Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates to vehicle protection systems, and more particularly to a rodent deterrent system configured for operation in parked vehicles.

BACKGROUND
[0002] Background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present disclosure. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.
[0003] Rodent infestation in parked vehicles has become an increasingly common issue in both urban and rural environments. Rodents, particularly rats, often seek shelter in engine compartments and vehicle interiors, where they chew on wiring, insulation, hoses, and other vital components. This behaviour leads to frequent malfunctions, safety hazards, and expensive repairs.
[0004] Several technologies have been employed to deter rodents from vehicles, including chemical repellents, static ultrasonic devices, and natural deterrent sprays. While chemical-based solutions offer short-term protection, they often require repeated application and may pose environmental or health concerns. Similarly, static ultrasonic repellent devices operate at fixed frequencies, which rodents may eventually become habituated to, reducing their effectiveness over time.
[0005] In addition, many existing systems remain continuously active regardless of vehicle status, leading to unnecessary power consumption, especially in battery-powered or idle vehicles. Others lack integration with vehicle systems or require invasive installation, making them impractical or costly for everyday users.
[0006] Therefore, there is a need for an energy-efficient, adaptive, and non-invasive rodents deterrent system for parked vehicles that overcomes limitations of existing solutions and provides reliable long-term protection against rodent-related vehicle damage.

OBJECTS OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE
[0007] A general object of the present disclosure is to provide a rodent deterrent system configured to deter rodents, such as rats, from damaging parked vehicles.
[0008] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a deterrent system that emits randomized ultrasonic frequencies to reduce likelihood of rodent habituation.
[0009] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an integrated visual deterrent for enhanced repellent effect.
[0010] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a system capable of real-time monitoring and status feedback via serial communication.
[0011] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a rat deterrent system powered by rechargeable or USB-based sources, allowing portable and independent operation.
[0012] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a cost-effective solution using widely available, low-power electronic components.
[0013] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a modular system that is compact and suitable for various vehicle types.
[0014] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a multi-sensory rodent deterrent system combining both audio and visual stimuli.
[0015] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a deterrent system that deactivates automatically when the vehicle is in use or when no rodent motion is detected.

SUMMARY
[0016] Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a rodent deterrent system for parked vehicles that uses electronic components and sensory feedback to detect rodent activity and activate deterrent responses. The system is intended to provide intelligent, energy-efficient, and cost-effective protection for stationary vehicles against rodent-induced damage, which commonly affects wiring and engine compartments.
[0017] An aspect of the present disclosure pertains to a rodent deterrent system that includes an actuator that simulates and provides an input signal representing the ON or OFF state of engine of the vehicle. An actuator is configured to reflect ignition condition. At least one motion detection sensor is used to monitor a predefined area of the vehicle for movement. A passive infrared sensor is utilised as the motion detection sensor and generates a logic LOW signal when movement is detected within its detection area. In addition, a control unit is operatively connected to both the actuator and the motion detection sensor. This control unit receives the input signal from the actuator and determines whether the vehicle is in the engine ON or OFF state. When the control unit detects that the engine is OFF and that movement is present, it activates a set of audio units and at least one light-emitting element.
[0018] The control unit also generates randomised ultrasonic frequencies using pulse width modulation signals. These frequencies are delivered to each audio unit individually, enabling each to emit high-frequency acoustic signals. The audio units are implemented using buzzers designed to operate within a frequency range of thirty to fifty kilohertz.
[0019] In an aspect, the ultrasonic output is randomised by seeding a random number generator using analog signal noise, ensuring variability in acoustic patterns to prevent rodent habituation. In an aspect, the use of individual hardware-based pulse width modulation channels enables the control unit to deliver distinct signals to each audio unit, maintaining frequency variability.
[0020] In an aspect, during deterrent activation, light-emitting element, such as a multi-color light-emitting diode, flashes continuously to provide a visual disruption in addition to the acoustic disturbance.
