Description:Technical Field of Invention
[0001] The present invention is generally related to security systems. Particularly, the present invention is related to a surveillance system in a vehicle.
Background 5
[0002] Security of one’s belongings is a primary concern for any individual. A conventional vehicle generally consists of one or more mechanical security locks. These locks may be actuated by a physical key, or by electronic means, which is usually provided in the form of a key fob to the user of the vehicle. The key fob usually contains both the mechanical key and the electronic key. When a vehicle 10 is locked, there are multiple locks that are usually actuated. Generally, the steering is locked, the ignition system is locked, and the doors and windows of the vehicle, if any, are locked. However, a skilled and motivated person may find their way around these multiple locks and compromise the vehicle, including theft, and damage. The threat of theft and damage is even more sever in a two wheeled 15 vehicle, since there are no external doors and windows. When a vehicle is not in use by its authorized user, it is usually in a parked state. During a parked state of the vehicle, the user of the vehicle is usually away from the vicinity of the vehicle. in case there is any incident involving the vehicle, there are no systems available which can update the user in real time regarding the current state of the vehicle. 20
[0003] In conventional four wheeled vehicles, when the vehicle is put in a parked state, there are several locks around the vehicles as indicated earlier. Similarly, in a two wheeled vehicle, there is at least a steering lock and an ignition lock. Even if these locks are designed to be unbreakable, it is still possible that the vehicle is damaged by external conditions which are beyond the controls of the user of the 25 vehicle, or the entire vehicle is moved without any attempt at disabling any of the locks. In such scenarios, having the vehicle locked is of no advantage to the user, who loses their belongings and their vehicle. Moreover, electronic locking mechanisms are often prone to hacking and cyber attacks, whereby a skilled
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hacker can copy the electronic signature of the key, and are able to access the vehicle.
[0004] Systems exist whereby the vehicle is equipped with cameras and record any incident where the vehicle is potentially damaged. In such systems, when a suspicious activity is detected by the vehicle’s internal systems, the cameras in the 5 vehicle begin recording, and transmit the same to the user of the vehicle, who can then take appropriate action, including but not limited to flashing the lights, honking the horns, and broadcasting messages remotely via speakers mounted in the vehicles. These systems are most commonly found in high end four wheeled vehicles, and add to the cost of the vehicle itself, due to the inherent cost of the 10 equipment involved. Furthermore, the components involved imply that such a system is only suitable in a larger vehicle, such as a four wheeled vehicle. Moreover, such systems are required to be proactively activated by the user of the vehicle when putting the vehicle in the parked condition. If the system is not activated, the benefits of the system are not available to the user in case of any 15
[0005] These systems are generally not scalable, and cannot be installed in smaller four wheeled vehicles and two wheeled vehicles. Therefore, in such vehicles, alerts cannot be sent to the user of the vehicle regarding real time updates of the vehicle itself. The systems that are known for surveillance and security are available separately as aftermarket accessories, and are generally 20 independent of the systems integrated in the vehicle. Many of these aftermarket systems have their separate power supply systems, which need to be recharged at a regular interval. In case the user misses to charge the device, the system is ineffective in providing the surveillance to the vehicle that the system is designed for. Furthermore, these systems cannot be integrated with the power supply of the 25 vehicle because of compatibility issues.
[0006] The challenge in integrating a surveillance system in an existing vehicle is that the existing electronic and electrical systems in the vehicle do not have the requisite components to implement the same in an efficient manner. Therefore, a surveillance system for a vehicle is required which can be easily integrated with 30 existing electrical and electronic systems in any vehicle.
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Summary of the Invention
[0007] This summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described below, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description. 5
[0008] In an aspect, a method for managing one or more states of a surveillance system in a vehicle is disclosed. The method for managing one or more states of a surveillance system comprises determining, by a processor, a current state of the vehicle being unchanged for a first pre-defined duration of time when the vehicle is in a locked condition using one or more sensors. The method further comprises 10 signaling, by the processor, the surveillance system to be in a sleep state upon the expiration of the first pre-defined duration of time. The method further comprises determining, by the processor, a risk condition associated with the vehicle based on one of a change in the current state of the vehicle, a failed user authentication attempt, and the vehicle being in the sleep more for a second pre-defined duration 15 of time. The method further comprises activating, by the processor, a surveillance state based on the determined risk condition. The method further comprises receiving, by the processor, data values corresponding to the change in the current state of the vehicle. In an embodiment, if the change in the current state is above a first pre-defined threshold associated with each of the data values, then changing 20 the state of the vehicle from the surveillance state to a warnings state. The method further comprises transmitting, by the processor, an alert signal to at least one of one or more electronic components of the vehicle, and an electronic device. In an embodiment, the alert signal is indicative of a theft alert state of the vehicle.
[0009] In an embodiment, the one or more electronic components of the vehicle 25 comprise an audio emitter, a turn signal lamp (TSL), a headlamp, a taillamp. The electronic device is one or more of a mobile phone and a smart watch.
[00010] In an embodiment, the current state of the vehicle is recorded and logged with a time stamp at a secured remote server.
