Description:BACKGROUND
Field of Invention
[001] Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to a device for self-defense and particularly to a device for self-defense in a vehicle.
Description of Related Art
[002] Personal safety in public and semi-public transport has remained a major concern, especially for women drivers and passengers. Reports indicate frequent instances of harassment, assault, and intimidation during late hours or in isolated areas. Conventional safety tools such as whistles, pepper sprays, or personal alarms are often inadequate because they depend on manual access and visible action in moments of high stress. Further, exposed structure of vehicles such as auto-rickshaws reduces a chance of effective self-defense, since driver often cannot physically reach or resist the aggressor without putting themselves at additional risk.
[003] Several technological solutions have been introduced to address such threats. These solutions include wearable devices capable of transmitting distress signals, mobile applications that share location in emergencies, and manual gas-based sprays for temporary incapacitation. While each solution offers some degree of protection, these solutions generally rely on the driver’s ability to reach, handle, or operate within seconds of danger. Moreover, deterrent capability of alarms or location signals alone does not prevent immediate harm from a physical attack.
[004] Prior arts such as IN201911035474 titled ‘Distress signal-emit-in-states-of-emergency wearable, safety smart band sending emergencies via GSM, without an inbuilt physical deterrent system’, IN201841012345 titled ‘Pepper spray device having an inbuilt GPS module to be manually operated and directed’, and IN201711008905 titled ‘GPS-based safety alarm system for autonomous vehicles provide communication benefits but do not create physical barriers against attackers. Additionally, gas-based deterrents exist in handheld form, but they require manual deployment and lack integration with automated alert systems. Furthermore, safety applications for smartphones require connectivity and user interaction that is not possible in sudden or violent encounters.
[005] There is thus a need for an improved and advanced device for self-defense in a vehicle that can administer the aforementioned limitations in a more efficient manner.
SUMMARY
[006] Embodiments in accordance with the present invention provide a device for self-defense in a vehicle. The device comprising a pressurized container containing Chloroacetophenone (CN) gas. The device further comprising a set of nozzles directed toward a passenger compartment of the vehicle. The device further comprising a solenoid-controlled valve operatively connected to the pressurized container for a controlled gas release. The device further comprising an activation unit comprising a trigger configured to actuate the solenoid-controlled valve. The device further comprising a controller communicatively connected to the activation unit. The controller is configured to receive an activation signal from the activation unit; relay the activation signal to the solenoid-controlled valve; and actuate the solenoid-controlled valve to release the Chloroacetophenone (CN) gas from the pressurized container via the set of nozzles.
[007] Embodiments in accordance with the present invention further provide a method for self-defense in a vehicle. The method comprising steps of receiving an activation signal from an activation unit; relaying the activation signal to a solenoid-controlled valve; and actuating the solenoid-controlled valve to release Chloroacetophenone (CN) gas from a pressurized container via set of nozzles.
[008] Embodiments of the present invention may provide a number of advantages depending on their particular configuration. First, embodiments of the present application may provide a device for self-defense in a vehicle.
[009] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide a device for self-defense that provides both a physical deterrent through CN gas release and a digital distress signal through Global Positioning System (GPS) and Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM).
[0010] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide a device for self-defense that ensures immediate defense along with external help.
[0011] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide a device for self-defense that allows a driver to activate discreetly and instantly without reliance on physical strength or verbal communication.
[0012] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide a device for self-defense that integrates directly into a vehicle structure.
[0013] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide a device for self-defense that ensures protection in a confined environment of public transport.
[0014] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide a device for self-defense that reduce a chance of detection or deactivation by attackers.
[0015] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide a device for self-defense that is compact, affordable, requires no specialized training.
[0016] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide a device for self-defense that is operable in chaotic or threatening situations.
[0017] These and other advantages will be apparent from the present application of the embodiments described herein.
