Description:
FIELD OF INVENTION
[001] The present invention relates to a field of emergency medical services. Particularly, the present invention relates to an ambulance path maker system to create green corridor and a method thereof. More particularly, the present invention relates to an ambulance path maker system that provides assistance during medical emergencies by offering real-time updates on ambulance arrival time and creating green corridors for the ambulance to reach the accident spot and the hospital in the shortest possible time.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[002] During medical emergencies, every second counts, and a quick medical attendance may create a difference between life and death. However, in crowded cities, ambulances often get delayed due to traffic congestion, which may result in delayed medical attention and, in some cases fatal outcomes. Additionally, detecting critical information, such as the patient’s medical history and required treatment may be time consuming for the hospital staff and may lead to further delay.
[003] In recent years, advancement in technology and IoT have opened up new possibilities for improving emergency medical services. These advancements have paved the way for innovative solutions that leverage real time communication, data exchange, and intelligent routing to enhance the efficiency of emergency response systems.
[004] There are several patent applications that provide Internet of things (IoT) enabled systems that provides green corridors for emergency vehicles. One such Patent Application is IN202011020577 discloses a smart traffic management system that uses Internet of things (IoT) create a green corridor for emergency vehicles at the time of severe congestion in the roads. The Green Corridor is created by the IoT based RFID transmitter/receivers are placed at traffic junctions to identify a different kind of vehicles and help in providing an open passage to emergency vehicles. The location of the RFID transmitter/receivers is positioned at 30 m and 10 m from the crossing. The two sensors provided in the system helps in providing sufficient redundancy for the system. As the emergency vehicle crosses the first RFID before the crossing, the traffic signal gets overridden and turns green. In case the first RFID fails to detect the vehicle, then the second RFID will override the signal. As soon as the ambulance crosses the signal the RFID after the junction the traffic lights overrides again and the traffic flow becomes normal and after this, a timestamp is forwarded to the next signal that an ambulance is approaching and it will automatically turn green as it reaches, and the process will repeat till the ambulance reaches the hospital.
[005] Another patent application US20070129055A1 discloses a system for providing information to an operator of an emergency response vehicle. The system establishes a destination location and a current position of the motor vehicle that further establishes and communicates a planned route and the current position to at least one traffic control system. The system establishes an alternate route as a function of a factor which may delay travel over the planned route.
[006] However, none of the cited prior art as discussed above discloses the features of the present invention, i.e. providing a network between IoT based signage to create green corridor and a method of creating said green corridor. In order to overcome the above challenges, there is a need for a system and method to provide a real-time updates on ambulance arrival, create green corridor for the ambulance arrival, and to provide critical information to the hospital staff, thereby ensuring quick medical attention.
OBJECTIVES OF THE INVENTION
[007] The primary objective of the present invention is to provide an ambulance path maker system to create green corridor and a method thereof.
[008] Another objective of the present invention is to provide assistance during medical emergencies by offering real-time updates on ambulance arrival time and creating green corridors for the ambulance to reach the accident spot and the hospital in the shortest possible time.
[009] Yet another objective of the present invention is to provide critical information of the user along with displaying details such as ambulance ETA (Estimated Time of Arrival), hospital, and nearest friend connection, to first four ICE contacts of the user.
[0010] Other objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description taken in connection with the accompanying drawings, wherein, by way of illustration and example, the aspects of the present invention are disclosed.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0011] The present invention relates to an ambulance path maker system to create green corridor and a method for emergency medical services. The APM system provides assistance during medical emergencies by offering real-time updates on ambulance arrival time and creating green corridors for the ambulance to reach the accident spot and the hospital in the shortest possible time. The APM system comprises an admin server wirelessly and communicable connected to: an input module installed in an operating device of a victim configured with updated details of victim; an ambulance module installed with a routing communication interface to receive real-time updates on fastest route and traffic conditions from admin server; a hospital module comprising a network interface and emergency ward screen (EWS) wirelessly connected to the admin server, enabling real time updates on victim information, ambulance ETA and emergency contacts. The APM system further comprises a plurality of IoT enabled signage strategically placed near hospitals and high traffic junctions, wirelessly connected to the admin server, to clear traffic prior to ambulance arrival. The APM system ensures efficient communication and coordination among victims, ambulance staff and hospital staff, optimizing emergency response and patient care.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0012] An understanding of the present invention may be obtained by reference to the accompanying drawings, when taken in conjunction with the description herein and in which:
[0013] Figure 1 illustrates process flow-diagram representation between an IoT enabled signage devices and the ambulance module in the APM system.
