DESC:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates to a rear parking alert system for a heavy-duty vehicle, such as a truck.

BACKGROUND

Heavy-duty vehicles, such as trucks or lorries are employed to transport goods by road. The heavy-duty vehicle has a long body to haul a large amount of cargo. The heavy-duty vehicle is also wide to accommodate the cargo and provide stability to the vehicle. Heavy-duty vehicles, owing to their size, have poor rear visibility which hampers the maneuvering of the heavy-duty vehicle during reversing. Generally, Heavy-duty vehicles are operated by a pair of a driver and a conductor, such that the conductor can help the driver to maneuver the heavy-duty vehicle while reversing it.

Current solutions exist to mitigate this issue. One of the solutions includes the installation of parking sensors on the tail lamps of heavy-duty vehicles. One of the main limitations with mounting the sensors on the tail lamps is that the sensors on the tail lamps are prone to damage in case of a minor accident. Moreover, mounting the sensors on the tail lamp are also prone to theft. In addition, mounting the sensor on the tail lamps warrant redesigning the tail lamps which increases the overall cost of manufacturing the heavy-duty vehicle. Another solution is to mount the sensors on the chassis of the heavy-duty vehicle. However, mounting the sensors on the chassis also warrants redesigning the chassis. Moreover, the same process of redesigning is required to install the sensor on a different heavy-duty vehicle that has a different design chassis.

Moreover, the parking sensors on heavy-duty vehicles tend to sense the parts of the road, such as speed breakers or undulations thereby generating a false positive signal that can be distractive for the heavy vehicle’s driver. Therefore there is need to provide technical solution to above stated technical problem.

SUMMARY

This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts, in a simplified format, that are further described in the detailed description of the invention. This summary is neither intended to identify key or essential inventive concepts of the invention nor is it intended for determining the scope of the invention.

The present subject matter relates to the aspects of a Rear Under-run Protection Device having a parking system for a heavy-duty vehicle, such as a truck. The RUPD system is installed at the rearmost part of the vehicle which can be easily installed on the chassis of the heavy-duty vehicle. The sensors are arranged in such a way that waves emitted from the parking system do not reach the ground to generate false positive signals.

In an embodiment, a Rear Underbody Protection Device (RUPD) for a vehicle is disclosed which includes an impact body and a plurality of sensor units. The impact body is adapted to be disposed of on a chassis of the vehicle and a plurality of sensor units are disposed on the impact body. Further, each sensor unit is adapted to detect the distance between the impact body and an object behind the vehicle

In some embodiments, the plurality of sensor units are installed at a predefined angle with respect to the horizontal axis of the impact body.

In some embodiments, a vehicle is disclosed that includes a chassis and a rear underbody protection device (RUPD). The RUPD includes a body adapted to be disposed on a chassis of the vehicle and a plurality of sensor units disposed on the body. Further, each sensor unit is adapted to detect the distance between the body and an object.

In some embodiments, each of the plurality of sensor units is adapted to transmit an ultrasonic wave lobe at the predefined angle, such that the ultrasonic wave lobe is transmitted away from the ground or should not reach ground.

In some embodiments, the RUPD includes a plurality of through-holes formed at the predefined angle with respect to the horizontal axis. In addition, the RUPD includes a plurality of sleeves installed in the plurality of through-holes. Further, each of the plurality of sleeves includes a cylindrical body having an opening of a predefined shape adapted to receive a sensor unit, from among the plurality of sensor units, wherein the opening restricts rotation of the sensor unit inside the cylindrical body and a flange around the opening adapted to rest against an outer edge of a respective through-hole.

In some embodiments, a method for assembling a plurality of sensor units on a Rear Under-run Protection Device is disclosed. The method includes installing a sleeve in one of a plurality of through-holes of an impact body of the RUPD. The method further includes fixedly attaching, either by the sleeves to the through-hole at a predefined location or by fastening into the through-hole at the predefined location. The method also includes inserting a sensor module in the sleeve via an opening of the sleeve, wherein the opening prevents rotation of the sensor module therein. Further, the method includes inserting a fastener into an open end of the sleeve using a tool to engage an inner threaded surface with an outer threaed surface the sensor module, wherein the fastener includes a plurality of teeth adapted to mate with a profile of the tool. The method also includes rotating the tool for tighening the fastener against an inner surface of the sleeve to secure the sensor module in the sleeve. The method includes removing the tool from the sleeve by disconnecting the profile from the plurality of teeth of the fastener.

