DESC:TECHNICAL FIELD
The present disclosure relates to the field of turn signal systems for vehicles. More particularly, the disclosure relates to an autonomous turn indicator system integrated with a navigation system to enhance road safety by automatically activating turn indicators based on real-time navigation data, providing an efficient and reliable alternative to manual signaling by drivers.
BACKGROUND
Road safety is a critical concern worldwide, and one of the primary causes of traffic accidents is the failure of drivers to use turn indicators appropriately. According to the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), over two million accidents occur annually due to drivers neglecting to signal their intentions while turning. This issue is particularly prevalent on highways, where approximately 71% of accidents result from improper signalling. A closer analysis reveals that younger drivers, particularly those aged 18 to 24, are more prone to this oversight, contributing significantly to the accident statistics.
There are several reasons why drivers fail to give proper indications when turning. The reasons are distractions, such as mobile phone use or interactions with passengers, often divert drivers' attention, leading them to forget about signalling. In other cases, drivers may lack awareness of the importance of turn indicators or underestimate the potential consequences of failing to signal. Additionally, turn signal indicators can be difficult to see in adverse weather conditions or at night, further contributing to the problem. The result is a range of hazardous situations, from minor near-misses to severe accidents, that could have been prevented with appropriate signalling.
Various prior art solutions have attempted to address this issue. For instance, turn signal reminder devices use lights or buzzers to alert drivers to activate their indicators, but these reminders are often ignored. Other systems, such as lane departure warning and blind spot monitoring systems, rely on sensors to detect when a vehicle is near another or crossing a lane without signalling, alerting the driver accordingly. However, these systems are limited to specific situations, such as lane changes or immediate hazards, and do not address all scenarios where turn signals are needed.
There is a need for a solution that is more effective in preventing accidents caused by drivers who fail to give a proper indication while taking turns, enhance road safety, reduce human error, and reliably prevent accidents in various driving conditions.
SUMMARY
In one aspect of the present disclosure, a turn signal control system is provided.
A turn signal control system for a vehicle, comprising a Global positioning system (GPS) receiver adapted to receive one or more real-time positional data from a satellite, wherein the positional data comprises the current position, speed, and direction of travel associated with the vehicle; a user device, communicatively connected to the GPS receiver and configured to generate navigation commands indicating upcoming turns to a driver based on the positional data; a turn signal control module operatively connected to the user device, configured to receive the navigation commands, the real-time positional data, and determine the appropriate timing for activating or deactivating the vehicle’s turn indicators; and a control unit in communication with the GPS receiver, user device, and turn signal control module, and configured to integrate inputs from the GPS receiver to verify the vehicle's travel state; process the navigation commands received from the user device; and instruct the turn signal control module to activate the appropriate turn indicator (right or left) based on the direction of the upcoming turn.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, the control unit calculates the predetermined distance based on parameters comprises the vehicle's speed, direction, and travel time.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, a Bluetooth communication module is configured to receive offline map data from the mobile application when network connectivity is unavailable.
In some aspects of present disclosure, an onboard infotainment system that displays navigation instructions and turn signal status to the driver.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, the control unit is configured to override turn signal activation based on external information such as obstacle detection.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, the GPS receiver continuously updates the current position of the vehicle to adjust turn signal activation timing dynamically.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, the Bluetooth communication module is configured to receive data input from various navigation applications, including those with offline map capability.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, the control unit includes an object-oriented arrangement to display relevant navigation icons and route guidance on a vehicle-mounted display.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, the turn signal control system is configured for use in both two-wheeled and four-wheeled vehicles.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, show certain aspects of the subject matter disclosed herein and together with the description, help explain some of the principles associated with the disclosed implementations. In the drawing,
Figure 1 illustrates a turn signal control system for a vehicle, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure;
Figure 2 illustrates a right turn navigation display in the cluster, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure;
Figure 3 illustrates a process for activating a right turn, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure;
Figure 4 illustrates a left turn navigation display in the cluster, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure;
Figure 5 illustrates a process for activating a left turn, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure;
Figure 6 illustrates a cluster navigation display representing a straight road condition, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure;
Figure 7 illustrates a straight road direction, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure; and
Figure 8 illustrates a GPS satellite system communicating vehicle location and destination for navigation data, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Various embodiments of the disclosure are discussed in detail below. While specific implementations are discussed, it should be understood that this is done for illustration purposes only. A person skilled in the relevant art will recognize that other components and configurations may be used without parting from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Thus, the following description and drawings are illustrative and are not to be construed as limiting. Numerous specific details are described to provide a thorough understanding of the disclosure. However, in certain instances, known details are not described in order to avoid obscuring the description.
