Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an adaptive collision prevention and impact absorption device for trailer vehicle that is capable of providing a means to detect and prevent potential collisions of a trailer vehicle with another vehicle to mitigate the risk of damage and enhance safety during potential impacts, ensuring the protection of both the trailer vehicle and occupants.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Collision protection devices for trailers and trucks are critical safety technologies designed to mitigate under-ride crash risks, where passenger vehicles slide underneath large trucks during accidents. These systems integrate rear and lateral under-run protective devices (RUPD/LUPD), collision warning systems, and automatic emergency braking technologies to reduce fatalities and prevent catastrophic impacts. While addressing significant safety concerns by detecting objects in blind spots and automatically applying brakes, these devices face limitations including high installation costs, technological complexity, non-universal regulatory mandates, and varying performance across different driving conditions.

[0003] Traditionally, collision prevention with trailers relied on basic safety devices like mirrors, proximity sensors, and manual driver observation. These systems had significant limitations, including restricted field of view, potential blind spots, and heavy dependence on driver reaction time Older collision avoidance methods typically used simple technologies like radar, cameras, and basic warning systems that could alert drivers but often could not autonomously intervene to prevent accidents. Most traditional systems provided warnings but lacked the capability to automatically brake or take corrective action, leaving the ultimate collision prevention responsibility with the human driver, who could be distracted, fatigued, or slow to respond.

[0004] US5389912A discloses an invention comprises of vehicle clearance anti-collision device includes an ultrasonic wave transmitter transducer and an ultrasonic wave receiver transducer for receiving waves generated by the ultrasonic wave transmitter transducer and reflected off an object disposed vertically above the vehicle. The device is mountable on a portion of a vehicle for transmitting substantially vertical ultrasonic waves. A computer device operatively associated with the ultrasonic wave transmitter and receiver transducers calculates the vertical difference between the object and the height of the truck and provides human-recognizable information to the operator of the truck as to the vertical clearance available between the object and an uppermost portion of the vehicle.

[0005] CN114144350B discloses a vehicle platforms having a variety of impact safety devices, including front-to-rear impact devices and side-impact devices, are designed to protect the passenger compartment as well as the battery compartment and vehicle chassis assembly. These devices may include a crush zone assembly, a deflector, and a modular energy absorbing unit.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices used for collision prevention for trailers have traditionally included systems such as mirrors, proximity sensors, and basic warning alarms. These systems suffer from limitations like restricted visibility, blind spots, and reliance on driver awareness. For instance, mirrors miss objects in adjacent lanes, while proximity sensors not detect all obstacles, especially at varying heights. Additionally, many of these devices provide only alerts without automated intervention, placing the onus on drivers to respond promptly. This dependency on human reaction can lead to accidents if drivers are distracted or fatigued.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that is capable of aiding a means for detecting and preventing potential collisions between a trailer vehicle and other vehicles, reduce impact force during collisions to minimize damage and enhance occupant safety, and communicate specific warnings or actions to approaching vehicles using different colored lights to aid a safety way of riding the trailer vehicle.

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 is capable of detecting and preventing potential collisions of a trailer vehicle with another vehicle to mitigate the risk of damage and enhance safety during potential impacts.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of aiding a means to reduce impact force transferred to the trailer vehicle during the collision, minimizing damage to the vehicle’s body and enhancing occupant safety by reducing the severity of impact force.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of indicating specific signals to approaching vehicles by using different colors light to communicate distinct actions or warnings.

