Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a public transport passenger monitoring device that is capable of verifying an on-board passenger entering a vehicle and monitors the behavior of passengers to detect any detrimental behavior in real-time to alert the vehicle operator, enabling timely intervention and appropriate responses to maintain order and ensure passenger safety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Public transportation systems are widely used to provide convenient and efficient travel for a large number of passengers. However, with increasing passenger numbers, ensuring passenger safety, maintaining order, and preventing disruptive behavior have become significant challenges for vehicle operators. In many cases, detecting problematic behavior in real-time and taking timely action is crucial for preventing incidents that could endanger passengers and operators.

[0003] Existing systems for monitoring passenger behavior typically rely on manual checks or limited technological interventions, which often fail to provide real-time detection or effective communication between passengers and operators. With the advancement of sensor and communication technologies, there is a growing opportunity to create a device that autonomously monitor passenger behavior, detect any harmful or disruptive actions, and facilitate rapid responses by the vehicle operator and also capable of verifying passenger identities, tracking behavior, and providing timely alerts would significantly improve the safety and efficiency of public transportation services.

[0004] CN114120622A discloses about a passenger flow monitoring method of a public transport means, which comprises the steps of obtaining relevant data detected by a traffic information detector, wherein the relevant data comprises an identification code of each mobile device in one or more mobile devices and position information corresponding to each mobile device; acquiring feature information of each mobile device based on the identification code of each mobile device and the corresponding position information; determining a target mobile device from the one or more mobile devices according to the characteristic information of each mobile device; and estimating the passenger flow of the public transport means according to the number of the target mobile devices, the current station and the current time of the public transport means. The invention also provides a server and a storage medium for realizing the passenger flow monitoring method of the public transport means. The invention can improve the accuracy of passenger flow analysis.

[0005] CN108345878A discloses about a kind of public transport passenger flow quantity monitoring method and system based on video.This method includes：Receive the car door ON signal or car door OFF signal that door sensor detects.It receives car door ON signal and sends recording sign on to video acquisition device, receive car door OFF signal and send recording END instruction to video acquisition device.Receive the video file that video acquisition device is sent.Obtain the site number of website and the row information up and down of public transport residing for the car number of public transport, public transport.Multiframe picture is obtained according to frame sequential, converts each picture to structural data.By structured data entry passenger's identification model, passenger image vector data is obtained.Determine whether the corresponding passenger of two groups of passenger image vector datas is same passenger.The corresponding two groups of passenger image vector datas of same passenger are compared, the mobile trajectory data of passenger is obtained.The present invention can more accurately count the volume of the flow of passengers of public transport.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices have been developed to monitor passengers in public transportation vehicles, focusing primarily on safety and comfort. These devices include basic surveillance cameras, audio systems for announcements and rudimentary sensors for environmental monitoring. However, these systems often lack the ability to detect and assess real-time passenger behavior/condition effectively or to respond proactively in cases of disturbances or emergencies

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that is capable of verifying the identity of passengers, continuously monitoring their behavior and providing immediate alerts to the vehicle operator in the event of detrimental behavior.

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 device that can verify an on-board passenger entering a vehicle and monitor the behavior of passengers to detect any detrimental behavior in real-time to alert the vehicle operator, enabling timely intervention and appropriate responses to maintain order and ensure passenger safety.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of determining the real-time location of the vehicle and providing passengers with relevant information such as nearby tourist spots based on the detected location.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that monitor the passengers' health parameters, ensuring timely alerting of the operator in case of detection of unhealthy parameters.

[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 a public transport passenger monitoring device that is designed to assess and track passenger behavior within a vehicle, ensuring safety and security by verifying the identity of passengers upon boarding and monitor their actions in real-time. If any detrimental behavior is detected, the device alerts the vehicle operator, enabling timely intervention and appropriate measures to ensure a safe and orderly environment for all passengers.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a public transport passenger monitoring device comprises of a cuboidal housing adapted to be positioned within a public transport vehicle, a touch enabled display unit mounted on the housing to display journey details to passengers boarding the vehicle in a preferred language inputted by the passenger, a microphone provided on the housing enables passengers to input KYC (know your customer) details before beginning of journey, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit installed on the housing in synchronisation with the microphone to determine behaviour of passengers in the vehicle to trigger a microcontroller to record the behavioural data and categorise captured behaviour based on a behavioural database linked with the microcontroller, wherein on detection of detrimental behaviour, wireless communication unit linked with the microcontroller it actuated to notify a computing unit of an operator of the vehicle to attend to passenger displaying detrimental behaviour, a GPS (global positioning system) unit provided in the housing to determine an instant location of the vehicle to show tourist spots in vicinity of the detected location to computing units of the passengers, a wearable band configured with an FBG (Fiber Bragg Grating) sensor configured to be worn by the passenger is wirelessly communicating with the communication unit to record health parameters of the passenger to inform operator on detecting unhealthy parameters, a gyroscope in synchronisation with an accelerometer installed in the housing detects a movements of the vehicle to determine an accident to inform present location of the vehicle recorded by the GPS to nearest authorities via the communication unit, a plurality of air cushions are embedded along surfaces of the housing connected with an inflation unit provided on the housing to inflate in case of an accident to safeguard the housing and a gas sensor embedded on the housing detects harmful gases in the vehicle to trigger the microcontroller to actuate a speaker provided on the housing to generate an audio alert regarding using masks for protection against harmful gases.