References to one or an embodiment in the present disclosure can be references to the same embodiment or any embodiment; and such references mean at least one of the embodiments.
Reference to "one embodiment", "an embodiment", “one aspect”, “some aspects”, “an aspect” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the disclosure. The appearances of the phrase "in one embodiment" in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments mutually exclusive of other embodiments. Moreover, various features are described which may be exhibited by some embodiments and not by others.
The terms used in this specification generally have their ordinary meanings in the art, within the context of the disclosure, and in the specific context where each term is used. Alternative language and synonyms may be used for any one or more of the terms discussed herein, and no special significance should be placed upon whether or not a term is elaborated or discussed herein. In some cases, synonyms for certain terms are provided.
A recital of one or more synonyms does not exclude the use of other synonyms.
The use of examples anywhere in this specification including examples of any terms discussed herein is illustrative only and is not intended to further limit the scope and meaning of the disclosure or of any example term. Likewise, the disclosure is not limited to various embodiments given in this specification. Without intent to limit the scope of the disclosure, examples of instruments, apparatus, methods and their related results according to the embodiments of the present disclosure are given below. Note that titles or subtitles may be used in the examples for convenience of a reader, which in no way should limit the scope of the disclosure. Unless otherwise defined, technical and scientific terms used herein have the meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. In the case of conflict, the present document, including definitions will control.
Additional features and advantages of the disclosure will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or can be learned by practice of the herein disclosed principles. The features and advantages of the disclosure can be realized and obtained by means of the instruments and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. These and other features of the disclosure will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims or can be learned by the practice of the principles set forth herein.
The term “turn signal control system 100” and “system 100” are interchangeably used across the context.
As discussed before, there is a need for a new solution that is more effective in preventing accidents caused by drivers who fail to give a proper indication while taking turns, enhance road safety, reduce human error, and reliably prevent accidents in various driving conditions. The present disclosure, therefore, addresses these shortcomings by integrating a navigation system that utilizes GPS and Bluetooth connectivity to automatically activate and deactivate vehicle turn signals based on real-time location data.
Figure 1 illustrates a turn signal control system 100 for a vehicle, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure. The turn signal control system 100 addresses the issue of accidents caused by drivers neglecting to use turn signals, a common oversight that contributes to numerous collisions globally. The present disclosure leverages advanced technologies, including GPS and Bluetooth, to ensure accurate and timely signaling.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, the system 100 includes a GPS receiver 102, a user device 104, a Bluetooth communication module 106, a turn signal control module 108, and a control unit 110.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, the GPS receiver 102 forms the foundation of the system 100 by receiving one or more real-time positional data from a satellite. The received one or more real-time positional data, such as the vehicle's current position, speed, and direction of travel. The above-mentioned information is essential for determining the proximity of the vehicle to an upcoming turn or junction, enabling the system 100 to anticipate signaling requirements accurately. The Bluetooth communication module 106 plays a role by creating a wireless connection between the user device 104 and the GPS receiver 102.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, the user device 104, such as a smartphone or tablet equipped with navigation applications like Google Maps, acts as the intermediary between the GPS receiver 102 and a vehicle's control system. The user device 104 not only provides navigation commands to the driver but also transmits these commands to the turn signal control system module 108 via Bluetooth. This dual functionality ensures that the driver remains informed while the system 100 manages the indicators automatically.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, the Bluetooth communication module 106 plays a role by creating a wireless connection between the user device 104 and the turn signal control module 108. The Bluetooth communication module 106 ensures seamless and efficient data transfer, allowing the system 100 to receive real-time navigation information without delays. The wireless setup simplifies the installation process, making the system 100 compatible with a wide range of vehicles, including two-wheelers and four-wheelers.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, the turn signal control module 108 is responsible for processing the navigation data received via the Bluetooth communication module 106. The turn signal control module 108 determines the appropriate timing for activating or deactivating the vehicle's turn indicators based on the vehicle's proximity to a turn. The turn signal control module 108 module eliminates the need for manual intervention by the driver, ensuring timely signalling even in situations where the driver may be distracted or unaware of the need to signal.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, the control unit 110 acts as the central processor, integrating inputs from the GPS receiver 102, navigation data, and other system parameters such as vehicle speed and direction. By analyzing the above-mentioned inputs, the control unit 110 instructs the turn signal control module 108 to activate the appropriate indicator either right or left depending on the direction of the upcoming turn. Once the turn is completed, the control unit 110 ensures the indicator is promptly deactivated, maintaining operational efficiency. On straight roads, where no turns are detected, the system keeps the indicators in the OFF state.
