Glacalert ice alert system

Abstract

This system is an intelligent road sign capable of detecting black ice and warning drivers by means of solar-powered flashing LED lights. The system incorporates temperature and humidity sensors for identifying icy conditions, high-visibility adaptive LEDs for displaying warnings, and optional V2X (Vehicle-to-Everything) connectivity for real-time alerts. Solar panels ensure complete energy autonomy, with rechargeable batteries for ensuring continuous operation, even in adverse weather conditions.

Description

[0001] Description :

[0002] Title: GlacAlert System

[0003] Technological field:

[0004] Technical problem: Road safety in winter is compromised by black ice, often invisible to drivers and responsible for numerous accidents. Traditional road signs cannot provide real-time updates on road conditions, leaving drivers without warning of immediate hazards.

[0005] Technical Solution: The smart traffic sign incorporates sensors to detect icy conditions and automatically activates warning signals to alert drivers. Powered by solar energy and completely autonomous, the sign can also transmit data to connected vehicles and local authorities, creating a comprehensive road safety network to inform and protect road users in high-risk areas.

[0006] This invention could significantly reduce road accidents in winter by providing immediate and accurate warnings about icy conditions. It strengthens road safety infrastructure, particularly in high-risk areas such as bridges, curves, and elevated roads. The system could also reduce traffic congestion caused by accidents and improve driver confidence during the winter months.

[0007] Previous technique:

[0008] Patent WO / 2014 / 181014 relates to an optical sensor for detecting the presence of black ice on surfaces, characterized in that it comprises a waveguide with an optical coating whose refractive index satisfies the relation n ea u < nmatter < n ve rgias at a wavelength AT for which n ea u < n V ergi as and a core contained within the coating and suitable for the propagation of an optical signal of T, the waveguide comprising a detection portion placed on a surface with one face of the coating exposed; means for injecting an optical signal of AT into the waveguide; and means for detecting the optical signal transmitted by the waveguide downstream of the detection portion. It detects the formation of black ice, differentiating the presence of water; it is also resistant to erosion and can be mounted without protruding from the surface.

[0009] Unlike existing optical sensors that focus solely on detecting ice at the microscopic scale, this invention combines several technologies (thermal and ultrasonic sensors, and V2X connectivity) for more precise detection and real-time communication. Furthermore, the integration of solar panels and a self-contained system ensures operation without prolonged maintenance, even in remote areas or those with limited access to electricity.

[0010] Operating mode:

[0011] This invention concerns a smart road sign designed to improve road safety in winter. It automatically detects the formation of black ice on the road and warns drivers with high-visibility, solar-powered lights. This autonomous, connected solution aims to reduce accidents caused by black ice, particularly in high-risk areas such as bridges and mountain roads.

[0012] 1. Ice detection sensors: o Type and location: Temperature and humidity sensors are integrated beneath the surface of the plate to directly measure ground-level conditions. o Additional sensors: An infrared sensor detects temperature variations on the surface, while an ultrasonic sensor measures roughness to confirm the presence of ice.

[0013] 2. Light signaling system: o LED technology: Use of high energy efficiency LEDs (e.g., SMD or COB LEDs) with a configurable flashing mode depending on the severity of the conditions (e.g., variable frequency depending on the urgency). o Dynamic messages: Possibility of integrating a digital display screen to show specific messages such as "Black ice detected" or "Slow down".

[0014] 3. Power Supply and Energy Storage: A device according to claim 1, designed for installation on infrastructure sensitive to icy conditions, including bridges, dangerous curves, and mountain roads. A device according to claim 1, wherein the processing unit communicates with a traffic management center, enabling proactive decision-making regarding road safety. The sign in question is equipped with a watertight hatch that houses all the electronic components, as well as the battery power supply and rectifier. The hatch is equipped with a security system with a key lock to prevent vandalism or sabotage of the equipment.

[0015] o Solar panel: Monocrystalline photovoltaic technology for optimized energy conversion. o Storage: Lithium-ion battery or supercapacitors ensuring continuous operation for several days in case of low sunlight.

[0016] 4. Connectivity (V2X): o Communication Protocol: Use of V2X standards, such as DSRC (Dedicated Short Range Communication) or C-V2X (Cellular V2X), to transmit data to vehicles and traffic management centers. o Shared Data: Information includes the exact location, the risk level (based on sensor signal strength), and the expected duration of hazardous conditions.

[0017] Functioning :

[0018] Energy capture and storage: The solar panel captures solar energy, which is immediately used to power the LEDs and sensors. Excess energy is stored in a battery, allowing for extended autonomy in case of low sunlight or extreme weather conditions.

[0019] Detection and activation: When a risk of black ice is detected, the sensors transmit a signal to a control unit. This unit instantly activates the flashing LEDs to alert drivers. If a V2X communication system is integrated, an alert is also sent to connected vehicles.

[0020] Component numbering:

[0021] Legend below:

[0022] (1) Solar panel

[0023] (2) Temperature and humidity sensors

[0024] (3) Flashing LEDs

[0025] (4) V2X module for emergency alerts (such as ambulances)

[0026] (5) Rechargeable battery

Claims

Demands:

1. Autonomous ice detection and signaling device, comprising: o at least one ice condition detection sensor, selected from temperature, humidity, infrared or ultrasonic sensors, o a data processing unit configured to analyze the information collected by the sensors and determine the presence of ice, o a visual signaling system including high visibility LEDs and / or a dynamic display, activated in the event of detection of a risk of ice, o an autonomous power source consisting of a solar panel and a rechargeable battery, ensuring continuous operation, o a communication module enabling the transmission of real-time alerts to connected vehicles and road infrastructure.

2. Intelligent system for preventing road risks related to black ice, characterized in that it implements a device according to claim 1 and integrates: o a wireless communication protocol, allowing the transmission of information on location, severity of risk and forecasts of evolution of local weather conditions, o a prioritization of alerts to inform emergency vehicles and infrastructure managers first, o a self-diagnostic capability allowing periodic verification of the proper functioning of the sensors and the signaling system.

3. Device according to claim 1, wherein the sensors are integrated under the surface of the panel for direct detection of soil conditions.

4. Device according to claim 1, wherein the processing unit dynamically adjusts the frequency and intensity of the light signals according to the severity of the detected black ice.

5. Device according to claim 1, wherein the signaling system comprises a programmable dynamic display showing text messages such as "Black Ice Detected", "Slow Down" or "Slippery Road".

6. Device according to claim 1, wherein the storage battery consists of a supercapacitor, ensuring fast charging and extended autonomy.

7. System according to claim 2, wherein the transmitted data includes information on the intensity of the risk, based on algorithms for analyzing sensors and meteorological data.

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