[0015] 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

[0016] 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 sectional view of a public transport passenger monitoring device; and
Figure 2 illustrates an isometric view of a wearable band associated with the proposed device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] 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.

[0018] 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.

[0019] 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.

[0020] The present invention relates to a public transport passenger monitoring device that is designed to verify passengers boarding the vehicle and continuously monitor their behavior in real-time and also detecting any detrimental behavior and alerting the vehicle operator, facilitating timely intervention and appropriate actions to maintain order and ensure the safety of passengers.

[0021] Referring to Figure 1 and 2, a sectional view of a public transport passenger monitoring device and an isometric view of a wearable band associated with the proposed device are illustrated, respectively comprising a cuboidal housing 101 adapted to be positioned within a public transport vehicle, a touch enabled display unit 102 mounted on the housing 101, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 installed on the housing 101 in synchronisation with a microphone 103, a wearable band 201 configured with an FBG (Fiber Bragg Grating) sensor 202 configured to be worn by the passenger a gyroscope 105 in synchronisation with an accelerometer 106 installed in the housing 101, a plurality of air cushions 107 are embedded along surfaces of the housing 101, a gas sensor 109 embedded on the housing 101 and a speaker 110 provided on the housing 101.

[0022] The proposed device herein comprise of a cuboidal housing 101 adapted to be positioned within a public transport vehicle. The housing 101 is made up of but not limited to materials such as high-strength plastic, metal alloys and composite materials which provide resistance against impacts, vibrations, and environmental factors like humidity or temperature fluctuations. The housing 101 is designed to be robust enough to withstand the rigors of a public transport environment.

[0023] A user is required to press a push button integrated with the device, such that when the user presses the push button, it initiates an electrical circuit mechanism. Inside the push button, there is a spring-loaded contact mechanism that, under normal circumstances, maintains an open circuit. When the button is pressed, it compresses the spring, causing the contacts to meet and complete the circuit. This closure then sends an electrical signal to an inbuilt microcontroller associated with the device to either power up or shut down. Conversely, releasing the button allows the spring to return to its original position, breaking the circuit and sending the signal to deactivate the device.

[0024] A touch enabled display unit 102 is mounted on the housing 101 to display journey details to passengers boarding the vehicle in a preferred language input by the passenger. The display unit 102 presents information such as route maps, upcoming stops, travel duration, and estimated arrival times. The display unit 102 consists of multiple layers, including a transparent conductive layer such as indium tin oxide (ITO) coated glass, which forms the surface that users directly touch. Beneath the layer lies a grid of electrodes, typically made of a conductive material like copper or silver, arranged in rows and columns.

[0025] When the user touches the screen, it creates a measurable change in capacitance at the point of contact, altering the electrical field between the electrodes. This change is detected by the controller circuitry embedded within the screen, which interprets the position and intensity of the touch. The controller then converts this data into digital signals representing user inputs, thus allows passengers to select and view these details in their preferred language enhancing accessibility for a diverse range of users.

[0026] A microphone 103 is provided on the housing 101 enables passengers to input KYC (know your customer) details before beginning of journey. The user can utilize the display unit 102 along with the microphone 103 to enter the details including UID (unique identification number), contact details, address etc. The microphone 103 consists of a diaphragm, typically made of a thin, flexible material such as metal or plastic. When sound waves reach the microphone 103, they cause the diaphragm to vibrate. These vibrations are directly proportional to the variations in air pressure caused by the sound waves. The diaphragm is coupled to a coil of wire, as the diaphragm vibrates, the coil moves within a magnetic field, inducing an electric current in the wire. This current is proportional to the amplitude and frequency of the sound waves. The electrical signal generated by the diaphragm-coil is transmitted to the microcontroller. The information/details fed through the interface are used to fetch all the details about the user including past history of criminal activity or medical records. In case any such record is found, the same is notified to the operator of the vehicle so that the decision of on boarding can be taken by knowing the customer.

