Smartphone Collision Detection and Emergency Assistance System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current collision assistance services for vehicle operators are limited to subscription-based models that do not cater to all vehicle occupants and lack comprehensive support for various needs post-collision, such as towing and medical services.
Innovation Solution
A method and system utilizing a smartphone with accelerometers and satellite location capabilities to detect collisions, prompting users for assistance, automatically contacting emergency services if needed, and offering a menu of additional services based on location, including towing, insurance, and legal assistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If subscription-based collision assistance services are implemented, then emergency response capability is improved, but accessibility and comprehensiveness of service coverage deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal assistance system that can serve multiple purposes beyond emergency response. The mobile device detects collisions and automatically provides emergency assistance calling, towing service coordination, medical service connection, and insurance notification. This multi-functional approach replaces the need for multiple specialized subscription services with a single comprehensive solution that adapts to various post-collision needs.
2Reliability
If vehicle-specific communication equipment is installed, then emergency assistance reliability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes a universal mobile device that occupants already possess and carry, eliminating the need for vehicle-specific communication equipment. The mobile device's existing sensors (accelerometer, gyroscope, GPS) and communication capabilities are leveraged for collision detection and emergency assistance, making the system accessible to all occupants regardless of vehicle type or existing equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs the mobile device's built-in sensors and processing capabilities to autonomously detect collisions and initiate assistance protocols. The device self-determines collision severity, automatically contacts emergency services, and coordinates follow-up services without requiring external vehicle systems or additional specialized equipment.
3Adaptability or versatility
If comprehensive service options are provided, then user needs coverage is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the comprehensive assistance system into distinct, independently manageable service modules: emergency response coordination, towing service arrangement, medical service connection, and insurance notification. Each module can be activated based on detected collision severity and user needs, allowing comprehensive coverage while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular architecture.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Provides comprehensive assistance to vehicle occupants by detecting collisions and offering relevant services based on location, ensuring timely and appropriate support beyond emergency services.
Implementation Method 1
monitoring an acceleration of a vehicle in which the phone device is located as indicated by an output of at least one accelerometer
Implementation Method 2
a satellite positioning system receiver in the phone device determines a location of the vehicle
Data Source
AI summary
A phone device monitors an accelerometer while traveling in a vehicle to detect unusually large excursions or sudden changes in acceleration magnitude. When such an excursion is detected, the phone device then compares the excursion with the output of other components in the vehicle that can confirm or dispel a finding that the vehicle has experienced a collision. Once a likely collision has been detected, the phone device goes into an automated assistance mode where the use can be voice prompted as to their condition. If no response is received, the phone device can automatically call emergency services for assistance, providing the present location of the phone device. In less severe incidents, the phone device can automatically offer immediate access to other services, include a towing service, an attorney, an automobile service, among others. The service providers are based on a geo-fenced region in which the phone device is located.