Abstract: An autonomous energy-efficient lighting system for roads and pavements, comprising a plurality of utility poles 101 arranged along roadside surface, a dual energy harvesting module integrated on each of the pole 101 and operatively coupled with a microcontroller for harvesting energy from wind and water to store in a coupled battery 114 via alternators, a pothole hazard detection and prevention module to detect potholes and waterlogging, a holographic projector 102 to project three-dimensional spatial visuals for warning pedestrians and drivers, a cylindrical light enclosure provided on each of the pole 101 to provide sufficient road illumination, the pothole hazard detection and prevention module includes a LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensor 110 and a millimeter-wave radar 111 synced with the camera 108 for monitoring potholes, hazards and waterlogging.
Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to an autonomous energy-efficient lighting system for roads and pavements that enhances visibility, promotes safety, and responds in real time to environmental and traffic conditions, and is further configured with integrated energy harvesting means operable to extract energy from renewable sources.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Roadway and pavement lighting systems are essential for ensuring safety and visibility for both drivers and pedestrians, particularly during nighttime or low-visibility conditions such as fog or rain. Over the years, various lighting solutions have been developed to improve illumination and reduce energy consumption. These include high-pressure sodium lamps, metal halide lights, and more recently, LED-based lighting systems that offer better energy efficiency and longer lifespan. In addition to lighting, modern urban infrastructure sometimes incorporates separate hazard detection tools such as traffic surveillance cameras, weather sensors, or independent road monitoring systems. These tools aim to improve public safety and manage road-related challenges such as congestion or accidents. However, these components are usually not integrated and often require significant manual intervention or centralized control. While certain smart city projects have experimented with sensor-based lighting or adaptive control arrangements, these are often limited to either motion-based activation or scheduled dimming systems. Furthermore, most of these approaches still depend heavily on the conventional electric grid for their power supply, which is both expensive and vulnerable to outages or infrastructure damage.
[0003] In traditional methods, lighting systems installed along roads and pavements typically operate on fixed schedules or basic motion sensors that trigger illumination when movement is detected nearby. These systems lack the capability to assess broader environmental or road conditions such as traffic density, weather changes, or the presence of hazards like potholes or waterlogging. Hazard detection, when implemented, is generally managed through separate, often manually-operated systems such as periodic visual inspections or isolated camera feeds monitored remotely. Some setups include water level sensors or cameras, but these are rarely linked directly to any form of responsive infrastructure. Communication between lighting units is usually nonexistent, with each functioning independently or through centralized, hard-wired control panels. As a result, these systems are unable to adapt dynamically to the changing needs of road users in real time. Additionally, their reliance on continuous electrical power consumption and minimal use of renewable energy contributes to high operational costs and environmental impact. This fragmented approach to lighting and hazard management limits the effectiveness of traditional systems in ensuring road safety and energy efficiency.
[0004] US20160018074A1 discloses about a street light has a hollow standard having a lower end and an upper end. The standard is root mounted at its lower end and supports a lamp and a solar panel. An illumination circuit is mounted in the base compartment and connects a battery to the lamp for control of the lamp. A charging circuit connects the battery to the solar panel and to an electricity connection for charging. A control circuit inside the base compartment controls the brightness. The electricity connection extends from the root portion of the standard for connection of the light to an AC electricity supply. The charging circuit is programmed to connect the battery to the electricity supply at low electricity tariff times and to disconnect the battery from the mains before high electricity tariff times. The charging circuit is programmed to connect the battery to the solar panel for charging during daylight.
[0005] WO2012064906A2 discloses about one or more utility units each have a pole, a solar engine, lighting or other loads, and a controller. The controller provides sensing and control processes mainly on-pole, but a unit/pole may additionally communicate and/or receive/send control signals from/to poles with which they are networked and/or from a control station. The pole/network provides energy-efficient lighting, security, displays, environmental data gathering, or other services based on the loads installed on the pole(s). Each pole/network may be adapted for energy-efficiency; energy-metering; grid-cooperation; self-diagnostics; overriding of errors/signals to prevent abnormal operation; and/or coordinated activities between poles. Networks may be wireless or wired, or a portable temporary device may monitor pole(s). Active control includes detection of sensor signals or other operational data, which detection triggers the controller to take action that modifies operation of one or more devices/systems on the pole in order to maintain energy efficiency and operability in spite of malfunctions, abnormal signals or environments, cloudy/diffuse- light weather, or other non-standard conditions.