According to the present subject matter, the sensor units are installed on the rearmost part of the heavy-duty vehicle that allows accurate and timely detection of the object. Further, the impact body is reinforced by the sleeve thereby ensuring the RUPD retains the predetermined strength after the installation of the sensor units. Furthermore, the sensor units are installed at the predetermined angle which ensures the wave lobe does not reach the ground and detection of undulations on the ground is prevented.

Moreover, the sensor units are mounted on the RUPD which is an add-on on the heavy-duty vehicle thereby mitigating the issue of redesigning the heavy-duty vehicle’s body/chassis to accommodate the sensor units. Furthermore, integrating the sensor units in the RUPD deters theft of sensor units that otherwise occur when the sensor units are mounted on the chassis or taillamps of the heavy-duty vehicle.

To further clarify the advantages and features of the present invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail in the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings in which like characters represent like parts throughout the drawings, wherein:

Figure 1 illustrates various views of a vehicle having a Rear Under Protection Device (RUPD), according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figure 2 illustrates a schematic of a control unit coupled to a plurality of sensor units, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figure 3 illustrates a detailed schematic of the RUPD having an impact body and a plurality of sensor units, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figure 4 illustrates a side view of the RUPD showing an ultrasonic wave lobe, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figure 5 illustrates a top view of the RUPD showing a plurality of ultrasonic wave lobes, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figure 6 illustrates a cut section taken along lines 1-1 in Figure 3, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figure 7 illustrates a perspective view of the RUPD with the sensor units installed inside the RUPD, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figure 8 illustrates a perspective view of the RUPD with the sensor units having a bracket installed inside the RUPD, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figure 9 illustrates a detailed schematic of the sensor unit, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figure 10 illustrates separate transmitting and receiving type of sensor module disposed on the RUPD, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figure 11 illustrates a schematic of the control unit showing the working of a trans-receiver type sensor unit, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figure 12 illustrates the sensor unit with a soldered connecting pins according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figure 13 illustrates the sensor unit with integrated connecting pins, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figure 14 illustrates a tool for installing the sensor unit, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and
Figure 15 illustrates a method for assembling the sensor units on the RUPD, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Further, skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the drawings are illustrated for simplicity and may not have necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the flow charts illustrate the method in terms of the most prominent steps involved to help to improve understanding of aspects of the present invention. Furthermore, in terms of the construction of the device, one or more components of the device may have been represented in the drawings by conventional symbols, and the drawings may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present invention so as not to obscure the drawings with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiment illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended, such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated system, and such further applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated therein being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates. Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skilled in the art to which this invention belongs. The system, methods, and examples provided herein are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.

For example, the term “some” as used herein may be understood as “none” or “one” or “more than one” or “all.” Therefore, the terms “none,” “one,” “more than one,” “more than one, but not all” or “all” would fall under the definition of “some.” It should be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that the terminology and structure employed herein is for describing, teaching, and illuminating some embodiments and their specific features and elements and therefore, should not be construed to limit, restrict or reduce the spirit and scope of the present disclosure in any way.

For example, any terms used herein such as, “includes,” “comprises,” “has,” “consists,” and similar grammatical variants do not specify an exact limitation or restriction, and certainly do not exclude the possible addition of one or more features or elements, unless otherwise stated. Further, such terms must not be taken to exclude the possible removal of one or more of the listed features and elements, unless otherwise stated, for example, by using the limiting language including, but not limited to, “must comprise” or “needs to include.”

Whether or not a certain feature or element was limited to being used only once, it may still be referred to as “one or more features” or “one or more elements” or “at least one feature” or “at least one element.” Furthermore, the use of the terms “one or more” or “at least one” feature or element do not preclude there being none of that feature or element, unless otherwise specified by limiting language including, but not limited to, “there needs to be one or more...” or “one or more element is required.”

Unless otherwise defined, all terms and especially any technical and/or scientific terms, used herein may be taken to have the same meaning as commonly understood by a person ordinarily skilled in the art.

Reference is made herein to some “embodiments.” It should be understood that an embodiment is an example of a possible implementation of any features and/or elements of the present disclosure. Some embodiments have been described for the purpose of explaining one or more of the potential ways in which the specific features and/or elements of the proposed disclosure fulfil the requirements of uniqueness, utility, and non-obviousness.

