System and method for detection of aural signals
US5495242A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 16, 1993 |
| Grant date | Feb 27, 1996 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 16, 2013 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60Q9/008
- WIPO fieldControl
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An early warning system (10) for visually informing the hearing impaired driver (D) of an automotive vehicle (A) of the proximity of an emergency vehicle by detecting a siren being sounded by the emergency vehicle. A microphone unit (12) receives an audible frequency signal transmitted by the siren. This signal is in one of a band of audible frequencies. In addition to the siren, the microphone unit receives other audible frequency signals as well. A signal processor (22) processes all received audible frequency signals. The processor includes an analog-digital converter (30) for converting received signals to a digital signal. The processor further includes a correlator microprocessor (32) for comparing the resulting processed signal to known siren signal characteristics each of which identifies a different type of siren. A light indicator (D1) provides a visible signal to the driver of the proximity of an emergency vehicle and an audible warning is also provided. These warnings allow the driver time to take appropriate action to avoid the emergency vehicle. The indicator is illuminated when a correlation is found indicating a received signal corresponds with the sound made by an …
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.