[0006] Conventionally, many systems are disclosed in the prior art that provide a way to illuminate roads and pavements for improved visibility and public safety. However, these systems often operate on fixed schedules or basic motion triggers and lack the ability to adapt in real time to changing environmental conditions, leading to inefficiencies in energy usage and limited hazard responsiveness.
[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a system that requires to be capable of operating autonomously while adapting to varying road, traffic, and environmental conditions. The system should function efficiently with minimal reliance on external power sources and ensure enhanced safety, visibility, and energy optimization across roads and pavements.
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 autonomously providing energy-efficient lighting for roads and pavements while enhancing safety and visibility under varying environmental and traffic conditions.
[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a system that is capable of detecting and responding to potential road hazards in real time to prevent accidents and ensure pedestrian and vehicular safety.
[0011] Another object of the present invention is to develop a system that is capable of operating independently with minimal reliance on conventional power infrastructure through sustainable energy usage.
[0012] Yet, another object of the present invention is to develop a system that is capable of dynamically adjusting its functionality based on changing external factors to ensure optimal performance and resource efficiency.
[0013] 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
[0014] The present invention relates to an autonomous energy-efficient lighting system for roads and pavements that facilitates enhanced visibility, real-time hazard detection and prevention, energy harvesting from renewable sources, adaptive lighting control based on environmental and traffic conditions, and synchronized communication between lighting units to improve safety and sustainability.
[0015] According to an aspect of the present invention, an autonomous energy-efficient lighting system for roads and pavements, comprises of a plurality of utility poles installed along roadside surfaces, a dual energy harvesting module on each pole for harvesting energy from wind and water sources and storing it in a coupled battery via alternators, a pothole hazard detection and prevention module including sensors for detecting potholes and waterlogging and cascading plates to cover detected potholes, and a holographic projector to warn pedestrians and drivers, a cylindrical light enclosure with multiple vertically arranged LED arrays activated based on detected road, traffic, and ambient light conditions by a monitoring unit, a Bluetooth Low Energy mesh network module integrated with a microcontroller for interconnecting the poles and enabling synchronized lighting adjustments based on vehicle and pedestrian movement, a wind energy harvesting unit featuring an oscillating vertical mast mounted via a motorized ball and socket joint, an integrated alternator converting mechanical energy from mast oscillation into electricity, and an anemometer regulating operation based on wind speed.
[0016] According to another aspect of the present invention, the system further comprises of a hydro energy harvesting unit including a camera for detecting waterlogging, an insulated underground chamber connected with a pipe assembly to collect water, a working fluid duct is arranged on an exterior surface of the chamber, the working fluid gets vaporized by natural sunlight to drive a turbine and generate electricity, and a closed vapor-liquid cycle for continuous energy generation, a LiDAR sensor and millimeter-wave radar synced with cameras for accurate pothole and hazard detection, a monitoring unit comprising ambient light sensors and vehicle speed detection sensors for real-time adjustment of lighting and hazard mitigation, a microcontroller integrated with machine learning protocols to assign confidence scores for pothole detection and generate wireless notifications to authorities when maintenance is required, and a battery is associated with the system for supplying power to electrical and electronically operated components associated with the system.
[0017] 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
[0018] 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 autonomous energy-efficient lighting system for roads and pavements.
Figure 2 illustrates an inner view of an underground chamber associated with the system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0019] 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.
[0020] 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.
[0021] 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.
[0022] The present invention relates to an autonomous energy-efficient lighting system for roads and pavements that is designed to provide adaptive illumination, detect and mitigate road hazards, and harness renewable energy sources to power its operation efficiently. The system aims to enhance safety for pedestrians and vehicles while reducing reliance on conventional power grids through advanced monitoring and response arrangements.
