[go: up one dir, main page]

WO2013155661A1 - A monitoring system in a vehicle and a method performed therein - Google Patents

A monitoring system in a vehicle and a method performed therein Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2013155661A1
WO2013155661A1 PCT/CN2012/074108 CN2012074108W WO2013155661A1 WO 2013155661 A1 WO2013155661 A1 WO 2013155661A1 CN 2012074108 W CN2012074108 W CN 2012074108W WO 2013155661 A1 WO2013155661 A1 WO 2013155661A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
vehicle
accordance
module
monitoring system
data processor
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/CN2012/074108
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Jiachao WU
Original Assignee
Harman International (Shanghai) Management Co., Ltd.
Harman International Industries, Incorporated
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Harman International (Shanghai) Management Co., Ltd., Harman International Industries, Incorporated filed Critical Harman International (Shanghai) Management Co., Ltd.
Priority to PCT/CN2012/074108 priority Critical patent/WO2013155661A1/en
Publication of WO2013155661A1 publication Critical patent/WO2013155661A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60H—ARRANGEMENTS OF HEATING, COOLING, VENTILATING OR OTHER AIR-TREATING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR PASSENGER OR GOODS SPACES OF VEHICLES
    • B60H1/00—Heating, cooling or ventilating [HVAC] devices
    • B60H1/00642—Control systems or circuits; Control members or indication devices for heating, cooling or ventilating devices
    • B60H1/00735—Control systems or circuits characterised by their input, i.e. by the detection, measurement or calculation of particular conditions, e.g. signal treatment, dynamic models
    • B60H1/00742—Control systems or circuits characterised by their input, i.e. by the detection, measurement or calculation of particular conditions, e.g. signal treatment, dynamic models by detection of the vehicle occupants' presence; by detection of conditions relating to the body of occupants, e.g. using radiant heat detectors
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G08—SIGNALLING
    • G08B—SIGNALLING OR CALLING SYSTEMS; ORDER TELEGRAPHS; ALARM SYSTEMS
    • G08B21/00—Alarms responsive to a single specified undesired or abnormal condition and not otherwise provided for
    • G08B21/18—Status alarms
    • G08B21/22—Status alarms responsive to presence or absence of persons

