Removable Vehicle Impact Sensor for Automatic Emergency Communication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing emergency cellular phone communication systems for vehicles are limited by exclusive contracts with specific manufacturers, require separate subscription services, and often lack coverage, making it difficult for drivers to access emergency services automatically and efficiently, especially in situations like airbag deployment.
Innovation Solution
A device removably coupled to a vehicle, equipped with sensors to detect impacts and a wireless communication system that automatically initiates preprogrammed emergency functions on a cellular phone, such as calling emergency services and recording events, without the need for a dedicated subscription service.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a dedicated automotive cellular subscription service is used, then automatic emergency communication is available, but the service requires exclusive contracts with specific manufacturers and separate subscription fees
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the cellular communication device serve multiple functions: it acts as both a personal cellular phone and an automotive emergency communication system. The device can function as a hands-free calling device, emergency call initiator, and general cellular communication tool, eliminating the need for manufacturer-exclusive services by using a universal device that works across different vehicle makes and models.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the personal cellular phone functionality with the automotive emergency communication system into a single integrated device. By merging these functions, the system eliminates the need for separate subscription services and manufacturer-exclusive arrangements, allowing the same device to serve both personal communication and emergency response purposes.
2Reliability
If an embedded cellular communication device is installed in the vehicle, then emergency communication is available, but the device requires vehicle battery connection and is limited to locations with cellular coverage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the cellular communication device to serve itself by using the vehicle's existing electrical system components. The device utilizes the vehicle battery through the accessory circuit breaker system that is already part of the vehicle's electrical architecture, eliminating the need for separate power sources or complex battery management systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces the accessory circuit breaker as an intermediary component between the vehicle battery and the cellular communication device. This intermediary provides automatic power management, over-current protection, and circuit isolation, allowing the device to draw power from the vehicle battery without direct connection concerns or additional power management complexity.
3Reliability
If automotive cellular subscription services are used, then emergency services can be contacted, but access is limited to locations with subscription service cellular coverage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal emergency communication system that works with any cellular service provider and any vehicle make and model. By using a personal cellular phone with hands-free capability rather than a manufacturer-exclusive embedded system, the solution provides geographic coverage wherever cellular service is available, without being restricted to specific subscription service areas.
4Reliability
If a separate automotive cellular subscription service is enrolled, then emergency communication is available, but it requires an additional recurring fee beyond personal cellular phone contract
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges personal cellular phone service with automotive emergency communication needs into a single service arrangement. By using the existing personal cellular phone contract for both personal calls and emergency vehicle communication, the system eliminates the need for separate subscription fees while maintaining reliable emergency communication capability.
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
Enables automatic and efficient initiation of emergency functions on a cellular phone following an impact, providing access to emergency services without the constraints of exclusive contracts or dedicated subscriptions, ensuring timely assistance in accident situations.
Implementation Method 1
at least one sensor configured to detect an impact on the vehicle
Implementation Method 2
a wireless communication device configured to transmit an impact indication signal
Data Source
AI summary
A device configured to be removably coupled to a vehicle is described. The device includes at least one sensor configured to detect an impact on the vehicle and a wireless communication device configured to transmit an impact indication signal upon said at least one sensor detecting an impact on the vehicle. Additionally, a method for automatically initiating a cellular phone emergency function in response to an impact on a vehicle is provided. Additionally, an emergency notification system for a vehicle is provided.