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[00011] In an embodiment, the method further comprises monitoring, by the processor, further change in the current state of the vehicle, and updating the current state to a secured connected server.
[00012] In an embodiment, the method further comprises determining, by the processor, the change in the current state of the vehicle being followed by the 5 vehicle accessed by an authorized user within a third pre-defined duration of time. The method further comprises actuating, by the processor, an unlocking mechanism of the vehicle based on successful authentication by the authorized user. The method further comprises disabling, by the processor, the surveillance system post actuating the unlocking mechanism. 10
[00013] In an embodiment, the one or more sensors include an inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensor, at least one positioning sensor, at least one position accuracy correction sensor, and at least one radio frequency identification (RFID) sensor.
[00014] In an embodiment, the surveillance system further includes one or more 15 timers for determining one of the change in state of the vehicle, where the one or more timers are reset to an initial state when the user is authenticated.
[00015] In an embodiment, the method further comprises signaling, by the processor, the surveillance system to change the current state to the sleep state upon expiration of the second predefined duration of time. 20
[00016] In an embodiment, the alert signal being communicated to an instrument cluster or a telematics unit via CAN lines and then further the instrument cluster or the telematics unit being wirelessly communicatively coupled to transfer the alert signal to the electronic device.
[00017] In an embodiment, the method further comprises resetting, by the 25 processor, the one or more sensors to an initial state, when the current state has been updated to the secured remote server, to detect further change in the current state of the vehicle.
[00018] In an embodiment, the first predefined threshold is one of a failure in authentication of a rider over a predetermined number of times, a predetermined 30
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duration of time, and a change in distance travelled above a predetermined threshold.
[00019] In an embodiment, the vehicle is having at least one auxiliary power source. The auxiliary power source is configured to supply electrical power to one or more electrical loads in the vehicle and the surveillance system. In an 5 embodiment, the auxiliary power source is a 12V battery. In another embodiment, the one or more electrical loads in the vehicle are disconnected from the auxiliary battery when the first processor is monitoring further change in the current state of the vehicle, and updating the current state to the secured connected server.
[00020] In an aspect, a surveillance system for a two wheeled vehicle is disclosed. 10 The surveillance system comprises at least one processor, one or more positioning sensors, one or more wireless communication transceivers, one or more batteries, one or more alerting systems, and one or more switches and actuators. The at least one processor is configured to determine a current state of the vehicle being unchanged for a first pre-defined duration of time when the vehicle is in a locked 15 condition using one or more sensors. Further, the processor is configured to signal the surveillance system to be in a sleep state upon the expiration of the first pre-defined duration of time. Further, the processor is configured to determine a risk condition associated with the vehicle based on one of a change in the current state of the vehicle, a failed user authentication attempt, and the vehicle being in the 20 sleep more for a second pre-defined duration of time. Further, the processor is configured to activate a surveillance state based on the determined risk condition. The processor is further configured to receive data values corresponding to the change in the current state of the vehicle. In an embodiment, if the change in the current state is above a first pre-defined threshold associated with each of the data 25 values then changing the state of the vehicle from the surveillance state to a warnings state. Further, the processor is configured to transmit an alert signal to at least one of one or more electronic components of the vehicle, and an electronic device. In an embodiment, the alert signal is indicative of a theft alert state of the vehicle. 30
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[00021] In an embodiment, the one or more positioning sensors comprises an at least one inertial measurement unit (IMU), and an at least one real time kinematic (RTK) unit. In an embodiment, the one or more wireless communication transceivers are configured to be connected to one or more wireless networks, the one or more wireless networks include one of a cellular network, a global 5 navigation satellite system (GNSS), a Wireless Fidelity (WiFi) module, and a Bluetooth module. In an embodiment, the one or more batteries include at least an auxiliary power source. In an embodiment, the auxiliary power source is configured for providing low voltage (LV) electrical power to LV electrical loads in the vehicle. In an embodiment, the one or more alerting systems comprises at 10 least one audio emitter, at least one visual emitter, and at least one haptic emitter. In an embodiment, the one or more electronic components of the vehicle comprises the at least one audio emitter, at least one turn signal lamp (TSL), a headlamp, a taillamp. In an embodiment, the electronic device is one or more of a mobile phone and a smart watch. In an embodiment, the alert signal being 15 communicated to an instrument cluster or a telematics unit via CAN lines and then further the instrument cluster or the telematics unit being wirelessly communicatively coupled to transfer the alert signal to the electronic device. In an embodiment, the auxiliary power source is a 12V battery.
[00022] In an embodiment, the current state of the vehicle is recorded and logged 20 with a time stamp at a secured remote server.
[00023] In an embodiment, the at least one processor is further configured to monitor further change in the current state of the vehicle. In an embodiment, the at least one processor is further configured to update the current state to a secured connected server. In an embodiment, the at least one processor is further 25 configured to reset the one or more sensors to an initial state, when the current state has been updated to the secured remote server, to detect further change in the current state of the vehicle.
[00024] In an embodiment, the at least one processor is further configured to determine the change in the current state of the vehicle being followed by the 30 vehicle accessed by an authorized user within a third pre-defined duration of time.