[0027] An artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 is installed on the housing 101 that works in synchronisation with the microphone 103 to determine behaviour of passengers in the vehicle. The imaging unit 104 consists of an image capturing arrangement that includes a set of lenses designed to capture multiple images or video frames of the surroundings inside the vehicle. These images are stored as optical data in the memory of the imaging unit 104.

[0028] The imaging unit 104 is equipped with a processor integrated with artificial intelligence (AI) protocols, which process the optical data to extract relevant information, such as identifying passenger movements, body language, or facial expressions. The processor then converts this extracted data into digital pulses and bits, which are transmitted to the microcontroller. The microcontroller analyzes the received data to determine passenger behavior, comparing the data with predefined behavioral models to classify the behavior as normal or detrimental, triggering a response if necessary, such as notifying the vehicle operator.

[0029] The artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 monitor and analyze the behavior of passengers within the vicinity of the housing 101. The imaging unit 104 records the gestures and actions of passengers in real-time, while the microphone 103 synchronously captures voice inputs and voice notes. The recorded behavioral data, including both gestures and voice inputs, are compared with a pre-configured behavioral database stored in the device. The microcontroller analyzes this data and categorizes the behaviour of passengers as either "good behaviour" or "detrimental behaviour" based on predefined parameters within the behavioral database.

[0030] The behavioral database linked with the microcontroller is regularly updated using machine learning protocols. This ensures that the categorization of passenger behaviours remains accurate and adaptive to evolving behavioral patterns. By performing iterative computations on newly captured gestures and voice notes, the system refines its understanding of various behaviors over time. Upon detecting detrimental behaviours, the microcontroller triggers the communication unit to notify the operator of the vehicle, ensuring timely intervention. This comprehensive monitoring enables real-time oversight and enhances passenger safety and compliance during the journey.

[0031] A wireless communication unit linked with the microcontroller that is actuated to send a notification over a computing unit of the vehicle operator to attend to passenger displaying detrimental behaviour. the communication module which includes, but not limited to Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) module, Bluetooth module, GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication) module for establishing a wireless network between the microcontroller and computing unit, thus relay information to the vehicle operator, allowing for timely intervention and management of the situation involving the passenger displaying harmful behavior.

[0032] A GPS (global positioning system) unit is provided in the housing 101 to determine an instant location of the vehicle. The GPS (Global Positioning System) unit is a satellite-based navigation system. The satellites present in space moving in fixed orbits transmits information about the location and real-time of the vehicle. The signals travel at the speed of light and are intercepted by the GPS unit such that the GPS unit calculates the distance of each satellite and based on the time taken by the information to arrive at the receiver. The GPS unit locates four or more satellites and calculates the distance between each of them.

[0033] Using this information, the GPS unit finds out the current location of the vehicle. Once the distance is determined, the GPS unit uses a trilateration method to determine the exact position of the vehicle and thus fetching the real-time location coordinates of the vehicle based on which the microcontroller fetches relevant nearby tourist spots and actuates the communication unit to display the fetched information to the passengers via their individual computing units, such as smartphones or onboard displays. This provides passengers with information about attractions or points of interest close to their current location, enhancing their travel experience by offering additional details about their journey in real-time.

[0034] A wearable band 201 is configured with an FBG (Fiber Bragg Grating) sensor 202 developed to be worn by the passenger that communicates wirelessly with the microcontroller to record health parameters of the passenger to inform operator on detecting unhealthy parameters. The FBG (Fiber Bragg Grating) sensor 202 consists of distributed brag reflectors in a short segment of optical fiber that reflects a particular wavelength of light while transmitting the other wavelengths. Thus, the sensor 202 corresponds to the changes in the diameter of the arteries present within the user and monitors the detected change to measure the vital parameters including pulse rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure and alike of the user.

[0035] The sensor 202 further converts the measured parameters into an electric signal that is received by the microcontroller. The microcontroller analyzes the data to assess the health parameters of the passenger. If the microcontroller detects any unhealthy or abnormal parameters, such as an elevated pulse rate, irregular respiratory patterns, or abnormal blood pressure, then an alert is sent to the operator for notifying the operator of potential health issues with the passenger, enabling timely intervention if necessary. Each of the wearable band 201 is allocated according to the seat number of the passenger so that the operator can be provided with the seat number of the passenger facing such issues.

