted information frame advantageously comprises said seat belt fastening state as well as the address associated with the secondary box and / or data relating to the charge of the battery powering the secondary box and / or an indicator of change in seat belt fastening state and / or a corresponding seat occupancy state.

[0024] Preferably, the wireless transmitter is configured to transmit a signal, preferably an encrypted signal, each time the belt fastening state changes.

[0025] Preferably, said wireless transmitter is configured to transmit a signal having a range less than a determined range threshold. One advantage is to reduce the range of the transmitted signal so as not to disturb a main box of another vehicle. The wireless transmitter is advantageously configured to transmit signals within a radius of a few meters around said loop sensor.

[0026] Preferably, the wireless transmitter is configured to transmit at least one signal, preferably an encrypted signal, indicating the charge level of the battery. Preferably, the wireless transmitter is configured to transmit such signals indicating the charge of the battery at predefined time intervals.

[0027] This signal indicating the battery charge level is advantageously distinct from the signal containing the belt fastening status.

[0028] The main housing is preferably configured to be mounted, more preferably fixed, preferably permanently, to the dashboard of the vehicle. Preferably, the main housing comprises a mounting device allowing it to be mounted to the dashboard of the vehicle, or in the vicinity of the dashboard.

[0029] Preferably, the main housing is of parallelepiped shape. Preferably, the main housing is of a reduced format. The main housing is advantageously arranged so that the visual alerts are visible to the driver of the vehicle but that said box does not obscure its field of vision. Preferably, the supervision system comprises a single main box.

[0030] Preferably, the main box is supplied with electrical energy by the vehicle's battery. One advantage is to enable the main box to be powered continuously. Preferably, the main box is capable of receiving signals and emitting alert signals at any time, whether the vehicle is in operation or stationary. Without departing from the scope of the invention, the main box may comprise its own battery, configured to supply the main box with electrical energy.

[0031] Preferably, the main box operates continuously. The main box advantageously has a standby mode.

[0032] The wireless receiver of the primary box is configured to receive signals transmitted by the wireless transmitter of the secondary box(es).

[0033] Preferably, the wireless receiver is configured to receive signals transmitted by wireless transmitters of secondary boxes located in a surrounding volume less than a predetermined volume. One advantage is not to receive signals from other vehicles. The predetermined volume can advantageously be adjusted by parameterization depending on the equipped vehicle.

[0034] Preferably, the main box and the secondary box(es) are configured so that the signals emitted by the transmitters of the secondary boxes are decodable and can be read by the main box and the signals emitted by the main box are decodable and can be read by the secondary boxes.

[0035] Preferably, the primary housing and the secondary housings communicate in a star configuration.

[0036] The wireless receiver of the main box is advantageously configured to transmit the loop status(es) received to the alert device of the main box.

[0037] Preferably, the wireless receiver of the main box is configured to transmit the loop status to the alert device only when the received signal makes it possible to identify the secondary box having emitted it, for example via the unique address contained in the information frame of the signal.

[0038] The wireless receiver of the main box is advantageously configured to transmit to the alert device only the loop states that can be identified or understood.

[0039] Preferably, upon receipt of a signal emitted by the wireless transmitter, the main box is configured to transmit an acknowledgment signal to said secondary box. Following the transmission of a signal by the secondary box, in the absence of receipt of an acknowledgment signal by the secondary box, the latter is advantageously configured to transmit again the loopback status of the corresponding belt towards the main box.

[0040] Preferably, in the absence of reception of this acknowledgment signal, the secondary box is configured to repeatedly transmit the signal containing the state of fastening of the belt.

[0041] According to an advantageous variant, each signal that can be processed by the alert device of the main box is the subject, by the main box, of the emission of an acknowledgment signal detectable by the secondary box having emitted the original signal.

[0042] The main housing advantageously comprises an electronic card electronically connected to said alert device, to said wireless receiver and to said geolocation module. Said card is advantageously electrically powered by a battery or a wired connection.

[0043] The geolocation module, for example a GPS or GNSS module, makes it possible to determine the position of the main unit, and more generally of the vehicle, considered in the terrestrial reference frame. It also makes it possible to determine the trajectory and speed of movement of the vehicle, from the position of the vehicle.

[0044] The geolocation module is advantageously configured to provide either the vehicle positioning data or the vehicle speed data or both. The geolocation module is advantageously configured to provide the vehicle trajectory.

[0045] The geolocation module is specific to the main box and the supervision system. It is separate from any vehicle geolocation module.

[0046] The vehicle speed data advantageously includes the vehicle's travel speed at a given time.

[0047] The vehicle positioning data advantageously includes the position of the vehicle at a given time.