[0023] Referring to Figure 1 and Figure 2, an isometric view of an autonomous energy-efficient lighting system for roads and pavements and an inner view of an underground chamber associated with the system are illustrated, respectively, comprising a plurality of utility poles 101 installed along roadside surface, a holographic projector 102 integrated on each of the pole 101, multiple LED (Light Emitting Diode) arrays 103 are mounted on each of the pole 101, an oscillating vertical mast 104 mounted at a top portion of the pole 101 via a motorized ball and socket joint 105, an integrated alternator 106 provided with the vertical mast 104, an anemometer 107 is configured with each of the pole 101, a camera 108 is integrated on the pole 101, an insulated underground chamber 109 is arranged below each of the pole 101, a working fluid duct 201 is arranged on the exterior surface of the chamber 109, a turbine unit 202 is arranged with the chamber 109, a LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensor 110 is mounted on each of the pole 101, a millimeter-wave radar 111 is attached on each of the pole 101, multiple motorized hinges 112 are attached with cascading plates 113 that is arranged vertically on the poles 101, and a battery 114 is connected with each of the pole 101.
[0024] The system disclosed herein comprises of the plurality of utility poles 101 installed along roadside surfaces, each equipped with a dual energy harvesting module capable of capturing energy from wind and water sources. The harvested energy is stored in the coupled battery 114 through alternators, ensuring continuous power availability for the lighting and monitoring functions.
[0025] The wind energy harvesting unit includes the oscillating vertical mast 104 mounted atop the pole 101 using the motorized ball and socket joint 105, which allows free movement to capture wind energy. The motorized ball and socket joint 105 is a mechanical assembly that allows controlled multi-directional movement of the oscillating vertical mast 104. The motorized ball and socket joint 105 consists of a spherical ball component housed within a socket that permits rotation along multiple axes. The motorized ball and socket joint 105 incorporates actuators or motors (servo or stepper motors) strategically positioned to regulate the degree and direction of movement.
[0026] These motors apply torque to the ball component, enabling precise tilting or oscillation based on control signals received from a microcontroller. The motorized ball and socket joint 105 enables the vertical mast 104 to pivot freely in response to wind direction for optimal energy harvesting. When wind speed exceeds a safe threshold, as detected by the anemometer 107, the motors actively adjusts the mast's position or restricts its movement to prevent excessive sway, minimizing the risk of mechanical stress or structural damage. The microcontroller used herein is pre-fed using artificial intelligence and machine learning protocols to coordinate the working of the system. The microcontroller is also pre-fed with protocols and instructions related to the system along with the details regarding the functional operations of sensors and components.
[0027] The wind energy harvesting unit further includes the integrated alternator 106 with the vertical mast 104 to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy. The alternator 106 converts mechanical energy into electrical energy using the principle of electromagnetic induction. The alternator 106 consists of a rotor (a rotating magnetic field) and a stator (a stationary set of wire windings). When mechanical energy generated by the oscillating vertical mast 104 is applied to the rotor, the rotor begins to spin. As the rotor turns, it creates a changing magnetic field around the stator. This changing magnetic field induces an electric current in the stator windings, generating alternating current (AC) electricity. The generated power is then directed to a rectifier to convert AC into direct current (DC) to store the generated electrical energy in the battery 114.
[0028] The wind energy harvesting unit further includes the anemometer 107 monitors real-time wind speed. The anemometer 107 is a meteorological instrument used to measure wind speed. The most common type used is a cup anemometer, which consists of three or four hemispherical cups mounted on horizontal arms attached to a vertical shaft. As wind blows, it pushes against the cups, causing them to rotate. The speed of rotation is directly proportional to the wind speed.
[0029] This rotational motion is detected by an internal sensor (a magnetic or optical encoder), which converts the mechanical rotation into electrical signals. These signals are then sent to the microcontroller, which calculates the wind speed in real time. When the wind speed exceeds a predefined threshold, the microcontroller uses the anemometer's data to automatically adjust or restrict the movement of the oscillating vertical mast 104. This prevents structural damage during high wind conditions, ensuring safe and efficient wind energy harvesting.
[0030] The hydro energy harvesting unit complements wind energy capture by utilizing water collected from road waterlogging. The hydro energy harvesting unit includes the camera 108 to detect water accumulation on the road surface and then a microcontroller actuates a storm drain to channel water into the insulated underground chamber 109 by means of a pipe assembly.