[0036] A gyroscope 105 in synchronisation with an accelerometer 106 is installed in the housing 101 that is activated by the microcontroller to detect movements of the vehicle. The microcontroller evaluates the signals relative to such movements and compares said signals with pre-stored data to determine an accident. In case any accident is identified, the microcontroller uses an inbuilt communication unit to inform present location of the vehicle recorded by the GPS to nearest authorities via the communication unit. The gyroscope 105 consists of a rotating mass and a vibrating structure. When the vehicle rotates or tilts (e.g., during an accident), the rotation causes a shift in the angular position, which is detected by the gyroscope 105 and these changes are captured and converted into electrical signals. These signals are then sent to the microcontroller to detect the vehicle’s rotational movements, helping identify vehicle tilting or spinning associated with an accident.

[0037] The accelerometer 106 consist of a mass suspended and attached to a capacitive sensing element. This element consists of two electrodes with a small gap between them, forming a capacitor. When the vehicle experiences sudden movement, such as a rapid deceleration or impact, the suspended mass shifts due to the forces acting on it. This shift changes the distance between the electrodes, which alters the capacitance of the accelerometer 106.

[0038] The change in capacitance is directly proportional to the force applied to the mass, which is then converted into acceleration values by the accelerometer 106. The microcontroller reads this data, and if the acceleration exceeds predefined thresholds (such as a sudden stop or collision), the microcontroller detect that an accident has occurred, thus provides real-time feedback on the vehicle’s motion, enabling quick identification of abnormal forces indicative of an accident.

[0039] Additionally, in case of accident, the microcontroller deploys plurality of air cushions 107 are embedded along surfaces of the housing 101 and connected with an inflation unit 108 provided on the housing 101 by actuating the inflation unit 108 to inflate to safeguard the housing 101. The inflation unit 108 is equipped with a compressor, wherein the air compressor works by compressing atmospheric air and storing air in the cushions 107, which is then inflated.

[0040] The compressor works by converting the potential energy of the air into kinetic energy. This is done by compressing the air, which increases the air pressure and temperature. The air is then released through a nozzle and directed into the cushions 107 thus aiding in inflating of the cushions 107 to form a protective barrier around the housing 101 from external forces and impacts during the accident.

[0041] The protection of the housing 101 is critical as it contains sensitive components, including the imaging unit 104, microphone 103 and microcontroller, which collectively record and process behavioral data, voice inputs, and GPS location data. Safeguarding the housing 101 through the deployment of air cushions 107 ensures that the recorded data remains intact and can be retrieved post-accident for analysis, reporting, or emergency response. This feature ensures the operational reliability of the device even in adverse scenarios, enhancing its utility and dependability in public transport.

[0042] A gas sensor 109 is embedded on the housing 101 to detect harmful gases in the vehicle. The gas sensor 109 operates contains a thin film of metal oxide material, such as tin dioxide, which is sensitive to specific gases. When harmful gases like carbon monoxide or methane enter the sensor 109, they react with the metal oxide surface, causing a change in the electrical conductivity of the material.

[0043] The presence of these gases causes oxygen molecules on the metal oxide surface to become adsorbed and interact with the gas molecules, leading to either an increase or decrease in the sensor’s 109 conductivity. This change is measured by a circuit in the sensor 109 and converted into an electrical signal. The signal is sent to the microcontroller, which processes the data and triggers an audio alert through the speaker 110 if the gas concentration exceeds safe limits.

[0044] Simultaneously, the microcontroller activates the vehicle's ventilation unit. This action helps to circulate fresh air or expel harmful gases from the vehicle, reducing exposure to passengers and ensuring a safer environment.

[0045] The device is associated with a battery for providing the required power to the electronically and electrically operated components including the microcontroller, electrically powered sensors, motorized components and alike of the device. The battery within the device is preferably a lithium-ion-battery which is a rechargeable battery and recharges by deriving the required power from an external power source. The derived power is further stored in form of chemical energy within the battery, which when required by the components of the device derive the required energy in the form of electric current for ensuring smooth and proper functioning of the device.

[0046] The imaging unit 104 also monitor passengers in real time, capturing video or images of their activities within the vehicle. This imaging unit 104 uses advanced algorithms to detect restricted activities such as spitting, littering, or other prohibited behaviors. Upon identifying such activities, the imaging unit 104 sends the data to the microcontroller, which processes the information and generates a notification. This notification is then transmitted to the vehicle operator, enabling them to take timely action and maintain cleanliness and order within the public transport vehicle.