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a monitoring system in a vehicle.
  • the present invention relates to a monitoring system used in a vehicle for monitoring the temperature inside the vehicle so as to prevent the temperature from becoming too high or too low, thereby reducing the risk to any human or living object (e.g., pets) inside the vehicle caused by the extreme temperature.
  • the monitoring system can also be used to monitor other aspects such as the duration for which the vehicle has been locked, the air quality or humidity inside the vehicle.
  • the present invention further relates to a monitoring method performed therein.
  • Vehicles such as cars play an important role in the daily life of people, and have become a part of life of many people. People drive cars to work, home, for business, or for leisure. The most basic function of a vehicle is transportation Children, the elderly, and sometimes pets are very often in vehicles. A very common situation is that children and the elderly may be left in the car for a period of time, while the driver, who may be their family or friend, may leave the car to attend to his own business for some time. It has been reported that some children died of heat stroke because their parents left them in the car for prolonged time in hot weather. The temperature inside a car can rise rapidly to an extreme extent during the summer. Even on a relatively mild day, it can become very hot inside a car after a long period of time. Vulnerable people, especially kids and the elderly, and pets are at great risk of heat stroke, which may lead to heat illness, even death. Also, cold temperatures inside the car may pose a risk to the health and even the life of children or the elderly left in the vehicle.
  • the present invention aims to provide such a monitoring system embodied in the claims attached to the disclosure, and a monitoring method therefor. Summary of the invention
  • a monitoring system in a vehicle comprises:
  • a sensing module for detecting existence of a living object inside the vehicle and at least a temperature value inside the vehicle
  • a data processor connected to the sensing module, the data processor receiving data from the sensing module and determining whether or not to activate an action module on the basis of analysis of the data received from the sensing module; and the action module connected to the data processor, the action module carrying out a predetermined action according to the determination of the data processor.
  • a monitoring method for used in a vehicle comprises steps of:
  • the data processor receiving the data from the sensing module and determining whether or not to activate an action module connected to the data processor on the basis of analysis of the data received from the sensing module;
  • the action module carrying out a predetermined action upon receipt of the determination to activate the action module from the data processor.
  • a monitoring method for used in a vehicle comprises steps of:
  • Fig. 1 is a simplified block diagram illustrating the structure of the monitoring system in accordance with the present invention.
  • Fig. 2 is a flow chart illustrating the process performed in the monitoring system in accordance with the present invention.
  • Fig. 1 of the drawings shows a simplified block diagram of the monitoring system for a vehicle in accordance with the present invention.
  • the monitoring system generally indicated by 10, comprises a sensing module 12, an optional controller module 14, a data processor 16 and an action module 18.
  • the sensing module 12 may comprise two sensors, one of which is for detecting the existence of a living object, such as a human or animal, inside the vehicle, while the other is for detecting a temperature value within the compartment of the vehicle.
  • the two sensors may be sensors separated from each other, it is also possible to form the two sensors as an integrated member. It is understood that the sensing module 12 may be provided with a switch for the user to turn on or off the sensor(s).
  • living object refers to a living human or animal.
  • the controller module 14 which is an optional element of the monitoring system 10, may be connected to the data processor 16, and used to control and configure the operation parameters for the operation of the monitoring system 10.
  • the controller module 14 may be a software application or any suitable hardware, which relates to the configuration of parameters such as a temperature threshold above or below which the system may activate the action module 18 or any other functions for the operation of the system.
  • the controller module 14 may configure a plurality of temperature thresholds, for each of which different actions may be performed. For example, the controller module may set two temperature thresholds, e.g., the first threshold of 27 ° C at which it is somewhat hot but still safe to the living object inside the vehicle, and the second threshold of 35 ° C which may put people inside the vehicle in danger.
  • the system may simply send information indicative of the temperature inside the vehicle to the user.
  • the system may perform some predetermined actions, such as notifying a police officer to take necessary steps to alleviate the extreme situation inside the vehicle.
  • the predetermined thresholds and the predetermined actions may be configured, either by a user of the vehicle or the vendor of the vehicle.
  • the controller module 14 may comprises instruction(s) for defining any stop events, e.g., a door of the vehicle being opened, the vehicle being powered on, or a stop command being received from the user, for the system to stop the monitoring process.
  • the controller module 14 may configure the type of warning/alarm described below to alert people of the status inside the vehicle or as an action to be carried out by the action module.
  • the controller module may further configure the manner in which the monitoring system operates, e.g., the temperature-measuring and action may be repeated as required even if the temperature threshold is reached. Nonetheless, the monitoring system 10 can be configured such that the controller module 14 can be operated at any time when appropriate command or instruction is received.
  • the configuration of the parameters in the controller module 14 may be defined by a user. Alternatively, the controller module may be connected to an interface of the vehicle for receiving the configuration of the parameters predetermined by the vendor or producer of the vehicle. Therefore, the data processor 16 connected to the controller module 14 can process and control the operation of the monitoring system 10 according to the configuration of the controller module 14. It should be noted that some configuration data of the monitoring system 10 may be directly stored in the data processor 16. Also,
  • the monitoring system 10 of the present invention may have an application module 20, which serves as a man-machine interface of the system for interaction between the user and the monitoring system 10.
  • the application may be a keyboard for a user to input the parameters of the operation of the monitoring system 10, e.g., the threshold of the temperature for the system to activate the action module 18.
  • the application module 20 may take any suitable form, such as keyboard, touch screen, voice recognition system etc. for a user to input any commands, parameters or other configuration data to the controller module 14.
  • the controller module 14 and the application module 20 are shown as two separated modules, it is understood that the two modules may be integrated as a single unit.
  • the data processor 16 may receive the command from the application module 20 input by a driver or user of the vehicle.