[0048] Preferably, the alert device is configured to emit the alert signal as a function of the position traveled by the vehicle relative to a reference position, calculated from said position data. The positioning data allows the alert device to determine a distance traveled by the vehicle relative to a reference position.

[0049] The alert device advantageously comprises a calculation unit configured to process the loop state(s) provided by the wireless receiver. The calculation unit is advantageously configured to process changes in loop state or even the occupancy states of the seat(s).

[0050] The alert signal(s) emitted by the alert device make it possible to indicate to the driver in particular that the seat belt associated with the secondary box is not fastened. This allows the driver to ensure that the seat belts are properly fastened and to ask passengers to fasten their seat belts if they are not.

[0051] Advantageously, the alert signal(s) emitted by the alert device are a function of all the loop state(s) received by the wireless receiver.

[0052] Said alert device is advantageously configured to discriminate the loopback states provided by the wireless receiver. More precisely, the alert device is configured to identify the secondary box associated with each of the loopback states received, for example using an indicator, such as a unique address specific to the secondary box, contained in the frame of the signal received by the wireless receiver.

[0053] Preferably, the alert device is configured to emit an alert signal which is a function of the secondary box having transmitted the buckled state. The alert signal is therefore advantageously different depending on the belt concerned by the alert signal. The alert device is for example configured to display a different visual signal depending on the belt which is not buckled.

[0054] Alternatively, and without departing from the scope of the invention, the alert device is configured to emit an alert signal, for example an audible alert signal, which is identical regardless of which seat belt is not fastened.

[0055] Preferably, the emission of the alert signal is conditioned by said vehicle positioning data and / or said vehicle speed data, provided by the geolocation module.

[0056] Alternatively, and without departing from the scope of the invention, the alert signal may be different depending on said positioning data and / or said vehicle speed data provided by the geolocation module.

[0057] Preferably, but in a non-limiting manner, the alert device is configured to interrupt the transmission of the alert signal when the received seat belt fastening state, transmitted via said transmitter and receiver, is of the fastened type.

[0058] Preferably, the alert device is configured to emit the alert signal again, after a predetermined duration, if the belt is still not fastened.

[0059] Thanks to the invention, the alert signal(s), and advantageously their emission, are conditioned by the speed and / or position of the vehicle. One advantage is not to emit alert signals at every moment, without taking into account the position or speed of the vehicle. According to the invention, the nature of the alert signals or their emission is conditioned by said speed and positioning data of the vehicle. This can make it possible, for example, not to emit an alert signal if the vehicle is stationary or traveling at very low speed. User comfort is therefore improved and is not disturbed by superfluous signals. The information provided to the driver is also more relevant and precise.

[0060] To the extent that the main box integrates a geolocation module, the supervision system makes it possible to avoid the need to access data terminated by sensors and other geolocation modules specific to the vehicle.

[0061] The supervision system according to the invention therefore has the advantage of not requiring access to the internal data of the vehicle, in particular to the positioning and speed data determined by the vehicle's sensors.

[0062] The supervision system can therefore be installed in all types of vehicles, and in particular in a converted vehicle in which seats equipped with belts have been added outside the factory, after manufacture. To do this, the main box can easily be mounted near the dashboard while the secondary box(es) can easily be mounted near or on the corresponding seats. The buckle sensor(s) can also be easily installed to detect the buckle status of the corresponding belt.

[0063] Another advantage of the supervision system according to the invention is that it can be permanently installed in the vehicle, so that communication between the main box and the secondary box(es) is not interrupted each time the user leaves the vehicle, as is the case for the system implementing a smartphone. No configuration is necessary for the user entering the vehicle. Supervision can be carried out permanently, whether the engine is running or not. Supervision is therefore reliable and is not interrupted, which improves passenger safety.

[0064] The monitoring system can advantageously be installed in the vehicle without difficulty. In addition, the configuration of the monitoring system is carried out once, during installation. Once installed, it is no longer necessary to configure the monitoring system each time it is used. In addition, since it can be mounted on the dashboard, the user can consult the information, in particular the visual warning signals, displayed by the main box, without having to hold the latter in their hands. The safety of the driver and passengers is therefore improved.

[0065] Preferably, the main housing is configured to be supplied with electrical energy by the vehicle battery. Preferably, the main housing is configured to be supplied with electrical energy continuously. One advantage is to allow the emission of alert signals at any time, and thus improve user safety.

[0066] Preferably, the alert device is configured to emit the alert signal when the belt is in the unfastened state and the speed of the vehicle, determined from the vehicle speed data provided by the geolocation module, is greater than a predetermined speed threshold and / or the distance traveled by the vehicle, determined from the vehicle positioning data provided by the geolocation module, relative to a reference position, is greater than a predetermined distance threshold.