[0014] Figure 2 illustrates the flow representation of traffic in a high traffic density spot and the direction of Ambulance alarming.
[0015] Figure 3 illustrates exemplary representation of interface of ambulance module.
[0016] Figure 4 illustrates exemplary representation of identification of APM signage.
DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0017] The following description describes various features and functions of the disclosed system with reference to the accompanying figures. In the figures, similar symbols identify similar components, unless context dictates otherwise. The illustrative aspects described herein are not meant to be limiting. It may be readily understood that certain aspects of the disclosed system can be arranged and combined in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which have not been contemplated herein.
[0018] Accordingly, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that various changes and modifications of the embodiments described herein can be made without departing from the scope of invention. In addition, descriptions of well-known functions and constructions are omitted for clarity and conciseness.
[0019] Features that are described and/or illustrated with respect to one embodiment may be used in the same way or in a similar way in one or more other embodiments and/or in combination with or instead of the features of the other embodiments.
[0020] The terms and words used in the following description are not limited to the bibliographical meanings, but, are merely used to enable a clear and consistent understanding of the invention. Accordingly, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following description of exemplary embodiments of the present invention are provided for illustrative purpose only and not for the purpose of limiting the invention.
[0021] It is to be understood that the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0022] It should be emphasized that the term “comprises/comprising” when used in this specification is taken to specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps or components but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, components or groups thereof. The equations used in the specification are only for computation purpose.
[0023] The term “green corridor” used in the present disclosure refers to traffic free lanes created for the ambulance to reach the accident spot and then hospital in shortest time possible.
[0024] The term “user” and “victim” may be interchangeably used in the present disclosure.
[0025] Accordingly, the present invention relates to a field of emergency medical services. Particularly, the present invention relates to an ambulance path maker (APM) system to create green corridor and a method for emergency medical services. More particularly, the present invention relates to an ambulance path maker system that provides assistance during medical emergencies by offering real-time updates on ambulance arrival time and creating green corridors for the ambulance to reach the accident spot and the hospital in the shortest possible time.
[0026] In an embodiment, the APM system comprises a plurality of modules configured in a plurality of operating devices and a plurality of IoT signage installed on roads/ traffic area to enable efficient communication and coordination.
[0027] The system comprises of: an input module installed in an operating device of the victim allowing them to register emergency contacts and provide critical information, an admin server installed with algorithm facilitates communication between different modules of the system, a plurality of IoT enabled signage wirelessly connected to the admin server are strategically placed near hospitals and high traffic density areas to clear traffic in advance of ambulance arrival, ambulance module having a display screen and a hospital module having emergency ward screen installed in the hospital. The plurality of IoT enabled signage are installed near hospitals and high traffic density areas to clear the traffic much prior to arrival of an ambulance.
[0028] The APM system comprising a plurality of application modules installed in the operating device of the victim/ user, ambulance staff, and hospital staff. These modules comprises registration/login templates for each user category. The victim is required to register his/her emergency contacts in the inputs module of victim’s operating device. Similarly, ambulance staff and hospital staff are also required to register themselves on the ambulance module and hospital module respectively. In case of an emergency, the input module installed in the operating device of the victim/ user notifies ambulance module through the admin server. In case of an emergency, the victim’s input module notifies the ambulance module through the server, transmitting vital information such as , but not limited to, victim’s location, conscious status, victim’s name, age, sex, etc. The server identifies the nearest ambulance and notifies: the ambulance module about the victim and the victim about the ambulance, providing details such as ambulance ETA (Estimated Time of Arrival) towards the accident spot, hospital to where ambulance is taking, and nearest friend connection based on geographical location of emergency contacts fed by the user/ victim in input module. Additionally the victim’s operating device displays an always-on widget on the locked screen to help the first responder to identify the unconscious victim even when the victim’s phone is locked.
[0029] In an exemplary embodiment, an algorithm is installed in the input module that facilitates in tracking and notifying the nearest friend connection of the victim based on the GPS location of the friend. On receiving the notification, the friend receives a plurality of options on the interface of their operating device such as, but not limited to, “volunteer”, “connect”, or “wish well” to help the victim.
[0030] In another embodiment, the APM system is versatile and can be configured in automotive vehicle, including two wheelers, four wheelers, and commercial vehicles, by integrating the input module.