Use of the phrases and/or terms including, but not limited to, “a first embodiment,” “a further embodiment,” “an alternate embodiment,” “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “multiple embodiments,” “some embodiments,” “other embodiments,” “further embodiment”, “furthermore embodiment”, “additional embodiment” or other variants thereof do not necessarily refer to the same embodiments. Unless otherwise specified, one or more particular features and/or elements described in connection with one or more embodiments may be found in one embodiment, or may be found in more than one embodiment, or may be found in all embodiments, or may be found in no embodiments. Although one or more features and/or elements may be described herein in the context of only a single embodiment, or in the context of more than one embodiment, or in the context of all embodiments, the features and/or elements may instead be provided separately or in any appropriate combination or not at all. Conversely, any features and/or elements described in the context of separate embodiments may alternatively be realized as existing together in the context of a single embodiment.

Any particular and all details set forth herein are used in the context of some embodiments and therefore should not necessarily be taken as limiting factors to the proposed disclosure.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

For the sake of clarity, the first digit of a reference numeral of each component of the present disclosure is indicative of the Figure number, in which the corresponding component is shown. For example, reference numerals starting with digit “1” are shown at least in Figure 1. Similarly, reference numerals starting with digit “2” are shown at least in Figure 2.

Figure 1 illustrates various views of a vehicle 100 having a Rear Under-run Protection Device (RUPD) 102, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, view (A) shows a side view of the vehicle 100, view (B) shows a top view of the vehicle 100, and view (C) shows a rear view of the vehicle 100. The vehicle 100 may be a heavy-duty vehicle, such as a truck or a lorry. The vehicle 100 may include a chassis 104 on which the RUPD 102 may be installed. The RUPD 102 may protect other small vehicles from going under the vehicle 100 in case of a rearward accident. The RUPD 102 is the rearmost part of the vehicle 100 and extends both downward and rearward from the chassis 104. The RUPD 102 of the present disclosure is designed to perform two tasks. First, the RUPD 102 is designed to prevent objects from going underneath the vehicle 100 and second, the RUPD 102 is adapted to detect an object that may be behind the heavy-duty vehicle.

In one example, the RUPD 102 is designed in such a way that the integration of the RUPD 102 in the heavy-duty vehicle does not warrant changes in the chassis of the heavy-duty vehicle. As a result, the RUPD 102 can be retrofitted into the existing heavy-duty vehicle. Moreover, the RUPD 102 is designed to be integrated as an original equipment manufacturer component for a new heavy-duty vehicle. The RUPD 102 is designed to prevent theft thereof. In addition, the RUPD 102 is designed, such that RUPD 102 can be easily replaced when the RUPD 102 or components thereof are damaged.

In one example, the RUPD 102 is installed at the rear end of the heavy-duty vehicle. The RUPD 102 is a safety device that prevents objects, such as cars/ bikes from entering underneath the heavy-duty vehicle in case of rear-end collision. The RUPD 102 not only prevents the vehicles from damage that would otherwise by entering underneath the vehicle but also protect the heavy-duty vehicle’s axle. The RUPD 102 is generally installed at the rear end of the heavy-duty vehicle in such a way that the RUPD 102 forms the rearmost end of the heavy-duty vehicle. Since the RUPD 102 is the rearmost end of the heavy-duty vehicle, the RUPD 102 becomes the most probable place to mount sensors. In one example, the RUPD 102 is positioned 500 to 600 mm height from the ground and will be mounted at a predetermined angle with respect to the chassis of the vehicle.

In one example, the RUPD 102 may include a plurality of sensor units 106 that is adapted to detect a distance of an object behind the vehicle 100. The sensor units 106 on the RUPD 102 may also be connected to a control unit 108 that processes the signals from the sensor units 106 to determine the detected distance.

Referring now to Figures 2 and 3, show a schematic of a parking alert system 200 and a detailed schematic of the RUPD 102 respectively, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In one example, the RUPD 102 may be part of the parking alert system 200 for the vehicle 100 (shown in Figure 1). The parking alert system 200 may work with an electronic control unit (ECU) of the vehicle 100. The parking alert system 200 may include, but is not limited to, the RUPD 102 having the plurality of sensor units 106, the control unit 108, and an alerting system 202, details of each will be provided in detail in subsequent embodiments. The control unit 108, in one example, can interact with reverse lights 204 which provides visual confirmation to people behind the vehicle 100 that the driver of the vehicle 100 is moving the vehicle 100 backwards.