[0067] One advantage is to only emit the warning signal if the vehicle is traveling at a speed beyond which not wearing a seat belt is dangerous. Another advantage is to only emit the warning signal if the vehicle has moved a significant distance from the reference position. This makes it possible, for example, not to emit a warning signal if the vehicle is moving a short distance in a parking lot or in a driveway.

[0068] It is understood that the belt is considered to be in the unfastened state when the alert module receives, from the receiver, a signal containing the state of fastening of the belt which is of the unfastened type.

[0069] The reference position is preferably the initial position of the vehicle, when starting the engine.

[0070] In a non-limiting manner, the speed of the vehicle may derive directly from the vehicle speed data provided by the geolocation module or be obtained by processing said speed data.

[0071] Preferably, the predetermined speed threshold is chosen as corresponding to a travel speed beyond which the vehicle is considered to be traveling normally on the public highway, excluding parking. The predetermined speed threshold is advantageously a function of the road safety standards in force.

[0072] Preferably, the alert device is configured to emit the alert signal only when the speed of the vehicle is greater than the predetermined speed threshold, only when the distance traveled by the vehicle is greater than the predetermined distance threshold or only when these two conditions are met.

[0073] Advantageously, said alert device is configured to emit the alert signal when the belt is in the unfastened state and the speed of the vehicle, determined from the vehicle speed data provided by the geolocation module, is greater than 10 kilometers / hour.

[0074] Advantageously, the geolocation module comprises a satellite positioning module, for example a GPS module and / or a GNSS module. One advantage is that it makes it possible to precisely determine the position of the main unit and therefore of the vehicle in the terrestrial reference frame. The accuracy of the positioning data and the vehicle speed data is therefore improved, which provides better control over the transmission of the alert signal(s).

[0075] Preferably, the alert device is configured to emit at least one visual and / or audible alert signal.

[0076] The alert signal may be only audible, only visual or both audible and visual.

[0077] The visual alert signal advantageously takes the form of a specific object displayed on a screen or the lighting of a light.

[0078] Preferably, the alert device is configured to emit an audible alert when at least one of the belts is in the unfastened state.

[0079] The alert device advantageously comprises a sound module, such as a loudspeaker, configured to emit an audible alert signal.

[0080] According to an advantageous aspect, said alert device of the main housing comprises a screen, the alert device being configured to display at least said alert signal on said screen. The alert signal displayed on the screen advantageously takes the form of an object, an icon or even a luminous pictogram on the screen.

[0081] Preferably, but not limited to, the alert device is configured to display on the screen an object associated with the belt.

[0082] Preferably, the alert device is configured to display on the screen a plurality of objects, each of the objects being associated with one of the belts of the vehicle.

[0083] Preferably, the nature of the object is a function of the buckled state of the corresponding belt. For example, the alert device may be configured to display a green object representing a buckled belt, when the corresponding belt is actually in the buckled state, and a red object representing an unbuckled belt, when the corresponding belt is actually in the unbuckled state.

[0084] Alternatively, and without departing from the scope of the invention, the alert device can be configured to display an object only if the corresponding belt is in the unfastened state.

[0085] Preferably, said at least one secondary housing comprises an electric battery, specific to said secondary housing, and configured to supply said secondary housing with electrical energy. One advantage is that it is not necessary to connect the secondary housing to the vehicle battery to power it. The secondary housing is therefore autonomous and its installation inside the vehicle is further facilitated.

[0086] Advantageously, said wireless transmitter and said wireless receiver are radiofrequency type transmitters and receivers, preferably configured to transmit and receive signals at a frequency of 433 Megahertz. Such a wireless communication technique is particularly reliable, limiting the risks of loss of information between the transmitter and the receiver and improving the reliability of the alert signal(s) transmitted. Preferably, the wireless transmitter is configured to implement a protocol with 250 Kbps FSK type radio modulation.

[0087] Wireless communication between the transmitter and the receiver advantageously implements a frequency modulation technique.

[0088] Advantageously, said wireless transmitter of the secondary box is configured to wirelessly transmit said belt fastening state in response to a change of seat belt fastening status.

[0089] One advantage is to reduce the number of transmissions of the buckle state between the wireless transmitter and the wireless receiver and in particular not to transmit the buckle state of the belt continuously, but only when the buckle state is modified. This makes it possible to reduce the number of signals transmitted and the energy consumption of the wireless transmitter and therefore to reduce the consumption of the charge of a possible battery powering the secondary box.

[0090] Preferably, said wireless transmitter is configured to transmit buckle state change data. Preferably, the frame of signals transmitted by the wireless transmitter comprises a buckle state change indicator of the corresponding belt.