For instance, at a speed of 60 km/h, the system 100 activates the turn signal approximately 100 meters before a turn, ensuring timely and safe signalling.

Distance calculation:
Distance (m) = Speed (kmph) *Time (s)
For e.g.
Distance (m) = 60kmph * 6sec
Distance (m) =60 *(5/18) * 6sec (Converting kmph to m/s)
Distance (m) = 360*(5/18)
Distance (m) = 20 * 5
Distance (m) = 100m
*Based on the above calculation, distance in metre will be calculated for the vehicle speed.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, speed, distance, and time are three parameters that have been taken as references to determine where the indicator should turn ON and OFF. The above-mentioned calculation implemented for speed, distance, and time would calculate the proper indication. If any of the three parameters fail, the remaining two parameters will assist in making the decision to be an indicator. Due to the driver's reaction time of 6 seconds, due to speed indicator turn ON would vary. If the vehicle is driving at 60kmph, the indicator will turn ON before 100 meters from the turning point.
In some aspect of the present disclosure, the system 100 operates seamlessly by using predefined thresholds, such as a 200 meter distance from a turn, to trigger the indicators. If the vehicle is moving at a high speed, the system 100 compensates by activating the indicators earlier to account for the reaction time required by other drivers. Additionally, the system 100 can function with both online and offline navigation maps, ensuring reliability even in areas with poor network connectivity.
Figure 2 illustrates an exemplary view representing turn right navigation display in cluster 200, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure. The system 100 operates by continuously receiving real-time navigation data from the GPS receiver 102, which determines the vehicle’s position and route. When a right turn is detected, for example 200 meters ahead, the user device 104 transmits this information to the vehicle’s system 100 via the Bluetooth communication module 106.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, the control unit 110 processes the data and activates the right turn indicator 202 automatically, ensuring timely signaling. Within the cluster display 200, a graphical representation 204, such as a right-turn arrow, is shown to alert the driver of the upcoming maneuver. Additional information, like the remaining distance to the turn, may also be displayed, enhancing driver awareness.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, this automated system 100 minimizes the need for manual input, significantly reducing errors such as forgetting to signal. Once the turn is completed, the system 100 deactivates the indicator, and the cluster updates to reflect the next navigation step or straight-road conditions. By integrating navigation commands with turn signaling, this system 100 enhances safety and driver convenience, effectively communicating the vehicle’s movements to other road users.
Figure 3 illustrates a process 300 for activating a right turn, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure. The system 100 begins by receiving real-time positional data from the GPS receiver 102, which includes the vehicle's location and travel direction. This data is processed by the navigation application on the user device 104, which identifies an upcoming right turn. Upon detecting the turn, the navigation app 302 generates a command encoded as a data frame (e.g., with a key byte value "4A") and transmits it wirelessly to the vehicle’s onboard system via the Bluetooth communication module 106.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, the control unit 110 receives and processes this command through the right command receiver 304, determining the appropriate time to activate the right turn signal. Factors such as the vehicle's speed, the remaining distance to the turn, and the driver’s reaction time are considered. For instance, at a speed of 60 km/h, the system 100 activates the indicator approximately 200 meters or 6 seconds before the turn. When the cluster 306 receives the "4A" value, it recognizes the right direction and turns on the right indicator 308. The turn signal control module 108 then activates the right turn indicator, which is displayed in the cluster 306 as the right indicator 308, ensuring timely communication of the vehicle’s movement to other road users. Once the turn is completed, the system 100 deactivates the signal, maintaining efficiency and safety.
Figure 4 illustrates a left turn navigation display in the cluster, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure. The system 100 operates by continuously receiving real-time navigation data from the GPS receiver 102, which determines the vehicle’s position and route. When a left turn is detected, for example 200 meters ahead, the user device 104 transmits this information to the vehicle’s system 100 via the Bluetooth communication module 106.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, the control unit 110 processes the data and activates the left turn indicator 402 automatically, ensuring timely signaling. Within the cluster display 400, a graphical representation 404, such as a left-turn arrow, is shown to alert the driver of the upcoming maneuver. Additional information, like the remaining distance to the turn, may also be displayed, enhancing driver awareness.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, this automated system 100 minimizes the need for manual input, significantly reducing errors such as forgetting to signal. Once the turn is completed, the system 100 deactivates the indicator, and the cluster updates to reflect the next navigation step or straight-road conditions. By integrating navigation commands with turn signaling, this system 100 enhances safety and driver convenience, effectively communicating the vehicle’s movements to other road users.