[0047] Further, the microcontroller pre-configured with a machine learning protocol that enables continuous improvement of its behavioral database. This microcontroller processes data from the imaging unit 104 and microphone 103, analyzing passenger behaviors to classify them as good or detrimental. Through iterative computations and pattern recognition, the machine learning protocol refines its ability to identify behaviors by updating the database with new observations over time. This adaptive approach ensures the system remains effective in categorizing behaviors accurately, enhancing its capability to monitor and respond to evolving passenger conduct.

[0048] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the housing 101 that is positioned within the vehicle wherein the onboard passengers access the display unit 102 that provides passengers with journey details such as route maps, upcoming stops and estimated arrival times all in a language selected by the passenger. The user access the microphone 103 that allows passengers to input their KYC details before the journey begins, ensuring secure onboarding process. The imaging unit 104 works synchronously with the microphone 103 to assess passenger behavior, categorizing and analyzing the data in real-time. If the microcontroller detects detrimental behavior then the microcontroller sends notification to the vehicle operator through the wireless communication unit to take appropriate action. The GPS unit embedded in the housing 101 tracks the vehicle's location, enabling the system to suggest nearby tourist spots to passengers through the communication unit. the wearable band 201 fitted with the FBG (Fiber Bragg Grating) sensor 202 is worn by the passenger to continuously monitor health parameters like pulse rate and blood pressure, wirelessly communicating the data to the microcontroller, which alerts the operator if unhealthy parameters are detected. In case of an accident, the device includes the gyroscope 105 and accelerometer 106 that detect sudden movements of the vehicle, triggering the microcontroller to send the vehicle's location, recorded by the GPS, to the nearest authorities via the communication unit. To enhance safety further, the plurality of air cushions 107 are embedded in the housing 101, which inflate in response to an accident, safeguarding the housing 101. Additionally, the gas sensor 109 monitors the vehicle for harmful gases and triggers the microcontroller to activate the speaker 110, alerting passengers to use masks for protection.

[0049] 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) A public transport passenger monitoring device, comprising:
i) a cuboidal housing 101 adapted to be positioned within a public transport vehicle;
ii) a touch enabled display unit 102 mounted on said housing 101, to display journey details to passengers boarding said vehicle, in a preferred language input by said passenger;
iii) a microphone 103 provided on said housing 101 that works in sync with said display unit 102 to enable passengers to input KYC (know your customer) details before beginning of journey;
iv) an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104, installed on said housing 101 and integrated with a processor for recording and processing images in a vicinity of said housing 101, in synchronisation with said microphone 103 provided on said housing 101, to determine behaviour of passengers in said vehicle to trigger a microcontroller to record said behavioural data and categorise captured behaviour based on a behavioural database linked with said microcontroller, wherein on detection of detrimental behaviour, a wireless communication unit linked with said microcontroller is actuated to notify a computing unit of an operator of said vehicle to attend to one or more passengers displaying detrimental behaviour;
v) a GPS (global positioning system) unit provided in said housing 101 to determine an instant location of said vehicle to trigger said microcontroller to actuate said communication unit to show tourist spots in vicinity of said detected location to computing units of said passengers; and
vi) a wearable band 201 configured with an FBG (Fiber Bragg Grating) sensor 202, configured to be worn by said passenger, wirelessly communicating with said communication unit, to record health parameters of said passenger to inform operator on detecting unhealthy parameters.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a gyroscope 105 in synchronisation with an accelerometer 106 installed in said housing 101, detects a movements of said vehicle, to determine an accident to inform present location of said vehicle recorded by said GPS to nearest authorities via said communication unit.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a plurality of air cushions 107 are embedded along surfaces of said housing 101, connected with an inflation unit 108 provided on said housing 101, to inflate in case of an accident to safeguard said housing 101.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a gas sensor 109 embedded on said housing 101 detects harmful gases in said vehicle to trigger said microcontroller to actuate a speaker 110 to generate an audio alert regarding using masks along with control of a ventilation unit of said vehicle for protection against harmful gases.

5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said imaging unit 104 monitors said passengers in real time to identify if any passenger is performing any restricted activity including but not limited to spitting, throwing garbage then said microcontroller notifies the operator of the vehicle.

6) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said microcontroller is pre-configured with machine learning protocol that upgrades said behavioural database by performing computation and iterations on the behaviour of the passengers.