[0091] Preferably, said wireless transmitter of the secondary box is configured to transmit the seat belt fastening status in the form of encrypted signals. One advantage is to reduce the risk that the signals transmitted by the wireless transmitter can be modified or corrupted, further improving the reliability of the alert signals emitted. Another advantage is to prevent foreign signals from being processed by the main box, which reduces the risk of sending unwanted alert signals. The supervision system cannot be disturbed by signals coming from another vehicle. The safety of the vehicle users is therefore improved.

[0092] Preferably, the wireless receiver of the main box is configured to decrypt said received encrypted signals.

[0093] Preferably, the supervision system further comprises a presence sensor connected to the secondary box and configured to detect an occupancy state of said seat, the transmitter of said secondary box being configured to wirelessly transmit said occupancy state of the seat, the wireless receiver of the main box being configured to receive said occupancy state of the seat, the alert device being further configured to emit said alert signal as a function of said occupancy state of the seat received by the receiver. One advantage is to condition the alert signal, and preferably its emission, on the presence of a passenger on the seat. This makes it possible, for example, not to emit an alert signal unnecessarily if the corresponding seat is not occupied. The comfort of the other passengers is therefore improved.

[0094] The occupancy state of the seat is preferably occupied, when a user is seated on the seat, or unoccupied when no user is seated on the seat.

[0095] Preferably, the alert device is configured not to emit a seat belt alert signal if the corresponding seat is not occupied.

[0096] Alternatively, and without departing from the scope of the invention, the alert device can be configured to emit an alert signal of a different nature depending on whether the seat is occupied or unoccupied.

[0097] The occupancy sensor may be a position sensor, a weighing sensor or any other sensor making it possible to identify the presence of a user on a seat.

[0098] Advantageously, the supervision system is a system for supervising the fastening of a plurality of belts associated with a plurality of seats of the vehicle, the system comprising: a plurality of buckle sensors, each configured to detect a buckled state of one of said belts with which said buckle sensor is associated; and a plurality of secondary boxes, each being connected to at least one corresponding buckle sensor, each of the secondary boxes comprising a wireless transmitter configured to wirelessly transmit the buckle status of the corresponding belt provided by the associated buckle sensor, the wireless receiver being configured to receive said belt fastening states, the alert device being configured to emit at least one alert signal as a function of the belt fastening states received by the receiver and as a function of the positioning data and / or the vehicle speed data provided by the geolocation module.

[0099] It is understood that each of said seats is associated with a belt, a buckle sensor and a secondary box. Each of the transmitters of the secondary boxes transmits to the main box the buckle status of the belt associated with said secondary box.

[0100] Preferably, the primary housing and the secondary housings communicate in a star configuration.

[0101] Preferably, each of the secondary boxes has its own identifier which is transmitted by the wireless transmitter of said secondary box with the buckle status of the corresponding belt, allowing the main box to identify the secondary box associated with the buckle status which it receives.

[0102] Preferably, the alert device is configured to emit separate visual signals for each of the belts.

[0103] Preferably, depending on the positioning data and / or the speed data of the vehicle, the alert device is configured to emit at least one audible signal if at least one of the belts is in the unfastened state.

[0104] The invention also relates to a method for supervising the fastening of at least one belt associated with a seat of a vehicle, said belt being able to take a fastened state and an unfastened state, the method comprising the following steps: - at least one secondary box comprising a wireless transmitter is provided; - we provide a main box including a wireless receiver and a geolocation module; - a state of fastening of said belt is detected; - the said seat belt fastening status is transmitted wirelessly using the wireless transmitter of the secondary box; - the said seat belt fastening status is received using the wireless receiver of the main box; - vehicle positioning data and / or vehicle speed data are determined using the geolocation module; and - an alert signal is emitted based on the received seat belt fastening status and based on the determined vehicle positioning data and / or speed data.

[0105] Advantageously, the alert signal is emitted when the belt is in the unfastened state and the speed of the vehicle, determined from the vehicle speed data provided by the geolocation module, is greater than a predetermined speed threshold and / or the distance traveled by the vehicle, determined from the vehicle positioning data provided by the geolocation module, relative to a reference position, is greater than a predetermined distance threshold.

[0106] Preferably, said belt fastening state is transmitted wirelessly using the wireless transmitter of the secondary housing in response to a change in said belt fastening state. Brief description of the drawings

[0107] The invention will be better understood on reading the following description of an embodiment of the invention given by way of non-limiting example, with reference to the appended drawings, in which:

[0108] [Fig.l] [Fig.l] shows a vehicle in which a supervision system according to the invention is installed;

[0109] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] shows the supervision system according to the invention;

[0110] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] shows the main housing of the supervision system of [Fig.2], when all the seat belts are fastened; and

[0111] [Fig.4] [Fig.4] shows the main box of the supervision system of [Fig.2], when one of the belts is not fastened; Description of the embodiments

[0112] The invention relates to a system for monitoring the fastening of at least one seat belt associated with a seat of a vehicle. A non-limiting embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 4.