In one example, the control unit 108 as a part of the ECU reduces the number of physical components of the parking alert system 200. Moreover, the control unit 108 being a part of the ECU enables easy coupling of the sensor units 106 to the terminals already available at the rear of the heavy-duty vehicle, such as the terminals for the tail lamps. The use of existing terminals enables easy integration of the parking alert system 200. Alternatively, the control unit 108 separates units external to the ECU which allows for easy customization to the functioning of the control unit 108. The control unit 108 may be adapted to receive a trigger to activate the parking alert system 200. In case, the control unit 108 is the ECU of the heavy-duty vehicle, the control unit 108 may receive a signal gear position indicator informing that the driver has engaged the reverse gear. On the other hand, in case the control unit 108 is an external unit, the control unit 108 receives the gear position indicator indicating that the driver has indicated the reverse gear.

The control unit 108 may include a processor, a memory, module(s), and data. The processor, amongst other capabilities, may be configured to fetch and execute computer-readable instructions stored in the memory. The processor may be implemented as one or more microprocessors, microcomputers, microcontrollers, digital signal processors, central processing units, state machines, logic circuitries, and/or any devices that manipulate signals based on operational instructions. The functions of the various elements shown in the figure, including any functional blocks labeled as “processor(s)”, may be provided through the use of dedicated hardware as well as hardware capable of executing software in association with the appropriate software.

The memory may be coupled to the processor and may, among other capabilities, provide data and instructions for generating different requests. The memory can include any computer-readable medium known in the art including, for example, volatile memory, such as static random-access memory (SRAM) and dynamic random-access memory (DRAM), and/or non-volatile memory, such as read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable ROM, flash memories, hard disks, optical disks, and magnetic tapes. The data serves, amongst other things, as a repository for storing data that may be fetched, processed, received, or generated by one or more of the module (s).

The module(s) may perform different functionalities which may include, but may not be limited to, sending a signal to the sensor unit 106 and receiving the reflected signal from the sensor unit 106.

Although not shown, the parking alert system 200 also includes a camera that provides a video feed of the region ahead of the RUPD 102 to the driver via a display device in the cabin compartment of the heavy-duty vehicle. In such a case, the camera may relay the video feed to the control circuit and the control circuit may send the feed to the display device. Further, the camera may also be integrated into the RUPD 102 in the same way the sensor units 106 are integrated. Furthermore, the camera may also work synergistically with the sensor units 106 to provide better positional awareness of the driver about the rear of the heavy-duty vehicle.

Referring to Figure 3, the RUPD 102 may include an impact body 300 that may be referred to as an impact bar. The impact body 300 may be a hollow tube that is designed to act as a barrier that prevents objects, such as small vehicles, two-wheeled vehicles, and pedestrians from falling underneath the vehicle in case of a rearward collision. The impact body 300 is designed in such a way that it does not undergo deformation when the object crashes thereinto. The impact body 300 may include a pair of mounts 404 (not shown in Figure 3) that allows mounting of the impact body 300 to the chassis 104.

In one example, the sensor units 106 are installed across the length of the impact body 300 and are equally spaced from each other. Such an arrangement enables the sensor units 106 to generate uniform wave lobes (not shown in Figure 3). The manner in which the sensor units 106 are installed is explained in subsequent embodiments.

Figures 4 to 6 illustrate various views of the RUPD 102, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, Figure 4 illustrates a side view of the RUPD showing an ultrasonic wave lobe 400 whereas Figure 5 illustrates a top view of the RUPD showing a plurality of ultrasonic wave lobes 400. Further, Figure 6 illustrates a cut section of the RUPD taken along lines 1-1 in Figure 4.

The RUPD 102 has mounts 404 to install the RUPD 102 on chasis 104. Further, the RUPD 102 includes a plurality of through-hole 608 (shown in Figure 6) that accommodates the sensor units 106. As may be understood, the through-hole 608 can reduce the overall strength of the RUPD 102. Therefore, in order to reinforce the RUPD 102, the RUPD 102 includes a plurality of sleeves 402 installed in the plurality of through-hole 608. The sleeves 402 may be made of the same material as the impact body 300. Using the same material for the impact body 300 and the sleeve 402 not only allows achieving the requisite strength of the impact body 300 but also prevents chances of corrosion which generally occurs when two metal surfaces are joined. In one example, the sleeves 402 may be welded to the through-hole 608 at location 610 and in another example, the sleeves 402 are fastened into the through-hole 608 at location 610.