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In an embodiment, the at least one processor is further configured to actuate an unlocking mechanism of the vehicle based on successful authentication by the authorized user. The at least one processor is further configured to disable the surveillance system post actuating the unlocking mechanism.
[00025] In an embodiment, the first predefined threshold is one of a failure in 5 authentication of a rider over a predetermined number of times, a predetermined duration of time, and a change in distance travelled above a predetermined threshold.
[00026] In an embodiment, the surveillance system comprises a proximity alert system, the proximity alert system includes the at least one audio emitter for 10 generating audio warnings, and the at least one TSL, the headlamp, and the taillamp for generating visual warnings.
Brief Description of Drawings
[0010] Reference will be made to embodiments of the invention, examples of 15 which may be illustrated in accompanying figures. These figures are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. Although the invention is generally described in context of these embodiments, it should be understood that it is not intended to limit the scope of the invention to these particular embodiments.
[0011] Figure 1 is an exemplary diagram representing the surveillance system of 20 the vehicle along with the various communication systems.
[0012] Figure 2 is an exemplary representation of the one or more components of the surveillance system as implemented in the vehicle.
[0013] Figure 3A-3E is an exemplary flow chart representing a method for managing one or more states of the surveillance system. 25
Detailed Description
[0014] Various features and embodiments of the present invention here will be discernible from the following description thereof, set out hereunder.
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[0015] Figure 1 is a representation of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. According to the embodiment of the present invention, the vehicle consists of an instrument cluster 101, which contains the appropriate electrical and electronic components to enable the surveillance system 100 for the vehicle. In another embodiment, the surveillance system 100 may be configured as a separate 5 module, which may be connected to the vehicle at the desire of the owner of the vehicle. Figure 2 is a representation of the other embodiment, where the surveillance module 101 is shown as a separate unit, which can be integrated with the existing systems and modules in the vehicle to implement the surveillance system 100. For brevity, the surveillance module in the other embodiment is also 10 being referred to as the instrument cluster 101. The surveillance module will contain the essential components for enabling the surveillance system 100. According to this embodiment, the instrument cluster 101 comprises a telematics unit / telemetry module 103, which is configured to enable wireless connection between the vehicle and a remote server 111, through one or more wireless 15 communication modules and protocols. These wireless communication modules and protocols may include a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) 107, a cellular network 108, a Bluetooth module 109, a wireless fidelity (WiFi) module (not shown), etc. The instrument cluster 101 further comprises one or more sensors and actuators, which include an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) 104, a 20 near field communication (NFC) module 106, an audio emitter 105, a visual emitter (not shown), and the like. A processor 102 in the instrument cluster 101 is further configured to control the communication between the various modules in the instrument cluster 101, as well as communication with one or more controllers 113 located on the vehicle, which provide inputs from one or more sensors 115 on 25 the vehicle, and signal one or more actuators 114 on the vehicle. The processor 102 comprises at least a memory unit 119, and one or more input and output pins 120. The one or more controllers located on the vehicle include a vehicle control unit (VCU) 113. The VCU 113 is configured to primarily control a power unit of the vehicle. The power unit may be an internal combustion unit, or an electric 30 traction motor. The VCU 113 enables the power unit to function optimally,
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considering the state of one or more energy storage devices on the vehicle, which enables the function of the power unit. The energy storage device may be a fuel tank, or a high voltage (HV) battery module, which acts as the primary battery 116 in electric vehicles. The vehicle also generally has an auxiliary battery 118, which is used to power one or more electrical loads of the vehicle, when the 5 vehicle is not in use. For brevity, the present embodiment is further described considering the vehicle to have an electric traction motor as the power unit, and a HV battery as the energy storge device (henceforth referred to as the primary battery 116). The vehicle also consists of one or more switches 115, which may be used by a user of the vehicle to provide user inputs when prompted by the 10 surveillance system 100. Further, the vehicle also includes one or more actuators 114. At least a first actuator of the one or more actuators includes a solenoid lock, which is used to secure the vehicle against unauthorized movement. As per the present embodiment, the instrument cluster 101, through the telemetry unit 103, is configured to connect to a remote data server 111, which further connects to an 15 authorized handheld mobile communication device (henceforth referred to as the mobile device 110) of the user. It is also configured to connect to one or more global positioning satellites (GPS) 112 for accurate determination of the current position of the vehicle. In an embodiment, the instrument cluster 101 also consists of a real time kinematics (RTK) unit, which acts as a correction reference for the 20 determined current position of the vehicle using GPS 112, increasing the accuracy of the determined position data. The communication channels (henceforth referred to as signal lines) between the various modules in the instrument cluster 101, as well as between the instrument cluster 101 and the VCU 113, are configured to be one of a CAN bus, a LIN bus, or a combination of a CAN bus and a LIN bus. 25
[0016] As per an embodiment, the vehicle has a keyless access system, which may be utilized using one of a NFC card, the mobile device 110, and an on screen password authentication system on the instrument cluster 101. In case the user is unable to unlock the vehicle using either one of these methods, the vehicle registers a failed authentication event. The locking mechanism consists of the 30 solenoid lock 114, which is controlled by the VCU 113, which actuates it to either
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lock or unlock, depending on the signal received from the instrument cluster 101, which is based on the inputs given by the user. The inputs for the on-screen password authentication system may be received from the user by a touch screen sensor embedded in the screen, a keypad configured on the instrument cluster 101 or on any other part of the vehicle, and the one or more switches 115, which are 5 connected to the instrument cluster 101 via the VCU 113. When the vehicle is turned on, the processor 102 initializes the IMU 104 by configuring one or more parameters of the IMU. The one or more parameters of the IMU comprise output data rate of accelero-gyro sensors, bandwidth and range of resultant of gravity and angular velocity outputs, and power mode and interrupt configuration. Upon 10 receiving the data, the processor 102 carries out axis re-orientation to align sensor axes (within the IMU 104) to the vehicle’s axes. After realigning the axes, the processor 102 determines a current state of the vehicle, which includes an inclination data of the vehicle with respect to all 3 axes with roll, pitch and yaw angles. The processor 102 calculates the roll angle and pitch angle of the vehicle 15 using the acceleration due to gravity along the vehicle’s 3 axes X,Y,Z, which is determined using the formulae given below.