[0031] The hydro energy harvesting unit further includes the working fluid duct 201 arranged on the exterior surface of the chamber 109 to vaporizes the working fluid when exposed to natural sunlight during daylight hours. The working fluid is a substance used to absorb, transport, and release energy in thermal units, by undergoing phase changes such as evaporation and condensation. The working fluid is chosen for its ability to vaporize at relatively low temperatures when heated by sunlight and to condense when cooled, enabling a continuous thermodynamic cycle. The sunlight heats the ground surface which in turn warms the working fluid inside the working fluid duct 201. When exposed to heat, the working fluid absorbs thermal energy and changes from liquid to vapor, which expands and drives the turbine unit 202 configured with the chamber 109. Common examples of working fluids include water, ammonia, R134a (tetrafluoroethane), and organic fluids like toluene or pentane, depending on the required temperature range and environmental considerations.
[0032] The turbine unit 202 is further connected with the alternator to generate electricity by utilizing the vaporized working fluid. The turbine unit 202 converts the energy of a moving vapor into mechanical rotational energy. The turbine unit 202 consists of a rotor fitted with multiple blades arranged around a central shaft. When the vaporized working fluid, flows over the blades at high velocity, it exerts force that causes the rotor to spin. This rotational motion is transferred to a connected shaft that drives an electrical alternator to produce electricity.
[0033] The turbine is designed to efficiently capture the kinetic and thermal energy of the fluid while minimizing energy loss. After passing through the turbine, the fluid loses pressure and temperature and exits as a condensed liquid, ready to be reheated and reused in the next cycle. The turbine unit 202 is powered by vaporized working fluid generated from solar heating, and its mechanical output is converted into electrical energy to power the lighting and other system components.
[0034] A pothole hazard detection and prevention module is integrated with the poles 101 to ensure road safety. The pothole hazard detection and prevention module includes the LiDAR sensor 110. The LiDAR sensor 110 works by emitting rapid pulses of laser light toward a target and measuring the time it takes for each pulse to reflect back to the LiDAR sensor 110. Using the speed of light and the time delay of the returned pulses, the LiDAR sensor 110 calculates precise distances to objects or surfaces. By scanning across an area with many such pulses, the LiDAR sensor 110 creates a detailed, three-dimensional map of the environment. The LiDAR sensor 110 includes a laser emitter, a photodetector to receive reflected light, and a timing assembly to measure the delay between emission and reception. The collected data is processed by the microcontroller to generate high-resolution spatial information, which detects surface irregularities such as potholes or obstacles.
[0035] The pothole hazard detection and prevention module further includes the millimeter-wave radar 111. The millimeter-wave radar 111 operates by transmitting high-frequency radio waves, toward the target area and measuring the reflected signals that bounce back. The millimeter-wave radar 111 includes a transmitter that emits the radio waves, a receiver that captures the echoes, and a signal processor that analyzes the time delay and frequency shift of the returned signals to determine the distance, speed, and movement of objects.
[0036] The short wavelength of millimeter waves allows the radar to detect small objects with high resolution and to penetrate through adverse weather conditions such as fog, rain, or dust. The millimeter-wave radar 111 continuously scans the road surface to detect potholes, waterlogging, and other hazards. The LiDAR sensor 110 and the millimeter-wave sensor work together with the camera to detect potholes, waterlogging, and other hazards on the road surface. The processed data is sent to the microcontroller to support accurate hazard detection and prompt activation of safety measures like deploying the cascading plates 113 or warning projections, ensuring reliable monitoring regardless of environmental visibility.
[0037] Upon detection of potholes, the cascading plates 113 mounted with the motorized hinges 112 on the poles 101 deploy on the road surface and extend horizontally from the poles 101 to cover the potholes, providing a physical platform for vehicle to safely cross the potholes and prevent accidents. The plates 113 are constructed with corrosion-resistant materials to withstand pressure and environmental exposure, ensuring durability and effectiveness. The motorized hinges 112 are mechanical joints equipped with built-in electric motors that enable controlled and precise rotational movement of the cascading plates 113. The motorized hinges 112 integrate a small motor, gearbox, and sensors that work together to convert electrical signals from the microcontroller into smooth, adjustable motion. When the microcontroller sends a command, the motor activates to rotate the motorized hinge along its axis, allowing the cascading plates 113 to deploy automatically on the road surface.
