Method for vehicular heatstroke prevention

Abstract

A passive vehicular heatstroke prevention system monitors carbon dioxide (CO.sub.2) and infrared (IR) energy levels to determine whether a child is present inside a closed vehicle, and, if so, monitors the temperature in the vehicle and, if the temperature in the vehicle exceeds at least one preset critical value, automatically lowers the temperature in the vehicle and contacts the driver/caregiver and/or emergency personnel. The system detects the presence of a child in the closed vehicle by detecting a critical level of carbon dioxide in the air within the vehicle, while monitoring the interior vehicle temperature and takes corrective action to prevent the temperature from exceeding a preset value, such as by activating the vehicle's air conditioning unit and lowering the vehicle's windows, as well as contacting the driver/caregiver and/or emergency personnel.

Claims

1. A method for preventing heatstroke by a living person or animal in a vehicle, the method comprising: detecting if an engine of the vehicle is off and, via a vehicle door sensor, if all doors of the vehicle are closed, if the doors are closed, monitoring changes in carbon dioxide (CO.sub.2) levels in the vehicle via a CO.sub.2 sensor to thereby detect the presence of a breathing person or animal in the vehicle; after the presence of a breathing person or animal in the vehicle has been detected by the CO.sub.2 sensor, monitoring a temperature (T) inside the vehicle via a temperature sensor; and if T reaches or exceeds a preset value (T.sub.1), activating the vehicle's air conditioning unit and/or lowering at least one of the vehicle's windows.

2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising stopping to monitor changes in the carbon dioxide (CO.sub.2) levels in the vehicle when the presence of a breathing person or animal is not detected.

3. The method according to claim 1, further comprising monitoring changes in carbon dioxide (CO.sub.2) levels in the vehicle to thereby detect the presence of a breathing person or animal while simultaneously monitoring the temperature (T) inside the vehicle.

4. The method according to claim 3, wherein a processor is configured to receive sensor data from one or more sensors of a group of sensors consisting of the CO.sub.2 sensor, the temperature sensor, a carbon monoxide (CO) sensor, the vehicle door sensor and an engine sensor, and is configured to perform the steps of claim 1, wherein the processor has a sleep mode in which no detection or monitoring is performed and an awake mode in which detection and monitoring is performed, and wherein the processor is configured to enter the sleep mode if the presence of a breathing person or animal is not detected.

5. The method according to claim 1, wherein a processor is configured to receive sensor data from one or more sensors of a group of sensors consisting of the CO.sub.2 sensor, the temperature sensor, a carbon monoxide (CO) sensor, the vehicle door sensor and an engine sensor, and is configured to perform the steps of claim 1, wherein the processor has a sleep mode in which no detection or monitoring is performed and an awake mode in which detection and monitoring is performed, and wherein the processor is configured to enter the awake mode when the doors of the vehicle are detected to be closed.

6. The method according to claim 5, wherein the processor is configured to enter the sleep mode if the presence of a breathing person or animal is not detected.

7. The method according to claim 1, wherein a processor is configured to perform the steps of claim 1, wherein the processor has a sleep mode in which no detection or monitoring is performed and an awake mode in which detection and monitoring is performed, and wherein the processor is configured to enter the sleep mode if the engine of the vehicle is turned on and to enter the awake mode if the engine of the vehicle is turned off.

8. The method according to claim 1, further comprising continuing to monitor the temperature if T falls below T.sub.1.

9. The method according to claim 8, further comprising deactivating the vehicle's air conditioning unit and/or raising the vehicle's windows if T drops below a second preset value (T.sub.2), wherein T.sub.2<T.sub.1.

10. The method according to claim 1, further comprising monitoring carbon monoxide (CO) levels in the vehicle via a CO sensor.

11. The method according to claim 10, further comprising shutting down the engine and/or lowering at least one of the vehicle's windows if CO is detected in the vehicle.

12. The method according to claim 10, further comprising continuing to monitor CO levels when the engine is on, independent of the temperature.

13. The method according to claim 10, wherein the processor is configured to contact the caregiver and/or emergency personnel if CO is detected in the vehicle.

14. The method according to claim 1, further comprising starting the engine of the vehicle, if needed, prior to activating the vehicle's air conditioning unit and/or lowering at least one of the vehicle's windows.

15. The method according to claim 1, further comprising activating a horn or an alarm of the vehicle or an audible voice recording via a speaker, if the presence of a child is detected and if T exceeds T.sub.1.

16. The method according to claim 1, further comprising sending a communication to a driver/caregiver and/or emergency personnel via a communications device, if the presence of a child is detected and if T exceeds T.sub.1.