[0031] The admin server receives accident notifications from the input module and tracks the nearby ambulance and hospital. The admin server then sends the fastest route and provide a real time traffic update to data interface provided on display screen of the ambulance module, by checking through a web mapping platform. The display screen of the ambulance module assists the ambulance pilot in navigating to the accident spot.
[0032] The hospital module, wirelessly connected to the admin server, receives real time updates of the input module and ambulance module. The hospital module comprises a network interface and an emergency ward screen (EWS), which allows hospital staff to view victim details, ETA of ambulance, victim medical history and other information as fed on the input module. In an exemplary embodiment, the EWS is a touch screen display that enables the emergency ward staff to update a plurality of details and instructions of the victim such as, but not limited to age, gender, medical history (if not uploaded/ wrongly uploaded), ambulance ETA, and family contacts, thereby enabling the hospital staff to check the same. The functions of EWS may include, such as but not limited to:
a) posting/entering a list of tests and treatments required for the victim;
b) receiving approval from victims’ family in seconds;
c) receiving deposits and payments for the medical bills seamlessly;
d) posting/entering medical status of the patient’ that can be instantly viewed by close friends, family and users who chose to help the victim through the APM application; and
e) pre-setting green corridor while transferring victim to other hospital
[0033] A plurality of IoT enabled signage implemented on roads and near traffic junctions are connected to ambulance module through the admin server, which plays a vital role in creating green corridors. Figure 1 illustrates process flow-diagram representation between an IoT enabled signage devices and the ambulance module in the APM system. The Internet of Things (IoT) based signage comprises of sirens, ambulance lights and a display screen showing the distance/time of the incoming ambulance to reach the accident spot. The APM signage alerts the commuters to leave the emergency lane vacant when the ambulance is approximately 2km to 3km away from the accident spot, thereby restricting other vehicles from coming in way, and thus creating obstruction in way of the ambulance. The IoT devices starts alarming the commuters with ambulance siren and lighting’s while also displaying the distance of the ambulance from the particular IoT device. The IoT enabled signage also displays the hospital towards which the ambulance is heading towards.
[0034] Figure 2 illustrates the flow representation of traffic in a high traffic density spot and the direction of Ambulance alarming. The present invention provides IoT enabled signage that alert commuters from the front, instead of usual vehicle alarm that travels from rear to front. The signage also provides guidance to commuters about which side of the road to move towards. The IoT enabled signage activate their alarms at least 2-3 mins in advance of the ambulance’s arrival, allowing commuters ample time to clear a lane entirely for the ambulance.
[0035] Figure 3 illustrates exemplary representation of interface of ambulance module. The admin server receives accident notifications from the input module and tracks the nearby ambulance and hospital. The server then sends the fastest route and provide a real time traffic update to data interface provided on display screen of the ambulance module, by checking through a web mapping platform. The display screen of the ambulance module assists the ambulance pilot in navigating to the accident spot. The IoT enabled signage are first placed on web mapping platform using the syntax for tagging the admin server and GPS coordinates of the desired location of the victim’s device. Once the route is identified, the unique algorithm seeks the list of signage to trigger. Each IoT enabled signage tagged with a unique code uses a specific syntax and are installed with an algorithm, in such a way that the signage identifies the right devices along the specific ambulance route. The flagged IoT enabled signage configured in the route of the ambulance are provided with at least two information for the commuters, such as the distance of the incoming ambulance from the accident spot and the respective nearby hospital that specific ambulance is heading to. Once the IoT enabled signage starts alerting the commuters, it also captures the images of vehicles not following the instruction using an AI enabled camera. The IoT enabled signage also comprises of a banner space that displays information regarding the lane that needs to be left vacant for the approaching ambulance.