  • the data processor 16 also connects the sensing module 12 for receiving the data from the sensing module 12, e.g., whether there is a living object within the compartment of the vehicle or the detected temperature value within the vehicle.
  • the data processor 16 may receive data from other sensors of the vehicle indicating the operation or situation of the vehicle.
  • the system may receive information or data from a car door sensor indicating that the car door is locked.
  • the data processor 16 of the system may receive the data of car- locking, and then activates the temperature monitoring process of the system.
  • the data processor 16 determines whether or not to activate the action module 18.
  • the monitoring system 10 of the present invention may further comprise an alarm module 22, which may be a part of the action module 18 or a separate module in addition to the system.
  • the alarm module 22 may be activated upon the determination of the data processor 16 so as to produce sounds or flashing lights that alert people outside the vehicle, such as the parents, police or people passing by, of the situation inside the vehicle for them to take necessary steps to resolve the issue.
  • the alarm signal may also be transmitted to a receiver carried on the driver of the car, e.g., a mobile phone, a PDA, or any designated receiver via suitable wireless communication protocols such as infrared communication, blue-tooth communication, WiFi, etc.
  • a receiver carried on the driver of the car e.g., a mobile phone, a PDA, or any designated receiver via suitable wireless communication protocols such as infrared communication, blue-tooth communication, WiFi, etc.
  • Fig. 2 is a flow chart of the process of the monitoring system 10 in accordance of the present invention, showing the steps of the operation of the system.
  • the monitoring system 10 is started as a result of an event such as, and without limitation, the driver of the car taking the key or closing the car door.
  • the monitoring system 10 may be activated by the system receiving the car-locking command from relevant sensor(s) installed in the car.
  • the monitoring system 10 may be provided with a suitable switch for the user to turn on the system manually when the user leaves the car.
  • the sensor(s) of the monitoring system 10 is activated to detect the existence of any human or other living object within the vehicle.
  • the sensor may be a camera which may take picture or video of the interior cabin of the vehicle to be sent to the head unit (HU) of the vehicle.
  • HU head unit
  • other sensors rather than a camera, such as infrared sensors or heat sensitive sensors, are also feasible as long as they are capable of detecting the existence of the human or animal within the compartment of the vehicle.
  • the sensor(s) and the HU may be separated members, but they can also be integrated as a single unit. It would be appreciated that the number of the sensors may be decided as required.
  • the sensor(s) may be powered by the power system of the vehicle.
  • the power system of the car will not stop immediately so that the sensors (e.g. cameras) and HU still have power to work. Nonetheless, using an independent battery is an alternative to power the camera and HU.
  • the HU of the vehicle will detect whether there is any living object inside the vehicle on the basis of the analysis of the pictures or videos taken by the camera. If sensors other than cameras are used, the detection and analysis of the HU of the vehicle may be different. If the HU determines that there is no human or any other object of interest within the compartment of the car, it goes to step 7 (S7) and stops the whole system of the car, particularly the power system of the car and the independent battery for the cameras and HU, if any. If the HU determines that there is a living object inside the car, a temperature sensor of the sensing module 12 of the monitoring system 10 starts to measure the temperature inside the car at step 4 (S4).
  • step 3' before the temperature sensor of the system starts to measure the temperature inside the car, there may be a step 3' (S3') that the system sends out suitable warning signals, such as sounds, flashing lights or voice reminder.
  • This step may remind the driver that there still is someone in the car. It can also prompt the driver to take the necessary action for precaution. For example, the driver can decide whether or not to start the temperature measuring process, determine the high/ low temperature threshold, call the police for assistance, or turn on the air-conditioner when the temperature may be too high.
  • step 5 the system determines whether the detected temperature value inside the car has reached the temperature threshold. If the detected temperature value inside the car has not reached the temperature threshold, the temperature-measuring process continues till the process is interrupted by someone opening the car door, powering on the car, or stopping the monitoring system 10. On the other hand, if the detected temperature value inside the car has reached the temperature threshold, the data processor 16 of the monitoring system 10 determines to activate the action module 18 at step 6 (S6) to take suitable actions to reduce the risk of people or animal being hurt inside the car. Depending on the design of the system, the suitable actions may include, but are not limited to, opening the windows of the car or turning on the air conditioner.
  • the vehicle should have the interface connected to the monitoring system 10 for the control of the actions of opening the windows or turning on the air conditioner.
  • the actions may comprise producing warning signals such as sounds, flashing lights or voice reminder, sending information, message or signal to someone who may help reduce the risk of overheating or overly coldness to the people or animal in the car.
  • the information, message or signal may be sent to a remote receiver carried on the parents, driver, police or any other people it may be concerned via any suitable communication protocol.
  • step 7 S7
  • the whole monitoring system 10 is stopped after some aforesaid actions have been carried out.
  • the whole system is stopped after the opening of the car window or activation of the air conditioner as a result of the detection of temperature value inside the car reaching the predetermined threshold by the temperature sensor of the system.
  • the system may stop the measurement of the temperature, but continues to send out the warning signal until the situation within the vehicle is alleviated and/or the system manually turned off.
  • the system may continue to measure and monitor the temperature inside the vehicle even if the predetermined actions have been carried out.
  • the invention relates to a monitoring system 10 used in a vehicle.
  • the present invention relates to a monitoring system 10 used in a vehicle for monitoring the temperature inside the vehicle so as to prevent the temperature from becoming too high or too low, thereby reducing the risk to any human or animal inside the vehicle caused by the extreme temperature.
  • the present invention also relates to a temperature monitoring method performed therein.
  • the monitoring system 10 of the present invention may not only monitor the temperature inside the car, but also measure time so as to prevent children, the elderly, pets from being locked in the car for too long time. It is understood that the monitoring system 10 of the present invention may also monitor the air quality or humidity etc. inside the car. It is therefore intended that the foregoing detailed description be regarded as illustrative rather than limiting, and that it be understood that it is the following claims, including all equivalents, that are intended to particularly point out and distinctly claim the subject matter regarded as the invention.

