System for protecting vehicles and preventing cargo theft

Abstract

The present invention relates to a system for protecting all types of vehicles and preventing cargo theft when this cargo is being transferred. The system comprises a device and a method for monitoring and detecting suspicious manoeuvres while cargo is being transported. This invention monitors the transfer of a cargo transported by land and activates autonomous progressive braking of the vehicle if unusual situations are detected in the transfer of the load, including unauthorised detours, opening of doors in unauthorised locations, etc., which are all linked to the route the vehicle travels. This technology has a modular configuration and can be installed in any vehicle.

Description

[0001] VEHICLE PROTECTION AND THEFT PREVENTION SYSTEM

[0002] BURDEN

[0003] FIELD OF INVENTION

[0004] The present invention relates to safety procedures and provisions for all types of vehicles, whether light or for land-based cargo transport.

[0005] STATE OF THE ART

[0006] Freight transportation is a vitally important logistics activity for most productive and service industries worldwide, and one that is growing, especially in this technologically advanced world. In Chile, transportation, primarily road transportation, has been transformed by the development of different modes of transport, in addition to the topographical characteristics of the territory.

[0007] Along with this, the safety of all types of cargo transportation is a significant issue when evaluating the risks and costs involved in transporting cargo and people, as well as the undeniable value of the transportation equipment itself.

[0008] Keeping track of cargo status and monitoring driver behavior are among the obligations any land transportation company should consider, ensuring cargo receipt and delivery and efficient fleet management.

[0009] In recent years, the use of information technologies for monitoring both cargo and drivers in land transportation has steadily increased; consequently, a number of companies are choosing to rely on these advances to monitor their services, implementing modern fleet management systems.

[0010] Among the most widely used and efficient, they are based on real-time information and instant communication.

[0011] Currently, for monitoring land freight transport, there are solutions based primarily on GPS (Global Positioning System) technology that allow estimating the position and speed of both maritime and land freight transport. There are also variants that allow recording other types of information, based on the use of sensors installed in a vehicle and that record events such as: door openings, fuel loading, or others. However, mainly, in the field of freight transport, they are oriented to the protection of the truck-cargo asset to prevent its theft, its fuel, or diversion from a previously defined route, under a scheme that generates alarms in the event of problems or thefts that keeps the user constantly informed.

[0012] In the case of communications, this type of system allows for instant notifications or alerts regarding abnormal situations that could affect the quality of service or the safety of drivers or cargo, such as delays, traffic accidents, or vehicle theft.

[0013] Fleet monitoring systems exist that utilize hybrid global positioning tools. This means that when there is no cellular coverage for the area in which the vehicle is traveling, the system is instantly activated using the satellite signal.

[0014] These devices and methods allow a remote user to evaluate the road behavior of vehicle drivers as a means of safety-oriented monitoring. However, the problem of cargo security persists. While all these systems allow for monitoring transportation, none of them prevent theft, which is the real threat to the transportation company. The containers and / or cabins where the cargo is transported remain vulnerable.

[0015] For this reason, it is of utmost importance to propose and implement technology capable of not only monitoring but also preventing theft or emergency situations affecting both the driver and their cargo. Regarding the status of industrial property, the following documents related to the technology subject to this application were found.

[0016] Japanese patent JP2019151129 presents a vehicle movement notification device comprising: a receiving portion that receives notification of vehicle movement when the vehicle user is absent; a control portion that acquires positional information of the vehicle; and a terminal to which the vehicle positional information is transmitted. The vehicle adopts a key system in which locking and unlocking are performed by receiving key information transmitted from the terminal. The vehicle movement is realized by unlocking the vehicle using the vehicle key information and starting a driving source by a first user who is different from the vehicle user and possesses a first terminal that receives the vehicle key information.

[0017] On the other hand, US patent US11556866 provides systems and methods for the use and live tracking of vehicle movement; a fluid representation of the vehicle's movement is produced, and it includes means for evaluating the vehicle's movement / activity relationship in response to the provided requests. Consequently, real-time evaluations and / or corrections can be made based on this improved movement / activity tracking. A replay analysis of movements / activities that have occurred is provided to evaluate and make adjustments for future responses and activities. Colors and other visualization elements can be used to highlight different activities, movements, and / or completion times within an online mapping application.