17. The method according to claim 1, wherein T.sub.1 is set at 95 F. or another designated temperature.

18. The method according to claim 1, wherein T.sub.1 is set at an appropriate temperature to ensure that activation of the vehicle's air conditioning system at T.sub.1 prevents T from reaching a third preset value (T.sub.3), wherein T.sub.3T.sub.1.

19. The method according to claim 1, wherein T.sub.1 is a maximum safe temperature for environmental conditions suitable for a newborn or young child.

20. Software for preventing heatstroke by a living person or animal in a vehicle, the software comprising programmed instructions, which, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to: detect if an engine of the vehicle is off and to detect, via a vehicle door sensor, if all doors of the vehicle are closed, if the doors are closed, monitor changes in carbon dioxide (CO2) levels in the vehicle via a CO2 sensor to thereby detect the presence of a breathing person or animal in the vehicle; after the presence of a breathing person or animal in the vehicle has been detected by the CO2 sensor, monitor a temperature (T) inside the vehicle via a temperature sensor; and if T reaches or exceeds a preset value (T1), activate the vehicle's air conditioning unit and/or lower at least one of the vehicle's windows.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

(1) The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention, as well as the invention itself, is more fully understood from the following description of various embodiments, when read together with the accompanying drawings.

(2) FIG. 1 is a diagram of a vehicular heatstroke prevention system, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

(3) FIG. 2A is a flow diagram illustrating a vehicular heatstroke prevention method, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

(4) FIG. 2B is a flow diagram illustrating another vehicular heatstroke prevention method, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

(5) FIG. 3 is a flow diagram illustrating a passive vehicular heatstroke prevention method, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

(6) FIG. 4 is a diagram of an add-on vehicular heatstroke prevention system for cars with remote starters, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

(7) FIG. 5 is a flow diagram illustrating an add-on vehicular heatstroke prevention method, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

(8) FIG. 6 is a diagram of an add-on vehicular heatstroke prevention system for cars using an OBD II (On-board diagnostics II) port, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

(9) FIG. 7 is a flow diagram illustrating an add-on vehicular heatstroke prevention method for cars using an OBD II port, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

(10) It will be appreciated that, for simplicity and clarity of illustration, elements shown in the figures have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements may be exaggerated relative to other elements for clarity. Further, where considered appropriate, reference numerals may be repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

(11) In the following description, various aspects of the present invention are described. For purposes of explanation, specific configurations and details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. However, it is apparent to one skilled in the art that the present invention may be practiced without the specific details presented herein. Furthermore, well known features may be omitted or simplified in order not to obscure the present invention.

(12) In certain embodiments, the vehicular heatstroke prevention system described herein is passive, eliminating the need for human intervention. It is designed to detect the presence of a breathing person or animal, such as a child or pet, in the vehicle, monitor the interior vehicle temperature, and take corrective action to prevent the temperature from exceeding a preset value. Although reference is made in the discussion herein to a child in the vehicle, it should be understood that the discussion is also applicable to any breathing adult, pet or animal.

(13) In certain embodiments, the system is able to detect the presence of a child, whether awake or asleep, whether moving or stationary; monitor the temperature inside the vehicle; if necessary, start the vehicle's engine, and turn on/off the vehicle's air conditioning unit; lower/raise vehicle's windows; detect when a vehicle door has been opened or closed; detect when the vehicle's engine has been turned on/off; receive, store and evaluate sensor data; and control and communicate with sensors and selected vehicle systems.

(14) In certain embodiments, if deemed desirable, system functions could be included to announce the occurrence of an event via a variety of notification methods.

(15) In certain embodiments, the system may also be able to play an audible voice recording either to the outside of the vehicle or to the vehicle's driver via the key fob or a smartphone app; activate the vehicle's horn/alarm; send an alert to smartphone(s); and notify emergency personnel and provide GPS coordinates.

(16) In certain embodiments, the present invention may use sensors to detect carbon dioxide (CO.sub.2) and/or infrared (IR) radiation in order to determine the presence of a child in a vehicle.

(17) According to UCSB ScienceLine (2015), every object emits energy at a wavelength dependent upon the temperature of the object; people emit radiation in the infrared (IR) part of the electromagnetic spectrum. In certain embodiments, IR sensors may be used to detect radiation.

(18) Typical passive IR sensors require movement and would not be applicable for detecting a child who is stationary or asleep. The passive IR sensor works by detecting temperature variations between human body surfaces and the surrounding environment (see Aiman Kiwan, FAQ: The infrared motion sensor. Oct. 28, 2013, available at https://www.ecnmag.com/article/2013/10/faq-infarared-motion-sensor). Passive IR sensors detect motion as a person or object moves in space. Passive IR sensors may function poorly in summer months (or in a closed vehicle in the sun) as there would be a smaller heat gradient between body temperature and ambient temperature (Kiwan, 2013). Because Passive IR sensors cannot sense motionless people, it would not be a good choice for the present system. However, fortunately, there are newer products available, which avoid these pitfalls.

