Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an autonomous pedestrian safety system for signalized intersections that is designed to enhance pedestrian crossing safety through intelligent traffic control, automated pedestrian flow management, and vehicle monitoring, thereby ensuring pedestrian safety at crossings, improving the efficiency of pedestrian movement, and enforcing traffic laws effectively.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] At busy intersections, pedestrian safety has always been a significant concern, as many people depend on crossing signals to navigate safely. Traditionally, pedestrian signals are linked to traffic lights, indicating when it is safe to cross. However, these systems often operate on fixed timers, meaning the pedestrian signal changes according to a pre-determined schedule rather than in response to real-time traffic conditions or the number of pedestrians. As a result, pedestrians often face long waits at red lights, sometimes waiting for a signal that doesn’t align with the actual flow of traffic. Moreover, in some cases, pedestrians might cross during unsafe times, particularly in the absence of adaptive systems that detect pedestrian movement or traffic congestion. These traditional setups fail to optimize pedestrian safety and convenience, highlighting the need for more intelligent and responsive pedestrian signal systems that adapt based on the real-time situation at the intersection.

[0003] Initially, pedestrian crossings were controlled by simple traffic lights with a standard “Walk” and “Don’t Walk” signal, typically with a fixed timer that determined when pedestrians could cross. These early systems were rudimentary and did not account for real-time pedestrian demand or the specific traffic conditions at the intersection. So, people also use push-button systems where pedestrians could press a button to activate the "Walk" signal. These systems allowed pedestrians to request a green signal, but the timing was still generally fixed, meaning pedestrians might wait for a long time even if there are no vehicles present or, conversely, cross when traffic was heavy.

[0004] CN203256557U discloses a zebra crossing road pedestrian passing safety device. The device is formed by pedestrian safety protection mark stand columns and pedestrian temporary waiting strip-shaped regions, and is characterized in that the pedestrian temporary waiting strip-shaped regions are mounted on overlapped road surfaces of zebra crossing roads and lane lines; the pedestrian safety protection mark stand columns are fixedly mounted at left and right sides of the pedestrian temporary waiting strip-shaped regions; the pedestrian safety protection mark stand columns and the pedestrian temporary waiting strip-shaped regions are mounted on the lane lines at the two sides of isolation columns on upper and lower driving lane isolation belts. Pedestrians can pass through the pedestrian temporary waiting strip-shaped regions on the lane lines one by one at intervals according to car conditions; no matter how wide the road is and how long the zebra crossing roads are, the pedestrians can smoothly pass through; a traffic light does not need to be used for commanding the pedestrians on the zebra crossing roads to pass through and the normal driving of motor vehicles is not influenced; meanwhile, the problem of Chinese type road crossing is solved and unnecessary accidental injuries caused by that the pedestrians rapidly pass through a plurality of lanes for one time can be avoided.

[0005] CN103225275A discloses a method allowing a passerby to safely pass through zebra lines is characterized in that passerby safety protection indication columns and passerby temporary waiting strip-shaped areas are comprised and the passerby temporary waiting strip-shaped areas are arranged on the overlapping pavements of the zebra lines and lane lines; the passerby safety protection indication columns are arranged on the left and the right sides of the passerby temporary waiting strip-shaped areas; and the passerby temporary waiting strip-shaped areas and the passerby safety protection indication columns on the lane lines on two sides of an isolating column on a two-way driving vehicle center line isolation zone. According to the invention, the passerby on the zebra lines can intermittently pass through the passerby temporary waiting strip-shaped areas on the lane lines one by one according to the vehicle condition, and can smoothly pass through the road no matter how wide the road is, and how long the zebra line is; and moreover, the traffic light for guiding the passerby to pass through the zebra lines is avoided, and the normal driving of motor vehicles is not affected. Unnecessary accidental injuries caused by that the passerby quickly passes through a plurality of lane lines at one time can be avoided.