[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 adaptive collision prevention and impact absorption device for trailer vehicle that is capable of automatically detecting potential collisions to minimize impact force, and enhancing vehicle safety to ensure optimal performance of the vehicle in various environmental conditions.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an adaptive collision prevention and impact absorption device for trailer vehicle comprises, a rectangular frame developed to be fixed with rear side of a trailer vehicle by means of multiple suction units and electromagnetic clamps, a communication module integrated into the frame, to enable wireless connectivity between the device and a user's computing unit, to allow the user to provide input commands for activating the device, a laser sensor integrated on the frame to determine dimension of the rear side of the trailer vehicle, a telescopic arrangement integrated in the frame to extend/retract, for covering entire the rear side, multiple telescopic rods arranged on the frame by means of motorized hinges to provide angular movement to the rods, to construct a dome shaped structure behind the frame, an artificial intelligence based imaging unit installed on the frame and synced with a sensing module integrated on the frame to detect approaching of any vehicle, along with detecting speed and distance between the rear side and approaching vehicle, an air inflating unit integrated with the frame to inflate multiple inflatable member configured with the frame and rods, that acts as a shock absorber during collisions, distributing impact force evenly.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the proposed device further comprises of multiple damping units integrated inside the dome-shaped structure, to reduce impact force transferred to the trailer vehicle during the collision, multiple multi-colored LED (light emitting diode) lights integrated on the frame to indicate specific signals to approaching vehicles by using different colors to communicate distinct actions or warnings, a GPS (global positioning system) module integrated to detect real time location, a snow sensor integrated on the frame to detect the accumulation of snow, a heating element integrated with the frame for melting the snow, and a battery associated with the device for supplying power to electrical and electronically operated components associated with the device.

[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 an isometric view of an adaptive collision prevention and impact absorption device for trailer vehicle.

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 adaptive collision prevention and impact absorption device for trailer vehicle that is capable of aiding a means to detect collision of any vehicle approaching the trailer vehicle and accordingly reduce impact force transferred to the trailer vehicle during the collision, minimizing damage to the vehicle’s body.

[0022] Referring to Figure 1, an isometric view of an adaptive collision prevention and impact absorption device for trailer vehicle is illustrated, comprising a rectangular frame 101 having multiple suction units 102 and electromagnetic clamps 103, multiple telescopic rods 104 arranged on the frame 101 by means of motorized hinges 105, an artificial intelligence based imaging unit 106 installed on the frame 101, an air inflating unit 107 integrated with the frame 101, multiple inflatable member 108 configured with the frame 101 and rods 104, multi-colored LED (light emitting diode) lights 109 integrated on the frame 101, a heating element 110 integrated with the frame 101, and multiple damping units 111 integrated with the frame 101.

[0023] The proposed device comprises of a rectangular frame 101 made up of durable, lightweight material developed be fixed to the rear side of a trailer vehicle. The frame 101 is equipped with multiple suction units 102 and electromagnetic clamps 103 to securely attach the frame 101 to the trailer. Herein, the user activates the device by pressing a push button integrated with the frame 101. The push button is internally connected with the device via multiple circuits that upon pressing by the user, the circuits get closed and starts conducting electricity through a microcontroller associated with the device that tends to activate the device and vice versa.

[0024] After activation of the device, the user accesses a computing unit wirelessly linked with the device to give input commands regarding securing the device with the surface of trailer’s rear side. The computing unit mentioned herein includes but not limited to mobile and laptop that comprises a processor where the alert is received and stored to process and retrieve the output data that is displayed in the computing unit. The microcontroller is wirelessly linked with the computing unit via a communication module which includes but not limited to Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) module, Bluetooth module, GSM (Global System for Mobile communication).

[0025] The communication module preferably the Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) module acts as a medium between various electronic unit for establishing communication between the user’s interface and the device for processing the input given by the user. The Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) module serves as the primary medium for facilitating communication between various electronic units. The module establishes a proper connection between the computing unit and the device to notify the user regarding securing of the device. Based on selecting the input, the microcontroller actuates the suction units 102 and electromagnetic clamps 103 to secure the frame 101 with the rear side.

[0026] The suction unit mentioned herein works by creating a vacuum between the suction units 102 and the surface of the trailer's rear side. When activated, the suction units 102 use a pump or to reduce air pressure beneath the suction units 102, causing units 102 to adhere tightly to the surface. This creates a strong, secure bond, ensuring that the frame 101 remains firmly attached to the trailer. The electromagnetic clamps 103 further assist in securing the frame 101 by generating a magnetic force that holds the frame 101 in place, adding an additional layer of stability and security. The combination of this operation ensures that the frame 101 is securely fixed to the trailer, preventing any unintended movement during operation.