Roll Angle = [tan -1(Gy/Gz)]*[180/3.141592653589]
Pitch Angle = (180/3.141592653589)*tan -1 (Gx*1)/(sqrt(Gy2+Gz2))
Here, Gx, Gy, and Gz are the acceleration due to gravity along the x, y, and z axis 20 respectively, as determined using one or mode of an accelerometer and a gyroscope in the IMU sensor.
[0017] After determining the current state of the vehicle, each of the determined angles are filtered using respective Kalman filters in order to eliminate process and measurement noises. The processor further determines a current level of 25 vibration on the vehicle using the accelerometer readings, and thereby determining any disturbance to the vehicle, including any attempt to steal the vehicle, while the vehicle is in a parked condition. The processor 102 is configured to receive data regarding the current state of the vehicle from the one
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or more sensors on the instrument cluster 101, as well as the one or more sensors connected to the VCU 113. The processor transmits this data to the telemetry unit 103. The collected data on the current state of the vehicle is then uploaded to the remote data server 111 using the one or more wireless connectivity modules, and stored therein for a predetermined amount of time. As per an embodiment, the 5 data stored therein also consists of a time stamp, which corresponds to the exact time and date on which the data was collected. The data is then transmitted to the mobile device 110, so that the user / owner of the vehicle is apprised of the current state of the vehicle at all times.
[0018] Figure 3A is an exemplary flow chart illustrating the logic implemented by 10 the system as illustrated in figures 1 and 2, and described above, to enable the surveillance system. Figure 3B is an exemplary flow chart representing an exit condition of the one or more states of the surveillance system. Figure 3C is an exemplary flow chart representing a condition of the surveillance system while in the theft alert state. Figure 3D is an exemplary flow chart representing a condition 15 of the surveillance system while in the theft alert state. Figure 3E is an exemplary flow chart representing a condition of the surveillance system while in the sleep state.
[0019] According to the present invention, the surveillance system 100 consists of six states of operation. These are a parked state, a sleep state, a surveillance state, 20 a warnings state, a theft alert state, and a successful authentication state. A parked state is determined when the vehicle is locked after being in use. This can be determined by checking one or more conditions, which includes the vehicle being stationary, at least one stand being engaged to support the vehicle, a motor kill switch being ON, an electronic signal being sent from one or more devices of the 25 user to indicate that the vehicle is parked, etc. The one or more devices may include the user’s mobile phone, a keyfob, a near field communication (NFC) card, etc. When the vehicle has been parked and in a locked condition, upon the expiration of a first pre-defined duration of time, the surveillance system is put in a sleep mode to conserve electrical power. However, the sensors are active to 30 capture any change in the state of the vehicle. When such a change is determined
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to have occurred, the surveillance mode is activated. The surveillance mode can also be triggered by one of two further conditions. These are a failed attempt of user authentication, and expiration of a counter. In an embodiment, once the surveillance system is in the sleep mode, this counter is set to a second pre-defined duration of time, and upon the expiration of said time, the surveillance 5 system transitions to the surveillance mode, which again reverts back to the sleep mode. However, if the surveillance system determines that the change in state of the vehicle is significant, the surveillance system transitions to the warnings state, where the audio and visual emitters are activated as a deterrent to any unauthorized attempt to move or tamper with the vehicle. The surveillance system 10 further includes a theft alert state. In the theft alert state, the surveillance system transmits updates to the authorized user or the owner of the vehicle regarding the current state of the vehicle. The theft alert state is usually engaged when the surveillance system determines that the vehicle is being moved from its parked location. According to the present invention, the processor 102 is configured to 15 manage the one or more states of the surveillance system as described above. The processor 102 is configured for determining 301 a current state of the vehicle being unchanged for a first pre-defined duration of time when the vehicle is in a locked condition using the one or more sensors. The processor is further configured for signaling 302 the surveillance system to be in a sleep state upon the 20 expiration of the first pre-defined duration of time. In an embodiment, the first pre defined duration of time is one of 30 seconds, 60 seconds, 120 seconds, 300 seconds, 600 seconds, and 900 seconds. The processor is further configured for determining 303 a risk condition associated with the vehicle based on one of a change in the current state of the vehicle, a failed user authentication attempt, and 25 the vehicle being in the sleep state for a second pre-defined duration of time. In an embodiment, the second pre defined duration of time is one of 30 seconds, 60 seconds, 120 seconds, 300 seconds, 600 seconds, 900 seconds, and 1800 seconds. The risk condition as described above is one of a failed user authentication attempt, expiration of the second pre defined duration of time, or a change in 30 current state of the vehicle. In case of multiple failed user authentication attempts,