[0018] The preceding is a simplified summary to provide an understanding of some embodiments of the present invention. This summary is neither an extensive nor exhaustive overview of the present invention and its various embodiments. The summary presents selected concepts of the embodiments of the present invention in a simplified form as an introduction to the more detailed description presented below. As will be appreciated, other embodiments of the present invention are possible utilizing, alone or in combination, one or more of the features set forth above or described in detail below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0019] The above and still further features and advantages of embodiments of the present invention will become apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description of embodiments thereof, especially when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, and wherein:
[0020] FIG. 1 illustrates a device for self-defense in a vehicle, according to an embodiment of the present invention; and
[0021] FIG. 2 depicts a flowchart of a method for self-defense in a vehicle, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0022] The headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not meant to be used to limit the scope of the description or the claims. As used throughout this application, the word "may" is used in a permissive sense (i.e., meaning having the potential to), rather than the mandatory sense (i.e., meaning must). Similarly, the words “include”, “including”, and “includes” mean including but not limited to. To facilitate understanding, like reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate like elements common to the figures. Optional portions of the figures may be illustrated using dashed or dotted lines, unless the context of usage indicates otherwise.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0023] 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 scope of the invention as defined in the claims.
[0024] 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.
[0025] 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.
[0026] As used herein, the term “driver” refers to an individual who operates an auto-rickshaw or similar public transport vehicle and who remains positioned in the designated operator’s seat for the purpose of maneuvering, controlling, or directing the public transport vehicle. In a present context, the driver is an authorized user of device disclosed herein, and is enabled to initiate protective or defensive measures when a threat arises.
[0027] As used herein, the term “passenger” refers to an individual other than the driver who occupies a seating position within a passenger compartment of an auto-rickshaw or similar public transport vehicle. A passenger may be lawful or unauthorized, and in certain instances, may constitute a source of potential threat, assault, or intimidation against the driver.
[0028] FIG. 1 illustrates a device 100 for self-defense in a vehicle 102, according to an embodiment of the present invention. In an embodiment of the present invention, the device 100 may be an independent smart gas dispersal system implanted in the vehicle 102 that may dispense Chloroacetophenone (CN) gas. The Chloroacetophenone (CN) gas may be an irritant gas that is non-toxic but may produce temporary irritation in eyes and skin to repel aggression by hostile or suspicious passengers. A driver may secretly deploy the device 100 when a danger may be felt with an unobservable panic button, releasing the Chloroacetophenone (CN) gas in a passenger compartment of the vehicle 102. Concurrently, the device 100 may transmit live alarms with Global Positioning System (GPS) coordinates to emergency contacts through a connected mobile application or a Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) module. The device 100 may provide physical deterrent and digital distress alert. The device 100 may be tamper-indicative, ergonomically shaped, and user-friendly.
[0029] The device 100 may introduce non-lethal chemical deterrent with live emergency alert technology into a computerized, fixed-vehicle security system. The use of the Chloroacetophenone (CN) gas with an inaudible trigger system and mounted communication unit may offer immediate two-level protection. On-site discharge of the Chloroacetophenone (CN) gas may provide least exposure to the driver, and the auto-communication may provide external assistance. The innovation may be founded on defensive reaction and smart technology such that female drivers may react instantly and anonymously without relying on physical power or word of mouth.
[0030] According to the embodiments of the present invention, the device 100 may incorporate non-limiting hardware components to enhance a processing speed and an efficiency such as the device 100 may comprise a pressurized container 104, a set of nozzles 106, a solenoid-controlled valve 108, an activation unit 110, a trigger 112, a controller 114, a communication unit 116, and a power supply unit 118. In an embodiment of the present invention, the hardware components of the device 100 may be integrated with computer-executable instructions for overcoming the challenges and the limitations of the existing devices.
[0031] In an embodiment of the present invention, the pressurized container 104 may contain the Chloroacetophenone (CN) gas. The Chloroacetophenone (CN) gas in the pressurized container 104 may be mixed with Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) spray, Ortho-chlorobenzyl Dene Malononitrile (CS gas), a pepper spray, and so forth. The Chloroacetophenone (CN) gas in the pressurized container 104 may be released in the passenger compartment of the vehicle 102 via the set of nozzles 106. The set of nozzles 106 may be directed towards a seat and/or a seating space in the passenger compartment of the vehicle 102.