Landscapes

  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Thermal Sciences (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Business, Economics & Management (AREA)
  • Emergency Management (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Alarm Systems (AREA)
  • Emergency Alarm Devices (AREA)

Abstract

A monitoring system in a vehicle and a method performed therein are provided. The monitoring system comprises a sensing module (12) for detecting existence of a living object inside the vehicle and at least a temperature value inside the vehicle; a data processor (16) connected to the sensing module (12), the data processor (16) receiving data from the sensing module (12) and determining whether or not to activate an action module (18) on the basis of analysis of the data received from the sensing module (12); and the action module (18) connected to the data processor (16), the action module (18) carrying out a predetermined action according to the determination of the data processor (16).

Description

A MONITORING SYSTEM IN A VEHICLE AND A METHOD PERFORMED
THEREIN Technical field
The present invention relates to a monitoring system in a vehicle. In particular, the present invention relates to a monitoring system used in a vehicle for monitoring the temperature inside the vehicle so as to prevent the temperature from becoming too high or too low, thereby reducing the risk to any human or living object (e.g., pets) inside the vehicle caused by the extreme temperature. The monitoring system can also be used to monitor other aspects such as the duration for which the vehicle has been locked, the air quality or humidity inside the vehicle. The present invention further relates to a monitoring method performed therein.
Background art
Vehicles such as cars play an important role in the daily life of people, and have become a part of life of many people. People drive cars to work, home, for business, or for leisure. The most basic function of a vehicle is transportation Children, the elderly, and sometimes pets are very often in vehicles. A very common situation is that children and the elderly may be left in the car for a period of time, while the driver, who may be their family or friend, may leave the car to attend to his own business for some time. It has been reported that some children died of heat stroke because their parents left them in the car for prolonged time in hot weather. The temperature inside a car can rise rapidly to an extreme extent during the summer. Even on a relatively mild day, it can become very hot inside a car after a long period of time. Vulnerable people, especially kids and the elderly, and pets are at great risk of heat stroke, which may lead to heat illness, even death. Also, cold temperatures inside the car may pose a risk to the health and even the life of children or the elderly left in the vehicle.
It is desirable to have a monitoring system for a vehicle for monitoring the temperature inside the vehicle so as to prevent the temperature from becoming too high or too low, thereby reducing the risk to any human or animal inside the vehicle caused by extreme temperature.
The present invention aims to provide such a monitoring system embodied in the claims attached to the disclosure, and a monitoring method therefor. Summary of the invention
According to a first aspect of the present invention, a monitoring system in a vehicle comprises:
a sensing module for detecting existence of a living object inside the vehicle and at least a temperature value inside the vehicle;
a data processor connected to the sensing module, the data processor receiving data from the sensing module and determining whether or not to activate an action module on the basis of analysis of the data received from the sensing module; and the action module connected to the data processor, the action module carrying out a predetermined action according to the determination of the data processor.
According to another aspect of the present invention, a monitoring method for used in a vehicle comprises steps of:
providing a sensing module to the vehicle;
detecting existence of a living object inside the vehicle and at least a temperature value inside the vehicle by the sensing module;
sending data associated with the detection of the sensing module to a data processor of the vehicle connected to the sensing module,
the data processor receiving the data from the sensing module and determining whether or not to activate an action module connected to the data processor on the basis of analysis of the data received from the sensing module;
the action module carrying out a predetermined action upon receipt of the determination to activate the action module from the data processor.
According to a further aspect of the present invention, a monitoring method for used in a vehicle comprises steps of:
starting a process of monitoring a temperature inside a vehicle as result of an event associated with a locking state of the vehicle or a command from a user of the vehicle;
determining whether there is a living object inside the vehicle;
stopping the process of monitoring upon the determination indicating that there is no living object inside the vehicle; and
upon detecting existence of the living object inside the vehicle by a sensor,
measuring the temperature inside the vehicle;
carrying out a predetermined action if a temperature threshold is measured. Brief description of the drawings
Additional features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following more particular description, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings, wherein:
Fig. 1 is a simplified block diagram illustrating the structure of the monitoring system in accordance with the present invention; and
Fig. 2 is a flow chart illustrating the process performed in the monitoring system in accordance with the present invention. Embodiments of the invention
Fig. 1 of the drawings shows a simplified block diagram of the monitoring system for a vehicle in accordance with the present invention. The monitoring system, generally indicated by 10, comprises a sensing module 12, an optional controller module 14, a data processor 16 and an action module 18. The sensing module 12 may comprise two sensors, one of which is for detecting the existence of a living object, such as a human or animal, inside the vehicle, while the other is for detecting a temperature value within the compartment of the vehicle. Although the two sensors may be sensors separated from each other, it is also possible to form the two sensors as an integrated member. It is understood that the sensing module 12 may be provided with a switch for the user to turn on or off the sensor(s). As used herein, "living object" refers to a living human or animal.
The controller module 14, which is an optional element of the monitoring system 10, may be connected to the data processor 16, and used to control and configure the operation parameters for the operation of the monitoring system 10. The controller module 14 may be a software application or any suitable hardware, which relates to the configuration of parameters such as a temperature threshold above or below which the system may activate the action module 18 or any other functions for the operation of the system. The controller module 14 may configure a plurality of temperature thresholds, for each of which different actions may be performed. For example, the controller module may set two temperature thresholds, e.g., the first threshold of 27 °C at which it is somewhat hot but still safe to the living object inside the vehicle, and the second threshold of 35 °C which may put people inside the vehicle in danger. When the first threshold is reached, the system may simply send information indicative of the temperature inside the vehicle to the user. However, when the second threshold is reached, the system may perform some predetermined actions, such as notifying a police officer to take necessary steps to alleviate the extreme situation inside the vehicle. It is understood that the predetermined thresholds and the predetermined actions may be configured, either by a user of the vehicle or the vendor of the vehicle. Preferably, the controller module 14 may comprises instruction(s) for defining any stop events, e.g., a door of the vehicle being opened, the vehicle being powered on, or a stop command being received from the user, for the system to stop the monitoring process. Also, the controller module 14 may configure the type of warning/alarm described below to alert people of the status inside the vehicle or as an action to be carried out by the action module. The controller module may further configure the manner in which the monitoring system operates, e.g., the temperature-measuring and action may be repeated as required even if the temperature threshold is reached. Nonetheless, the monitoring system 10 can be configured such that the controller module 14 can be operated at any time when appropriate command or instruction is received. The configuration of the parameters in the controller module 14 may be defined by a user. Alternatively, the controller module may be connected to an interface of the vehicle for receiving the configuration of the parameters predetermined by the vendor or producer of the vehicle. Therefore, the data processor 16 connected to the controller module 14 can process and control the operation of the monitoring system 10 according to the configuration of the controller module 14. It should be noted that some configuration data of the monitoring system 10 may be directly stored in the data processor 16. Also,