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an alert is also transmitted to an authenticated mobile device of the user. The change in state of the vehicle is determined as one of the vehicle being moved from its parked location. Once either one of these conditions is satisfied, the processor 102 is configured for activating 304 a surveillance state of the surveillance system based on the determined risk condition. If the risk condition is 5 the expiration of the second pre defined duration of time, the surveillance system returns back to the sleep state upon further expiration of another pre defined duration of time. The processor 102 is further configured for receiving 305 data values corresponding to the change in the current state of the vehicle. This triggers one of the warning state and the theft alert state. In an embodiment, if the change 10 in the current state is above a first pre-defined threshold associated with each of the data values then the surveillance system changes from the surveillance state to a warnings state. In the warnings state, the surveillance system actuates the audio and visual emitters on the vehicle to deter any unauthorized person from accessing the vehicle. In an embodiment, in case the change in the current state of the 15 vehicle is determined as the vehicle is being moved, the surveillance system transitions to the theft alert state. The surveillance system is further configured for transmitting 306 an alert signal to at least one of one or more electronic components of the vehicle, and an electronic device. In an embodiment, the alert signal is indicative of a theft alert state of the vehicle. In an embodiment, the 20 warnings state and the theft alert state are simultaneously activated, where the warnings state causes the audio and visual emitters to be actuated, and the anti theft alert state transmits the alert to the electronic device of the user of the vehicle.
[0020] An initial state A of the vehicle is pre-defined as a parked condition. In an 25 embodiment the vehicle has been locked by the user of the vehicle. At 301, in the parked state, firstly, the vehicle is in a locked condition, and secondly, a timer is loaded with a parked location detect timeout, which is used to determine the duration of time the vehicle has remained in the parked condition, which is updated as per a signal from clock at regular intervals. While in the parked state, 30 the processor verifies, and determines, that the vehicle has come to rest and the
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vehicle is not under external disturbance for a first pre-defined duration of time, that is, the parked location detect timeout has crossed the threshold set by the first pre-defined duration. This is done by monitoring the change in accelerometer reading in the IMU. Hence, the processor determines that a current state of the vehicle is unchanged for a first pre-defined duration of time when the vehicle is in 5 a locked condition. Further, in the parked state, the processor receives location data and time data from the telemetry module at regular intervals.
[0021] At 302, upon expiration of the first pre-defined duration of time in the parked sate, the surveillance system enters the sleep state. The sleep state of the surveillance system has been configured to avoid unnecessary drainage of power 10 from either the primary battery or the auxiliary battery. While in the sleep state, the processor is configured to disable the telemetry module, disable all electrical loads within the instrument cluster except the IMU and the CAN bus, and enable a low power mode. In an embodiment, all non-essential electrical loads are disconnected. A sleep timer is configured to periodically wake the surveillance 15 system from the sleep state, after expiration of the second pre-defined duration of time. In an embodiment, when a change in the current state of the vehicle is determined during the sleep state due to a change in the data values sensed by the IMU, the audio device is turned ON for a time duration of 2 seconds, and the surveillance system moves into the surveillance mode. 20
[0022] At 303 and 304, the processor determines a risk condition associated with the vehicle based on a change in the current state of the vehicle. The change in the current state may be one of a failed user authentication attempt, and the vehicle being in the sleep state for a second pre-defined duration of time. The processor then activates the surveillance state of the surveillance system. A working 25 example of the condition where the vehicle is in the sleep state and a change in the state of the vehicle is determined is discussed above as one of the embodiments of 302 above. When the surveillance state of the surveillance system is activated, the processor configures a timer with a surveillance ON state timeout, the time duration therein being one of the thresholds of 305. On a successful authentication 30 by the user of the vehicle, the surveillance system is moved to the successful
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authentication state, which corresponds to the vehicle being active and ready for use.