[0027] Upon securing the frame 101 with the trailer, a laser sensor integrated on the frame 101 detects dimension of the rear side of the trailer vehicle. The laser sensor works by emitting a laser beam towards the rear side of the trailer. The beam reflects off the trailer’s surface and returns to the sensor. The sensor calculates the time it takes for the laser to travel to the surface and back, using the time-of-flight principle. This time is then converted into a distance measurement, allowing the sensor to detect the dimensions of the rear side of the trailer. The microcontroller uses this data to detect the dimension of the rear side of the trailer vehicle. Upon detecting the dimension of the rear side, the microcontroller actuates telescopic arrangement integrated in the frame 101 to extend/retract in accordance to the detected dimension, for covering entire the rear side.

[0028] The telescopic arrangement mentioned herein consists of a set of telescopic rods 104 arranged along the perimeter of the frame 101. Each rod is equipped with a motorized hinge 105 mechanism that allows for both extension and retraction based on the detected dimensions. The rods 104 are activated by the microcontroller, which controls the motorized hinges 105 to adjust length in real-time, ensuring the frame 101 fully covers the rear side of the trailer. The motorized hinges 105 also enable the rods 104 to pivot and change angles, to construct a dome shaped structure behind the frame 101. the telescopic rods 104 are equipped with a pneumatic unit that is activated by the microcontroller to extend/retract. The pneumatic comprises of an air compressor, air cylinder, air valves and piston. The air valve that allows entry or exit of the compressed air from the compressor. Furthermore, the valve opens and the compressed air enters inside the cylinder thereby increasing the air pressure of the cylinder. The piston is connected to the cylinder and due to the increase in the air pressure, the piston extends due to which the rods 104 extend.

[0029] Simultaneously, the hinges 105 provide angular movement to the rods 104, to construct a dome shaped structure behind the frame 101. The hinge 105 typically refers to a mechanical joint that allows rotational movement around a fixed axis using a motor or actuator which provides the rotational force required to move the joint. The motor is typically controlled by an electronic control unit that regulates its speed and direction to provide angular movement to the rods 104 to construct the dome shaped structure behind the frame 101. Herein, an artificial intelligence based imaging unit 106 synced with a sensing module integrated on the frame 101 detects approaching of any vehicle along with speed and distance between the rear side and approaching vehicle.

[0030] The imaging unit 106 mentioned herein comprise of a camera and processor that works in collaboration to detect the approaching of any vehicle. The camera firstly captures multiple images of surrounding of the vehicle, wherein the camera comprises of a structure, electronic shutter, lens, lens aperture, image sensor, and imaging processor that works in sequential manner to capture images of the surrounding. While capturing of the images by the camera, the shutter is automatically open due to which the reflected beam of light coming from the surrounding due to light is directed towards the lens aperture. After then the reflected light beam passes through the image sensor.

[0031] The image sensor now analyzes the beam to retrieve signal from the beams which is further calibrate by the sensor to capture images of the surrounding in electronic signal. Upon capturing images, the imaging processor processes the electronic signal into digital image. When the capturing is done, the processor associated with the imaging unit 106 processes the captured images by using artificial intelligence protocol to retrieve data from the captured image in the form of digital signal. The detected data is now transmitted to the microcontroller based on which the microcontroller acquires the data to detect the approaching of any vehicle.

[0032] Upon detecting approaching of any vehicle, the sensing module detects the speed and distance between the rear side and approaching vehicle. The sensing module includes but not limited to an ultrasonic sensor and radar gun to detect the speed and distance between the rear side and approaching vehicle. The ultrasonic sensor works by emitting high-frequency sound waves towards the approaching vehicle. These sound waves travel through the air, and when waves encounter the approaching vehicle, the waves bounce back to the sensor. The sensor measures the time it takes for the sound waves to return, and based on the speed of sound in the air, it calculates the distance between the sensor and the approaching vehicle.

[0033] The radar gun mentioned herein works by emitting radio waves, which are directed towards the approaching vehicle. The radio waves travel through the air and, upon striking the vehicle, are reflected back to the radar gun. The radar gun measures the time it takes for the waves to return and calculates the distance to the object based on the time-of-flight principle. After that the sensor do frequency shift in the reflected waves, known as the Doppler effect. The microcontroller processes this data to determine the speed and distance of the approaching vehicle. Post detecting the approaching of any vehicle, along with detecting speed and distance between the rear side and approaching vehicle, the microcontroller determines chance of collision.