In one example, the through-hole 608 is formed at a predefined angle ‘A’ with respect to a horizontal axis A1. Since the sleeves 402 are installed inside the through-hole 608, the sleeves 402 are also aimed at the predefined angle A with respect to the horizontal axis A1 and subsequently, the sensor units 106 are also aimed at the predefined angle A with respect to the horizontal axis A1. In one example, the predefined angle A can be 10 degrees with respect to the horizontal axis A1. The purpose of aiming the sensor units 106 at the predefined angle A is to trasmit the ultrasonic wave lobes 400 away from the ground G. Moreover, the sensor units 106 are aimed at the predefined angle A1 is to maintain the ultrasonic wave lobes 400 at predefined height from ground G. In one example, the sensor units 106 are positioned at a height in a range of 450 - 500 millimeters (mm) from the ground G and the ultrasonic wave lobes 400 are at a height of about 300 mm from the ground G. In such aforementioned examples, the wave lobes 400 do not reach the ground G and hence the wave lobes 400 do not get reflected by the undulations on the ground G, such as speed bumps. Therefore, the sensor units 106 does not generate a false positive signal unlike the current types of sensor units which would generate a false positive signal that can distract the driver.

Referring now to Figure 6, the sleeve 402 is configured to house the sensor units 106 in the impact body 300. The sleeve 402 may include a cylindrical body 600 that has an opening 602. The cylindrical body 600 is adapted to receive the sensor units 106. The sleeve 402 also includes a flange 604 surrounding the opening 602 and the flange 604 rests against an outer surface 606 of the cylindrical body 600. The flange 604 performs two tasks. First, the flange 604 prevents further sliding of sleeve 402 in the through-hole 608 and second, the flange 604 prevents dust/ water from entering the through-holes 608. The flange 604 also ensures that the sleeve 402 does not move relative to the impact body 300.

According to the present disclosure, the sensor units 106 can be installed in various configurations. Exemplary configurations are explained with respect to Figure 7. Referring now to Figure 7 which illustrates the RUPD 102 with integrated sensor units 106 and a cross-section of the RUPD 102 taken along lines 2-2. The impact body 300 may be a hollow tube that is adapted to prevent small vehicles from entering underneath the heavy-duty vehicle 100. Further, the mounts 404 installs the impact body 300 in such a way that the impact body 300 is at a level equal to the height of the small-sized vehicle. As a result, the sensor units 106 is automatically positioned at a height that enables accurate sensing of small-sized vehicles. In one example, the RUPD 102 has four sensor units 106 installed in the impact body 300 although a greater or lesser number of sensor units 106 may be installed based on the size of the heavy-duty vehicle. Furthermore, the impact body 300 may be installed by the mount 404, such that the impact body 300 is flush with the rear end of the chassis of the heavy-duty vehicle. Alternatively, the impact body 300 is attached to the chassis of the heavy-duty vehicle, such that the impact body 300 extends rearwards and out from the chassis of the heavy-duty vehicle thereby making the impact body 300 the rearmost part of the heavy-duty vehicle.

While the present illustrations show the sensor units 106 installed in the RUPD 102, the sensor units 106 can be integrated into the RUPD 102 in different ways. Exemplary embodiments which illustrate the installation of the sensor units 106 on the RUPD 102 are shown in Figure 8. Specifically, Figure 8 illustrates perspective views of two different ways to mount the sensor units 106 on the RUPD 102 with the sensor units 106 and a cross-section of the RUPD 102 of Figure 8 (A) taken along lines 3-3. Referring now to Figure 8 (A), the RUPD 102 may include a bracket 800 that may be integrated into the RUPD 102. The bracket 800 may either be a welded joint or riveted or fastened. In either case, the bracket 800 may be firmly attached to the RUPD 102 thereby making a single component. Further, a sensor module 804 of the sensor unit 106 is removably attached to a distal end of the bracket 800, such that the sensor module 804 and the bracket 800 are installed as a single unit. The bracket 800 positions the sensor unit 106 above the RUPD 102 thereby providing a better field of view to the sensor unit 106. Moreover, the bracket 800 positions the sensor unit 106 either at the rear end of the RUPD 102 or at the front end of the RUPD 102 as shown in cut sections 3-3.