[0023] At 305, the surveillance system changes from the surveillance state to the warnings state, depending on the change of state of the vehicle crossing a first pre-defined threshold corresponding to each of the data values in the state of the 5 vehicle. As per a specific embodiment of the present embodiment herein, if the IMU determines that the resultant of gravity is higher than a threshold in any of the axes of the vehicle, the change of state of the vehicle is determined. The surveillance system switches from the surveillance state to the warnings state specifically when, either a change of state has occurred as mentioned above, or a 10 pre-defined number of failed authentication attempts has occurred. Else, if the timer reaches another pre-defined threshold, the surveillance system changes back to the sleep state. Upon the determination of a change in state by any of the method mentioned herein, the audio emitter is signaled to be actuated for at least 2 seconds, and the surveillance system changes to the warnings state. 15
[0024] At 306, the processor is configured to transmit an alert signal to at least one of one or more electronic components of the vehicle, and an electronic device, where the alert signal is indicative of a theft alert state of the vehicle. The electronic device mentioned herein is the mobile device. When the vehicle is in the warnings state, the processor is configured to activate the telemetry module, 20 publish a warning to the user’s mobile device via the remote data server, and track the movement of the vehicle using the Navigational systems and the IMU (by determining a net resultant acceleration, which can be used to get the net distance). If the processor determines that the net distance travelled is above a pre-defined threshold distance, the theft alert state is enabled. Further fixation on the 25 exact location may be done using the GNSS, cellular networks, Wi-Fi, and the like. In the theft alert state, the processor is primarily configured to periodically send alerts to the user’s mobile device, updating the user with the latest position data of the vehicle, as measured using one or more of the GNSS, cellular network, IMU, Wi-Fi, etc. According to the present invention, the method for managing the 30
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states of the surveillance system may end at a final state B, or a final state C. The final state B is an exit state for the surveillance system at any moment.
[0025] As per an embodiment of the present invention as shown in figure 3B, the exit state B further comprises the processor being further configured to determine 307 the change in the current state of the vehicle. This is followed by the vehicle 5 being accessed by an authorized user within a third pre-defined duration of time. The processor is further configured to actuate 308 an unlocking mechanism of the vehicle based on successful authentication by the authorized user. The processor is further configured to disable the surveillance system post actuating the unlocking mechanism. This particular embodiment describes the exit of the 10 surveillance system from the theft alert state to the successful authentication state. At each and every one of the states of the surveillance system, a successful authentication by an user will change the state of the surveillance system to the successful authentication state, unlocks the vehicle. The other states of the surveillance system therefore, either begin or end at the successful authentication 15 state. This ends in an exit state D, which is the vehicle unlocked state, where the surveillance system 100 is not active. A further exit state A (which is the vehicle locked condition) is given to the exit state D. upon reaching A, the vehicle is in a locked condition, and the surveillance system is again activated.
[0026] As per another embodiment of the present invention as shown in figure 20 3E, an exit state E of the surveillance system is provided, as shown in figure 3A. The exit state E is determined when the surveillance system is in the surveillance mode. The state determines whether the system has been in surveillance mode for a second pre-defined duration of time, upon the expiration of which, the system reverts back to the sleep mode. Once the state E is determined, the processor is 25 further configured to signal 310 the surveillance system to change the current state to the sleep state upon expiration of the second predefined duration of time. When the vehicle had changed to the warnings state from the sleep state, if no further change in state of the vehicle is determined by the processor, the surveillance system reverts back to the sleep state upon expiration of the second predefined 30 duration of time.
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[0027] As per yet another embodiment of the present invention as shown in figure 5, the processor is further configured to reset 311 the one or more sensors to an initial state, when the current state has been updated to the secured remote server, to detect further change in the current state of the vehicle. When the surveillance system is in the theft alert state, the processor is configured to activate the 5 telemetry unit to connect to the remote data server, where the processor periodically uploads the current position data of the vehicle. As per this embodiment, the processor resets the sensors in the instrument cluster as well as the sensors communicatively connected to the VCU to an initial state of all the above mentioned sensors. This is a further embodiment when considering the exit 10 state C as provided in figure 3A. As per a further embodiment of the exit state C, the processor is further configured to: resetting 312 the one or more sensors to an initial state. This is also a further embodiment when considering the exit state C as provided in figure 3A. According to both these embodiments, the exit state in the C, thereby creating a loop, where updates regarding further change in the current 15 state of the vehicle is updated to the remote server.
[0028] Furthermore, the one or more electronic components of the vehicle comprising an audio emitter, a turn signal lamp (TSL), a headlamp, a taillamp. In an embodiment, the electronic device being one or more of a mobile phone and a smart watch, may be used in order to achieve the publishing of the warnings and 20 the theft alerts to the users of the vehicle. The various lamps may be used to emit visual warnings to the persons in the vicinity of the vehicle when the vehicle is in the theft alert state. The audio emitter may be used to emit audio warnings to one or more persons in the vicinity of the vehicle. The mobile phone of the user may be user to provide audio, visual, as well as haptic warnings to the user regarding 25 the current state of the vehicle. A smart watch of the user may also be used to provide visual and haptic warnings to the user.
[0029] As per yet another embodiment of the present invention, the surveillance system further includes one or more timers for determining one of the change in state of the vehicle. As per the present embodiment, all of the one or more timers 30 are reset to an initial state when the user is authenticated, and the surveillance
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system changes from any of the states to the successful authentication state. As per another embodiment, the vehicle has at least one auxiliary power source. The auxiliary power source is configured to supply electrical power to one or more electrical loads in the vehicle, and the surveillance system. As per the present embodiment, the auxiliary power source is a 12V battery. The one or more 5 electrical loads in the vehicle are disconnected from the auxiliary battery when the first processor is monitoring further change in the current state of the vehicle, and updating the current state to the secured connected server during one of a warnings state and a theft alert state.