[0018] Patent CN02862548 of the Chinese Patent Office provides an anti-theft GPS device for vehicles with an acceleration transducer comprising a microprogrammed control unit (MCU) module, a global system for mobile communication (GSM) module, a GPS module, a G-SENSOR, and a power management module.The MCU module monitors the state changes of the G-SENSOR, obtains location information from the GPS module, and processes the information; the GSM module exchanges data with a management platform through a General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) data channel under the supervision of the MCU module; the GPS module obtains location information of vehicles; the G-SENSOR detects the moving states of vehicles and sends trigger signals to the MCU module according to the changes in the moving states of the vehicles; and the power management module provides power for the GSM module and the GPS module under the control of the MCU module.Using the GPS vehicle anti-theft method and the acceleration transducer vehicle anti-theft device, the overall power consumption is low; and under a circumference of the same battery capacity, the standby time is greatly extended, effectively reducing the probability of false alarms.

[0019] Along the same lines, German patent DE201110106202 proposes a surveillance method for monitoring the integrity of a cargo container along a transport route. The container has a sensor that monitors the integrity of the container, where the detection of an event that violates the container's integrity is followed by data being transmitted to an analysis center, where the event data is classified using predetermined criteria as to whether the integrity violation is sanctioned or unsanctioned. For example, if opening or closing the container is classified as a sanctioned integrity violation, an electronic authorization code representing the sanction is sent to the analysis center.Different types of opening and / or closing operations are distinguished by the use of authorization codes for different functions, and the analysis center uses the function code to determine what type of opening and / or closing operation has been performed or is intended to be performed.

[0020] Finally, US Patent 2016044625 from the US Patent Office provides various systems for location tracking. The location tracking system can be used to track one or more locations for one or more devices of one or more users. The location system can be used to access or initiate location requests; for example, a location tracking system can be implemented as a tracking application installed on a mobile device. A device can transmit a key to a third party and encrypted location data to a tracking entity. The application can have a front-end interface (e.g., for the users being tracked) and a back-end interface (e.g., for the users initiating the tracking). In this way, location tracking is provided while promoting privacy and security.

[0021] None of the documents found consider the integrated parameters used in this proposal, nor do they reproduce, either partially or completely, the proposed technology.

[0022] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0023] Figure 1: General diagram of the system.

[0024] 1) The equipment with coded sensor 1. Electromechanical lock that supports 2,500 kg of force. GPS with connection to a 24 / 7 tracking platform.

[0025] 2) Progressive autonomous braking device 3) Driver's cab

[0026] 4) Satellite signal 2G, 3G, 4G, etc.

[0027] 5) 24 / 7 monitoring center.

[0028] Figure 2: Monitoring equipment

[0029] 1 ) Coded sensor 1

[0030] 2) GPS

[0031] 3) Progressive braking device, acts on the vehicle's own system, braking progressively.

[0032] 4) Microprocessor receives the signal from sensor 2 to check whether the security door remains closed. If it is violated (open), the system is activated and the vehicle brakes. The system can only be reactivated by entering a dynamic code.

[0033] 5) Power sources. The system is powered and / or energized with the truck's own current. Batteries have been added, allowing it to operate for approximately 24 hours.

[0034] 6) Truck air brake device.

[0035] 7) Vault opening sensor 2.

[0036] Figure 3: AUTONOMOUS LOCKING SYSTEM

[0037] 1) Autonomous Locking System

[0038] 2) Thanks to the developed system, the load remains safe and controlled.

[0039] 3) Safety barriers that protect the load: gate closed, system activated, sensor 1 activated / Georeferencing and safety equipment installed on the truck

[0040] 4) 24 / 7 monitoring of each unit in service

[0041] 5) Scenario 1: Outside the authorized radius: System locked, preventing the tailgate from opening. If the system is violated and / or the designed circuit is not completed, the truck's braking system will be activated. 6) Scenario 2: Within the authorized radius: The tailgate is released; the operator does not need to do anything beyond their normal work routine. Freedom to operate tailgates, system unlocked.