[0038] The cascading plates 113 are a series of flat panels arranged vertically and designed to extend outward when deployed by the motorized hinges 112 to cover hazards like potholes on road surfaces. The cascading plates 113 are connected to a sliding arrangement for horizontal extension. When activated by the microcontroller upon hazard detection, the motorized hinges 112 first rotate the plates 113 outward from the pole 101. Following this, the sliding arrangement smoothly pushes the plates 113 forward to cover the pothole. After the hazard is no longer detected, the plates 113 retract and the motorized hinges 112 rotate them back into their compact, vertical position, ensuring efficient storage and readiness for subsequent use. The coordinated movement enables quick, reliable, and stable coverage of road hazards, improving safety and minimizing disruption.
[0039] The holographic projector 102 mounted on each pole 101 projects three-dimensional spatial visuals to provide distinct visual warnings, such as symbolic icons, to inform pedestrians and drivers of detected hazards ahead. The visual warnings enhance situational awareness, particularly during low visibility conditions. The holographic projector 102 includes a laser or LED light source, spatial light modulators, and optical lenses that shape and direct the light beams. The microcontroller processes input data and generates corresponding holographic images, which are then projected to provide clear, visible warnings or indicators. The holographic projector 102 is activated upon detection of hazards like potholes or waterlogging to display bright, distinct 3D visuals above or near the affected area. These projections serve as effective, attention-grabbing alerts for pedestrians and drivers, enhancing safety without physically obstructing the road.
[0040] The cylindrical light enclosure arranged on each of the pole 101 to illuminate the road surface. The cylindrical light enclosure includes the multiple LED arrays 103 arranged in a slightly tilted position. The LED emits light when an electric current passes through it. When voltage is applied across the LED terminals, electrons move across the junction and emit light of a specific wavelength depending on the semiconductor materials used.
[0041] LEDs are highly energy-efficient, durable, and capable of producing bright, focused light with minimal heat generation. The LED arrays 103 are controlled by electronic drivers that regulate power and enable dimming or activation based on external signals. The fast response time and long lifespan of the LED make them ideal for adaptive lighting applications where illumination needs to be adjusted dynamically according to environmental or traffic conditions.
[0042] These LED arrays 103 are controlled by a monitoring unit, which includes ambient light sensors that continuously detect real-time lighting conditions. Based on the sensed ambient light levels, the microcontroller automatically adjusts the brightness and activation of the LED arrays 103, ensuring energy-efficient operation while maintaining appropriate illumination on the road. The ambient light sensors mentioned herein includes multiple LDR sensors to detect the intensity of surrounding light to help systems adjust brightness automatically.
[0043] The LDR sensor is a passive electronic component whose resistance decreases as the ambient light level increases. The LDR sensor consists of a photosensitive material that changes its electrical resistance based on the amount of light falling on it. When exposed to bright light, the resistance drops, allowing more current to flow, while in darkness or low light, the resistance rises, reducing current flow. The sensor’s output is fed to the microcontroller, which interprets the signal to determine ambient light conditions. This information is then used to adjust lighting units, such as dimming or switching the LED arrays 103 on or off, ensuring energy efficiency and appropriate illumination based on real-time environmental lighting.
[0044] A Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) mesh network module integrated with the microcontroller for establishing communication between poles 101. This network facilitates synchronized lighting adjustments and hazard response coordination across multiple poles 101. The BLE module provides low power consumption while maintaining robust data exchange over extended areas through a mesh topology. The module includes a BLE radio transceiver, the microcontroller for managing network protocols, and firmware that handles message routing, system synchronization, and security. The BLE mesh network module allows the utility poles 101 to interconnect and coordinate their operations, such as synchronized lighting adjustments based on pedestrian and vehicle movement, enabling dynamic, real-time responses that improve energy efficiency and safety across the monitored area.
[0045] The system also includes vehicle speed detection sensors that, in conjunction with the monitoring unit, enable poles 101 ahead of an approaching vehicle to automatically activate the LED arrays 103 based on the vehicle’s speed and traffic density. This ensures a well-lit path for vehicles while conserving energy in less trafficked areas. The vehicle speed detection sensors are designed to measure the speed of moving vehicles. These sensors emit signals (like radio waves or laser pulses) that reflect off passing vehicles.