[0021] In an aspect, the rodent deterrent system also includes additional light-emitting indicators to reflect the engine ON or OFF state, enhancing system visibility and operational clarity for users.
[0022] In an aspect, the control unit further includes a serial communication interface configured to output real-time data, including engine status, movement detection activity, and audio frequency values.
[0023] In an aspect, the system is powered using a rechargeable battery or through a USB charging interface, allowing convenient deployment without modifying primary electrical wiring of the vehicle.
[0024] In an aspect, the actuator, the control unit, the motion detection sensor, the audio units, and the light-emitting element, is enclosed within a housing that is suitable for installation within the vehicle, offering structural protection and modular integration.
[0025] In an aspect, the control unit is also configured to deactivate both the audio units and light-emitting element when the engine is ON or when the motion detection sensor indicates a motion-free state within the monitored area.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0026] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure. The diagrams are for illustration only, which is thus not a limitation of the present disclosure.
[0027] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary block diagram of a rodent deterrent system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0028] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary flow diagram depicting operation of proposed rodent deterrent system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE
[0029] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure represented in the accompanying drawings. The disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention, which may be embodied in various forms. The embodiments are in such detail as to clearly communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of detail offered is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
[0030] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a rodent deterrent system for parked vehicles that uses electronic components and sensory feedback to detect rodent activity and activate deterrent responses. The system is intended to provide intelligent, energy-efficient, and cost-effective protection for stationary vehicles against rodent-induced damage, which commonly affects wiring and engine compartments.
[0031] An embodiment of the present disclosure pertains to a rodent deterrent system that includes an actuator that simulates and provides an input signal representing the ON or OFF state of engine of the vehicle. An actuator is configured to reflect ignition condition. At least one motion detection sensor is used to monitor a predefined area of the vehicle for movement. A passive infrared sensor is utilised as the motion detection sensor and generates a logic LOW signal when movement is detected within its detection area. In addition, a control unit is operatively connected to both the actuator and the motion detection sensor. This control unit receives the input signal from the actuator and determines whether the vehicle is in the engine ON or OFF state. When the control unit detects that the engine is OFF and that movement is present, it activates a set of audio units and at least one light-emitting element.
[0032] The control unit also generates randomised ultrasonic frequencies using pulse width modulation signals. These frequencies are delivered to each audio unit individually, enabling each to emit high-frequency acoustic signals. The audio units are implemented using buzzers designed to operate within a frequency range of thirty to fifty kilohertz.
[0033] In an embodiment, the ultrasonic output is randomized by seeding a random number generator using analog signal noise, ensuring variability in acoustic patterns to prevent rodent habituation.
[0034] In an embodiment, the use of individual hardware-based pulse width modulation channels enables the control unit to deliver distinct signals to each audio unit, maintaining frequency variability.
[0035] In an embodiment, during deterrent activation, light-emitting element, such as a multi-colour light-emitting diode, flashes continuously to provide a visual disruption in addition to the acoustic disturbance.
[0036] In an embodiment, the rodent deterrent system also includes additional light-emitting indicators to reflect the engine ON or OFF state, enhancing system visibility and operational clarity for users.
[0037] In an embodiment, the control unit further includes a serial communication interface configured to output real-time data, including engine status, movement detection activity, and audio frequency values.
[0038] In an embodiment, the system is powered using a rechargeable battery or through a USB charging interface, allowing convenient deployment without modifying primary electrical wiring of the vehicle.
[0039] In an embodiment, the actuator, the control unit, the motion detection sensor, the audio units, and the light-emitting element, is enclosed within a housing that is suitable for installation within the vehicle, offering structural protection and modular integration.
[0040] In an embodiment, the control unit is also configured to deactivate both the audio units and light-emitting element when the engine is ON or when the motion detection sensor indicates a motion-free state within the monitored area.