[0030] In a working example, an unauthorized person tries to access the vehicle 10 while the vehicle is in a parked state. The surveillance system detects this using one of the motion sensors, the camera or the IMU sensor. The surveillance system switches to the surveillance state. In case the vehicle has been moved over a distance greater than a threshold, or the vehicle has fallen down, the system switches to the warnings state and activates the alerting mechanism, comprising 15 the audio emitter that is provided, or by activating the one or more lights to flash according to a pre-defined flashing pattern. In case the surveillance system determines that the vehicle has been moved even further than the threshold, and is being continuously moved, the surveillance system switches to the theft alert mode. the determination that the vehicle is being moved can be made using the 20 GNSS module, or the IMU sensor. While the GNSS can provide an accurate location, the IMU sensor, by determining the acceleration along various directions can provide an estimated location of the vehicle. The telemetry module of the surveillance system is used to send regular updates on the location of the vehicle to the authorized owner of the vehicle, so that the vehicle may be easily located. 25
[0031] The invention as described in the present application has certain inherent advantages, especially when the surveillance system is in one of the warnings state and the theft alert state. The surveillance system is capable of notifying the user, and publishing warnings through multiple means, to alert the user, or persons in the vicinity of the vehicle, regarding the possible theft of the vehicle. 30 The theft of the vehicle is determined considering more than one pre-defined
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thresholds of various data values. The present invention provides a position accuracy correction sensor, which as per an embodiment is a real time kinematics sensor, which makes the positioning data received from the GNSS more accurate. In places or areas where there is no reach of GNSS or GPS systems, or there is poor dilution of the precision in the location data, the surveillance system will 5 generate and publish the warnings and alerts using the IMU data. In places where there is poor network connectivity over cellular, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi networks, the surveillance system is equipped to alert the people in the vicinity of the vehicle using one or more visual and audio means, including a beeper, and one or more lamps of the vehicle. In order to notify a user in a situation where the vehicle is 10 not being moved, but has a continuous disturbance being determined by the processor, the surveillance system can send out a “vehicle under continuous disturbance” warning. As the IMU is equipped to determine the roll angle, the processor can determine when the vehicle has fallen down, and can alert the user of the vehicle accordingly. Further, the processor is configured to save the power 15 stored in the auxiliary and the primary batteries by turning off the non-essential electrical loads in the vehicle during sleep state and surveillance state.
[0032] In light of the above-mentioned advantages and the technical advancements provided by the disclosed method and system, the claimed steps as discussed above are not routine, conventional, or well understood in the art, as the 20 claimed steps enable the above-mentioned solutions to the existing problems in conventional technologies. Further, the claimed steps clearly bring an improvement in the functioning of the system itself as the claimed steps provide a technical solution to a technical problem.
25 , Claims:We claim:
1. A method for managing one or more states of a surveillance system (100) in a vehicle, the method comprising steps of:
determining, by a processor (102), a current state of the vehicle being unchanged for a first pre-defined duration of time when the vehicle is in a 5 locked condition using one or more sensors,
signaling, by the processor (102), the surveillance system (100) to be in a sleep state upon the expiration of the first pre-defined duration of time,
determining, by the processor (102), a risk condition associated with the vehicle based on one of a change in the current state of the vehicle, a failed 10 user authentication attempt, and the vehicle being in the sleep state for a second pre-defined duration of time,
activating, by the processor (102), a surveillance state based on the determined risk condition,
receiving, by the processor (102), data values corresponding to the change 15 in the current state of the vehicle, wherein if the change in the current state is above a first pre-defined threshold associated with each of the data values then changing the state of the vehicle from the surveillance state to a warnings state,
transmitting, by the processor (102), an alert signal to at least one of one or 20 more electronic components of the vehicle, and an electronic device, wherein the alert signal is indicative of a theft alert state of the vehicle.
2. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more electronic components of the vehicle comprising an audio emitter (105), a turn signal 25 lamp (TSL), a headlamp, a taillamp, and wherein the electronic device being one or more of a mobile phone and a smart watch.
3. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the current state of the vehicle being recorded and logged with a time stamp at a secured remote server (111). 30
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4. The method as claimed in claim 1 further comprising the step of monitoring, by the processor (102), further change in the current state of the vehicle, and updating the current state to a secured remote server (111).
5. The method as claimed in claim 1 further comprising the steps of, 5
determining, by the processor (102), the change in the current state of the vehicle being followed by the vehicle accessed by an authorized user within a third pre-defined duration of time, and
actuating, by the processor (102), an unlocking mechanism (114) of the vehicle based on successful authentication by the authorized user, 10
disabling, by the processor (102), the surveillance system post actuating the unlocking mechanism.
6. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more sensors include an inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensor (104), at least one positioning sensor 15 (107), at least one position accuracy correction sensor, and at least one radio frequency identification (RFID) sensor.