[0006] Conventionally, many systems have been developed that are capable of ensuring pedestrian safety during crossing zebra crossings. However, these systems fail to detect and monitor traffic signal changes and pedestrian movement simultaneously, which disrupts pedestrian flow and compromises safety at intersections. Additionally, these existing systems also fail in detecting vehicles that disregard pedestrian signals, and are insufficient in tracking their registration details for appropriate enforcement actions.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a system that requires to autonomously detect and monitor traffic signal changes and pedestrian movement, thereby ensuring that pedestrian flow is prioritized and safety is maintained at intersections. In addition, the developed system also needs to improve traffic safety and enforcement by detecting vehicles that disregard pedestrian signals, and subsequently tracking their registration details for appropriate enforcement actions.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a system that is capable of enhancing pedestrian safety at signalized intersections by automatically detecting the status of traffic lights and facilitating safe pedestrian crossings.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a system that is able to provide an automated means for enhancing pedestrian safety at signalized crossings by adapting traffic signal cycles and controlling pedestrian movement efficiently, thus preventing accidents and improving accessibility, particularly for individuals with mobility impairments.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a system that is able to improve traffic safety and enforcement by detecting vehicles that disregard pedestrian signals, and subsequently tracking their registration details for appropriate enforcement actions.

[0012] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The present invention relates to an autonomous pedestrian safety system for signalized intersections that is able to monitor traffic signals, and accordingly regulates pedestrian movement, by adapting to real-time traffic conditions and pedestrian needs.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an autonomous pedestrian safety system for signalized intersections comprises of a platform developed to be installed on a road surface, at location of a zebra crossing, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit is installed on the platform to determine color of light on a traffic signal post installed nearby the zebra crossing, motorized gates are installed on both sides of the platform, the gates open when traffic light is red, and close when the traffic light is about to turn green, a pair of motorized rollers arranged on the platform, each by means of a telescopically operated rod to extend for positioning the roller towards another end of the road for orientating a conveyor belt coupled with the rollers at level of the road surface, the conveyor belt is accessed by pedestrians for crossing the intersection, when the traffic light is red, and a facial recognition module integrated within the imaging unit to detect age and mobility of pedestrians, based on which the microcontroller regulates actuation of the roller for rotating the conveyor belt at an optimum speed, for different groups of pedestrians, ensuring optimal safety and accessibility for all users.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the proposed system further comprises of a RADAR (Radio Detection and Ranging) gun provided with the platform to monitor speed of incoming vehicles at red lights, multiple pneumatic bars attached to the platform, configured to act as barriers and speed breakers to stop oncoming vehicles during pedestrian crossings, each of the bars are equipped with a LED (Light Emitting Diode) lights affixed to upper surface, which activate when the bars are deployed, signaling to approaching vehicles to stop and ensuring pedestrian safety during crossing times, a number plate detection module configured with the imaging unit to detect vehicle registration numbers of vehicles violating traffic rules, the microcontroller is configured to store the captured violation data in a database linked with the microcontroller, allowing for tracking and enforcement of repeated violations by vehicle owners and the microcontroller is configured to automatically adjust traffic light cycles based on pedestrian wait times, ensuring that pedestrian flow is prioritized and pedestrian safety is maintained even during high-traffic conditions.

[0016] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of an autonomous pedestrian safety system for signalized intersections.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0019] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.

[0020] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.

[0021] The present invention relates to an autonomous pedestrian safety system for signalized intersections that facilitates autonomous detection and monitoring of traffic signal changes and pedestrian movement, for ensuring prioritization of pedestrian flow and safety at intersections. Additionally, the system enhances traffic safety and enforcement by identifying vehicles that violate pedestrian signals and capturing their registration details for appropriate enforcement actions.

[0022] Referring to Figure 1, a perspective view of an autonomous pedestrian safety system for signalized intersections is illustrated, comprising a platform 101 developed to be installed on a road surface, at location of a zebra crossing, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 102 is installed on the platform 101, a traffic signal post 103 installed nearby the zebra crossing, a pair of motorized rollers 104 arranged on the platform 101, each by means of a telescopically operated rod 105, a conveyor belt 106 coupled with the rollers 104, multiple pneumatic bars 107 attached to the platform 101, motorized gates 108 are installed on both sides of the platform 101 and bars 107 are equipped with a LED (Light Emitting Diode) lights 109.