[0046] By calculating the time, it takes for the signal to return or by measuring the change in frequency, the sensor’s processing unit determines the vehicle’s speed accurately. The sensor includes a transmitter and a receiver, the microcontroller analyzes the incoming data to compute speed in real time to trigger specific actions, such as adjusting street lighting intensity or activating warning signals, based on the speed and density of approaching vehicles. This real-time detection helps optimize safety and energy efficiency in traffic environments.
[0047] The microcontroller is embedded with machine learning protocols to analyze input data from the camera 108, the LiDAR sensor 110 and the millimeter-wave radar 111 to assign confidence scores (poor or very poor road surface) to detected potholes and hazards. When the confidence score exceeds a predefined threshold, the microcontroller generates wireless notifications to alert relevant authorities for timely road maintenance and repair. This predictive feature allows proactive management of road conditions, reducing the likelihood of accidents and infrastructure degradation.
[0048] The machine learning protocols refer to the set of protocols and processes used by the microcontroller to analyze data, learn patterns, and make informed decisions or predictions for each specific task. These protocols involve collecting input data, such as sensor readings or images, and processing it through models trained to recognize features, classify conditions, or predict outcomes. The microcontroller continuously updates its understanding by evaluating new data, refining its models to improve accuracy over time. The machine learning protocols often include components like data preprocessing, feature extraction, model training, validation, and inference. The machine learning protocols analyze input from the camera 108, the LiDAR sensor 110, and the millimeter-wave radar 111 to detect potholes and hazards, assigning confidence scores that help determine when to trigger alerts or maintenance notifications, thereby enabling proactive and intelligent road safety management.
[0049] The battery 114 is associated with the system to supply power to electrically powered components which are employed herein. The battery 114 is comprised of a pair of electrode named as a cathode and an anode. The battery 114 uses a chemical reaction of oxidation/reduction to do work on charge and produce a voltage between their anode and cathode and thus produces electrical energy. The battery 114 stores electricity generated from sources like wind or hydro units, ensuring a stable power supply for lighting and control components even when energy generation fluctuates.
[0050] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the plurality of utility poles 101 is installed along roadside surface to establish the lighting infrastructure. Each pole’s dual energy harvesting module continuously collects energy from wind and water sources, storing electrical power in coupled batteries via alternators. The oscillating vertical mast 104 converts wind energy into electrical energy, regulated by the anemometer 107 to prevent damage during high wind speeds. Simultaneously, the hydro energy harvesting unit detects waterlogging through the camera 108 and collects water into the insulated underground chamber 109 via the automatically opened storm drain. During the day, natural sunlight heats the working fluid duct 201, vaporizing the fluid to drive the turbine and generate electricity. The pothole hazard detection and prevention module utilizes the LiDAR sensor 110, the millimeter-wave radar 111, and the camera 108 to continuously scan the road surface for potholes and waterlogging.
[0051] In continuation, upon detecting the pothole, the microcontroller assigns the confidence score using the machine learning protocols, and in case the predefined threshold is met, the cascading plates 113 deploy and extend horizontally from the poles 101 to cover the hazard, while the 3D holographic projector 102 simultaneously projects distinct visual warnings to alert pedestrians and drivers. The monitoring unit detects real-time road, traffic, and ambient light conditions, dynamically controlling the LED arrays 103 to provide adaptive illumination. The BLE mesh network module synchronizes communication among the poles 101, enabling coordinated lighting adjustments based on vehicle and pedestrian movement. When approaching vehicle is detected, the poles 101 ahead automatically activate the LED arrays 103 to illuminate the vehicle’s path according to speed and number of vehicles, conserving energy while enhancing safety. Simultaneously, the microcontroller generates wireless notifications to notify authorities of detected road damages requiring maintenance.
[0052] 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 energy-efficient lighting system for roads and pavements, comprising:
a) a plurality of utility poles 101 installed along roadside surface;
b) a dual energy harvesting module installed on each of the pole 101 and operatively coupled with a microcontroller, for harvesting energy from wind and water to store in a coupled battery 114 via alternators;
c) a pothole hazard detection and prevention module to detect potholes and waterlogging, for activating a cascading plate extending from selective poles 101 to cover the detected potholes and a holographic projector 102 to project three-dimensional spatial visuals for warning pedestrians and drivers;
d) a cylindrical light enclosure mounted on each of the pole 101, including multiple LED (Light Emitting Diode) arrays 103 arranged vertically, being activated based on detected road, traffic conditions and ambient light detected by a monitoring unit installed on each of the pole 101; and
e) a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) mesh network module integrated with the microcontroller, for interconnecting the poles 101 to enable synchronized lighting adjustments based on the vehicle and pedestrian movement.
2) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the dual energy harvesting module includes a wind energy harvesting unit and a hydro energy harvesting unit.
3) The system as claimed in claim 2, wherein the wind energy harvesting unit comprises:
a) an oscillating vertical mast 104 mounted at a top portion of the pole 101 via a motorized ball and socket joint 105 capable of freely oscillating;
b) an integrated alternator 106 for converting mechanical energy generating during the oscillating movement of the mast 104 into electrical energy; and
c) an anemometer 107 for detecting real-time wind conditions, trigger regulation in operation of the motorized ball and socket joint 105, when wind speed exceeds a pre-defined threshold to prevent damage to the structure.
4) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the hydro energy harvesting unit includes:
a) a camera 108 for detecting real-time waterlogging on the road surface;
b) an insulated underground chamber 109 connected with a pipe assembly, designed to collect detected water;
c) a working fluid duct 201 arranged on an exterior surface of the chamber 109 which vaporizes the working fluid when heated by natural sunlight during day; and
d) a turbine unit 202 arranged with the chamber 109, which is driven by the vaporized working fluid, to generate electricity through connected alternator.
5) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pothole hazard detection and prevention module further includes:
a) a LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensor 110 and a millimeter-wave radar 111 synced with the camera 108 for detecting potholes, hazards and waterlogging; and
b) multiple motorized hinges 112 with cascading plates 113 to extend horizontally to cover the detected pothole.
6) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the cascading plates 113 are layered with corrosion-resistant material and is designed to withstand significant vehicle and pedestrian pressure when deployed over a pothole.
7) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the monitoring unit includes an ambient light sensor synced with the camera 108 for detecting real-time road and traffic conditions, along with light conditions, enabling the microcontroller to adjust the lighting and hazard mitigation measures in real-time.
8) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the BLE mesh network module further includes a vehicle speed detection sensor integrated with the monitoring unit for enabling the utility poles 101 ahead of an approaching vehicle to automatically turn on based on the vehicle’s speed and number of vehicles to provide adequate lighting for the vehicle’s path.
9) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the microcontroller is integrated with multiple machine learning protocols for processing the input data from the camera 108, LiDAR sensor 110, and millimeter-wave radar 111 to assign a confidence score for pothole detection, to generate a wireless notification on a computing unit wirelessly linked with the microcontroller, for notifying concerned authorities once the confidence score reaches a predefined threshold indicating road damage that requires attention.
| # | Name | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 202521090577-STATEMENT OF UNDERTAKING (FORM 3) [22-09-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-09-22 |
| 2 | 202521090577-REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION (FORM-18) [22-09-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-09-22 |
| 3 | 202521090577-REQUEST FOR EARLY PUBLICATION(FORM-9) [22-09-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-09-22 |
| 4 | 202521090577-PROOF OF RIGHT [22-09-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-09-22 |
| 5 | 202521090577-POWER OF AUTHORITY [22-09-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-09-22 |
| 6 | 202521090577-FORM-9 [22-09-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-09-22 |
| 7 | 202521090577-FORM FOR SMALL ENTITY(FORM-28) [22-09-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-09-22 |
| 8 | 202521090577-FORM 18 [22-09-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-09-22 |
| 9 | 202521090577-FORM 1 [22-09-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-09-22 |
| 10 | 202521090577-FIGURE OF ABSTRACT [22-09-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-09-22 |
| 11 | 202521090577-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI(FORM-28) [22-09-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-09-22 |
| 12 | 202521090577-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI [22-09-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-09-22 |
| 13 | 202521090577-EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION(S) [22-09-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-09-22 |
| 14 | 202521090577-DRAWINGS [22-09-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-09-22 |
| 15 | 202521090577-DECLARATION OF INVENTORSHIP (FORM 5) [22-09-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-09-22 |
| 16 | 202521090577-COMPLETE SPECIFICATION [22-09-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-09-22 |
| 17 | Abstract.jpg | 2025-09-30 |