Project
| # | Title | Team Members | TA | Documents | Sponsor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19 | Aftermarket Hazard Detection System for Cyclists |
Adam Snedden Erik Ji Ozgur Tufekci |
Tianxiang Zheng | design_document1.pdf final_paper1.pdf photo1.jpg photo2.jpg photo3.jpg photo4.jpg photo5.jpg photo6.jpg photo7.jpg presentation1.pdf proposal2.pdf proposal1.pdf video |
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| # Hazard Detection for Cyclists Erik Ji, Adam Snedden, Ozgur Tufekci [Google Docs mirror](https://docs.google.com/document/d/15jHzsdSbN0LpCIDwTOREneb6Yw3i28q1tb8iM1LLuuc/preview) ## Problem According to a study from the U.S. Department of Transportation, only 17 percent of personal vehicles have blind spot technology as a standard feature and 57 percent have it as an upgrade option [1]. The number of personal vehicles equipped with the capabilities are on the rise, preventing an estimated 50,000 accidents [2]. The same can’t be said for cyclists. While there are some methods of detection being implemented, the market industry has less variety and is much newer to the game compared to vehicle technology. On top of that, bicycle injuries can become fatal very quickly if one is unaware of their surroundings. Why should bicyclists suffer and not have the same capabilities? [1] S. Zhu, “Blind spot warning technology contributes to a 23 percent reduction in lane change injury crashes,” Real-world benefits of car safety technology, 2019 [2] J. B. Cicchino, “Effects of blind spot monitoring systems on police-reported lane-change crashes,” Traffic injury prevention vol. 19,6, 2018 ## Solution To address the problem, we are proposing to develop and implement a hazard detection system that can be used by bicyclists with a few upgrades on top of normal “blind spot” systems. The system will utilize an Infineon radar module to detect objects in the cyclist's blind spots. After detecting an object (presumably an approaching vehicle), a visual alert along with a buzzer will cue the cyclist of the potential hazard behind them. Depending on the distance the hazard is from the rider, one or both of the alerts will switch on. The buzzer will be used for more imminent threats while the light can notify the rider early on. Another light will be attached to the rear of the bike to notify the approaching object. With no permanent power source on a bike (like a car’s battery) we will need to tie in a battery system that can be easily operated. The majority of the system will be housed under the seat with other necessary components run where needed in user friendly positions. The main goal will be to not hinder the cyclists comfortability or maneuverability with the system in place while maintaining reliability. ## Project Components ### Processing Unit/Indicator System The processing unit for our project will be composed of two primary sub processors: the data collection and processing unit and the indication system. Both units will be powered via battery. #### Processing Unit The processing unit will need to take in critical sensor data like ultrasound distance and camera input data to accurately pinpoint and determine what poses a threat to cyclists. #### Indication System Controller (Wireless) The indication system is composed of a microcontroller and wireless interface to drive the final cyclist interface. Then the wireless interface will be responsible for accepting wireless signals from the processing unit, and delivering it to the microcontroller. The microcontroller is then responsible for driving the LED and buzzer in the indication system. ### Sensor Suite This subsystem will be the “eyes on the back of your head” to collect a variety of data on the cyclist’s surroundings and provide additional data Sensors we intend to implement are: -Infineon Radar Module - Utilized for tracking surrounding objects and measuring distance to approaching vehicles This sensor will be directly mounted to the processing unit, which will be responsible for processing and triggering indicators. ### Indication System This subsystem will provide audio-visual cues for imminent hazards detected by the sensors. Indicators we intend to implement are: - LED - Utilized for strong visual cueing of direction and proximity of potential hazards - Piezo-electric Buzzer - Utilized for strong auditory cueing urgent and imminent threats to the cyclist - Variable pitch and rhythm can be used to describe level of urgency ## Criterion for Success At the end of our project, we hope to have a functioning hazard detection system. For the system to be deemed functional, the sensor will need to be able to detect (or not detect) objects at various distances. When the sensor detects these objects, the processing unit will need to interpret and decide whether to alert the cyclist. The alert system will then notify the cyclist by the visual and audio cue with the LED indicator coming on when dangers are low and the buzzer coming in when more imminent threats are approaching. Along with that our camera will be able to record incidents and provide visual evidence of situations to ensure cyclists aren’t taken advantage of which happens often. On top of the actual functionality of the system, potential external issues will be addressed. These will include weather proofing, cyclist hinder-ability, ease of use, reliability, install time and method, etc. |
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