[0023] The system disclosed herein comprising a platform 101 that is designed and developed to be installed on the road surface at the location of a zebra crossing, with the primary purpose of enhancing pedestrian safety and facilitating safe crossings. The platform 101 is strategically positioned to align with the zebra crossing, for ensuring that that the platform 101 is within the designated pedestrian crossing area. The platform 101 is built to withstand the pressures of vehicular traffic and harsh environmental conditions, ensuring durability and long-term performance.

[0024] The platform 101 is installed with an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 102 which determine color of light on a traffic signal post 103 installed nearby the zebra crossing. The imaging unit 102 disclosed herein comprises of an image capturing arrangement including a set of lenses that captures multiple images of the surroundings and the captured images are stored within memory of the imaging unit 102 in form of an optical data.

[0025] The imaging unit 102 also comprises of the processor which processes the captured images. This pre-processing involves tasks such as noise reduction, image stabilization, or color correction. The processed data is fed into AI protocols for analysis which utilizes machine learning techniques, such as deep learning neural networks, to extract meaningful information from the visual data which are processed by the microcontroller to determine color of light on the traffic signal post 103.

[0026] On both sides of the platform 101 a pair of motorized gates 108 are installed at the location of the zebra crossing, functioning as a safety feature to protect pedestrians while crossing the road. These gates 108 are linked to the imaging unit 102 and processes images captured by the imaging unit 102. When the traffic light turns red, signaling that vehicles must stop, the gates 108 automatically open, allowing pedestrians to safely cross the road. Conversely, when the traffic light is about to turn green, signaling that vehicles will resume movement, the gates 108 close to prevent pedestrians from entering the crossing area, thereby reducing the risk of accidents.

[0027] The motorized gates 108 consist of an electric motor connected to a gear mechanism. When the traffic light turns red, the microcontroller sends a signal to activate the motor, which turns a shaft that drives the gears. The gears move the gates 108 along its track, opening it to allow pedestrian access. As the light turns green, the microcontroller reverses the signal, engaging the motor in the opposite direction. This causes the gears to move the gates 108 back along the track, closing the gates 108 securely.

[0028] The platform 101 is installed with a pair of motorized rollers 104, wherein each of the rollers 104 are arranged via telescopically operated rod 105. The rod 105 is pneumatically actuated, wherein the pneumatic arrangement of the rod 105 comprises of a cylinder incorporated with an air piston and the air compressor, wherein the compressor controls discharging of compressed air into the cylinder via air valves which further leads to the extension/retraction of the piston. The piston is attached to the telescopic rod 105, wherein the extension/retraction of the piston corresponds to the extension/retraction of the rod 105. The actuated compressor allows extension of the rod 105 for positioning the rollers 104 towards another end of the road.

[0029] As the rollers 104 are positioned towards another end of the road, the rollers 104 orientate a conveyor belt 106 coupled with the rollers 104 at level of the road surface. The conveyor belt 106 is accessed by pedestrians for crossing the intersection, when the traffic light is red. As when the traffic light turns red, a motorized system causing the belt 106 to move horizontally across the intersection. Pedestrians step onto the belt 106, which is designed to move at a consistent speed. The belt 106 is driven by a set of rollers 104 at either end, powered by a motor. As pedestrians stand on the belt 106, it moves them across the road to the opposite side. When the traffic light turns green, the belt 106 ceases operation, halting further pedestrian movement.

[0030] A facial recognition module, incorporated within the imaging unit 102, is designed to capture and analyze facial features of pedestrians within the vicinity of the platform 101. The module utilizes advanced techniques to detect the age and assess the mobility of pedestrians based on their facial characteristics. The data obtained from the recognition process is processed by the microcontroller to categorize pedestrians into different groups based on their mobility needs, such as children, elderly individuals, or people with disabilities. This information enables the microcontroller to optimize pedestrian flow and adjust the operation of the associated components accordingly to ensure enhanced safety and accessibility for all users at the intersection.

[0031] The facial recognition module operates by capturing an image or video of a person's face using the imaging unit 102. The module then processes this data using modules to detect and analyze facial features, such as the size and shape of the eyes, nose, and mouth, as well as the overall facial structure. Next, the module compares these features with a database of known faces to identify the individual's age. Advanced modules may utilize deep learning techniques to improve accuracy and adaptability over time. The result is a reliable method for recognizing individuals age and mobility of pedestrians.