[0042] Figure 4: System operation

[0043] A) Lock 2,500kg force

[0044] B) Gate that blocks the fuel outlet valves. Lock that blocks the gate.

[0045] C) Areas where the lock can be opened. Outside this area, the vehicle will brake if an attempt is made to open it.

[0046] D) A screen with a processor that delivers a random code, and a key is required to unlock it. This code is only delivered by the monitoring center.

[0047] DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0048] The present invention relates to an active protection system for vehicles and their cargo comprising monitoring equipment and progressive and autonomous braking of the vehicle in cases where suspicious maneuvers are detected during its movement and / or the transport of a load, such as attempted theft, departures from predefined routes, attempts to inhibit its satellite tracking system with specialized equipment for this purpose or others with equal functionality.

[0049] This invention comprises equipment and a method; where the equipment comprises, at least, a coded sensor 1 associated with a GPS module connected to a tracking platform in a monitoring center; a sensor 2 that detects the opening of a gate, valves, etc.; a microprocessor that receives the signal from the opening sensor and checks if the security door remains closed; hardware; if necessary, an electromechanical lock that supports 2,500 kg of force and all of this associated with a progressive autonomous braking device; power sources that are powered by the vehicle's energy and a method with which they form the protection system. Said system allows, as a basic functionality, to monitor and track the entire route and parameters of the vehicle and its main function is to prevent the theft of all types of vehicles as well as the cargo they transport.This system is autonomous, capable of detecting maneuvers and automatically braking the vehicle. This is the main difference from all the tracking and monitoring systems currently on the market, as they are passive systems, meaning they report after the unfortunate event has occurred.

[0050] This equipment is equipped with fixing means to locate it on the vehicle inside a vault, on the trailer or semi-trailer of cargo and, attached (welded) to the vehicle chassis, measures and records the trajectory of the vehicle with its load transported by land.

[0051] The coded sensor 1 contains at least: a GPS module; a module that allows the measurement, storage, processing, and transmission of information on the vehicle's position, acceleration, orientation, and speed. This coded sensor 1 detects and recognizes signal jammers that may be present along the vehicle's trajectory; if the GPS signal is blocked or the GPS device is removed from the vehicle, the braking module will be activated, and the vehicle will brake progressively and autonomously. In heavy vehicles, this distance is approximately 500 m.

[0052] The coded sensor 1 detects if GPS information is being inhibited. If so, the system recognizes this and decides to lock and brake the vehicle. The GPS is connected to a 24 / 7 tracking platform.

[0053] For cargo vehicles, this coded sensor 1 is associated with an electromechanical lock that withstands 2,500 kg of force, securing the tailgate once it leaves the authorized area. It works autonomously.

[0054] The microprocessor comprises hardware configured to detect the opening of gates in authorized locations, improperly closed doors, and / or attempts to open gates in unauthorized locations using a sensor 2. If, while transporting a load, sensor 2 detects the opening of doors in an unauthorized location, or the driver improperly closes a gate, or if someone attempts to break a lock on the container transporting the load, the progressive braking module will be activated, and the vehicle will gradually stop. If this is breached (opened), the system is activated, and the vehicle is braked. The system can only be reactivated by entering a dynamic code. If applicable, a vehicle's container will have a lock connected to sensor 2, which is connected to the microprocessor, which will send a signal to the braking device, causing the vehicle to gradually stop.For heavy vehicles, the air brake circuit will be activated, and for light vehicles, the hydraulic brake circuit will be activated.

[0055] The equipment attached to the vehicle will transmit a remote signal that will reach a monitoring center, which will record all vehicle movements. If the brakes are activated, the center will communicate with the driver and provide a dynamic code to release the brakes and continue the vehicle's journey.

[0056] The monitoring center will be located at the user's discretion. All movements of the monitored vehicle will be recorded, alarm systems will be set up if necessary, and the blocking and unlocking of vehicle movements will be managed using the autonomous braking system.

[0057] This monitoring allows for an animated representation of the vehicle's dynamics throughout the entire journey, including, but not limited to: georeferenced position, georeferenced speed, three-dimensional orientation, and load monitoring.