[0034] Based on detected chance of collision, the microcontroller actuates an air inflating unit 107 integrated with the frame 101 to inflate multiple inflatable member 108 configured with the frame 101 and rods 104 to act as a shock absorber during collisions, distributing impact force evenly. The inflating unit 107 is paired with an air compressor that is activated by the microcontroller to generate and supply pressurized air to the inflatable members 108. The air compressor of a motor-driven pump that is capable of generating high-pressure air. The motor is controlled by the microcontroller, which triggers the compressor when a potential collision is detected.

[0035] The pump draws in air from the surrounding environment and compresses it within a storage tank. The pressurized air is then routed through a series of valves and tubes to the inflatable members 108 to inflate the inflatable member 108 that acts as a shock absorber during collisions, distributing impact force evenly. During the collision of the vehicle, multiple damping units 111 integrated inside the dome-shaped structure to reduce impact force transferred to the trailer vehicle during the collision. The damping unit 111 works by utilizing mechanisms to absorb and dissipate the kinetic energy generated during a collision.

[0036] The damping units 111 typically contain substances like foam, hydraulic dampers, or springs that deform under impact, effectively converting the energy from the collision into heat or other forms of energy. When the inflatable members 108 are inflated, they provide an initial buffer by absorbing the shock, while the damping units 111 inside the dome-shaped structure further reduce the impact force. As the collision force reaches the damping units 111, the materials within them compress or move, absorbing the shock and slowing down the transfer of energy to the trailer vehicle minimizing damage to the vehicle’s body and enhancing occupant safety by reducing the severity of impact force.

[0037] Additionally, multi-colored LED (light emitting diode) lights 109 are mounted on the frame 101 to indicate specific signals to approaching vehicles by using different colors to communicate distinct actions or warnings. The LED light 109 works by utilizing semiconductor materials that emit light when an electric current passes through them. Each LED light 109 is composed of a chip made from a semiconductor material, typically made of compounds like gallium nitride or gallium arsenide. When current flows through the LED light 109, it excites the electrons in the semiconductor, causing light to release energy in the form of light. The color of the emitted light depends on the materials used in the LED light 109 chip and the wavelength of the light produced. For example, a red LED light 109 could indicate a danger or stop signal, while a green or blue LED light 109 might communicate a warning or safe distance, allowing approaching vehicles to understand the vehicle's status and respond accordingly.

[0038] A GPS (global positioning system) module is integrated with the microcontroller to detect real time location of the trailer vehicle. The GPS module works by receiving signals from a network of satellites orbiting the Earth. The satellites continuously transmit signals that contain information about their location and the time the signal was transmitted. The GPS module on the trailer vehicle receives these signals from at least three to four satellites to triangulate its position on the Earth's surface. By calculating the time, it takes for the signals to travel from the satellites to the module, the GPS determine the distance to each satellite.

[0039] Using the data of the distance, the GPS (global positioning system) module calculate the vehicle's latitude, longitude, and altitude, providing real-time location information. The microcontroller then processes this data to send in concerned person’s computing unit to track the vehicle. Moreover, a snow sensor is integrated on the frame 101, to detect accumulation of snow on the frame 101. The snow sensor works by detecting the presence and accumulation of snow on the frame 101 using a combination of temperature and moisture sensing element. Typically, the sensor utilizes a capacitive sensor that changes its properties when snow or moisture builds up on its surface.

[0040] As snow accumulates, it alters the sensor’s resistance or capacitance, which the sensor then detects. Once the sensor registers a significant change, the microcontroller is triggered to activate a heating element 110 integrated into the frame 101. The heating element 110 works by converting electrical energy into heat, typically through the use of resistive materials. When the microcontroller activates the heating element 110, current flows through the resistive material, which has a high resistance that causes it to heat up as electricity passes through. This generated heat is then transferred to the frame 101, effectively melting the accumulated snow.

