Method and apparatus for providing a proximity alert to the operator of a vehicle
US10068473B1 · kind B1 · utility
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 17, 2017 |
| Grant date | Sep 4, 2018 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 17, 2037 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04W4/80
- WIPO fieldControl
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A method and apparatus for providing a proximity alert to the operator of a vehicle, such as a vehicle approaching a pedestrian crosswalk. A fixed or mobile controller (beacon) component when activated transmits a signal relating to a potential hazard, and a software application (“app”) installed on a smartphone or other device provides the receiver/notification component. The app delivers an audible, visual, and/or tactile alert to drivers via their smartphones, tablet computers, or mobile devices installed in their vehicles that they are approaching an “activated” pedestrian crosswalk, intersection, railroad crossing, road hazard or work zone, emergency vehicle, or even a bicyclist when they are equipped with a beacon.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.