Vehicle Pedestrian Warning Signalling Using Front Image Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing signalling systems for vehicles do not effectively warn incoming vehicles of pedestrians crossing the road, especially in conditions of high traffic, darkness, or bad weather, and do not provide clear information on the state of vehicles to pedestrians, leading to increased accident risks.
Innovation Solution
A signalling system installed on vehicles, comprising an imaging device, processing and control logic unit, and visible signalling elements, which detects the presence of pedestrians and activates warning signals for following vehicles, and provides information on the vehicle's state through light and acoustic signals, using machine learning algorithms and standalone installation without altering the vehicle's structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional signalling systems are used, then the vehicle structure remains simple, but the ability to warn incoming vehicles of pedestrians is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent embeds multiple signalling elements within the vehicle's existing structure. The first signalling element is positioned in the front space of the vehicle, while the second signalling element is positioned at the rear, creating a nested arrangement that maximizes warning coverage without adding excessive external complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new spatial dimension for signalling by positioning the first signalling element in the front space of the vehicle (visible to pedestrians and drivers ahead) rather than only using traditional rear-facing signals. This multi-dimensional signalling approach enables incoming vehicles to detect pedestrians from multiple angles
2Illumination intensity
If signalling elements are positioned only at the rear of the vehicle, then installation is simple, but visibility to incoming vehicles is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the signalling function into two separate elements: a first signalling element positioned in the front space and a second signalling element positioned at the rear. This segmentation allows each element to serve specific visibility needs - the front element warns incoming vehicles of pedestrians, while the rear element maintains traditional warning functions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different signalling qualities to different locations. The first signalling element in the front space provides illumination and visual signals visible to approaching traffic, while the second element at the rear provides complementary warning signals. Each location receives the specific signalling quality needed for its function
3Reliability
If the vehicle stops to allow pedestrians to cross, then pedestrian safety improves, but following vehicles may not be warned and could cause accidents
Solution Approach 1:
The patent activates the first signalling element in advance when the vehicle stops to allow pedestrians to cross. This preliminary action ensures that incoming vehicles receive warning signals before reaching the crossing area, giving them time to react and avoid collisions
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides feedback to incoming vehicles about the vehicle's stopping status and pedestrian presence. The first signalling element communicates the stopped state and pedestrian crossing information to following vehicles, creating a feedback loop that improves overall road safety
4Ease of operation
If drivers rely on eye contact or manual signals to indicate stopping intention, then communication is simple, but miscommunication and accidents can occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical signalling (eye contact, hand gestures) with automated optical signalling elements. The first and second signalling elements automatically indicate the vehicle's stopping intention and pedestrian presence, eliminating human error in signal transmission while maintaining ease of operation through automated control
Data Source
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AI summary
A signalling system installable on a vehicle (V) comprising at least one imaging device (3) to be positioned so as to acquire one or more images of at least one space in front of the vehicle (V), at least one processing and control logic unit (4) operatively connected to the imaging device (3) and at least one first signalling element (5) operatively connected to the logic unit (4) and to be positioned such that it is visible behind the vehicle (V). In addition, the processing and control logic unit (4) is capable of commanding the activation of the first signalling element (5) when the imaging device (3) acquires one or more images in which at least one person is present and when the presence of a front vehicle, in which said signalling system is installed and its at least one first signalling element (5) is switched on, is detected in said one or more images acquired by said at least one imaging device (3).