[0113] [Fig.l] illustrates a vehicle 100 in which a system 10 for monitoring the fastening of at least one seat belt according to the invention is installed. The vehicle 100 is here a car comprising in particular a dashboard 102, a front seat 104 and a first rear seat 106. A first belt 108 is associated with the first rear seat 106. The first seat belt 108 comprises in particular a seat belt buckle 110 configured to cooperate with a connection base 112 attached to the seats.

[0114] The first belt 108 has a buckled state Ebi. It can take a buckled state in which the belt buckle 110 is connected to said connection base 112. It can also take a non-buckled state in which said belt buckle 110 is not connected to the connection base 112. The belt is then not fastened.

[0115] In this non-limiting example, the vehicle 100 further comprises a second rear seat with which a second seat belt is associated. These are not shown for reasons of readability. This second belt also has a buckled state.

[0116] The supervision system 10 also comprises a main box 20 which is mounted and fixed substantially permanently on the dashboard 102 of the vehicle. In this non-limiting embodiment, the supervision system 10 also comprises a first secondary box 40 which is here mounted on the rear seat.

[0117] The supervision system 10 further comprises a first buckle sensor 60 cooperating with the connection base 112 of the seat belt 108. The first buckle sensor 60 is electronically connected to the first secondary box 40. It is configured to detect the buckle state Ebi of the belt.

[0118] As seen in [Fig.2], the supervision system 10 also comprises a first presence sensor 62 mounted on the first rear seat 106 and configured to detect the presence of a passenger seated on said seat.

[0119] It is understood that the first buckle sensor 60, the first seat belt 108 and the first secondary box 40 are associated with said first rear seat 106.

[0120] In this non-limiting example, the supervision system also comprises a second buckle sensor 60' and a second presence sensor 62' connected to a second secondary box 40'. The latter are not visible in [Fig.l] but are illustrated in [Fig.2]. They are substantially identical respectively to the first buckle sensor 60, to the first presence sensor 62, and to the first secondary box 40. It is understood that the second buckle sensor 60', the second seat belt and the second secondary box 40' are associated with said second rear seat.

[0121] The supervision system will be described in more detail with reference to [Fig.2].

[0122] In this [Fig.2], it can be seen that the first looping sensor 60 is mounted on the connection base of the first belt 108. The first looping sensor 60 is configured to identify the looping state Ebi of the first belt 108. In other words, the first looping sensor 60 is configured to detect whether the first belt is in the buckled state or in the unbuckled state.

[0123] The first looping sensor 60 is configured to transmit this looping state Ebi to the first secondary housing 40. More precisely, in this non-limiting example, the first secondary housing 40 comprises a computer 42 to which the looping sensor 60 is electronically connected. The computer 42 receives the looping state Ebi of the first belt 108, delivered by the first looping sensor. The computer 42 is configured to process said looping state Ebi.

[0124] The first loop sensor 60 is configured to transmit this loop state Ebi to the first secondary box 40.

[0125] Furthermore, the first presence sensor 62 is connected to the first secondary box 40 and configured to detect an occupancy state Epi of said seat and provide said occupancy state to the first secondary box and in particular to the computer 42.

[0126] The first secondary housing 40 comprises a battery 46 configured to supply the first secondary housing with electrical energy. The battery is a battery specific to the first secondary housing 40, distinct from the battery of the vehicle 100. The computer 42 is advantageously configured to control the charging of the battery 46.

[0127] According to the invention, the first secondary box 40 further comprises a wireless transmitter 44 connected to the computer 42. The wireless transmitter 44 is configured to transmit signals Si. In this non-limiting example, the wireless transmitter 44 is a radiofrequency transmitter, configured to transmit signals at a frequency of 433 Megahertz. The wireless transmitter 44 receives the loopback status Ebl, coming from the loopback sensor 60, and the occupancy status Epl coming from the presence sensor 62, possibly processed by the computer 42.

[0128] Preferably, the signals Si transmitted by the wireless transmitter 44 of the first secondary box 40 comprise a frame generated by the computer 42. In a non-limiting manner, said frame here comprises the fastening state Ebl of the first belt 108, the occupancy state Epl of the first seat 106, a unique address associated with the first secondary box 40, data relating to the charge level of the battery 46 of the first secondary box and an indicator of change of fastening state Ebl of the belt 108.

[0129] Said address associated with the first secondary box 40 is a unique keying address making it possible to identify and discriminate between said first secondary box when the supervision system 10 comprises several secondary boxes.