[0058] All information, such as alarm occurrences or other relevant developments, will be recorded in the monitoring center and stored on a web server so it can be retrieved and / or viewed by authorized remote users.

[0059] In all cases of forced vehicle stopping, this braking will only be deactivated by a dynamic code determined by the system.

[0060] For vehicles transporting cargo, there is an alarm system to warn the driver if the hatch, valve, or whatever means of filling and / or emptying the container is improperly closed or not closed at all.

[0061] The novelty of the invention lies in the fact that this braking system allows the vehicle to come to a gradual stop in the event that it deviates from the route, stops in unauthorized locations, etc., or undergoes any change in movement or departure from the defined route not contemplated in its trajectory. Braking must be gradual, as this prevents any accidents that could be caused by sudden or untimely braking. The vehicle will only start moving once it is remotely unlocked.

[0062] The invention also comprises a method for obtaining, recording, processing, displaying and transmitting information obtained by the sensor equipment 1. This system comprises a GPS module, allowing the measurement, storage, processing and transmission of information on the position, acceleration, orientation and speed of the vehicle.The innovative approach is that the method for collecting, recording, processing, displaying, and transmitting information allows for the geographic location and determination of vehicle locations for a specific route. It also detects suspicious maneuvers, such as a vehicle straying from a predetermined route; in the case of cargo vehicles, attempts to open the cargo or force the container to open or close; in the case of heavy vehicles such as cranes and trucks, movement on unauthorized routes or at unauthorized times; in all cases, the vehicle is progressively braked, sending a signal to the monitoring center, which will verify the condition of the vehicle, the transport, and its route. The brakes can only be released from the monitoring center using a dynamic code. The most important application is to be able to stop vehicles, containers, ramps, etc., even when they are disconnected from their motor unit.In this way, any type of theft is prevented in advance.

[0063] Currently, truck and cargo theft is a very lucrative crime, and the systems currently in operation only provide warning, but in no way prevent it. This technology takes into account all current factors, improving its application by stopping and then braking both the truck and the ramp with the load, preventing thieves from stealing the vehicle and / or its cargo. This interrupts the theft activity and keeps the cargo transport unit "visible." Consequently, the incident can be reported, and cargo theft in areas without coverage is prevented.

[0064] The scope of this technology is quite broad, as its use applies to all types of vehicles, including cars and trucks. It is suitable for both hazardous and non-hazardous cargo vehicles, as well as for passenger transportation on public or private roads. Furthermore, the invention's features can be applied to other types of land transportation.

[0065] APPLICATION EXAMPLES

[0066] Example No. 1: DESCRIPTION OF EQUIPMENT AND SYSTEM ASSEMBLY

[0067] The system is assembled with a coded sensor 1 associated with a GPS, a microprocessor with hardware that detects the opening of locks, a sensor 2 that detects the opening of gates, valves, etc., and a progressive braking device. In the case of a cargo transport vehicle, a device with an opening sensor 2 is placed in the location of the gates or valves, or as appropriate, which will detect if a gate is opened in an unauthorized location or if a cargo lock is violated. First, the type of vehicle is evaluated and, if applicable, the type of cargo and the container that will be used for monitoring. Once this evaluation is completed, equipment 1 is installed in a secure location on the trailer or semi-trailer chassis. Data from the semi-trailer 3 is entered into sensor equipment 1, such as, but not limited to: license plate, format, dimensions, tare weight, etc.This information is sent to the monitoring center for storage, and the vehicle's trajectory is georeferenced. Once the data entry is complete, the Progressive Autonomous Braking Tracking System is immediately approved.

[0068] The software that operates the system at the monitoring center can receive and store the summarized information in real time from the sensor equipment 1 and process and transmit it to the website, which in turn displays it appropriately so that authorized remote users can make relevant decisions.

[0069] Example No. 2: TRAJECTORY MONITORING TEST

[0070] A fuel transport vehicle monitoring test is being conducted, first defining the route the vehicle will travel with the cargo. This is done using commercial server platforms responsible for satellite and / or GPS location.