[0041] Referring to FIG. 1, an exemplary block diagram (100) for a rodent deterrent system (102) (interchangeably referred to as system (102), hereinafter) for a vehicle is disclosed. The system (102) is configured to deter rodents, such as rats, from entering or damaging vehicle components during parked conditions. The system (102) includes an actuator (104) configured to simulate and provide an input signal representing the ON or OFF state of the engine. The actuator (104) includes a push button manually/automatically operable to indicate the simulated engine state to the system (102).
[0042] In addition, the system (102) includes at least one motion detection sensor (106) configured to detect movement within a predefined area of the vehicle. The motion detection sensor (106) includes a passive infrared (PIR) sensor, which is configured to output a logic LOW signal when motion, such as presence of rodent, is detected within a predefined area of the vehicle. The predefined area may include engine compartment, undercarriage, or surrounding zones where rodent activity is likely to occur during parked conditions.
[0043] In an embodiment, the system (102) includes a control unit (108) operatively coupled to the actuator (104) and the motion detection sensor (106), and is configured to determine the engine state and detect rodent activity based on the received input signals. The control unit (108) may be implemented using an ESP32 microcontroller, which provides integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, multiple GPIOs, hardware PWM support, and analogue input capabilities. When the control unit (108) determines that the engine is in the OFF state and motion is detected, it activates a set of audio units (112) by generating randomised ultrasonic frequencies through pulse width modulation signals. The control unit (108) seeds a random number generator using analogue signal noise to produce the randomised frequencies.
[0044] The audio units (112) are buzzers operatively coupled to the control unit (108) and are configured to emit high-frequency acoustic signals within a frequency range of 30 kHz to 50 kHz when activated, thereby creating an unpredictable and effective deterrent against rodents. Each audio unit (112) may be driven by an independent pulse width modulation (PWM) channel of the control unit (108) to generate dynamically varying ultrasonic tones. Unlike conventional deterrent systems that emit fixed-frequency outputs, the disclosed system produces randomised ultrasonic signals, reducing the likelihood of rodents adapting to a consistent sound pattern. This dynamic audio output enhances long-term effectiveness by maintaining unpredictability in the emitted deterrent stimuli.
[0045] In an embodiment, the system (102) further includes at least one light-emitting element (114), operatively coupled to the control unit (108). The control unit (108) activates the light-emitting element (114) to flash continuously when the engine is in the OFF state and movement is detected. The light-emitting element (114) includes a multi-colour light-emitting diode configured to emit flashing light at a predetermined rate, thereby providing a visual stimulus that contributes to the deterrence of rodents.
[0046] In addition, the light-emitting element (114) includes at least one indicator light-emitting diode configured to indicate the engine state, such as illuminating a red light when the engine is ON and a green light when the engine is OFF. For instance, during parked conditions with rodent movement detected, the control unit (108) may activate flashing multi-colour diode at a frequency of 5 Hz, while simultaneously illuminating the green indicator to show that the deterrent system is actively engaged.
[0047] The proposed rodent deterrent system (102) implements a multi-sensory approach by simultaneously activating both auditory and visual deterrents. This dual modality response includes auditory disruption through randomised ultrasonic signals and visual disturbance via flashing light-emitting elements. The combination creates a more effective deterrent environment, particularly in low-light or enclosed areas of the vehicle where rodents are prone to nesting.
[0048] In an embodiment, the control unit (108) is further configured to deactivate the set of audio units (112) and the light-emitting element (114) when at least one of two conditions is met. First, when the actuator (104) provides an input indicating that the engine is in the ON state, the system (102) is disabled to prevent unnecessary activation while the vehicle is in operation. Second, when the at least one motion detection sensor (106) outputs a signal corresponding to a motion-free state, indicating that no movement is detected within the predefined area, the control unit (108) discontinues the operation of both the audio and visual deterrents to conserve energy and avoid false triggering. For instance, if the engine is turned ON while the system (102) is active, or if no rodent movement is detected for a defined duration (e.g., 30 seconds), the control unit (108) automatically stops the emission of ultrasonic frequencies and ceases the flashing of the light-emitting element, thereby ensuring intelligent and energy-efficient system behaviour.