[0032] In an embodiment of the present invention, the solenoid-controlled valve 108 may be operatively connected to the pressurized container 104 for a controlled gas release. The solenoid-controlled valve 108 may be operated using the trigger 112 in the activation unit 110. The activation unit 110 with the trigger 112 may be installed in a reachable proximity of the driver of the vehicle 102. The trigger 112 may further include optional pressure sensors or accelerometer sensors configured to detect excessive force and autonomously generate the activation signal. In yet another embodiment, a voice-command module may be integrated within the trigger 112 to enable release of the gas through pre-defined voice keywords. The trigger 112 may be, but not limited to, a concealed manual switch, a pressure sensor, a voice command module, a wearable remote trigger, and so forth. The wearable remote trigger may be, but not limited to, a ring, a pendent, a piece of jewelry, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the trigger 112, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0033] In an embodiment of the present invention, the controller 114 may be communicatively connected to the activation unit 110. The controller 114 may be configured to receive an activation signal from the activation unit 110. The controller 114 may be configured to relay the activation signal to the solenoid-controlled valve 108. The controller 114 may be configured to actuate the solenoid-controlled valve 108 to release the Chloroacetophenone (CN) gas from the pressurized container 104 via the set of nozzles 106. The controller 114 may be configured to log an incident time, a map location, a real time audio recording from a microphone, a video footage from a dash cam, and so forth. Following the log, the device 100 may enter a lockout state and prevents further actuation until manual reset by the driver. This may ensure a prevention of repeated gas deployment until replenishment and secure reset of the device 100.
[0034] The controller 114 may be configured to control a software engine executed by the controller 114. The software engine may be configured to manage trigger logic, timer delay, safety lockout, and sequencing of the activation signals. The software engine may further provide memory logging for incident analysis. The controller 114 may be, but not limited to, Arduino, an Espressif (ESP32). Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the controller 114, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0035] In an embodiment of the present invention, the communication unit 116 may be adapted to transmit an emergency alert with real-time location data to a law enforcement agency. In another embodiment of the present invention, the communication unit 116 adapted to transmit an emergency alert with real-time location data to a registered computer device (not shown) of an emergency contact. The communication unit 116 may be, but not limited to, a Global System for Mobile (GSM) unit, a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) unit, a smartphone application, and so forth. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the communication unit 116 may be an Internet of Things (IoT) enabled unit. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the communication unit 116, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0036] In an embodiment of the present invention, the power supply unit 118 may be configured to supply operational power to the controller 114. The power supply unit 118 may have a capacity ranging between 1000 milliampere hours (mAh) and 1500 milliampere hours (mAh). The power supply unit 118 may be, but not limited to, a rechargeable battery, a vehicle-integrated power source, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the power supply unit 118, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0037] The device 100 may further include feedback and indication components such as a vibration motor to notify the driver of successful activation, an LED indicator configured to blink during system operation or low battery conditions, and a buzzer to generate audible warning signals.
[0038] In an embodiment of the present invention, the vehicle 102 may be a means of transportation that may be driven by the driver. Along with the driver, the vehicle 102 may be adapted to carry the passenger(s). The vehicle 102 may be, but not limited to, a car, a motorcycle, a bus, and so forth. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the vehicle 102 may be an auto rickshaw. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the vehicle 102, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0039] In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the device 100 may be further integrated with biometric authentication features to ensure that only an authorized driver may operate or activate the device 100. The biometric authentication may be based on fingerprint recognition, facial recognition, or an iris scan system. The biometric system may be communicatively connected to the controller 114 and may be configured to permit or deny activation of the trigger 112. This may prevent unauthorized access, accidental deployment, or intentional misuse of the device 100 by unauthorized individuals. In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the device 100 may include a machine learning–based threat detection algorithm. The algorithm may analyze real-time environmental data obtained from the sensors such as accelerometers, microphones, dash cameras, and GPS coordinates to predict or detect hostile activity. Upon detecting a potential threat, the system may provide a silent pre-activation alert to the driver through haptic feedback (such as vibration in the seat or steering wheel) before granting the driver the option to trigger the dispersal of the Chloroacetophenone (CN) gas.