(19) In May 2013, OMRON Corporation, in collaboration with Japan's New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization, developed microelectromechanical (MEMS) thermal sensors (OMRON Develops the World's First 1616 Element MEMS Non-Contact Thermal Sensor for Use in Human Presence Sensors Utilizing Wafer-Level Vacuum Packaging Technology, May 29, 2013, available at http://www.omron.com/media/press/2013/05/e0529.html, 2013). Omron vacuum sealed the thermopiles within the chip, allowing the sensors to detect greater temperature differences across metal contacts, thus increasing sensitivity (www.omrom.com, 2013). These IR sensors (e.g., OMRON D6T series, see D6T MEMS Thermal Sensors: High Sensitivity Enables Detection of Stationary Human Presence, https://www.omron.com/ecb/products/sensor/11/d6t.html, 2015) are able to detect a stationary human presence and would, therefore, be able to detect an infant or child sleeping in its car seat.

(20) The detection of carbon dioxide levels is based upon respiratory physiology. Inhaled air is known to contain 0.039% CO.sub.2, while exhaled air contains 4.0% CO.sub.2 (see Chapter 1: The Air We Breathe, http://www.mnstate.edu/marasing/CHEM/102/Chapter%20Notes/CH_01%20ho.pdf). If a breathing person or animal is present in a vehicle, then the detected amount of CO.sub.2 in the closed vehicle will increase with each breath. In certain embodiments, CO.sub.2 sensors, which detect carbon dioxide concentrations in the air, may be adjusted to sense when the concentration of CO.sub.2 in ambient air reaches a particular level, which indicates that a live breathing person, such as a child, or animal, such as a dog, is within the vehicle.

(21) There are a variety of CO.sub.2 sensors in the marketplace based on different sensing technologies (e.g., electrochemical, IR and metal oxide). A University of Texas study (Cao et al., An Infant Monitoring System Using CO.sub.2 Sensors, 2007 IEEE RFID Conference, Mar. 26-28, 2007, http://www.uta.edu/faculty/jcchiao/paper_download2/2007_RFID_Hung.pdf) evaluated these different types of CO.sub.2 sensors in studying CO.sub.2 infant monitoring systems to reduce Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. This study documented that CO.sub.2 monitoring technology is able to detect small changes in concentrations of CO.sub.2 during infant respiration. In certain preferred embodiments of the system, an infrared CO.sub.2 sensor may be used.

(22) Certain current sensor technologies are able to objectively detect and measure both IR radiation and CO.sub.2 levels.

(23) In certain preferred embodiments, the temperature inside the vehicle is monitored using a digital temperature sensor and/or by integrating the system's sensor with the vehicle's own interior temperature sensor. For example, the programmable digital thermometer, DS18B20, may be used because of its compatibility with the Arduino microcontroller or Raspberry Pi, or other type of microcontroller/microcomputer or similar device, and the fact that it has zero standby power and does not require an external power source (www.maximintegrated.com, 2015).

(24) In certain preferred embodiments, the system may also monitor levels of carbon monoxide and take steps to remedy a dangerous situation, such as turn on the vehicle air conditioning, lower the vehicle window, and/or turn off the vehicle engine, if it is on.

(25) In certain preferred embodiments, a dedicated computer with a processor and software will receive, store and evaluate sensor data. An integrated processor/controller (microcontroller/microcomputer or similar device) will communicate with and control the sensors and the vehicle's systems (e.g., engine, air conditioner unit, windows, doors, etc.). An essential part of this functionality requires acceptance by and cooperation of auto manufacturers to participate as stakeholders.

(26) In certain embodiments, the system has a sleep mode in which no detection or monitoring is performed and an awake mode in which detection and monitoring is performed. In certain embodiments, when the system herein is installed in a vehicle, the system wakes from a sleep mode when the engine is off, the vehicle doors are closed, and begins to search for the presence of a child. If a child is not detected, the system returns to its sleep mode. If a child is detected, the temperature inside the vehicle is monitored. If the temperature rises to a preset value, the system controller activates the vehicle's air conditioning unit and may lower the vehicle's windows a small amount (e.g., an inch or a few inches). In some embodiments, for example where the system is installed in a vehicle with a belt-driven compressor, the system must first start the vehicle's engine in order to achieve full air conditioner functionality.