[0036] In an embodiment, the present invention also provides a method for provides assistance during medical emergency. The method comprises of the following steps:
a. installing an input module in an operating device of a user;
b. feeding friends and emergency contacts in the input module of the operating device of the victim;
c. tracking nearby friends along with emergency contacts of the victim to notify friends and emergency contacts in case of any emergency/ incident with details not limiting to victim name, connected mutual friend, location of the victim, distance from the location, nature of emergency;
d. alerting the ambulance module via an admin server;
e. transmitting fastest route, real time traffic updates and nearby hospital by the admin server to the ambulance module and the hospital module via a web mapping platform;
f. receiving real time traffic updates on display screen for assisting ambulance pilot to reach accident spot;
g. displaying details received from the admin server, not limited to ambulance ETA, hospital and nearest friend connection based on his/ her geographical location, by creating an all time on widget on lock screen of the operating device of the victim to facilitate first responders to view said details;
h. alerting an IoT enabled signage installed in route of the ambulance to clear the traffic and create green corridor through an algorithm installed in admin app that coordinates with the IoT signage;
i. displaying distance and Hospital Name of the incoming ambulance to accident spot on the APM signage;
j. displaying a banner space showing which lane to leave vacant while an ambulance is incoming;
k. alerting commuters to leave emergency lane vacant when the ambulance comes in range of 2km to 3km away from the accident spot, thereby creating green corridor for the ambulance;
l. displaying information on emergency ward screen (EWS) of hospital module based on inputs received from the admin module in step (d), said information is not limited to age, gender, medical history, ambulance ETA and family, enabling the hospital staff to view information of the victim.
m. displaying the video of the victim taken by the ambulance driver using the ambulance app at the victim spot in the Emergency Ward Screen (EWS) of the respective hospital.

[0037] The admin server is connected to an online platform that enables family of the victim to view hospital and ambulance details and to directly contact the hospital, so as to approve for tests, treatments and operations remotely within seconds of reporting of the victim. The online platform connected to the admin server ensures hassle free instant payment for treatments and operations by offering options for families to transfer security deposits to the hospital.
[0038] In an embodiment, the function of EWS may include, such as, but not limited to, posting/entering a list of tests and treatments required for the victim; receiving approval from victims’ family in seconds; receiving deposits and payments for the medical bills seamlessly; posting/entering medical status of the patient’ that can be instantly viewed by close friends, family and users who chose to help the victim through the APM application; and pre-setting green corridor while transferring victim to other hospital,
[0039] In an embodiment, the options displayed on the interface of the operating device of the nearest friend connection via the APM application may include, such as, but not limited to, “volunteer”, “connect”, or “wish well” to help the victim.
[0040] Figure 4 illustrates exemplary representation of identification of APM signage. In a specific embodiment, the microcontroller installed in the admin server retrieves input in every 30 seconds using an algorithm created by MySQL. The microcontroller identifies the right tag code for APM system. For instance, if the ambulance is travelling from west to south, two APMS IoT enabled signage will be flagged on the web mapping platform linked to the server. The first one is located in the direction leading towards the signal/junction/turning/flyover/tunnel/bridge/traffic point and the second one is positioned outward from the signal.
The syntax for the APMS follows a specific format, which includes the direction and city name, such as:
Eg: SS-SKB-BLR-I & NE-SKB-BLR-O are the 2 APMS in the above scenario.
● SS- South of the Signal & NE - North East of the signal
● SKB- Silk Board
● BLR - Bengaluru
● I - In & O – Out
[0041] The admin server linked to the web mapping platform identifies the shortest route and scans the entire route as well as 30m radius around the signage, if there are any signage that are placed. Once the list of APM signage along the route is generated, the system matches the devices codes with the route’s direction and cross verifies with the signal and city code. This verification process helps ensure accurate identification of the appropriate IoT enabled signage, including accounting for movement near U-turns or similar scenarios by checking initial codes denoting the direction.
[0042] Each module are connected with the admin server through a network interface. The moment when a route is selected for creating a green corridor, the server flags the appropriate IoT signage in the specific route and updates the variables (hospital name, live distance of that specific APMS to the incoming ambulance) on display screen of the signage. The said variables are communicated to different databases of different modules (input module, ambulance module and hospital module). Each module microcontroller units are configured to retrieve inputs every 30 secs from the admin server. When the distance value in the server is updated that the ambulance is within 2-3kms of the IoT signage, that particular IoT signage triggers the alarm siren, alarm lights, lane direction lights and the camera unit fitted in the IoT signage. As the distance reduces to zero or less than 10 meter, the IoT signage switches off the alarms and camera. The procedure is repeated every time the ambulance pilot clicks on “Start Trip”.
[0043] In an embodiment, the application aids in providing an option to people to remotely help victims under emergency by tracking live cases across cities and to ensure the victims are connected with their friends/family. The application aids the people to either connect with the victim or wish them well.
[0044] There are several advantages of the present invention:
1. The APM system aims to improve emergency medical services by providing real-time updates, creating green corridors, and facilitating communication between patients, first responders, hospitals and other stakeholders.