Figure 5 illustrates a process for activating a left turn, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure. The system 100 begins by receiving real-time positional data from the GPS receiver 102, which includes the vehicle's location and travel direction. This data is processed by the navigation application on the user device 104, which identifies an upcoming left turn. Upon detecting the turn, a navigation app 502 generates a command encoded as a data frame (e.g., with a key byte value "49") and transmits it wirelessly to the vehicle’s onboard system via the Bluetooth communication module 106.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, the control unit 110 receives and processes this command by left command receiver 504, determining the appropriate time to activate the left turn signal. Factors such as the vehicle's speed, the remaining distance to the turn, and driver reaction time are considered. For instance, at a speed of 60 km/h, the system 100 activates the indicator approximately 200 meters or 6 seconds before the turn. while a cluster 506 receiving “49” value it considered left direction and its turn ON a left indicator ON 508 respectively. The turn signal control module 108 then activates the left turn indicator and it’s displayed in a cluster 506 as a right indicator ON 508, ensuring timely communication of the vehicle’s movement to other road users. Once the turn is completed, the system 100 deactivates the signal, maintaining efficiency and safety.
Figure 6 illustrates a cluster navigation display representing a straight road condition, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure. The system 100 operates by continuously receiving real-time navigation data from the GPS receiver 102, which determines the vehicle’s position and route. The user device 104 running the navigation application processes this data and determines that the vehicle is traveling on a straight path without any upcoming turns. This determination is then communicated to the vehicle’s onboard system through the Bluetooth communication module 106.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, in this straight-road condition, the control unit 110 does not activate any turn indicators, as no turn commands are present in the navigation data. Within the cluster display 600, a graphical representation 604, both the left and right indicators in the OFF state 602.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, On the cluster navigation display 600, a visual representation of a straight road is shown, along with any relevant navigation details, such as the distance to the next manoeuvre or waypoint. This display confirms to the driver that no immediate action is required, allowing for uninterrupted focus on the road.
Figure 7 illustrates a straight road direction, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure. The system 100 begins by receiving real-time positional data from the GPS receiver 102, which includes the vehicle's location and travel direction. This data is processed by the navigation application on the user device 104, which identifies no upcoming turn. Upon detecting the no turn, a navigation app 702 generates a command encoded as a data frame and transmits it wirelessly to the vehicle’s onboard system via the Bluetooth communication module 106.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, the control unit 110 receives and processes this command by no command receiver 704. while a cluster 706 receiving no value. It is considered both the left and right indicators in the OFF 708. If commands not received from navigation map cluster, it is considered as straight, and indicators will maintain in OFF state
Figure 8 illustrates a GPS satellite system communicating vehicle location and destination for navigation data, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure. The system 800 includes a network of GPS satellites 802 orbiting the Earth, responsible for transmitting location-based signals to vehicles equipped with GPS receivers 102. These signals contain precise geolocation and time data.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, the vehicle communicates its current location to the control unit 110, which may be part of an onboard navigation system or a remote server. Along with the current location, the vehicle also transmits its intended destination. The control unit 110 processes this information and calculates an optimized navigation route using stored maps, traffic data, and additional user-defined parameters.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, the navigation data is transmitted back to the vehicle in real-time through satellite communication links. These links ensure uninterrupted communication, even in remote areas. The system 800 also incorporates a feedback loop, allowing the vehicle to provide updates on its current location at regular intervals. This feedback ensures that the navigation route remains optimal, adapting to real-time traffic or environmental conditions. This configuration ensures enhanced accuracy, reliability, and efficiency in providing navigation services, which is a significant technical advancement over conventional systems.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, a mobile app, such as Google Maps, will be installed for tracking and location-finding purposes. A user device for example mobile device 804 will also support the applications, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi communication protocols for pairing with other devices, such as data packets. Generally, when the mobile app is installed, it enables communication for tracking purposes.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, a cluster 806 is mounted in two-wheelers and four-wheelers as part of the driver information system, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure. The cluster 806 is built with Bluetooth communication protocol. Once paired with the mobile app, the cluster 806 remains ready to accept data from the mobile app at all times. When the starting location is entered in the mobile app and the destination is provided, the mobile app will navigate accordingly, and Bluetooth data packets will begin transmitting from the mobile app to the vehicle.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, an application-level code 808 is tagged with Google Maps code, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure. The mobile app then communicates with the GPS satellites 802, and the data is ready for transfer to other devices via Bluetooth for controlling purposes.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, a display 810 is provided for the GPS navigation system's directions. When the vehicle approaches a right turn, the GPS system will send an alert 200 meters before the turn to the mobile app. The mobile app will then transfer the data to the cluster 806 via the Bluetooth module. The right turn indicator is configured as a software-based control, so when the signal is received through Bluetooth, both the GPS display and the right turn indicator in the cluster will activate as described above.