Alternatively, the bracket 800 may include a housing 802 at its ditstal end as shown in Figure 8(B) which houses the sensor module 804. Such an arrangement protects the sensor units 106 from dust and water thereby making the sensor unit 106 robust. Hereto, the bracket 800 may either be installed at the rear end or at the front end of the RUPD 102.

Details of the sensor unit 106 will now be described with respect to Figure 9 which illustrates a detailed schematic of the sensor unit 106. The sensor unit 106 may include the sensor module 804, a connector 902, and a fastener 904. The sensor module 804 is capable of sensing a distance from the object. The sensor module 804 includes ultrasonic proximity detectors to measure the distance. Further, the sensor module 804 can be trans-receiver type, i.e. the sensor module 804 is capable of emitting acoustic pulses and receiving the reflected acoustic pulse. The sensor module 804 may relay the same information as the reflected signal to the control unit 108 to determine the distance between the RUPD 102 and the object. While the sensor can be a trans-receiver type, the sensor units 106 may include a combination of a transmitter and a receiver that is installed on the RUPD 102. Details of each type of sensor module 804 will be provided in Figures 10 and 11.

Figure 10 illustrates separate transmitting and receiving type of sensor module 804 disposed on the RUPD 102. In the illustrated example, one of the sensors is a transmitter 1000A and sensors on either side of the transmitter 1000A are the receivers 1000B. In operation, the transmitter 1000A emits the wave lobes 400 rearwardly from the RUPD 102. On the other hand, the receivers 1000B receives the pulses or waves that are reflected from an object 1002, such as a vehicle. The received pulse or waves are converted into the reflected signal for the control unit 108 to determine the distance between the RUPD 102 and the object 1002. The reflected signal sent by the sensor modules 1000A and 1000B is received by the control unit 108 (shown in Figure 2).

Alternatively, the sensor module 804 can be a trans-receiver type sensor 1100 as shown in Figure 11 which communicates with the control unit 108. The control unit 108 can either be a standalone unit or maybe a part of the electronic control unit (ECU) of the heavy-duty vehicle. In one example, the control unit 108 may include a control circuit 1112, a receiving circuit 1114, and a transmitting circuit 1116. In one example, the control circuit 1112, the receiving circuit 1114, and the transmitting circuit 1116 of the control unit 108 are the part of the ECU and the aforementioned processor is the processing resource in the ECU.

In operation, the control circuit 1112 may receive a trigger indicating that the driver has engaged the reverse gear. Thereafter, the control circuit 1112 sends a transmission signal S1 to the transmission circuit 1116 which relays the same to the trans-receiver sensor 1100. Upon receipt of the transmission signal S1, the sensor 1100 emits the pulse rearwardly from the RUPD 102. At the same time, the control circuit 1112 starts counting the time from the time of transmission of the pulse. The pulses reach and get reflected by the object 1002. The reflected pulse is received by the receiving circuit 1114 and is configured to the reflected signal S2. The receiving circuit 1114 sends the reflected signal S2 to the control circuit 1112. At the same time, the control circuit 1112 ends counting the time. Further, the time period from the transmission of the transmission signal S1 to the receipt of the reflected signal S2 is termed reflection time T. The control circuit 1112 determines the distance L using the reflection time T and sends a signal to the alerting system 202.

Referring back to Figure 9, the sensor module 804 is connected to control unit 108 using the connector 902. The connector 902, in one example, can be a CANBUS. Further, the connector 902 can be of different types based on the type of sensor module 804. An exemplary type of connector 902 is shown in Figure 12. Specifically, Figure 12 illustrates the sensor module 804 with soldered connecting pins 1200, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The soldered connecting pins 1200 are connected directly to the ends of the connector 902. Further, the other end of the connector may have a socket arrangement that is compatible with a control connector 1202. Such an arrangement allows the sensor module 804 to connect to the ECU of the vehicle 100.

In some cases, the connector 902 may not be soldered to the sensor module 804 as shown in Figure 13 which illustrates the sensor module 804 with non-soldered connecting pins 1300, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In such a scenario, one end of the connector 902 may have a socket arrangement compatible with the non-soldered connecting pins 1300 and another end of the connector 902 may have a socket arrangement compatible with the control connector 1202. Such an arrangement enables the connector 902 to couple the sensor module 804 to the ECU of the vehicle 100.