(27) Once the temperature rises to a critical threshold, the caregiver and emergency personnel will be contacted. Contacting emergency personnel serves two purposesfirst, the welfare of the child is addressed, and second, this would serve as a deterrent for a caregiver intentionally leaving the child unattended in order to run a quick errand.

(28) When the temperature is lowered to a second preset value, the vehicle's air conditioning unit shuts off, and the windows are raised. This process is repeated until a vehicle door is opened or the engine is turned on. When a door is opened or the engine is turned on, the system returns to its sleep mode.

(29) As will be described hereinbelow, the Vehicular Heatstroke Prevention device and system may be provided in several embodiments. One such embodiment is a completely passive system that can be installed by the car manufacturer. Another such embodiment is an add-on system, which can be adapted for any vehicle with an OBD II port (www.obdii.com), such as cars and light trucks manufactured after 1995.

(30) FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a vehicular heatstroke prevention system 100, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention, illustrating the flow of data into the dedicated system computer/controller and the output commands to activate various vehicle system functions. As shown in FIG. 1, the vehicular heatstroke prevention system 100 can include a dedicated central controller 101, a vehicle door sensor 103, an engine sensor 105, an infrared a carbon dioxide (CO.sub.2) sensor 107, (IR) sensor 109, a carbon monoxide (CO) sensor 111, and a temperature sensor 113. Controller 101 may include a processor that is configured to operate in accordance with programmed instructions, and a data storage (e.g., including one or more volatile or nonvolatile, fixed or removable, data storage or memory units). Controller 101 may be operatively connected to the vehicle's air conditioning system (a/c) 115, horn 119, and power window controller 121, as well as to a communications device 117, which may be wireless.

(31) The vehicle door sensor 103, the engine sensor 105, the CO.sub.2 sensor 107, the infrared (IR) sensor 109, the CO sensor 111, and the temperature sensor 113 can transmit information to the controller 101. The controller 101 can transmit information to the vehicle's air conditioning system (a/c) 115, the communications device 117, the horn 119, and the power window controller 121.

(32) The controller 101 can receive, store and evaluate sensor data. For example, the controller 101 can detect the presence of a child (awake or asleep, moving or stationary) by monitoring the CO.sub.2 and/or IR levels via the CO.sub.2 sensor 107 and IR sensor 109, respectively. The controller 101 can monitor the temperature inside the vehicle via the temperature sensor 113. The controller 101 can detect when a vehicle door has been opened or closed via the vehicle door sensor 103. The controller 101 can detect when the vehicle engine is turned on via the engine sensor 105.

(33) In certain embodiments, controller 101 has a sleep mode in which no detection or monitoring is performed and an awake mode in which detection and monitoring is performed.

(34) In some embodiments of the invention, the controller 101 can turn on/off the vehicle's air conditioning unit 115 via the window controller 121. In some embodiments of the invention, the controller 101 can lower/raise the vehicle's windows via the window controller 121. Vehicles with a belt-driven compressor require that the engine be started for the a/c to function, and some also require the engine be started for the vehicle's windows to be raised/lowered. In some embodiments of the invention, the controller 101 can start the vehicle's engine and then turn on the vehicle's air conditioning unit 115.

(35) In some embodiments of the invention, the controller 101 can play an audible voice recording, e.g., to the outside of the vehicle, via a suitable sound or speaker system provided on the vehicle. In some embodiments of the invention, the controller can activate the vehicle horn/alarm 119. In some embodiments of the invention, the controller 101 can notify or alert emergency personnel and provide GPS coordinates, via communications device 117, such as by text to a mobile phone or smartphone of the vehicle's driver or a caregiver, by call or text to a 911 operator, by alert to an integrated key fob, or even an app on a smartphone or other electronic device, or any combination thereof.

(36) FIG. 2A is a flow diagram illustrating a passive vehicular heatstroke prevention method 200, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention. This method will be described with regard to components of the system 100 as depicted in FIG. 1.

(37) In operation 201, as shown in FIG. 2A, the central controller (e.g., the controller 101) can determine the temperature of the interior of the vehicle via a temperature sensor (e.g., the temperature sensor 113). In operation 203, if the temperature inside the vehicle is less than a preset critical interior vehicle temperature T.sub.1, such as 95 F., then the passive vehicular heat stroke prevention system (e.g., the system 100) will continue to monitor the interior vehicle temperature. In some embodiments, the critical interior vehicle temperature T.sub.1 can be set at whatever temperature is appropriate to assure timely activation of the vehicle's air conditioning unit such that the air conditioning unit or lowering of windows can prevent the temperature from reaching a temperature that is determined to be dangerous, e.g., 104 F.