[0130] In this non-limiting example, the wireless transmitter 44 is configured to transmit the signal Si and therefore the fastening state of the first belt 108 only in response to a change in said fastening state of the first belt. One advantage is to reduce the quantity of signals transmitted and therefore to save the charge of the battery 46.

[0131] The second loop sensor 60' is configured to detect a loop state Eb2 of the second belt and provide said buckled state to the second secondary box 40'. The second presence sensor 62' is configured to detect an occupancy state Ep2 of the second rear seat and provide said occupancy state to the second secondary box 40'. The second secondary box 40' is identical to the first secondary box 40 and will not be described in detail. The second secondary box 40' is configured to wirelessly transmit signals S2 so as to wirelessly transmit the buckled state Eb2 of the second belt and the occupancy state Ep2 of the second rear seat to the main box 20.

[0132] The first and second secondary boxes 40,40' communicate wirelessly with the main box 20 in a star configuration.

[0133] In [Fig.2], we also see that the main housing 20 comprises a wireless receiver 22. The wireless receiver is configured to receive the signals S1 and S2 transmitted by the wireless transmitter 44 and therefore to receive the buckle status of the belt 108. The wireless receiver 22 is a radio frequency receiver, configured to receive signals at a frequency of 433 Megahertz. The transmitted signals are encrypted.

[0134] Upon receipt of a signal S1, S2 from the first or second secondary box 40, 40', the wireless receiver 22 is configured to transmit an acknowledgment signal to the corresponding secondary box.

[0135] The wireless receiver 22 is further configured to identify the secondary box 40 having emitted the received signal and not to process unidentified signals.

[0136] The main housing 20 also comprises a geolocation module 24, formed here by a GPS module, configured to collect and determine positioning data xp of the vehicle 100 and speed data vp of the vehicle. The geolocation module 24 is configured to establish a satellite communication in order to collect the positioning and speed data. In this non-limiting example, the geolocation module 24 is configured to determine the instantaneous speed vp of the main housing 20, and therefore of the vehicle 100. The geolocation module 24 is further configured to determine at each instant the position xp of the main housing 20, and therefore of the vehicle 100, considered in the terrestrial reference frame.

[0137] The geolocation module 24 is specific to the main box 20 and to the supervision system 10. It is distinct from any geolocation module of the vehicle 100.

[0138] The main housing 20 also comprises an alert device 26 comprising a calculation unit 28. The alert device is electrically connected to the wireless receiver 22 and to the geolocation module 24.

[0139] The wireless receiver 22 is configured to transmit the loopback states Ebi, Eb2 of the first and second secondary boxes 40, 40' received to the alert device 26, and more precisely to the calculation unit 28. The wireless receiver 22 is further configured to transmit the occupancy states Epi, Ep2 of the first and second seats of the vehicle received to the alert device 26, and more precisely to the calculation unit 28.

[0140] The geolocation module 24 is configured to transmit said positioning data xp and said speed data vp of the vehicle 100 determined to the alert device 26, and more precisely to the calculation unit 28.

[0141] The calculation unit 28 of the alert device 24 advantageously comprises a memory making it possible in particular to record the different positions of the vehicle in the terrestrial reference frame over time. The calculation unit 28 is advantageously configured to determine a route traveled by the vehicle and a trajectory of the vehicle from said recorded positions and in particular in relation to one or more reference positions.

[0142] According to the invention, the alert device 26 is configured to emit alert signals as a function of the positioning data xp of the vehicle and the speed data vp of the vehicle transmitted by the geolocation module 24, as well as as a function of the loopback state Ebiet of the occupancy state Epi coming from the first secondary box 40 and received by the wireless receiver 22 and the loopback state Eb2et of the occupancy state Ep2 coming from the second secondary box 40' and received by the wireless receiver 22.

[0143] More specifically, in this non-limiting embodiment, the alert device 26 comprises a screen 30 for displaying visual alert signals, as well as a speaker 32 configured to generate audible alert signals.

[0144] The main box 20 is here supplied with continuous electrical energy by the battery of the vehicle 100. One advantage is that it allows it to operate even when the vehicle is stationary.

[0145] [Fig. 3] shows the screen 30 and the loudspeaker 32 of the alert device 26 of the main box 20. The screen 30 is here configured to display a first object Oi associated with the first belt 108 and a second object O2 associated with the second belt. In the absence of an alert, the two objects are advantageously not illuminated and displayed in gray. Alternatively, the objects could be displayed in green.

[0146] The screen 30 also makes it possible to display an object Ob illustrating the charge of the battery.

[0147] The alert device 26 is configured to emit a first visual alert signal for the first belt corresponding here to a red color display of the first object Oi on the screen 30. The alert device is configured to emit a second visual alert signal for the second belt corresponding here to a red color display of the second object O2 on the screen 30.