Details of the fastener 904 will be explained in conjunction with Figures 9 and 14. Figure 14 shows the fastener 904 and a tool 1400 for the fastener 904. The fastener 904 is configured to secure the sensor module 804 inside the sleeve 402. The fastener 904 may have an inner threaded surface 1402 that engages with an outer threaded surface 906 of sensor module 804 (shown in Figure 9). In addition, the fastener 904 has a plurality of teeth 1404 that extends from the periphery of the fastener 904. The teeth 1404 may engage with a profile 1406 on the tool 1400, so that the tool 1400 can engage with the teeth 1404 to move the inner threaded surface 1402 relative to the outer threaded surface 906. The design of the fastener 904 and the tool 1400 enables two advantages. First, the fastener 904 can be fastened inside the sleeves 402 and second, the use of the tool 1400 deters the theft of the sensor module 804 because the fastener 904 can only be installed or un-installed by the tool 1400.

The present disclosure also relates to a method 1500 for installing the a plurality of sensor module 804 on the RUPD as shown in Figure 15. Initially, the sleeve 402 is inserted into the through-hole 608 by inserting the cylindrical body 600 inside the through-hole 608 as shown in view (A). The sleeves 402 may be fixedly attached to the through-hole 608. In one example, the sleeves 402 may be welded to the through-hole 608 at a predefined location 610. Once installed, the flange 604 rest against the impact body 300 as shown in view (B) and the opening 602 is ready to receive the sensor module 804. As seen in view (B), the opening 602 has a predefined shape, such as a capsule shape that prevents the rotation of the sensor unit 106 inside the cylindrical body 600. Thereafter, the cylindrical body 600 receives the sensor module 804 through the opening 602 as shown in view (C). Once received, the fastener 904 may be installed on the tool 1400 as shown in view (D).

Thereafter, the tool 1400 along with the fastener 904 are inserted into an open end of the sleeve 402 as shown in view (E). Once inserted, the tool 1400 is rotated so that the inner threaded surface 1402 of the fastener 904 mates with the outer threaded surface 906 of the sensor module 804 as shown in view (F). As the tool 1400 rotates, the sensor module 804 tends to rotate with the fastener 904 but the rotation of the sensor module 804 is prevented by the predefined shape of the opening 602. As a result, the fastener 904 rotates around the sensor module 804 and travels towards the edges of the through-hole 608. Further turning of the tool causes the fastener 904 to tighten against an inner surface of the sleeve 402. Once adequate pressure is applied, the tool 1400 may be removed from the sleeve 402 as shown in view (F) to achieve an assembled RUPD 102 as shown in view (G)

According to the present disclosure, mounting of the sensor units 106 on the RUPD 102 enables easy integration of the parking alert system 200 with heavy-duty vehicles 100 without making any modification in the chassis of the vehicle. Moreover, since the RUPD 102 is designed to be at a height according to the light motor vehicle/ two-wheelers, the sensor units 106 is automatically positioned at the optimal place to accurately sense such vehicles behind the heavy-duty vehicle. Moreover, the sensor units 106 is aimed at the predetermined angle which prevents false detection and the sleeve 402 reinforces the RUPD 102.

While specific language has been used to describe the present disclosure, any limitations arising on account thereto, are not intended. As would be apparent to a person in the art, various working modifications may be made to the method in order to implement the inventive concept as taught herein. The drawings and the foregoing description give examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more of the described elements may well be combined into a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements may be split into multiple functional elements. Elements from one embodiment may be added to another embodiment. ,CLAIMS:1. A Rear Under-run Protection Device (RUPD) (102) for a vehicle (100), the RUPD (102) comprising:
an impact body (300) adapted to be disposed on a chassis (104) of the vehicle (100); and
a plurality of sensor units (106) disposed on the impact body (300), each sensor units (106) is adapted to detect a distance between the impact body (300) and an object behind the vehicle (100)..

2. The RUPD (102) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of sensor units (106) is installed at a predefined angle (A) with respect to a horizontal axis (A1) of the impact body (300).

3. The RUPD (102) as claimed in claim 2, wherein each of the plurality of sensor units (106) is adapted to transmit an ultrasonic wave lobe (400) at the predefined angle (A), and wherein the ultrasonic wave lobe (400) is transmitted away from the ground.

4. The RUPD (102) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the impact body (300) comprising:
a plurality of through-holes (608); and
a plurality of sleeves (402) installed in the through-holes (608), wherein each of the plurality of sleeves (402) comprising:
a cylindrical body (600) having an opening (602) of a predefined shape adapted to receive the sensor unit (106), from among the plurality of sensor units (106), wherein the opening (602) restricts rotation of the sensor units (106) inside the cylindrical body (600); and
a flange (604) around the opening (602) and adapted to rest against an outer edge of a respective through-hole (608).