Preferably, the monitoring system 10 of the present invention may have an application module 20, which serves as a man-machine interface of the system for interaction between the user and the monitoring system 10. For example, the application may be a keyboard for a user to input the parameters of the operation of the monitoring system 10, e.g., the threshold of the temperature for the system to activate the action module 18. The application module 20 may take any suitable form, such as keyboard, touch screen, voice recognition system etc. for a user to input any commands, parameters or other configuration data to the controller module 14. Although the controller module 14 and the application module 20 are shown as two separated modules, it is understood that the two modules may be integrated as a single unit.
The data processor 16 may receive the command from the application module 20 input by a driver or user of the vehicle. The data processor 16 also connects the sensing module 12 for receiving the data from the sensing module 12, e.g., whether there is a living object within the compartment of the vehicle or the detected temperature value within the vehicle. In a preferred embodiment, the data processor 16 may receive data from other sensors of the vehicle indicating the operation or situation of the vehicle. For example, the system may receive information or data from a car door sensor indicating that the car door is locked. In particular, the data processor 16 of the system may receive the data of car- locking, and then activates the temperature monitoring process of the system. On the basis of the analysis of the input command and the received data by the data processor 16, the data processor 16 determines whether or not to activate the action module 18. Preferably, the monitoring system 10 of the present invention may further comprise an alarm module 22, which may be a part of the action module 18 or a separate module in addition to the system. The alarm module 22 may be activated upon the determination of the data processor 16 so as to produce sounds or flashing lights that alert people outside the vehicle, such as the parents, police or people passing by, of the situation inside the vehicle for them to take necessary steps to resolve the issue.
It is understood that the alarm signal may also be transmitted to a receiver carried on the driver of the car, e.g., a mobile phone, a PDA, or any designated receiver via suitable wireless communication protocols such as infrared communication, blue-tooth communication, WiFi, etc.
Fig. 2 is a flow chart of the process of the monitoring system 10 in accordance of the present invention, showing the steps of the operation of the system. At step 1 (SI), the monitoring system 10 is started as a result of an event such as, and without limitation, the driver of the car taking the key or closing the car door. Also, the monitoring system 10 may be activated by the system receiving the car-locking command from relevant sensor(s) installed in the car. Alternatively, the monitoring system 10 may be provided with a suitable switch for the user to turn on the system manually when the user leaves the car.
At step 2 (S2), the sensor(s) of the monitoring system 10 is activated to detect the existence of any human or other living object within the vehicle. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the sensor may be a camera which may take picture or video of the interior cabin of the vehicle to be sent to the head unit (HU) of the vehicle. However, it is understood that other sensors rather than a camera, such as infrared sensors or heat sensitive sensors, are also feasible as long as they are capable of detecting the existence of the human or animal within the compartment of the vehicle. The sensor(s) and the HU may be separated members, but they can also be integrated as a single unit. It would be appreciated that the number of the sensors may be decided as required. In addition, the sensor(s) may be powered by the power system of the vehicle. Preferably, when the user powers off the car, the power system of the car will not stop immediately so that the sensors (e.g. cameras) and HU still have power to work. Nonetheless, using an independent battery is an alternative to power the camera and HU. At step 3 (S3), the HU of the vehicle will detect whether there is any living object inside the vehicle on the basis of the analysis of the pictures or videos taken by the camera. If sensors other than cameras are used, the detection and analysis of the HU of the vehicle may be different. If the HU determines that there is no human or any other object of interest within the compartment of the car, it goes to step 7 (S7) and stops the whole system of the car, particularly the power system of the car and the independent battery for the cameras and HU, if any. If the HU determines that there is a living object inside the car, a temperature sensor of the sensing module 12 of the monitoring system 10 starts to measure the temperature inside the car at step 4 (S4).
In some embodiments, before the temperature sensor of the system starts to measure the temperature inside the car, there may be a step 3' (S3') that the system sends out suitable warning signals, such as sounds, flashing lights or voice reminder. This step may remind the driver that there still is someone in the car. It can also prompt the driver to take the necessary action for precaution. For example, the driver can decide whether or not to start the temperature measuring process, determine the high/ low temperature threshold, call the police for assistance, or turn on the air-conditioner when the temperature may be too high.
At step 5 (S5), the system determines whether the detected temperature value inside the car has reached the temperature threshold. If the detected temperature value inside the car has not reached the temperature threshold, the temperature-measuring process continues till the process is interrupted by someone opening the car door, powering on the car, or stopping the monitoring system 10. On the other hand, if the detected temperature value inside the car has reached the temperature threshold, the data processor 16 of the monitoring system 10 determines to activate the action module 18 at step 6 (S6) to take suitable actions to reduce the risk of people or animal being hurt inside the car. Depending on the design of the system, the suitable actions may include, but are not limited to, opening the windows of the car or turning on the air conditioner. For realization of such functions, the vehicle should have the interface connected to the monitoring system 10 for the control of the actions of opening the windows or turning on the air conditioner. Alternatively, the actions may comprise producing warning signals such as sounds, flashing lights or voice reminder, sending information, message or signal to someone who may help reduce the risk of overheating or overly coldness to the people or animal in the car. For example, the information, message or signal may be sent to a remote receiver carried on the parents, driver, police or any other people it may be concerned via any suitable communication protocol. At step 7 (S7), the whole monitoring system 10 is stopped after some aforesaid actions have been carried out. For example, the whole system is stopped after the opening of the car window or activation of the air conditioner as a result of the detection of temperature value inside the car reaching the predetermined threshold by the temperature sensor of the system. In other circumstances, e.g., where the system sends out warning signal to whom it may concern, the system may stop the measurement of the temperature, but continues to send out the warning signal until the situation within the vehicle is alleviated and/or the system manually turned off. However, if required, the system may continue to measure and monitor the temperature inside the vehicle even if the predetermined actions have been carried out.
In summary, the invention relates to a monitoring system 10 used in a vehicle. In particular, the present invention relates to a monitoring system 10 used in a vehicle for monitoring the temperature inside the vehicle so as to prevent the temperature from becoming too high or too low, thereby reducing the risk to any human or animal inside the vehicle caused by the extreme temperature. The present invention also relates to a temperature monitoring method performed therein.
From the foregoing, it will be appreciated that although specific embodiments of the invention have been described herein for purposes of illustration, various modifications may be made without deviating from the spirit or scope of the invention. For example, the monitoring system 10 of the present invention may not only monitor the temperature inside the car, but also measure time so as to prevent children, the elderly, pets from being locked in the car for too long time. It is understood that the monitoring system 10 of the present invention may also monitor the air quality or humidity etc. inside the car. It is therefore intended that the foregoing detailed description be regarded as illustrative rather than limiting, and that it be understood that it is the following claims, including all equivalents, that are intended to particularly point out and distinctly claim the subject matter regarded as the invention.