[0148] The alert device 26 is further configured to emit audible alert signals consisting of an audible alert or a tone emitted by the loudspeaker 32, which is a function of the fastening state Ebi, Eb2 of the two belts.

[0149] The alert device 26 is configured to emit alert signals when a belt is in the unfastened state and the speed vp of the vehicle is greater than a predetermined speed threshold or the distance traveled by the vehicle, relative to a reference position, is greater than a predetermined distance threshold.

[0150] The reference position corresponds to the initial position of the vehicle 100 at the time of ignition of the engine, determined from the geolocation module 24. The distance traveled by the vehicle 100 relative to the reference position is calculated by the calculation unit 28 of the alert device from the positioning data determined by the geolocation module 24.

[0151] We will now detail several situations illustrating a mode of implementation of the supervision system 10 according to the invention, with reference to figures 3 and 4.

[0152] Here, the alert device 26 is configured to emit alert signals when a belt is in the unfastened state and the speed vp of the vehicle is greater than 10 kilometers / hour or the distance traveled by the vehicle 100, relative to the initial position of the vehicle when the engine was started, is greater than 50 meters.

[0153] In these examples, it is considered that passengers are seated in the two rear seats, and the first and second seats are therefore in the occupied state Epi,Ep2 occupied.

[0154] [Fig. 3] shows the screen 30 of the alert device 26, when the first 108 and second seat belts are fastened and the first and second fastening states Ebi, Eb2 are of the fastened type. In this configuration, the alert device 26 receives the fastening states Ebi, Eb2 which are fastened. The alert device 26 displays the first and second objects Oi, O2 associated with the first and second seat belts in gray on the screen. Furthermore, the loudspeaker does not emit any sound. In other words, regardless of the positioning data xp and speed vp of the vehicle, no alert signal is emitted.

[0155] Furthermore, as long as the two loopback states Ebi, Eb2 remain unchanged, the wireless transmitters 44 of the secondary boxes 40, 40' are configured not to transmit signals towards the main box 20.

[0156] With reference to [Fig. 4], it is now considered that the passenger occupying the first seat 106 unfastens his first seat belt 108. The first buckled state Ebi becomes unbuckled, the wireless transmitter 44 of the first secondary box 40 then transmits a signal Si containing said first unbuckled buckled state of the first seat belt, in response to this change in the buckled state Ebi. The first buckled state is received by the wireless receiver 22 which sends in response an acknowledgment signal of the correct reception of the buckled state. Using the unique address of the secondary box 40 transmitted in the signal with the buckled state Ebi, the main box 20 identifies the source of the signal and therefore the belt whose state is not buckled. The first buckle state Ebi is transmitted by the wireless receiver 22 to the alert device.

[0157] Therefore, if the vehicle 100 is traveling at a speed, determined from the speed data vp, lower than the speed threshold set at 10 kilometers / hour (km / h) and if the distance it has traveled from the initial position, determined from the positioning data xp, is lower than the distance threshold set at 50 meters, the alert device still does not emit any alert signal. One advantage is to improve passenger comfort by not emitting alert signals if the vehicle is not traveling on the public highway in particular, or is traveling for example in a parking lot.

[0158] On the other hand, if the vehicle is traveling at more than 10 km / h or if said distance traveled is greater than 50 meters, then the alert device 26 emits alert signals, in this case a visual alert signal and an audible alert signal. This configuration is illustrated in [Fig.4]. The visual alert signal emitted consists of the display in red of the first object Oi associated with the first belt 108. The audible signal emitted consists of a continuous or discontinuous audible alert.

[0159] Similarly, in the case where the second belt is unfastened, the alert device 26 is configured to emit an audible alert signal and to display the second object O2 in red, if however the vehicle is traveling at more than 10 km / h or if said distance traveled from the reference position is greater than 50 meters.

Claims

Claims

1. System (10) for supervising the fastening of at least one belt (108) associated with a seat (106) of a vehicle (100), said belt being able to take a fastened state and an unfastened state, the system comprising: - at least one fastening sensor (60, 60') configured to detect a fastening state (Ebi, Eb2) of said belt; - at least one secondary box (40, 40') connected to said fastening sensor, the secondary box comprising a wireless transmitter (44) configured to wirelessly transmit said fastening state of the belt provided by the fastening sensor; - a main box (20) configured to be positioned near the dashboard (102) of the vehicle and comprising: a wireless receiver (22) configured to receive said fastening state of the belt transmitted by the transmitter of the secondary box;a geolocation module (24) configured to determine positioning data (xp) of the vehicle and / or speed data (vp) of the vehicle; and an alert device (26) configured to emit at least one alert signal as a function of the state of fastening of the seat belt received by the receiver and as a function of the positioning data and / or the speed data of the vehicle provided by the geolocation module.;

2. Supervision system according to claim 1, wherein the alert device (26) is configured to emit the alert signal when the belt (108) is in the unfastened state and the speed of the vehicle, determined from the speed data (vp) of the vehicle provided by the geolocation module (24), is greater than a predetermined speed threshold and / or the distance traveled by the vehicle, determined from the positioning data (xp) of the vehicle provided by the geolocation module, relative to a reference position, is greater than a predetermined distance threshold.