[0041] A battery (not shown in figure) is associated with the device to offer power to all electrical and electronic components necessary for their correct operation. The battery is linked to the microcontroller and provides (DC) Direct Current to the microcontroller. And then, based on the order of operations, the microcontroller sends that current to those specific electrical or electronic components so the user effectively carry out their appropriate functions.

[0042] The present invention works best in following manner that includes the rectangular frame 101 developed to be fixed with rear side of a trailer vehicle by means of the suction units 102 and electromagnetic clamps 103. Herein, the user's computing unit is accessed by the user to provide input commands for activating the device and in response to the command the microcontroller actuates the suction units 102 and electromagnetic clamps 103 to secure the frame 101 with the rear side. The laser sensor determines dimension of the rear side of the trailer vehicle and in accordance to which the microcontroller actuates the telescopic arrangement to extend/retract in accordance to the detected dimension, for covering entire the rear side. After that the telescopic rods 104 by means of the motorized hinges 105, to be actuated by the microcontroller, to extend/retract, followed by actuation of the hinges 105 to provide angular movement to the rods 104, to construct a dome shaped structure behind the frame 101. Herein, the artificial intelligence based imaging unit 106 and synced with a sensing module to detect approaching of any vehicle, along with detecting speed and distance between the rear side and approaching vehicle, to determine chance of collision, wherein in case the evaluation of higher chance of collision, the microcontroller and an air inflating unit 107 to inflate the inflatable member 108 that acts as a shock absorber during collisions, distributing impact force evenly. Further, the damping units 111, reduce impact force transferred to the trailer vehicle during the collision, minimizing damage to the vehicle’s body and enhancing occupant safety by reducing the severity of impact force.

[0043] 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 adaptive collision prevention and impact absorption device for trailer vehicle, comprising:
i) a rectangular frame 101 developed to be fixed with rear side of a trailer vehicle by means of plurality of suction units 102 and electromagnetic clamps 103, wherein a communication module integrated into an inbuilt microcontroller within said frame 101, to enable wireless connectivity between said microcontroller and a user's computing unit, to allow said user to provide input commands for securing said device and in response to said command said microcontroller actuates said suction units 102 and electromagnetic clamps 103 to secure said frame 101 with said rear side.
ii) a laser sensor integrated on said frame 101, to determine dimension of said rear side of said trailer vehicle and in accordance to which said microcontroller actuates telescopic arrangement integrated in said frame 101 to extend/retract in accordance to said detected dimension, for covering entire said rear side, wherein plurality of telescopic rods 104 arranged on said frame 101 by means of motorized hinges 105, to be actuated by said microcontroller, to extend/retract, followed by actuation of said hinges 105 to provide angular movement to said rods 104, to construct a dome shaped structure behind said frame 101;
iii) an artificial intelligence based imaging unit 106 having a processer, installed on said frame 101 and synced with a sensing module integrated on said frame 101 to detect approaching of any vehicle, along with detecting speed and distance between said rear side and approaching vehicle, to determine chance of collision, wherein in case said evaluation of higher chance of collision, said microcontroller actuates an air inflating unit 107 integrated with said frame 101, to inflate plurality of inflatable member 108 configured with said frame 101 and rods 104, that acts as a shock absorber during collisions, distributing impact force evenly; and
iv) plurality of damping units 111 integrated inside said dome-shaped structure, to reduce impact force transferred to said trailer vehicle during said collision, minimizing damage to said vehicle’s body and enhancing occupant safety by reducing said severity of impact force.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said sensing module includes but not limited to an ultrasonic sensor and radar gun.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein plurality of multi-colored LED (light emitting diode) lights 109 integrated on said frame 101, to be activated by said microcontroller to indicate specific signals to approaching vehicles by using different colors to communicate distinct actions or warnings.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a GPS (global positioning system) module is integrated with said microcontroller, to detect real time location of said trailer vehicle and that is sent to a concerned person’s computing unit.

5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a snow sensor is integrated on said frame 101, to detect accumulation of snow on said frame 101, and on detection said microcontroller actuates a heating element 110 integrated with said frame 101, to generate heat for melting said snow.

6) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a battery is associated with said device for supplying power to electrical and electronically operated components associated with said device.