Claims

1. A monitoring system in a vehicle comprising:
a sensing module for detecting existence of a living object inside the vehicle and at least a temperature value inside the vehicle;
a data processor connected to the sensing module, the data processor receiving data from the sensing module and determining whether or not to activate an action module on the basis of analysis of the data received from the sensing module; and the action module connected to the data processor, the action module carrying out a predetermined action according to the determination of the data processor.
2. The monitoring system in accordance with claim 1, further comprises a controller module for controlling and configuring a parameter for operation of the monitoring system.
3. The monitoring system in accordance with claim 1, wherein the sensing module comprises a sensor for detecting the existence of the living object and a temperature sensor for detecting at least the temperature value inside the vehicle.
4. The monitoring system in accordance with claim 3, wherein the sensor for detecting the existence of the living object and the temperature sensor are separated sensors or are formed as an integrated member.
5. The monitoring system in accordance with claim 3, wherein the sensor for detecting the existence of the living object comprises a camera.
6. The monitoring system in accordance with claim 1, wherein the monitoring system is provided with a switch for a user to turn on or off the system.
7. The monitoring system in accordance with claim 1, further comprises an application module as an interface between a user of the monitoring system and the user enabling the user to input commands to the monitoring system.
8. The monitoring system in accordance with claim 2, wherein the parameter comprises a temperature threshold upon which the data processor determines whether or not to activate the action module.
9. The monitoring system in accordance with claim 8, wherein the parameter comprises a plurality of temperature thresholds, each corresponding to a predetermined action.
10. The monitoring system in accordance with claim 2, wherein the parameter comprises an instruction associated with a user's configuration of a timing of activation of the action module.
11. The monitoring system in accordance with claim 7, wherein the data processor further receives the command from the application module, the data processor determining whether or not to activate the action module on the basis of analysis of the data received from the sensing module and the command.
12. The monitoring system in accordance with claim 1, wherein the data processor further receives data from a sensor indicating operation or situation of the vehicle, the data processor determining whether or not to activate the action module on the basis of analysis of the data received from the sensing module and the data indicating operation or situation of the vehicle.
13. The monitoring system in accordance with claim 12, wherein the data indicating operation or situation of the vehicle relates to a locking state of the vehicle.
14. The monitoring system in accordance with claim 1, wherein the predetermined action comprise at least one of the actions of opening a window of the vehicle, turning on an air conditioner of the vehicle, producing a warning signal, and informing people outside the vehicle of status of the vehicle.
15. The monitoring system in accordance with claim 1, further comprises an alarm module connected to the action module to be activated upon the determination of the data processor so as to produce alarm signals that alert people outside the vehicle.
16. A monitoring method for used in a vehicle, comprising steps of:
providing a sensing module to the vehicle;
detecting existence of a living object inside the vehicle and at least a temperature value inside the vehicle by the sensing module;
sending data associated with the detection of the sensing module to a data processor of the vehicle connected to the sensing module,
the data processor receiving the data from the sensing module and determining whether or not to activate an action module connected to the data processor on the basis of analysis of the data received from the sensing module;
the action module carrying out a predetermined action upon receipt of the determination to activate the action module from the data processor.
17. The monitoring method in accordance with claim 16, further comprises providing a controller module connected to the data processor for controlling and configuring a parameter for performing the monitoring method.
18. The monitoring method in accordance with claim 17, further comprises providing an application module connected with the controller module as an interface enabling a user to input command associated with the monitoring method.
19. The monitoring method in accordance with claim 18, wherein the application module and the controller module are separated modules or are formed as a single unit.
20. The monitoring method in accordance with claim 16, further comprises providing an alarm module connected to the action module to be activated upon the determination of the data processor so as to produce alarm signals that alert people outside the vehicle.
21. The monitoring method in accordance with claim 20, wherein the alarm module and the action module are separated modules or are formed as a single unit.
22. The monitoring method in accordance with claim 16, further comprises providing the sensing module with a sensor for detecting the existence of the living object and a temperature sensor for detecting at least the temperature value inside the vehicle, the sensor for detecting the existence of the living object sending a detected information to a head unit of the vehicle.
23. The monitoring method in accordance with claim 22, wherein the sensor for detecting the existence of the living object and the head unit are separated members or are formed as a single unit.
24. The monitoring method in accordance with claim 16, wherein the sensing module further detects one of duration for which the vehicle has been locked, air quality and humidity inside the car, or any of combination of the duration, air quality and humidity.
25. A monitoring method for used in a vehicle, comprising steps of:
starting a process of monitoring a temperature inside a vehicle as result of an event associated with a locking state of the vehicle or a command from a user of the vehicle;
determining whether there is a living object inside the vehicle; stopping the process of monitoring upon the determination indicating that there is no living object inside the vehicle; and
upon detecting existence of the living object inside the vehicle by a sensor,
measuring the temperature inside the vehicle;
carrying out a predetermined action if a temperature threshold is measured.
26. The monitoring method in accordance with claim 25, wherein the event comprises at least one of a user taking off a key of the vehicle, a door of the vehicle being closed, an issue of information indicating that the vehicle is locked.
27. The monitoring method in accordance with claim 25, wherein the predetermined action comprises at least one of the actions of opening a window of the vehicle, turning on an air conditioner of the vehicle, producing a warning signal, and informing people outside the vehicle of status of the vehicle.
28. The monitoring method in accordance with claim 25, further comprises a step of issuing a warning signal as a indication that there is the living object inside the vehicle before activating the temperature sensor to measure the temperature inside the vehicle.
29. The monitoring method in accordance with claim 25, further comprises a step of stopping the process of monitoring after the predetermined action has been carried out.
30. The monitoring method in accordance with claim 25, wherein the steps of the method stops upon detection of a stop event.
31. The monitoring method in accordance with claim 30, wherein the stop event is a door of the vehicle being opened, the vehicle being powered on, or a stop command being received from the user.
PCT/CN2012/074108 2012-04-16 2012-04-16 A monitoring system in a vehicle and a method performed therein WO2013155661A1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/CN2012/074108 WO2013155661A1 (en) 2012-04-16 2012-04-16 A monitoring system in a vehicle and a method performed therein

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/CN2012/074108 WO2013155661A1 (en) 2012-04-16 2012-04-16 A monitoring system in a vehicle and a method performed therein

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2013155661A1 true WO2013155661A1 (en) 2013-10-24

Family

ID=49382784

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/CN2012/074108 WO2013155661A1 (en) 2012-04-16 2012-04-16 A monitoring system in a vehicle and a method performed therein

Country Status (1)

Country Link
WO (1) WO2013155661A1 (en)