3. Supervision system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said alert device (26) is configured to emit the alert signal when the belt (108) is in the unfastened state and the speed of the vehicle, determined from the speed data (vp) of the vehicle provided by the geolocation module (24), is greater than 10 kilometers / hour.

4. Supervision system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, in which the geolocation module (24) comprises a satellite positioning module, for example a GPS module and / or a GNSS module.

5. Supervision system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, in which the alert device (26) is configured to emit at least one visual and / or audible alert signal.

6. Supervision system according to claim 5, wherein said alert device (26) of the main housing (20) comprises a screen (30), the alert device being configured to display at least said alert signal on said screen.

7. Supervision system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, in which said at least one secondary box (40,40') comprises an electric battery (46), specific to said secondary box, and configured to supply said secondary box with electrical energy.

8. A monitoring system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein said wireless transmitter (44) and said wireless receiver (22) are radio frequency type transmitters and receivers, preferably configured to transmit and receive signals at a frequency of 433 Megahertz.

9. Supervision system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein said wireless transmitter (44) of the secondary box (40,40') is configured to wirelessly transmit said fastening state (Ebi,Eb2) of the belt in response to a change in the fastening state of the belt.

10. Supervision system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein said wireless transmitter (44) of the secondary box (40,40') is configured to transmit the looping state (Ebi,Eb2) of the belt in the form of encrypted signals.

11. Supervision system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, further comprising a presence sensor (62,62') connected to the secondary box (40,40') and configured to detect an occupancy state (Epi,Ep2) of said seat, the transmitter (44) of said secondary box being configured to wirelessly transmit said occupancy state of the seat, the receiver (22) of the main box (10) being configured to receive said occupancy state of the seat, the alert device (26) being further configured to emit said alert signal as a function of said occupancy state of the seat received by the receiver.

12. Supervision system (10) according to any one of the claims 1 to 11, for supervising the fastening of a plurality of belts (108) associated with a plurality of seats (106) of the vehicle (100), the system comprising: a plurality of buckle sensors (60,60'), each configured to detect a buckle state (Ebi,Eb2) of one of said belts with which said buckle sensor is associated; and a plurality of secondary boxes (40,40'), each being connected to at least one corresponding buckle sensor, each of the secondary boxes comprising a wireless transmitter (44) configured to wirelessly transmit the buckle status of the corresponding belt provided by the associated buckle sensor, the wireless receiver being configured to receive said belt fastening states, the alert device being configured to emit at least one alert signal as a function of the belt fastening states received by the receiver and as a function of the positioning data (xp) and / or the speed data (vp) of the vehicle provided by the geolocation module.

13. Supervision system according to claim 12, in which each of the secondary boxes (40,40') has its own identifier which is transmitted by the wireless transmitter (44) of said secondary box with the looping state (Ebi,Eb2) of the corresponding belt, allowing the main box (20) to identify the secondary box associated with the looping state which it receives.

14. Method for supervising the fastening of at least one belt (108) associated with a seat (106) of a vehicle (100), said belt being able to take a fastened state and an unfastened state, the method comprising the following steps: - at least one secondary box (40,40') is provided comprising a wireless transmitter (44); - a main box (20) is provided comprising a wireless receiver (22) and a geolocation module (24); - a state of buckle (EbbEb2) of said belt is detected; - the said seat belt fastening status is transmitted wirelessly using the wireless transmitter of the secondary box; - the said seat belt fastening status is received using the wireless receiver of the main box; - vehicle positioning data (xp) and / or vehicle speed data (vp) are determined using the geolocation module- lisation; and - an alert signal is emitted depending on the belt fastening status received and depending on the positioning data and / or the vehicle speed data determined.

15. Supervision method according to claim 14, in which the alert signal is emitted when the belt (108) is in the unfastened state and the speed of the vehicle, determined from the speed data (vp) of the vehicle provided by the geolocation module, is greater than a predetermined speed threshold and / or the distance traveled by the vehicle, determined from the positioning data (xp) of the vehicle provided by the geolocation module, relative to a reference position, is greater than a predetermined distance threshold.

16. Supervision method according to claim 14 or 15, in which said fastening state (Ebi, Eb2) of the belt (108) is transmitted wirelessly using the wireless transmitter (44) of the secondary box (40, 40') in response to a change in said fastening state of the belt.

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