Prototype of a Child Safety Driver Assistant System

Abstract

Farming machinery accidents frequently cause the injury and death of children on farms. These accidents are caused by vehicle blind spots, attached machinery, inadequate security measures, carelessness, and insufficient childcare availability. It is often difficult to separate working and living areas on family farms, making additional security and preventative measures necessary. Farmers are interested in using devices that increase the safety of children in the mechanized working environment.

The system developed to tackle this problem combines two technologies, a wireless radio network sensor and an electrical near field sensor. Detection occurs indirectly, meaning that each child wears a slumbering transponder. Upon entering a risk zone, the transponder begins to communicate with a stationary sensor and alarm unit device mounted on the vehicle.

Initial tests have verified the suitability of these technologies for this universal problem.

To improve usability, it is necessary to miniaturize the transponder, identify detection gaps, and synchronize parallel vehicle use. Danger zones must also be defined in order to create a phased warning system to avoid false alarms, reduce alarm desensitization, and moderate stress for the vehicle operator. A user-friendly design and high service quality would increase the motivation and acceptance of wearing a transponder.