5. The RUPD (102) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of sensor units (106) comprising:
a sensor module (804) adapted to detect the distance and having an outer threaded surface (906); and
a fastener (904) having an inner threaded surface (1402) adapted to mate with the outer threaded surface (906) of the sensor module (804), and a plurality of teeth (1404) extending axially from a periphery of the fastener (904) and adapted to engage a tool (1400) to press the sensor units (106) against an inner surface of the sleeve (402).

6. The RUPD (102) as claimed in claim 4, wherein each of the plurality of sensor units (106) comprising:
a bracket (800) installed in the sleeve;
a sensor module (804) attached to a distal end of the bracket (800) and adapted to detect the distance, wherein the sensor module (804) has an outer threaded surface (906); and
a fastener (904) having an inner threaded surface (1402) adapted to mate with the outer threaded surface (906) of the sensor module (804) and a plurality of teeth extending axially from a periphery of the fastener (904) and adapted to engage a tool (1400) to press the sensor units (106) against an inner surface of the sleeve (402).

7. A vehicle (100) comprising:
a chassis (104); and
a rear Under-run protection device (RUPD) (102) comprising:
an impact body (300) adapted to be disposed on a chassis (104) of the vehicle (100); and
a plurality of sensor units (106) disposed on the impact body (300), each sensor units (106) is adapted to detect a distance between the impact body (300) and an object.

8. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 7, wherein each of the plurality of sensor units (106) is installed at a predefined angle (A) with respect to a horizontal axis (A1) of the impact body (300).

9. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 8, wherein each of the plurality of sensor units (106) is adapted to transmit an ultrasonic wave lobe (400) at the predefined angle (A), and wherein the ultrasonic wave lobe (400) is transmitted away from the ground.

10. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the impact body (300) comprising:
a plurality of through-holes (608); and
a plurality of sleeves (402) installed in the through-holes (608), wherein each of the plurality of sleeves (402) comprising:
a cylindrical body (600) having an opening (602) of a predefined shape adapted to receive the sensor unit (106), from among the plurality of sensor units (106), wherein the opening (602) restricts rotation of the sensor units (106) inside the cylindrical body (600); and
a flange (604) around the opening (602) and adapted to rest against an outer edge of a respective through-hole (608).

11. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 8, each sensor unit (106) comprising:
a sensor module (804) adapted to detect the distance and having an outer threaded surface (906); and
a fastener (904) having an inner threaded surface (1402) adapted to mate with the outer threaded surface (906) of the sensor module (804), and a plurality of teeth extending axially from a periphery of the fastener (904) and adapted to engage a tool (1400) to press the sensor units (106) against an inner surface of the sleeve.

12. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 10, each sensor unit (106) comprising:
a bracket (800) installed in the sleeve (402);
a sensor module (804) attached to a distal end of the bracket (800) and adapted to detect the distance, wherein the sensor module (804) has an outer threaded surface (906); and
a fastener (904) having an inner threaded surface (1402) adapted to mate with the outer threaded surface (906) of the sensor module (804) and a plurality of teeth (1404) extending axially from a periphery of the fastener (904) and adapted to engage a tool (1400) to press the sensor units (106) against an inner surface of the sleeve (402).

13. A method (1500) for assembling a sensor module (804) on a Rear Under-run Protection Device (RUPD) (102), the method (1500) comprising:
installing a sleeve (402) in one of a plurality of through-holes (608) of an impact body (300) of the RUPD (102);
fixedly attaching the sleeves (402) to the through-hole (608) at a predefined location (610);
inserting the sensor module (804) in the sleeve (402) via an opening of the sleeve (804), wherein the opening (602) prevents rotation of the sensor module (804) therein;
inserting a fastener (904) into an open end of the sleeve (804) using a tool (1400) to engage an inner threaded surface (1402) with an outer threaed surface (906) the sensor module (804), wherein the fastener (904) includes a plurality of teeth adapted to mate with a profile (1406) of the tool (1400);
rotating the tool (1400) for tighening the fastener (904) against an inner surface of the sleeve (402) to secure the sensor module (804) in the sleeve (402); and
removing the tool (1400) from the sleeve (402) by disconnecting the profile (1406) from the plurality of teeth (1404) of the fastener (904).