[0049] In an embodiment, the rodent deterrent system (102) is powered by a rechargeable battery or a USB charging interface (not shown). This power configuration allows the system (102) to function independently of the vehicle’s primary electrical system, thereby simplifying installation and ensuring uninterrupted operation during parked conditions. The power supply is configured to provide sufficient energy to operate the motion detection sensor (106), the control unit (108), the audio units (112), and the light-emitting element (114), while maintaining low overall power consumption for energy-efficient performance.
[0050] In an embodiment, control unit (108) further includes a serial communication interface (116) configured to output real-time system status. The serial communication interface (116) enables transmission of diagnostic and operational information, such as the current engine state as determined by the actuator (104), motion detection status as received from the motion detection sensor (106), and frequency values being generated to drive the audio units (112). This output allows users or developers to monitor behaviour of the system (102) via a serial monitor or compatible external device. For instance, during operation, the serial communication interface (116) may display messages indicating that the engine is OFF, motion has been detected, and the audio units (112) are emitting ultrasonic frequencies within a specific randomized range (e.g., 32 kHz, 41 kHz, 48 kHz), thereby facilitating real-time verification, debugging, or performance tuning.
[0051] In an embodiment, the actuator (104), the motion detection sensor (106), the control unit (108), the audio units (112), and the light-emitting element (114) are enclosed within a housing (not shown) configured for installation within the vehicle. The housing is adapted to protect the internal components from environmental factors such as dust, moisture, and heat typically present in engine bays or undercarriage areas. The compact and modular nature of the housing allows for flexible mounting in various types of vehicles without requiring significant modifications to the existing vehicle structure or wiring.
[0052] Referring to FIG. 2, an exemplary flow diagram (200) depicting the operation of the rodent deterrent system (102) is disclosed. At step (202), the process begins with initialisation of the ESP32 microcontroller. Once initialized, at step (204), the system (102) continuously monitors status of a push button acting as the actuator (104) to determine the engine state. If the push button signal is HIGH, the system (102) interprets this as the engine being ON (as shown at step (206)), and no deterrent actions are triggered, returning to monitor the push button, at step (204). If the push button signal is LOW, indicating that the engine is OFF (as shown at step (208)), the system (102) enters a motion sensing state using the passive infrared (PIR) motion detection sensor (106), at step (210).
[0053] If no motion is detected (i.e., the PIR sensor outputs a LOW signal), the system (102) continues to monitor for motion, as shown at step (212). However, if motion is detected, at step (210) (i.e., the PIR sensor outputs a HIGH signal), the control unit (108) activates the deterrent system (102) at step (214), which includes triggering the audio units (112) to emit randomized ultrasonic frequencies and activating the light-emitting element (114) to flash continuously. The system then loops back to monitor the engine and motion states at step (204), thereby ensuring adaptive and real-time deterrent control.
[0054] In an embodiment, the system (102) is built using modular, open-source hardware and tools, making it easy to reproduce, modify, and integrate into a wide range of applications. The components used in the proposed system, such as the ESP32 microcontroller, passive infrared sensor, and standard audio and lighting elements, ensure compatibility with open-source development environments. This accessibility supports widespread adoption and encourages innovation by hobbyists, researchers, and automotive professionals alike.
[0055] In an exemplary embodiment, the proposed system (102) offers a highly cost-effective solution for rodent deterrence in vehicles. This utilises readily available electronic components, which significantly reduce production cost. This makes the system (102) suitable for large-scale deployment in both personal and commercial vehicles while maintaining effective performance.
[0056] Thus, the present disclosure provides the system (102) as an effective, energy-efficient, and low-cost solution for deterring rodents in parked vehicles. By combining randomised ultrasonic signals and visual flashing elements, the system (102) offers reliable, adaptive protection using open-source and modular components suitable for diverse vehicle types.