Advantages:
• The present disclosure provides a system that automatically activates the indicators, reducing human error and preventing accidents.
• The present disclosure provides a system that eliminates the need for manual turn indicator operation, enhancing driver comfort.
• The present disclosure provides a system that adjusts the indicator timing based on the vehicle's speed, improving turn signal accuracy.
• The present disclosure provides a system that reduces driver distractions by automating turn signaling, allowing the driver to focus on the road.
• The present disclosure provides a system that minimizes accidents caused by drivers failing to indicate turns, particularly on highways.
• The present disclosure provides a system that operates with offline maps, ensuring functionality even without network connectivity.
The implementation set forth in the foregoing description does not represent all implementations consistent with the subject matter described herein. Instead, they are merely some examples consistent with aspects related to the described subject matter. Although a few variations have been described in detail above, other modifications or additions are possible. In particular, further features and/or variations can be provided in addition to those set forth herein. For example, the implementation described can be directed to various combinations and sub combinations of the disclosed features and/or combinations and sub combinations of the several further features disclosed above. In addition, the logic flows depicted in the accompanying figures and/or described herein do not necessarily require the particular order shown, or sequential order, to achieve desirable results. Other implementations may be within the scope of the following claims.
,CLAIMS:1. A turn signal control system (100) for a vehicle, comprising:
a Global positioning system (GPS) receiver (102) adapted to receive one or more real-time positional data from a satellite, wherein the positional data comprises the current position, speed, and direction of travel associated with the vehicle;
a user device (104), communicatively connected to the GPS receiver (102) and configured to generate navigation commands indicating upcoming turns to a driver based on the positional data;
a turn signal control module (108) operatively connected to the user device (104), configured to receive the navigation commands, the real-time positional data, and determine the appropriate timing for activating or deactivating the vehicle’s turn indicators; and
a control unit (110) in communication with the GPS receiver (102), user device (104), and turn signal control module (108), and configured to:
- integrate inputs from the GPS receiver (102) to verify the vehicle's travel state;
- process the navigation commands received from the user device (104); and
- instruct the turn signal control module (108) to activate the appropriate turn indicator (right or left) based on the direction of the upcoming turn.
2. The turn signal control system (100) for a vehicle, as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control unit (110) calculates the predetermined distance based on parameters comprises the vehicle's speed, direction, and travel time.
3. The turn signal control system (100) for a vehicle, as claimed in claim 1, wherein a Bluetooth communication module (106) is configured to receive offline map data from the mobile application when network connectivity is unavailable.
4. The turn signal control system (100) for a vehicle, as claimed in claim 1, further comprising an onboard infotainment system that displays navigation instructions and turn signal status to the driver.
5. The turn signal control system (100) for a vehicle, as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control unit (110) is configured to override turn signal activation based on external information such as obstacle detection.
6. The turn signal control system (100) for a vehicle, as claimed in claim 1, wherein the GPS receiver (102) continuously updates the current position of the vehicle to adjust turn signal activation dynamically.
7. The turn signal control system (100) for a vehicle, as claimed in claim 1, wherein the Bluetooth communication module (106) is configured to receive data input from various navigation applications, comprising those with offline map capability.
8. The turn signal control system (100) for a vehicle, as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control unit (110) comprises an object-oriented arrangement to display relevant navigation icons and route guidance on a vehicle-mounted display.
9. The turn signal control system (100) for a vehicle, as claimed in claim 1, wherein the turn signal control system (100) is configured for use in both two-wheeled and four-wheeled vehicles.