[0032] As the age and mobility of pedestrians is determined, the microcontroller actuates rollers 104. The pair of motorized rollers 104 mentioned above is a mechanical unit designed to rotate on its axis with the help of an integrated electric motor. The cylindrical roller tube serves as a surface for supporting, and unwinding the positioned conveyor belt 106. The motorized rollers 104 is equipped with an electric motor that provides the rotational power necessary to turn the rollers 104. The motor is connected to the roller tube through a drive mechanism, which involves gears, belts to transfer the motor’s rotational force to the rollers 104, causing it to rotate for rotating the conveyor belt 106 at an optimum speed, for different groups of pedestrians, ensuring optimal safety and accessibility for all users.

[0033] The platform 101 is integrated with a RADAR (Radio Detection and Ranging) gun which monitor speed of incoming vehicles at red lights. The radar gun works by emitting radio waves in the form of a radar beam towards the incoming vehicles then the radar beam hits the incoming vehicles, it reflects back to the radar gun. By measuring the frequency shift between the emitted and received waves, the radar gun, via the microcontroller determines monitor speed of incoming vehicles at red lights.

[0034] The microcontroller analyzes the data and in the event that vehicle gets too close to the deployed conveyor belt 106, the microcontroller actuates multiple pneumatic bars 107 (preferably 2 to 6 in numbers) that are attached to the platform 101. The bars 107 are pneumatically actuated, and works in the similar manner as of rod 105. On actuation, the bars 107 get extended and act as barriers and speed breakers to stop oncoming vehicles during pedestrian crossings.

[0035] Each of the bars 107 are equipped with a LED (Light Emitting Diode) light 109 that are affixed to upper surface of the bars 107 and are synchronously actuated by the microcontroller. The LED (Light Emitting Diode) lights 109 bulbs mentioned herein is a two-lead semiconductor light source also known as p-n junction which produce the lighting when constant voltage is supplied across the diode. When the voltage is supplied across the diode, the electrons recombine with the electrons hole in the diode which result in conversion of electron into photons which is another form of light, that glow for signaling to approaching vehicles to stop and ensuring pedestrian safety during crossing times.

[0036] A number plate detection module, integrated with the imaging unit 102, is configured to capture images of vehicles approaching the intersection. Using optical character recognition (OCR) technology, the module identifies and reads the vehicle registration numbers from the captured images. When a vehicle is detected violating traffic rules, such as disregarding pedestrian signals or stopping within the designated crossing area, the microcontroller processes and stores the vehicle's registration details. This data is then linked to a database for future reference, enabling authorities to track violations and implement appropriate enforcement actions against the registered vehicle owner.

[0037] The number plate detection module captures images of passing vehicles using cameras. The region of the image containing the vehicle's number plate is then isolated. Pre-programmed modules identify and segment the characters on the plate. The extracted characters are compared with a database to ensure accuracy. Upon recognition, the vehicle's registration number and timestamp of the violation are stored. The data is then sent to the microcontroller for further processing, such as tracking repeated offenses or alerting authorities. This process ensures the identification and tracking of vehicles violating traffic rules.

[0038] The microcontroller is programmed to autonomously monitor and adjust traffic light cycles by continuously evaluating pedestrian wait times at signalized intersections. Upon detecting extended pedestrian wait times or a high volume of pedestrian presence, the microcontroller adjusts the signal timing by prioritizing pedestrian flow over vehicle traffic. This dynamic adjustment is based on real-time for ensuring that pedestrian crossings are not delayed unnecessarily, even during periods of high vehicle traffic. The microcontroller’s action enhances pedestrian safety by ensuring timely and efficient crossing opportunities, thereby reducing pedestrian risk at busy intersections and promoting smooth pedestrian movement without compromising overall traffic management.

[0039] Moreover, a battery is associated with the system for powering up electrical and electronically operated components associated with the system and supplying a voltage to the components. The battery used herein is preferably a Lithium-ion battery which is a rechargeable unit that demands power supply after getting drained. The battery stores the electric current derived from an external source in the form of chemical energy, which when required by the electronic component of the system, derives the required power from the battery for proper functioning of the system.