2. The IoT based devices used in the system are designed to reduce response time, enhance medical care, and save lives.
3. The APM application tracker for automotive vehicles is useful for all type of drivers, from individual car owners to fleet operators, willing to assist during medical emergencies and save lives.
4. The APM signage aids in alerting commuters regarding the lane that needs be left vacant for the way of ambulance to accident spot.
5. The APM application aids in increasing the opportunity for users to help known/unknown people, increasing probability of closer friend nearby the victim so as to help the victim in case of emergency without any delay.

[0045] While the present invention has been described with reference to one or more preferred aspects, which aspects have been set forth in considerable detail for the purposes of making a complete disclosure of the invention, such aspects are merely exemplary and are not intended to be limiting or represent an exhaustive enumeration of all aspects of the invention. The scope of the invention, therefore, shall be defined solely by the following claims. Further, it will be apparent to those of skill in the art that numerous changes may be made in such details without departing from the principles of the invention.
, Claims:WE CLAIM:
1. An ambulance path maker system, comprising:
i. an admin server wirelessly and communicable connected to:
● an input module installed in an operating device of a victim configured with updated details of victim;
● an ambulance module installed with a routing communication interface to receive real-time updates on fastest route and traffic conditions from admin server;
● a hospital module comprising a network interface and emergency ward screen (EWS) wirelessly connected to the admin server, enabling real time updates on victim information, ambulance ETA and emergency contacts;
ii. a plurality of IoT enabled signage strategically placed near hospitals and high traffic junctions, wirelessly connected to the admin server, to clear traffic prior to ambulance arrival.
2. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the inputs module tracks and notifies nearest emergency contacts based on contact GPS location.
3. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the IoT enabled signage comprises an alarm siren, an ambulance light, a display screen to display ambulance distance and time to accident spot, and an AI-enabled camera to capture images of vehicles not complying with the signage notification.
4. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the IoT enabled signage alert commuters from the front through display screen and provide guidance to commuters by assisting on which side of the road to move towards.
5. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the IoT enabled signage activate the alarm siren at least 2-3 mins in advance of arrival of ambulance, allowing commuters ample time to clear a lane entirely for the ambulance.
6. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the hospital module comprising the network interface and the emergency ward screen (EWS) allows hospital staff to view victim details, not limited to, arrival time of ambulance, victims status at the site, victim medical history and information fed by victim in the input module.
7. The method of providing emergency medical service through ambulance path maker system, comprises:
a. installing an input module in an operating device of a user;
b. feeding friends and emergency contacts in the input module of the operating device of the victim;
c. tracking nearby friends along with emergency contacts of the victim to notify friends and emergency contacts in case of any emergency/ incident with details not limiting to victim name, connected mutual friend, location of the victim, distance from the location, nature of emergency;
d. alerting the ambulance module via an admin server;
e. transmitting fastest route, real time traffic updates and nearby hospital by the admin server to the ambulance module and the hospital module via a web mapping platform;
f. receiving real time traffic updates on display screen for assisting ambulance pilot to reach accident spot;
g. displaying details received from the admin server, not limited to ambulance ETA, hospital and nearest friend connection based on his/ her geographical location, by creating an all time on widget on lock screen of the operating device of the victim to facilitate first responders to view said details;
h. alerting an IoT enabled signage installed in route of the ambulance to clear the traffic and create green corridor through an algorithm installed in admin app that coordinates with the IoT signage;
i. displaying distance and Hospital Name of the incoming ambulance to accident spot on the APM signage;
j. displaying a banner space showing which lane to leave vacant while an ambulance is incoming;
k. alerting commuters to leave emergency lane vacant when the ambulance comes in range of 2km to 3km away from the accident spot, thereby creating green corridor for the ambulance;
l. displaying information on emergency ward screen (EWS) of hospital module based on inputs received from the admin module in step (d), said information is not limited to age, gender, medical history, ambulance ETA and family, enabling the hospital staff to view information of the victim.
m. displaying the video of the victim taken by the ambulance driver using the ambulance app at the victim spot in the Emergency Ward Screen (EWS) of the respective hospital.
8. The method as claimed in claim 7, wherein the admin server enables family of the victim to view hospital and ambulance details and contact hospital directly through an online platform, so as to approve for tests, treatments and operations remotely within seconds of reporting of the victim.
9. The method as claimed in claim 8, wherein the online platform connected to the admin server ensures hassle free instant payment for treatments and operations by offering options for families to transfer security deposits to the hospital.