(38) In operation 205, if the interior temperature of the vehicle reaches or exceeds the preset critical interior vehicle temperature, 95 F. in the example shown, then the controller can activate CO.sub.2 and/or IR sensors, e.g., CO.sub.2 and IR sensors 107,109, to determine if a baby is present in the vehicle (operation 206). In operation 207, if, based upon input from CO.sub.2 and/or IR sensors, there is no evidence of a baby being present inside the vehicle, the controller can cease the CO.sub.2 and IR sampling (operation 208).

(39) In operation 209, if, based upon input from CO.sub.2 and IR sensors, the presence of a baby inside the vehicle is detected, then the controller can do one or more of the following: turn on an air conditioner (e.g., the air conditioner 115), crack/open the windows via a window controller (e.g., the window controller 121), sound an audible alarm by beeping a horn (e.g., the horn 119), send an alert as discussed above via a communications device (e.g., the communications device 117), or any combination thereof (operation 210).

(40) In some cases, however, the time between the detection of the critical interior vehicle temperature T.sub.1 and the activation of the vehicle's air conditioning system or lowering of windows is too long, even when the critical interior vehicle temperature T.sub.1 is set sufficiently low, such that a baby present in the vehicle will suffer damage before the appropriate measures are taken to prevent it. Such a situation can arise, for example, in large vehicles, where the vehicle's interior temperature may reach the critical temperature T.sub.1 but the large vehicle cabin size delays the detection of the presence of a child by the CO.sub.2 and IR sensors by enough time such that the damage to the child may occur before the vehicle's interior temperature can be sufficiently lowered. Accordingly, it may be advantageous to simultaneously monitor the CO.sub.2 levels at the same time as the temperature.

(41) FIG. 2B is another flow diagram illustrating a passive vehicular heatstroke prevention method 220, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention. This method will be described with regard to components of the system 100 as depicted in FIG. 1.

(42) In operation 221, as shown in FIG. 2B, the central controller (e.g., the controller 101) can determine the presence of a baby or young child using information from the CO.sub.2 sensors and/or IR sensors (e.g., CO.sub.2 and IR sensors 107 and 109, respectively). Simultaneously, the central controller (e.g., the controller 101) will monitor the interior vehicular temperature via a temperature sensor (e.g., the temperature sensor 113). In operation 225, if, based upon input from CO.sub.2 and IR sensors, there is no evidence of a baby being present inside the vehicle, the controller can then enter sleep mode (operation 227) and no action is taken.

(43) In operation 223, if, based upon input from CO.sub.2 and IR sensors, the presence of a baby inside the vehicle is detected, the controller will continue to monitor the interior temperature of the vehicle (operation 229) via a temperature sensor (e.g., the temperature sensor 113). In operation 235, if the temperature inside the vehicle is less than a preset critical interior vehicle temperature T.sub.1, for example 95 F., then the passive vehicular heatstroke prevention system (e.g., the system 100) will continue to monitor the interior vehicle temperature, CO.sub.2 and CO (e.g., the carbon monoxide sensor 111) levels (operation 227). In some embodiments, the critical interior vehicle temperature T.sub.1 can be set at whatever temperature is appropriate to assure timely activation of the vehicle's air conditioning unit such that the air conditioning unit can intervene prior to reaching a temperature that is determined to be dangerous (e.g., 104 F.).

(44) In operation 231, if the interior temperature of the vehicle reaches or exceeds the preset critical interior vehicle temperature, for example 95 F., and the CO.sub.2 sensor detects the presence of a child, the controller (e.g., the controller 101) can do one or more of the following (operation 233): turn on the vehicle air conditioning unit (e.g., the air conditioner 115), crack/open the windows via a window controller (e.g., the window controller 121), sound an audible alarm by beeping a horn (e.g., the horn 119), send an alert as discussed above, via a communications device (e.g., the communications device 117).

(45) FIG. 3 is a flow diagram illustrating a passive vehicular heatstroke prevention method 300, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention. This method will be described with regard to components of the system 100 as depicted in FIG. 1.

(46) In operation 301, as shown in FIG. 3, the vehicular heatstroke prevention system (e.g., system 100) first determines the status of the engine, wherein an engine sensor (e.g., the engine sensor 105) sends a signal to a central controller (e.g., the controller 101). In certain embodiments, controller 101 has a sleep mode in which no detection or monitoring is performed and an awake mode in which detection and monitoring is performed. If the engine is on, system can enter/maintain a sleep mode (operation 305). If the engine is off, the vehicular heatstroke prevention system moves on to operation 303.