Cited By (25)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN105150798A (en) * 2015-08-26 2015-12-16 长沙高汇环保科技有限公司 Electric car air conditioner system and control method thereof
CN105225416A (en) * 2015-10-23 2016-01-06 苏州卫生职业技术学院 A kind of automobile inside information sacurity alarm system
WO2016182962A1 (en) * 2015-05-08 2016-11-17 Flir Systems, Inc. Remote monitoring of vehicle occupants systems and methods
US9616773B2 (en) * 2015-05-11 2017-04-11 Uber Technologies, Inc. Detecting objects within a vehicle in connection with a service
US9672446B1 (en) 2016-05-06 2017-06-06 Uber Technologies, Inc. Object detection for an autonomous vehicle
US9841763B1 (en) 2015-12-16 2017-12-12 Uber Technologies, Inc. Predictive sensor array configuration system for an autonomous vehicle
US9840256B1 (en) 2015-12-16 2017-12-12 Uber Technologies, Inc. Predictive sensor array configuration system for an autonomous vehicle
US9990548B2 (en) 2016-03-09 2018-06-05 Uber Technologies, Inc. Traffic signal analysis system
US10018472B2 (en) 2015-12-10 2018-07-10 Uber Technologies, Inc. System and method to determine traction of discrete locations of a road segment
US10119827B2 (en) 2015-12-10 2018-11-06 Uber Technologies, Inc. Planning trips on a road network using traction information for the road network
US10255525B1 (en) 2017-04-25 2019-04-09 Uber Technologies, Inc. FPGA device for image classification
US10459087B2 (en) 2016-04-26 2019-10-29 Uber Technologies, Inc. Road registration differential GPS
US10678262B2 (en) 2016-07-01 2020-06-09 Uatc, Llc Autonomous vehicle localization using image analysis and manipulation
US10712160B2 (en) 2015-12-10 2020-07-14 Uatc, Llc Vehicle traction map for autonomous vehicles
US20210018915A1 (en) * 2017-08-31 2021-01-21 Uatc, Llc Systems and Methods for Determining when to Release Control of an Autonomous Vehicle
US10989806B2 (en) 2017-03-08 2021-04-27 Praesidium, Inc. Home occupant detection and monitoring system
US11260875B2 (en) 2017-12-07 2022-03-01 Uatc, Llc Systems and methods for road surface dependent motion planning
CN114228654A (en) * 2015-09-23 2022-03-25 苹果公司 Dynamic element protection
CN114425989A (en) * 2022-02-22 2022-05-03 合肥工业大学 A warning and emergency device and method for forgetting living body in a vehicle
US11334753B2 (en) 2018-04-30 2022-05-17 Uatc, Llc Traffic signal state classification for autonomous vehicles
US11334960B2 (en) 2018-06-08 2022-05-17 Uatc, Llc Systems and methods for pipelined processing of sensor data using hardware
CN114715039A (en) * 2022-02-23 2022-07-08 奇瑞汽车股份有限公司 Vehicle control system and method
US20220234419A1 (en) * 2021-01-28 2022-07-28 Caterpillar Inc. System and Method of Climate Control in Unmanned Machine
US11918330B2 (en) 2017-03-08 2024-03-05 Praesidium, Inc. Home occupant detection and monitoring system
EP4336474A4 (en) * 2021-06-04 2024-07-17 NEC Corporation DEVICE FOR MONITORING THE VEHICLE INTERIOR, METHOD FOR MONITORING THE VEHICLE INTERIOR AND PROGRAM

Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP2000289459A (en) * 1999-04-09 2000-10-17 Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd Vehicle interior abnormality detection device
JP2002063668A (en) * 2000-06-07 2002-02-28 Toshiba Corp Device for detecting and reporting person inside vehicle and dangerous state avoiding device
WO2004001695A1 (en) * 2002-06-20 2003-12-31 Arakelian, Marlane Vehicle hazardous environment detecting and signaling system
CN2789085Y (en) * 2005-04-04 2006-06-21 张益莹 Incompetence life body safety supporting device in vehicle
US20070013531A1 (en) * 2005-07-18 2007-01-18 Hules Frank J Occupant detection and temperature forewarn safety system and method
CN1967609A (en) * 2005-11-16 2007-05-23 环隆电气股份有限公司 Automobile safety device and using method thereof

Patent Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP2000289459A (en) * 1999-04-09 2000-10-17 Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd Vehicle interior abnormality detection device
JP2002063668A (en) * 2000-06-07 2002-02-28 Toshiba Corp Device for detecting and reporting person inside vehicle and dangerous state avoiding device
WO2004001695A1 (en) * 2002-06-20 2003-12-31 Arakelian, Marlane Vehicle hazardous environment detecting and signaling system
CN2789085Y (en) * 2005-04-04 2006-06-21 张益莹 Incompetence life body safety supporting device in vehicle
US20070013531A1 (en) * 2005-07-18 2007-01-18 Hules Frank J Occupant detection and temperature forewarn safety system and method
CN1967609A (en) * 2005-11-16 2007-05-23 环隆电气股份有限公司 Automobile safety device and using method thereof