[0040] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the platform 101 as disclosed in the invention is developed to be installed on the road surface, at a location of the zebra crossing. The artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 102 determines color of light on the traffic signal post 103 installed nearby the zebra crossing. Also, the motorized gates 108 open when traffic light is red, and close when the traffic light is about to turn green. Now the pair of motorized rollers 104 arranged on the platform 101, each by means of the telescopically operated rod 105 extends for positioning the rollers 104 towards another end of the road for orientating the conveyor belt 106 coupled with the rollers 104 at level of the road surface. The conveyor belt 106 is accessed by pedestrians for crossing the intersection, when the traffic light is red. Thereafter the facial recognition module detects age and mobility of pedestrians. Based on which the microcontroller regulates actuation of the rollers 104 for rotating the conveyor belt 106 at the optimum speed, for different groups of pedestrians, ensuring optimal safety and accessibility for all users. Then the RADAR (Radio Detection and Ranging) gun provided with the platform 101 monitors speed of incoming vehicles at red lights. In case the vehicle gets too close to the deployed conveyor belt 106, the microcontroller actuates multiple pneumatic bars 107 to act as barriers and speed breakers to stop oncoming vehicles during pedestrian crossings. Each of the pneumatic bars 107 are equipped with the LED (Light Emitting Diode) lights 109 affixed to upper surface, in view of signaling approaching vehicles to stop to ensure pedestrian safety during crossing times. Synchronously, the number plate detection module configured with the imaging unit 102 detects vehicle registration numbers of vehicles violating traffic rules. Thereafter the microcontroller configured to store the captured violation data in the database linked with the microcontroller, allowing tracking and enforcement of repeated violations by vehicle owners. Moreover, the microcontroller is configured to automatically adjust traffic light cycles based on pedestrian wait times, ensuring that pedestrian flow is prioritized and pedestrian safety is maintained even during high-traffic conditions.

[0041] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) An autonomous pedestrian safety system for signalized intersections, comprising:

i) a platform 101 developed to be installed on a road surface, at location of a zebra crossing, wherein an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 102 is installed on said platform 101 and paired with a processor for capturing and processing multiple images in vicinity to said platform 101, respectively, to determine color of light on a traffic signal post 103 installed nearby said zebra crossing;
ii) a pair of motorized rollers 104 arranged on said platform 101, each by means of a telescopically operated rod 105 that are actuated by an inbuilt microcontroller to extend for positioning said rollers 104 towards another end of said road for orientating a conveyor belt 106 coupled with said rollers 104 at level of said road surface, wherein said conveyor belt 106 is accessed by pedestrians for crossing said intersection, when said traffic light is red;
iii) a facial recognition module integrated within said imaging unit 102 to detect age and mobility of pedestrians, wherein based on which said microcontroller regulates actuation of said rollers 104 for rotating said conveyor belt 106 at an optimum speed, for different groups of pedestrians, ensuring optimal safety and accessibility for all users;
iv) a RADAR (Radio Detection and Ranging) gun provided with said platform 101 and synced with said imaging unit 102 to monitor speed of incoming vehicles at red lights, wherein in case a vehicle gets too close to said deployed conveyor belt 106, said microcontroller actuates multiple pneumatic bars 107 attached to said platform 101, configured to act as barriers and speed breakers to stop oncoming vehicles during pedestrian crossings; and
v) a number plate detection module configured with said imaging unit 102 to detect vehicle registration numbers of vehicles violating traffic rules, wherein said microcontroller is configured to store said captured violation data in a database linked with said microcontroller, allowing for tracking and enforcement of repeated violations by vehicle owners.

2) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein motorized gates 108 are installed on both sides of said platform 101, said gates 108 open when traffic light is red, and close when said traffic light is about to turn green.

3) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said microcontroller is configured to automatically adjust traffic light cycles based on pedestrian wait times, ensuring that pedestrian flow is prioritized and pedestrian safety is maintained even during high-traffic conditions.

4) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of said bars 107 are equipped with a LED (Light Emitting Diode) light 109 affixed to upper surface, which activate when said bars 107 are deployed, signaling to approaching vehicles to stop and ensuring pedestrian safety during crossing times.