[0057] While foregoing describes various embodiments of the invention, other and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. The scope of the invention is determined by the claims that follow. The invention is not limited to the described embodiments, versions, or examples, which are included to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention when combined with information and knowledge available to the person having ordinary skill in the art.

ADVANTAGES OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE
[0058] While foregoing describes various embodiments of the invention, other and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. The scope of the invention is determined by the claims that follow. The invention is not limited to the described embodiments, versions, or examples, which are included to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention when combined with information and knowledge available to the person having ordinary skill in the art.
[0059] The present disclosure provides a rodent deterrent system designed to discourage rodents, such as rats, from entering or damaging vehicles while parked.
[0060] The present disclosure provides a deterrent mechanism that utilises randomised ultrasonic signals to minimise risk of rodents becoming accustomed to fixed frequency outputs.
[0061] The present disclosure provides a visual deterrent component integrated into the system to improve overall repelling performance through multi-modal stimulation.
[0062] The present disclosure provides functionality for real-time system diagnostics and monitoring using a serial communication interface for continuous feedback.
[0063] The present disclosure provides a power arrangement based on rechargeable batteries or USB inputs, enabling flexible, standalone system operation without relying on vehicle power.
[0064] The present disclosure provides an economically efficient solution that makes use of commonly available, low-power hardware components.
[0065] The present disclosure provides a modular and compact system architecture that supports easy integration across a range of vehicle types and models.
[0066] The present disclosure provides a rodent repellent system that combines high-frequency sound and flashing light to deliver a multi-sensory deterrent response.
[0067] The present disclosure provides automated system control that disables deterrent functions when the vehicle is active or when no rodent activity is detected in the monitored area.
, Claims:1. A rodent deterrent system (102) for a vehicle, the system comprising:
an actuator (104) configured to simulate and provide an input signal indicating an engine ON or engine OFF state of the vehicle;
at least one motion detection sensor (106) configured to detect movement within a predefined area of the vehicle; and
a control unit (108) operatively coupled to the actuator (104) and the at least one motion detection sensor (106), the control unit configured to:
receive the input signal from the actuator to determine whether the engine is in the ON or OFF state;
generate randomized ultrasonic frequencies using pulse width modulation (PWM) signals to activate a set of audio units (112), when the OFF state of the engine and movement is detected by the motion detection sensor (106), wherein the set of audio units (112) are configured to emit high-frequency acoustic signals when activated;
activate at least one light-emitting element (114) to flash continuously when the engine is in the OFF state and the movement is detected.
2. The system (102) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the actuator (104) comprises a push button configured to simulate the engine ON or OFF state.
3. The system (102) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one motion detection sensor (106) comprises a passive infrared (PIR) sensor configured to output a logic LOW signal upon detection of the movement in the vehicle.
4. The system (102) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control unit (108) is configured to seed a random number generator using analogue signal noise to generate the randomised ultrasonic frequencies.
5. The system (102) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the set of audio units (112) are configured to emit acoustic signals in a frequency range of 30 kHz to 50 kHz.
6. The system (102) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one light-emitting element (114) comprises a multi-colour light-emitting diode configured to emit flashing light at a predetermined rate upon activation, and further comprises at least one indicator light-emitting diode configured to indicate the engine ON or OFF state.
7. The system (102) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control unit (108) is further configured to deactivate the set of audio units and the light-emitting element (114) when at least one of conditions is met:
the engine is in the ON state; or
the at least one motion detection sensor (106) outputs a signal corresponding to a motion-free state within the predefined area of the vehicle.
8. The system (102) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control unit (108) further comprises a serial communication interface (116) configured to output real-time system status, including engine state, motion detection status, and frequency values of the set of audio units (112).
9. The system (102) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the rodent deterrent system is powered by a rechargeable battery or a USB charging interface.
10. The system (102) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the actuator (104), the at least one motion detection sensor (106), the control unit (108), the set of audio units (112), and the at least one light-emitting element (114) are enclosed within a housing configured for installation within the vehicle.