Cited By (47)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2016182962A1 (en) * 2015-05-08 2016-11-17 Flir Systems, Inc. Remote monitoring of vehicle occupants systems and methods
US11505984B2 (en) 2015-05-11 2022-11-22 Uber Technologies, Inc. Detecting objects within a vehicle in connection with a service
US9616773B2 (en) * 2015-05-11 2017-04-11 Uber Technologies, Inc. Detecting objects within a vehicle in connection with a service
US9790729B2 (en) 2015-05-11 2017-10-17 Uber Technologies, Inc. Detecting objects within a vehicle in connection with a service
US10329827B2 (en) 2015-05-11 2019-06-25 Uber Technologies, Inc. Detecting objects within a vehicle in connection with a service
US9909349B2 (en) 2015-05-11 2018-03-06 Uber Technologies, Inc. Detecting objects within a vehicle in connection with a service
US9963926B2 (en) 2015-05-11 2018-05-08 Uber Technologies, Inc. Detecting objects within a vehicle in connection with a service
US10662696B2 (en) 2015-05-11 2020-05-26 Uatc, Llc Detecting objects within a vehicle in connection with a service
EP3295421A4 (en) * 2015-05-11 2018-10-24 Uber Technologies Inc. Detecting objects within a vehicle in connection with a service
CN105150798A (en) * 2015-08-26 2015-12-16 长沙高汇环保科技有限公司 Electric car air conditioner system and control method thereof
US12157464B2 (en) 2015-09-23 2024-12-03 Apple Inc. Dynamic element protection
CN114228654A (en) * 2015-09-23 2022-03-25 苹果公司 Dynamic element protection
CN105225416A (en) * 2015-10-23 2016-01-06 苏州卫生职业技术学院 A kind of automobile inside information sacurity alarm system
US10018472B2 (en) 2015-12-10 2018-07-10 Uber Technologies, Inc. System and method to determine traction of discrete locations of a road segment
US10119827B2 (en) 2015-12-10 2018-11-06 Uber Technologies, Inc. Planning trips on a road network using traction information for the road network
US10712160B2 (en) 2015-12-10 2020-07-14 Uatc, Llc Vehicle traction map for autonomous vehicles
US10712742B2 (en) 2015-12-16 2020-07-14 Uatc, Llc Predictive sensor array configuration system for an autonomous vehicle
US9841763B1 (en) 2015-12-16 2017-12-12 Uber Technologies, Inc. Predictive sensor array configuration system for an autonomous vehicle
US10684361B2 (en) 2015-12-16 2020-06-16 Uatc, Llc Predictive sensor array configuration system for an autonomous vehicle
US10220852B2 (en) 2015-12-16 2019-03-05 Uber Technologies, Inc. Predictive sensor array configuration system for an autonomous vehicle
US9840256B1 (en) 2015-12-16 2017-12-12 Uber Technologies, Inc. Predictive sensor array configuration system for an autonomous vehicle
US9990548B2 (en) 2016-03-09 2018-06-05 Uber Technologies, Inc. Traffic signal analysis system
US11462022B2 (en) 2016-03-09 2022-10-04 Uatc, Llc Traffic signal analysis system
US10726280B2 (en) 2016-03-09 2020-07-28 Uatc, Llc Traffic signal analysis system
US10459087B2 (en) 2016-04-26 2019-10-29 Uber Technologies, Inc. Road registration differential GPS
US11487020B2 (en) 2016-04-26 2022-11-01 Uatc, Llc Satellite signal calibration system
US10489686B2 (en) 2016-05-06 2019-11-26 Uatc, Llc Object detection for an autonomous vehicle
US9672446B1 (en) 2016-05-06 2017-06-06 Uber Technologies, Inc. Object detection for an autonomous vehicle
US10719083B2 (en) 2016-07-01 2020-07-21 Uatc, Llc Perception system for autonomous vehicle
US10871782B2 (en) 2016-07-01 2020-12-22 Uatc, Llc Autonomous vehicle control using submaps
US10852744B2 (en) 2016-07-01 2020-12-01 Uatc, Llc Detecting deviations in driving behavior for autonomous vehicles
US10739786B2 (en) 2016-07-01 2020-08-11 Uatc, Llc System and method for managing submaps for controlling autonomous vehicles
US10678262B2 (en) 2016-07-01 2020-06-09 Uatc, Llc Autonomous vehicle localization using image analysis and manipulation
US10989806B2 (en) 2017-03-08 2021-04-27 Praesidium, Inc. Home occupant detection and monitoring system
US11918330B2 (en) 2017-03-08 2024-03-05 Praesidium, Inc. Home occupant detection and monitoring system
US10860896B2 (en) 2017-04-25 2020-12-08 Uber Technologies, Inc. FPGA device for image classification
US10255525B1 (en) 2017-04-25 2019-04-09 Uber Technologies, Inc. FPGA device for image classification
US20210018915A1 (en) * 2017-08-31 2021-01-21 Uatc, Llc Systems and Methods for Determining when to Release Control of an Autonomous Vehicle
US11260875B2 (en) 2017-12-07 2022-03-01 Uatc, Llc Systems and methods for road surface dependent motion planning
US11334753B2 (en) 2018-04-30 2022-05-17 Uatc, Llc Traffic signal state classification for autonomous vehicles
US11334960B2 (en) 2018-06-08 2022-05-17 Uatc, Llc Systems and methods for pipelined processing of sensor data using hardware
US20220234419A1 (en) * 2021-01-28 2022-07-28 Caterpillar Inc. System and Method of Climate Control in Unmanned Machine
US11766919B2 (en) * 2021-01-28 2023-09-26 Caterpillar Inc. System and method of climate control in unmanned machine
EP4336474A4 (en) * 2021-06-04 2024-07-17 NEC Corporation DEVICE FOR MONITORING THE VEHICLE INTERIOR, METHOD FOR MONITORING THE VEHICLE INTERIOR AND PROGRAM
US12387590B2 (en) 2021-06-04 2025-08-12 Nec Corporation Vehicle interior monitoring apparatus, vehicle interior monitoring method, and non-transitory computer-readable medium
CN114425989A (en) * 2022-02-22 2022-05-03 合肥工业大学 A warning and emergency device and method for forgetting living body in a vehicle
CN114715039A (en) * 2022-02-23 2022-07-08 奇瑞汽车股份有限公司 Vehicle control system and method

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
WO2013155661A1 (en) A monitoring system in a vehicle and a method performed therein
US12330574B2 (en) Vehicle occupancy monitor
US9847004B1 (en) Vehicle child detection and response system
US10196036B2 (en) Mobile alert and security system
US20180065504A1 (en) Vehicle Child Detection and Response System
US10217344B2 (en) Noxious gas alert and remediation system
US20090204297A1 (en) System for Preventing Overheating in a Vehicle Interior
CN113246895A (en) Vehicle cabin safety system and method
US20180111506A1 (en) Vehicle safety system and method
WO2016025680A1 (en) Integrated vehicle sensing and warning system
US11731487B2 (en) Vehicle ventilation control system
US20180261069A1 (en) Safety detection in sealed vehicle spaces
US20210129625A1 (en) Environmental safety devices and systems for a vehicle
EP3461664A1 (en) System for determination and management of an environment inside a closed vehicle
CN207000388U (en) In-car anti-suffocation tele-control system based on GPRS
CN114312648A (en) Vehicle interior dynamic target monitoring device, monitoring system and method
CN109131074B (en) Warning method and system for preventing life bodies in vehicle from being left
JP2022057088A5 (en)
CN114750687A (en) Method, system, storage medium and device for vehicle-mounted life monitoring and alarming
KR100513875B1 (en) Indication Apparatus for Prevent Suffocation in Vehicle
CN115257537B (en) Vehicle left-behind reminder device, method, vehicle and storage medium
CN203698217U (en) Vehicle seat
CN206975491U (en) Intelligent residence control device
KR101758631B1 (en) remaning anti-person alarm system inside the vehicle
CN209126680U (en) Emergency treatment device for preventing people from being stranded in the vehicle

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 12874666

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1

NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: DE

122 Ep: pct application non-entry in european phase

Ref document number: 12874666

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1