[0040] In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the device 100 may incorporate a dual-compartment pressurized container 104. The first compartment may contain the Chloroacetophenone (CN) gas, while the second compartment may contain an alternative deterrent such as Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) spray. The driver may selectively choose the type of gas release based on the severity of the threat through the activation unit 110. This selective release mechanism may provide flexible defensive strategies in varying situations.
[0041] In an embodiment of the present invention, the device 100 may be further adapted with a remote monitoring system, wherein an emergency contact or law enforcement agency may remotely disable or enable the device 100 through a secured IoT interface. Such remote monitoring may be encrypted and password-protected to prevent cyber intrusion. This feature may provide additional reliability in case the driver is incapacitated or unable to operate the device 100 manually. In yet another embodiment, the device 100 may be concealed within a standard accessory of the vehicle 102 such as an air-conditioning vent, dashboard panel, or headrest. This may ensure discreet integration of the device 100 without alarming passengers or attackers. The concealed design may additionally provide effective dispersal of the chemical deterrent without exposing the driver directly.
[0042] FIG. 2 depicts a flowchart of a method 200 for self-defense in the vehicle 102 using the device 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0043] At step 202, the device 100 may receive the activation signal from the activation unit 110.
[0044] At step 204, the device 100 may relay the activation signal to the solenoid-controlled valve 108.
[0045] At step 206, the device 100 may actuate the solenoid-controlled valve 108 to release the Chloroacetophenone (CN) gas from the pressurized container 104 via the set of nozzles 106.
[0046] At step 208, the device 100 may transmit the emergency alert with the real-time location data to the law enforcement agency.
[0047] At step 210, the device 100 may log the incident time, the map location, and so forth.
[0048] While the invention has been described in connection with what is presently considered to be the most practical and various embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the disclosed embodiments, but on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the scope of the appended claims.
[0049] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined in the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements within substantial differences from the literal languages of the claims. , Claims:CLAIMS
I/We Claim:
1. A device (100) for self-defense in a vehicle (102), the device (100) comprising:
a pressurized container (104) containing Chloroacetophenone (CN) gas;
a set of nozzles (106) directed toward a passenger compartment of the vehicle (102);
a solenoid-controlled valve (108) operatively connected to the pressurized container (104) for a controlled gas release;
an activation unit (110) comprising a trigger (112) configured to actuate the solenoid-controlled valve (108); and
a controller (114) communicatively connected to the activation unit (110), characterized in that the controller (114) is configured to:
receive an activation signal from the activation unit (110);
relay the activation signal to the solenoid-controlled valve (108); and
actuate the solenoid-controlled valve (108) to release the Chloroacetophenone (CN) gas from the pressurized container (104) via the set of nozzles (106).
2. The device (100) as claimed in claim 1, comprising a communication unit (116) adapted to transmit an emergency alert with real-time location data to a law enforcement agency.
3. The device (100) as claimed in claim 1, comprising a power supply unit (118) configured to supply operational power to the controller (112).
4. The device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the trigger (112) is selected from a concealed manual switch, a pressure sensor, a voice command module, a wearable remote trigger, or a combination thereof.
5. The device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the Chloroacetophenone (CN) gas is mixed with Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) spray, Ortho-chlorobenzyl Dene Malononitrile (CS gas), or a combination thereof.
6. The device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the controller (114) is configured to log an incident time, a map location, or a combination thereof.
7. A method (200) for self-defense in a vehicle (102), the method (200) is characterized by steps of:
receiving an activation signal from an activation unit (110);
relaying the activation signal to a solenoid-controlled valve (108); and
actuating the solenoid-controlled valve (108) to release Chloroacetophenone (CN) gas from a pressurized container (104) via set of nozzles (106).
8. The method (200) as claimed in claim 7, comprising a step of transmitting an emergency alert with real-time location data to a law enforcement agency.
9. The method (200) as claimed in claim 7, comprising a step of logging an incident time, a map location, or a combination thereof.
10. The method (200) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the Chloroacetophenone (CN) gas is mixed with Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) spray, Ortho-chlorobenzyl Dene Malononitrile (CS gas), or a combination thereof.
Date: October 06, 2025
Place: Noida

Nainsi Rastogi
Patent Agent (IN/PA-2372)
Agent for the Applicant