(47) In operation 303, once the vehicular heatstroke prevention system determines that the engine is off, the system determines the open/closed status of the vehicle doors, wherein a vehicle door sensor (e.g., the vehicle door sensor 103) sends a signal to the central controller 101. If the vehicle door is open, the system can enter/maintain the sleep mode (operation 305). If the vehicle doors are closed, the system can wake from sleep mode and become activated, i.e., moves from sleep mode to awake mode (operation 307). In some embodiments of the invention, each time the vehicle doors are closed, the vehicular heatstroke prevention system wakes from a sleep mode and begins to search for the presence of a child.

(48) In operation 309, the vehicular heatstroke prevention system checks for the presence of a child in the vehicle. In order to make this determination, the system can use sensors (e.g., the CO.sub.2 sensor 107 and the IR sensor 109) to detect carbon dioxide (CO.sub.2) and/or infrared (IR) radiation, respectively. If no child is detected, the vehicular heatstroke prevention system can return to the sleep mode (operation 305).

(49) In some embodiments, the IR sensor is an OMRON D6T IR sensor. In some embodiments, the IR sensor is any IR sensor which can function at a temperature T.sub.1 and detect the presence of a stationary child. In some embodiments, the temperature T.sub.1 can be the maximum safe temperature for environmental conditions suitable for a newborn/young child.

(50) In some embodiments, the system 100 and method 200 utilize an infrared CO.sub.2 sensor to detect the presence of a child. In some embodiments, one can determine the required sensitivity of the CO.sub.2 sensors to detect various breathing beings, such as a child, in a vehicle for different child age groups and vehicle classes by obtaining interior volumes of different vehicle classes from Department of Transportation (DOT) specifications, and calculate CO.sub.2 production rates during respiration in ppm/min for newborns through age 3 (required age to remain in child safety restraint). In some embodiments, the CO.sub.2 sensors are chosen based on based the above required sensitivity requirements and function at T.sub.1.

(51) If a child is detected, the temperature (T) inside the vehicle can be monitored (operation 311) by a temperature sensor (e.g., the temperature sensor 113) in order to determine if the temperature has exceeded a preset value, T.sub.1. If the temperature has not exceeded T.sub.1, the temperature sensor can continue to monitor the temperature (T) in a monitoring mode. If T.sub.1 has been exceeded, in operation 313, the controller can: activate the vehicle's a/c (e.g., the air conditioner 115), partially open the windows via a window controller (e.g., the window controller 121), sound an audible alarm by beeping a horn (e.g., the horn 119), or any combination thereof. In operation 315, the controller can send an alert as discussed above via a communications device (e.g., the communications device 117).

(52) In operation 317, the controller can monitor the carbon monoxide (CO) levels inside the vehicle, such as by using a carbon monoxide (CO) sensor (e.g., the CO sensor 111). If the CO sensor does not detect a critical level of CO (operation 317), the system will continue to monitor the CO level. If the CO sensor detects CO, the controller can immediately shut down the engine and/or lower the windows (operation 319), or, via a communications device (e.g., the communications device 117), contact emergency personnel and/or a caregiver (operation 321). The system may also continue to monitor CO.sub.2, CO, and temperature levels in the vehicle (operation 323). In some embodiments, the CO sensor is any known CO sensor which meets certain sensitivity requirements and functions within appropriate temperature ranges.

(53) When the temperature drops below a second preset level (T.sub.2) which is lower than the first preset level (T.sub.1), the controller can turn off the a/c and/or the raise the windows (operation 325). The controller can continuously monitor the temperature inside the vehicle and can repeat steps of method 300 as necessary, until a vehicle door is opened or the engine is turned on, or both, at which point the system can enter the sleep mode 305.

(54) In some embodiments of the invention, the temperature T.sub.1 is a maximum safe temperature for environmental conditions suitable for a newborn/young child. In some embodiments of the invention, the temperature T.sub.2 is a safe temperature which is lower than T.sub.1.

(55) In some embodiments of the invention, optional system functions could be included to announce the occurrence of an event via a variety of notification methods.

(56) FIG. 4 is a diagram of an add-on vehicular heatstroke prevention system 400 for cars with remote starters, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

(57) As shown in FIG. 4, the add-on vehicular heatstroke prevention system 400 can include a dedicated central controller 401, a 12V port 405, a carbon dioxide (CO.sub.2) sensor 407, an infrared (IR) sensor 409, a carbon monoxide (CO) sensor 411, and a temperature sensor 413. Controller 401 may include a processor that is configured to operate in accordance with programmed instructions, and a data storage (e.g., including one or more volatile or nonvolatile, fixed or removable, data storage or memory units). Controller 401 may be operatively connected to the vehicle's air conditioning unit (a/c) 415, and horn 419, as well as to communications device 417, whereby the 12V port 405, carbon dioxide (CO.sub.2) sensor 407, infrared (IR) sensor 409, carbon monoxide (CO) sensor 411, and temperature sensor 413 can transmit information to the controller 401, and the controller 401 can transmit information to the vehicle's air conditioning unit (a/c) 415, communications device 417, and horn 419.