[0071] The truck's door locking system, sensor equipment, and microprocessor are installed on the vehicle's chassis. The locking system provides increased security for the doors that secure the fuel outlet valves, preventing unauthorized draining during transit.

[0072] Furthermore, the satellite system allows for real-time monitoring of fuel drain closure violations, facilitating the monitoring and control of transported products. The system is fully automated, minimizing human intervention.

[0073] The vehicle's route is established from the town of Pureo to the city of Puerto Montt, Los Lagos Region, Chile. The locking system, in this case for the fuel truck's valves, is installed right next to the valves. This system includes a lock, microprocessor, and progressive braking activation system.

[0074] Finally, this is monitored from the control center, where the screen shows that even though the GPS is out of range, both the door and the lock are locked and the truck is still operational.

[0075] If the lock is compromised, the GPS is disabled, the vehicle strays from the authorized path, or any unauthorized maneuver is performed, the locking system will be activated, the progressive braking system will be activated, and the vehicle will stop autonomously.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. An active vehicle protection system and cargo theft prevention system during land transport, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises autonomous progressive monitoring and braking equipment for a vehicle in the event of detecting an attempted theft, departures from predefined routes, opening of gates, valves, etc., and / or an attempt to inhibit its satellite tracking system. An active vehicle protection system, according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED in that the autonomous progressive monitoring and braking equipment comprises: a) a coded sensor that detects and recognizes signal inhibitors present in the path of a vehicle; b) a GPS module that allows measuring, storing, processing and transmitting information on the position, acceleration, orientation and speed of the vehicle; c) a microprocessor associated with hardware and a gate opening sensor; d) a gate, valve, etc. opening sensor.; e) an electromechanical lock; f) a progressive autonomous braking device; g) power sources; h) a remote tracking platform and / or central monitoring system.

3. An active vehicle protection system, according to claims 1 and 2, CHARACTERIZED in that the coded sensor, in the event of detecting blocking of the GPS signal or removal of the GPS device from the vehicle, activates the autonomous and progressive braking module.

4. An active vehicle protection system, according to claim 1 and 2, CHARACTERIZED in that the microprocessor comprises hardware configured to detect openings of gates and / or valves in authorized locations, improperly closed gates and / or attempts to open gates in unauthorized locations by means of a gate opening sensor.

5. An active vehicle protection system, according to claim 1 and 2, CHARACTERIZED in that the microprocessor and sensor for opening gates and / or valves detect the opening of gates and / or valves in an unauthorized location. or improper closing of a gate or breach of a lock on the container carrying the load, activates the autonomous and progressive braking module.

6. An active vehicle protection system, according to claim 1 and 2, CHARACTERIZED in that the electromechanical lock supports at least 2,500 kg of force.

7. An active vehicle protection system, according to claim 1 and 2, CHARACTERIZED in that the progressive autonomous braking device is associated with a coded sensor, a microprocessor and a door opening sensor.

8. An active vehicle protection system, according to claims 1 and 2, CHARACTERIZED in that the progressive braking distance in heavy vehicles is 500m.

9. An active vehicle protection system, according to claim 1 and 2, CHARACTERIZED in that the power source is fed by the vehicle's energy.

10. An active vehicle protection system, according to claims 1 and 2, CHARACTERIZED in that the monitoring in the monitoring center is continuous day and night. 1 1. An active vehicle protection system, according to claim 1 and 2, CHARACTERIZED in that the activation of the autonomous progressive braking of the vehicle is only deactivated with a dynamic key provided by the monitoring center.

12. A method for using an active vehicle protection and cargo theft prevention system during land transport, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises the following stages: a) A vehicle trajectory to be monitored is defined. b) The type of vehicle and load, if applicable, are assessed. c) The gate and / or valve locking system is installed. d) Autonomous progressive braking and monitoring equipment is installed in a location on the trailer or semi-trailer chassis. e) Vehicle data such as, but not limited to: license plate, format, dimensions, tare weight, etc., are entered into the monitoring equipment in the coding sensor. f) The vehicle data is stored and the vehicle's trajectory is established by georeferencing.

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