7. The method as claimed in claim 6, wherein the surveillance system (100) further includes one or more timers for determining one of the change in state 20 of the vehicle, wherein the one or more timers are reset to an initial state when the user is authenticated.
8. The method as claimed in claim 1 further comprising the step of signaling, by the processor (102), the surveillance system (100) to change the current state 25 to the sleep state upon expiration of the second predefined duration of time.
9. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the alert signal being communicated to an instrument cluster (101) or a telematics unit via CAN lines and then further the instrument cluster (101) or the telematics unit being 30
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wirelessly communicatively coupled to transfer the alert signal to the electronic device (110).
10. The method as claimed in claim 1 further comprising the step of resetting, by the processor (102), the one or more sensors (104, 115) to an initial state, 5 when the current state has been updated to the secured remote server (111), to detect further change in the current state of the vehicle.
11. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first predefined threshold being one of a failure in authentication of a rider over a predetermined number 10 of times, a predetermined duration of time, and a change in distance travelled above a predetermined threshold.
12. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the vehicle is having at least one auxiliary power source (118), the auxiliary power source (118) is configured 15 to supply electrical power to one or more electrical loads in the vehicle, and the surveillance system (100), wherein the auxiliary power source is a 12V battery, wherein, the one or more electrical loads in the vehicle are disconnected from the auxiliary battery when the processor (102) is monitoring further change in the current state of the vehicle, and updating the 20 current state to the secured connected server (111).
13. A surveillance system (100) for a two wheeled vehicle, the surveillance system (100) comprising at least one processor (102), one or more positioning sensors (107, 104), one or more wireless communication transceivers (108, 25 109, 106), one or more batteries (116, 118), one or more alerting systems (105), and one or more switches (115) and actuators (114),
wherein, the at least one processor (102) is configured to:
determine a current state of the vehicle being unchanged for a first pre-defined duration of time when the vehicle is in a locked condition using one or 30 more sensors,
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signal the surveillance system to be in a sleep state upon the expiration of the first pre-defined duration of time,
determine a risk condition associated with the vehicle based on one of a change in the current state of the vehicle, a failed user authentication attempt, and the vehicle being in the sleep more for a second pre-defined duration of 5 time,
activate a surveillance state based on the determined risk condition,
receive data values corresponding to the change in the current state of the vehicle, wherein if the change in the current state is above a first pre-defined threshold associated with each of the data values then changing the state of the 10 vehicle from the surveillance state to a warnings state,
transmit an alert signal to at least one of one or more electronic components of the vehicle, and an electronic device, wherein the alert signal is indicative of a theft alert state of the vehicle.
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14. The surveillance system (100) as claimed in claim 13 wherein,
the one or more positioning sensors (107) comprises an at least one inertial measurement unit (IMU) (104), and an at least one real time kinematic (RTK) unit,
the one or more wireless communication transceivers are configured to be 20 connected to one or more wireless networks, the one or more cellular networks (108), a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) (107), a Wireless Fidelity (WiFi) module, and a Bluetooth module (109),
the one or more batteries include at least an auxiliary power source (118), the auxiliary power source is configured for providing low voltage (LV) 25 electrical power to LV electrical loads in the vehicle,
the one or more alerting systems comprising at least one audio emitter (105), at least one visual emitter, and at least one haptic emitter, and
the one or more electronic components of the vehicle comprising the at least one audio emitter (105), at least one turn signal lamp (TSL), a headlamp, 30
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a taillamp, and wherein the electronic device is one or more of a mobile phone (110) and a smart watch,
wherein the alert signal being communicated to an instrument cluster (101) or a telematics unit via CAN lines and then further the instrument cluster or the telematics unit being wirelessly communicatively coupled to transfer the 5 alert signal to the electronic device (111),
and wherein the auxiliary power source is a 12V battery.
15. The surveillance system (100) as claimed in claim 13, wherein the current state of the vehicle being recorded and logged with a time stamp at a secured 10 remote server (111).
16. The surveillance system (100) as claimed in claim 13, wherein the at least one processor (102) is further configured to monitor further change in the current state of the vehicle, and updating the current state to a secured remote server 15 (111), and reset the one or more sensors to an initial state, when the current state has been updated to the secured remote server (111), to detect further change in the current state of the vehicle.
17. The surveillance system (100) as claimed in claim 13, wherein the at least one 20 processor (102) is further configured to
determine the change in the current state of the vehicle being followed by the vehicle accessed by an authorized user within a third pre-defined duration of time, and
actuate an unlocking mechanism of the vehicle based on successful 25 authentication by the authorized user,
disable the surveillance system (100) post actuating the unlocking mechanism.
18. The surveillance system (100) as claimed in claim 13, wherein the first 30 predefined threshold being one of a failure in authentication of a rider over a
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predetermined number of times, a predetermined duration of time, and a change in distance travelled above a predetermined threshold.
19.The surveillance system (100) as claimed in claim 14, wherein thesurveillance system (100) comprises a proximity alert system, the proximity5 alert system includes the at least one audio emitter (105) for generating audiowarnings, and the at least one TSL, the headlamp, and the taillamp forgenerating visual warnings.10
Dated this 31st day of August, 2023