(58) The add-on vehicular heatstroke prevention system 400 shown in FIG. 4 may differ from the passive vehicular heatstroke prevention system 100 shown in FIG. 1 by not sensing the open/closed status of doors or windows and by not controlling the windows. The add-on vehicular heatstroke prevention system 400 may also be dependent upon the car's remote starter system.

(59) FIG. 5 is a flow diagram illustrating an add-on vehicular heatstroke prevention method 500, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention. This method will be described with regard to components of the system 400 as depicted in FIG. 4.

(60) In operation 501, the vehicular heatstroke prevention system (e.g., the system 400) first checks on the status of the engine, and, in order to make this determination, a 12V port (e.g., the 12V port 405) sends a signal to a central controller (e.g., the controller 401). In certain embodiments, controller 401 has a sleep mode in which no detection or monitoring is performed and an awake mode in which detection and monitoring is performed. If the engine is on, the vehicular heatstroke prevention system can enter/maintain a sleep mode (operation 505). If the engine is off, the system can wake from sleep mode to an active mode in which it becomes activated (operation 507). In some embodiments of the invention, the controller system may be plugged into the 12V port at all times.

(61) In operation 509, the vehicular heatstroke prevention system first checks for the presence of a child in a vehicle, and to make this determination, it can use sensors (e.g., the CO.sub.2 sensors 407 and/or the IR sensor 409) to detect carbon dioxide (CO.sub.2) and infrared (IR) radiation, respectively. If a child is not detected, the vehicular heatstroke prevention system can return to the sleep mode (operation 505).

(62) If a child is detected, a temperature sensor (e.g., the temperature sensor 413) can monitor the temperature (T) inside the vehicle (operation 511) to determine if it has exceeded a preset value, T.sub.1. If the temperature has not exceeded T.sub.1, the temperature sensor can continue to monitor the temperature (T) in a monitoring mode. If T.sub.1 has been exceeded, in operation 513, the controller can: activate the vehicle's a/c unit (e.g., the air conditioner 415), sound an audible alarm, such as by beeping a horn or alarm via an external speaker (e.g., the horn 419), or any combination thereof. In operation 515, the controller can also send an alert as discussed above via a communications device (e.g., the communications device 417).

(63) In operation 517, the controller can monitor the carbon monoxide (CO) levels inside the vehicle, such as by using a carbon monoxide (CO) sensor (e.g., the CO sensor 411). If the CO sensor does not detect a critical level of CO, the system will continue to monitor CO level. If the CO sensor detects CO, the controller can immediately shut down the engine (operation 519), or, via a communications device (e.g., the communications device 417), contact emergency personnel and/or a caregiver (operation 521). In operation 523, if the CO sensor detects CO, the controller can continue to monitor CO.sub.2, CO, and temperature levels in the vehicle.

(64) If the temperature drops below a second preset level (T.sub.2) which is lower than the first preset level (T.sub.1), the controller can turn off the a/c and/or the raise the windows, and sound the horn or send other notification (operation 525). The controller can continuously monitor the temperature inside the vehicle and can repeat steps of method 500 as necessary, until the engine is turned on, at which point the system can enter the sleep mode 505.

(65) FIG. 6 is a diagram of an add-on vehicular heatstroke prevention system 600 for cars using an OBD II port, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

(66) As shown in FIG. 6, the add-on vehicular heatstroke prevention system 600 can include a dedicated central controller 601, a vehicle door sensor 603, an OBD II port 605, a carbon dioxide (CO.sub.2) sensor 607, an infrared (IR) sensor 609, a carbon monoxide (CO) sensor 611, and a temperature sensor 613. Controller 601 may include a processor that is configured to operate in accordance with programmed instructions, and a data storage (e.g., including one or more volatile or nonvolatile, fixed or removable, data storage or memory units). Controller 601 may be operatively connected to the vehicle's air conditioning unit (a/c) 615, horn 619, and power window controller 621, as well as to communications device 617. The vehicle door sensor 603, the OBD II port 605, the CO.sub.2 sensor 607, the infrared (IR) sensor 609, the CO sensor 611, and the temperature sensor 613 can transmit information to the controller 601, and the controller 601 can transmit information to the vehicle's air conditioning unit (a/c) 615, the communications device 617, the horn 619, and the power window controller 621.

