Vehicle Warning System Using UWB Beacons for VRU Collision Alerts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current Pedestrian Detection systems do not effectively alert Vulnerable Road Users (VRUs) of predicted collisions, especially when another vehicle blocks the line of sight between the VRU and the approaching vehicle.
Innovation Solution
A warning system that includes Ultra Wideband beacons and tags, along with input devices and a computer processor, to track the location of VRUs and predict collisions, generating notification actuation signals to alert VRUs through their notification devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a Pedestrian Detection system with Automated Emergency Braking is used to alert drivers of imminent collisions, then the driver can be warned in time, but the VRU cannot be alerted when another vehicle blocks the line of sight
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a third vehicle as an intermediary carrier of warning information. When the host vehicle's line of sight to the VRU is blocked, the system transmits collision risk data to a third vehicle that has line of sight to the VRU. This third vehicle then acts as a mediator to alert the VRU, solving the problem of information loss when direct communication is blocked.
Solution Approach 2:
The system expands the warning communication from a single-dimension direct host-vehicle-to-VRU path to a multi-dimensional network involving multiple vehicles. By utilizing spatial relationships and line-of-sight availability across different vehicle positions, the system finds alternative communication paths when the direct path is blocked.
2Ease of operation
If the host vehicle attempts to maintain line of sight to the VRU, then direct warning is possible, but the warning cannot reach the VRU when blocked by another vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a third vehicle as a mediator to relay warning information when the direct host-vehicle-to-VRU path is blocked. The third vehicle receives warning data from the host vehicle and transmits it to the VRU, ensuring reliable warning delivery despite line-of-sight obstructions.
Solution Approach 2:
The warning system is designed to work through multiple potential carriers (any vehicle in the vicinity can serve as a warning carrier). This multi-functionality ensures that the warning can be delivered through whichever vehicle has the best line of sight to the VRU, increasing reliability without complicating the core warning mechanism.
3Loss of time
If the system only warns the driver, then the driver receives timely alert, but the VRU remains unaware of the approaching vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by calculating collision risk and identifying suitable warning carriers in advance, before the actual collision threat materializes. This allows the warning information to be propagated through the vehicle network proactively, ensuring both driver and VRU receive timely alerts.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors the positions of the host vehicle, VRU, and surrounding vehicles to determine line-of-sight conditions and select appropriate warning carriers. This feedback mechanism ensures the warning information reaches the VRU through the most effective path available.
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
The system effectively alerts VRUs of predicted collisions by overcoming the line-of-sight obstruction, enabling them to take necessary precautions and reducing the risk of accidents.
Implementation Method 1
An Ultra Wideband beacon (UWB beacon) capable of being attached to the first vehicle. The UWB beacon communicates with an Ultra Wideband tag (UWB tag) of a VRU notification device that is carried by the VRU.
Data Source
AI summary
A warning system is provided for alerting a VRU of a predicted collision. The system includes one or more input devices for transmitting first and second input signals for associated first and second vehicles. The system further includes a UWB beacon communicating with a UWB tag of a VRU notification device carried by the VRU. A location of the UWB tag is trackable via a third input signal. The system further includes a computer having one or more processors and a non-transitory computer readable medium. The processor is programmed to determine the location of the VRU and further determine the predicted collision between the second vehicle and the VRU. The processor is further programmed to generate a notification actuation signal associated with the VRU at a tracked location. The VRU notification device notifies the VRU that the second vehicle is headed toward the predicted collision site in the crosswalk.