(67) The add-on vehicular heatstroke prevention system 600 can use the OBD II port 605 to access the electrical system of the car. Use of system 600 may require a simple, one-time installation by attaching the sensor units (e.g., CO.sub.2 sensor 607, IR thermal sensor 609, CO sensor 611 and Temperature Sensor 613, which can be provided individually or combined into one sensor unit) of the system 600 and attached anywhere inside of the vehicle, e.g., to the ceiling or elsewhere, and plug in a wireless vehicular heatstroke prevention system 600 into the OBD II port 605.

(68) FIG. 7 is a flow diagram illustrating an add-on vehicular heatstroke prevention method 700 for cars using an OBD II port, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention. This method will be described with regard to components of the system 600 as depicted in FIG. 6.

(69) In operation 701, the vehicular heatstroke prevention system (e.g., the system 600) first checks on the status of the engine, and, in order to make this determination, a OBD II port (e.g., the OBD II port 605) sends a signal to a central controller (e.g., the controller 601). In certain embodiments, controller 601 has a sleep mode in which no detection or monitoring is performed and an awake mode in which detection and monitoring is performed. If the engine is on, the vehicular heatstroke prevention system can enter/maintain a sleep mode (operation 705). If the engine is off, the vehicular heatstroke prevention system moves on to checking the opened/closed status of the vehicle doors (operation 703).

(70) In operation 703, the system checks the opened/closed status of the vehicle doors, and, in order to make this determination, a vehicle door sensor (e.g., the vehicle door sensor 603) sends a signal to the central controller 601. If the vehicle door is open, the vehicular heatstroke prevention system can enter the sleep mode (operation 705). If the vehicle doors are closed, the system can wake from sleep mode and becomes activated (operation 707). In some embodiments of the invention, each time the vehicle doors are closed, the vehicular heatstroke prevention system wakes from a sleep mode and begins to search for the presence of a child.

(71) In operation 709, the vehicular heatstroke prevention system checks for the presence of a child in a vehicle, and to make this determination, it can use sensors (e.g., the CO.sub.2 sensor 607 and/or the IR sensor 609) to detect carbon dioxide (CO.sub.2) and infrared (IR) radiation, respectively. If a child is not detected, the vehicular heatstroke prevention system can return to the sleep mode (operation 705).

(72) If a child is detected, a temperature sensor (e.g., the temperature sensor 613) can monitor the temperature (T) inside the vehicle (operation 711) to determine if it has exceeded a preset value, T.sub.1. If the temperature has not exceeded T.sub.1, the temperature sensor can continue to monitor the temperature (T) in a monitoring mode. If T.sub.1 has been exceeded, in operation 713, the controller can: activate the vehicle's a/c (e.g., the air conditioner 615), partially open the windows via a window controller (e.g., the window controller 621), sound an audible alarm, such as by beeping a horn or alarm via an external speaker (e.g., the horn 619), or any combination thereof. In operation 715, the controller can also send an alert as discussed above via communications device (e.g., the communications device 617).

(73) In operation 717, the controller can monitor the carbon monoxide (CO) levels inside the vehicle, such as by using a carbon monoxide (CO) sensor (e.g., the CO sensor 611). If the CO sensor does not detect a critical level of CO, the system will continue to monitor CO levels. If the CO sensor detects CO, the controller can immediately shut down the engine (operation 719), and/or lower the windows, or via a communications device (e.g., the communications device 617), contact emergency personnel and/or a caregiver (operation 721). In operation 723, if the CO sensor detects CO, the controller can continue to monitor CO.sub.2, CO, and temperature levels in the vehicle. In some embodiments, the CO sensor is any CO sensor which meets certain sensitivity requires and functions within appropriate temperature ranges.

(74) If the temperature drops below a second preset level (T.sub.2) which is lower than the first preset level (T.sub.1), the controller can turn off the a/c and/or the raise the windows and stop the horn or other notification (operation 725). The controller can continuously monitor the temperature inside the vehicle and can repeat steps of method 700 as necessary, until a vehicle door is opened or the engine is turned on, at which point the system can enter the sleep mode 705.

(75) Thus, a vehicular heatstroke prevention system for preventing infants, young children and animals from dying of heatstroke when left unattended in a closed vehicle on a warm, sunny day has been provided. In addition, the CO safety feature will also prevent CO poisoning and death, even in situations when the system is not needed to lower the temperature of the vehicle.

(76) One skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention can be practiced by other than the described embodiments, which are presented for purposes of illustration and not limitation. In addition, different embodiments are disclosed herein, and features of certain embodiments may be combined with features of other embodiments, such that certain embodiments maybe combinations of features of multiple embodiments. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention as defined in the appended claims.