CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This Patent Application claims priority from Italian Patent Application No. 102019000006092 filed on April 18, 2019, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a monitoring and signaling system and to a method to prevent the abandonment of infants and/or pets in vehicles thereof.

BACKGROUND ART

As is known, in recent years, the number of cases of abandonment of infants and/or pets, such as dogs, in closed vehicles and in adverse conditions (for example, in conditions of extreme heat) by parents or by pet caretakers (for example, dogsitters or catsitters) has increased; in particular, such situations of abandonment can compromise the physical and/or mental health of the infant and/or pet, since the latter are exposed to potentially deadly events.

Therefore, monitoring and signaling systems and methods adapted for preventing such events of abandonment events have been developed.

An example of a known monitoring and signaling system to prevent the abandonment of infants in vehicles is shown in figures 1A-1B.

With joint reference to figures 1A and IB, the system, indicated with reference numeral 1, comprises a child seat 2, which may be housed in a vehicle 3 (for example, a car) ; in particular, the child seat 2 can be reversibly coupled with a seat (for example, rear) of the vehicle 3.

The child seat 2 is coupled to a detection and signaling device for a seat 5 (defined hereinafter as device 5) , housed in an additional pad, which may be releasably coupled with the bottom part of the child seat 2 (for example, through velcro) . Alternatively, the device 5 is integrated in the bottom part of the child seat 2.

Figure 2 schematically shows the device 5, comprising a pressure detection unit 10, defined hereinafter as pressure sensor 10, and a first beacon 11, coupled to the pressure sensor 10 through suitable electric connection elements (for example electric cables, not shown) . The pressure sensor 10 is powered through a battery (not shown) , which can be rechargeable (for example, through solar energy) or non- rechargeable .

In particular, the pressure sensor 10 is configured to detect the presence of the infant on the child seat 2; in detail, when the infant is arranged on the child seat 2, the pressure sensor 10 detects the presence of the infant (for example, through capacitive detection) and generates a corresponding electric signal, which is transmitted to the first beacon 11.

The first beacon 11 is, in a first approximation, a point-like source, for example positioned in a first point O' , configured to emit a first signal Si, for example in radio frequency, using, for example, Bluetooth Low Energy technology, based on the aforementioned electric signal. In particular, the first signal Si is emitted by the first beacon 11 with a first periodicity Ti, comprised, for example, between 1 ms and 200 ms (for example 100 ms) .

The system 1 further comprises a mobile device 7, for example a smartphone, a tablet or a notebook, schematically shown in figure 3. In particular, the mobile device 7 comprises: a receiver 13, for example a Bluetooth one, configured to receive the first signal Si; an integrated logic 14, connected to the receiver 13; and a memory 15, connected to the integrated logic 14.

The integrated logic 14 is configured to process the first signal Si to generate a first processed datum; in particular, the first processed datum is a datum, obtained through known algorithms adapted to convert the first signal Si into a corresponding distance between the mobile device 7 and the first beacon 11 (i.e. the device 5) .

The integrated logic 14 is further configured to verify, based on the distance obtained from the first signal Si, that the mobile device 7 is positioned in a first signaling region 6 (shown with a dashed line in figures 1A-1B) ; in particular, the first signaling region 6 is a predetermined geometric space having, for example, a spherical shape with radius Rthi (for example equal to five meters) and center coinciding with the first point O' . Furthermore, the first radius Rthi represents a reference distance with respect to which the integrated logic 14 compares the corresponding distance. In particular, the system 1 is in a proximity condition when the corresponding distance of the mobile device 7 with respect to the device 5 is less than the first radius Rthi , i.e. it is in the first signaling region 6; furthermore, the system 20 is in a distance condition when the corresponding distance of the mobile device 7 with respect to the device 5 is greater than the first radius Rthi , i.e. when it is outside the first signaling region 6.

Furthermore, the integrated logic 14 is configured to generate a monitoring signal when it detects that the system 20 is in the distance condition.

Furthermore, the integrated logic 14 is configured to execute an application ("app") , installed in the mobile device 7, to generate a signaling notification as a function of the corresponding monitoring signal; in particular, the signaling notification is, for example, an SMS or an acoustic signal .

In addition, the integrated logic 14 of the mobile device 7 is configured to determine in a per se known way a GPS ("Global Positioning System") position of the mobile device 7 through a GPS receiver 16 (schematically shown in figure 3), the latter coupled to the integrated logic 14. In detail, the integrated logic 14 activates the GPS receiver 16 only when it detects that the system 20 is in the proximity condition .

In use, the system 1 operates according to a monitoring and signaling method described in detail hereinafter with reference to figures 1A-1B.

In a first operative step, in particular at a first time instant to, figure 1A, the infant is arranged on the child seat 2 and, therefore, on the device 5; consequently, the pressure sensor 10 detects the presence of the infant, generates an electric signal and transmits it to the first beacon 11, which is activated and generates the first signal Si.

At a second time instant ti, defined as the sum between the first time instant to and a first time interval Ato, i (i.e. the propagation time of the first signal Si from the device 5 to the mobile device 7 in the step of figure 1A) , the receiver 13 receives the first signal Si and transmits it to the integrated logic 14; the integrated logic 14 processes the aforementioned first signal Si according to the previously described modalities to determine the first processed datum, i.e. a first distance (indicated hereinafter with do) , present between the mobile device 7 and the device 5 at the second time instant ti.

Thereafter, the integrated logic 14 carries out a verification through the app, in which it compares the first distance do with the radius Rthi of the first signaling region 6 to determine whether the mobile device 7 is in the first signaling region 6. In the first operative step shown in figure 1A, the integrated logic 14 determines, through the app, that the first distance do is less than the radius Rthi (proximity condition), i.e. the mobile device 7 is close to the device 5.

After the aforementioned verification, the integrated logic 14 activates the GPS receiver 16, which determines a first GPS position Po of the mobile device 7 at the second time instant ti; thereafter, the integrated logic 14 receives the aforementioned first GPS position Po and memorizes it in the memory 15.

After verifying and determining the first GPS position Po, in the first operative step, the integrated logic 14 generates a first signaling notification, for example showing the phrase "baby on board" on the mobile device 7 (for example, on the screen of the mobile device 7); in particular, the first signaling notification is adapted for warning the user of the mobile device 7 (for example, a parent or a babysitter) that the infant is on the child seat 2 and in the vehicle 3 and that the mobile device 7 is in the first signaling region 6.

In the second operative step, in particular at a third time instant t2, after the second time instant ti, figure IB, the first beacon 11 is activated and once again emits the first signal Si, since, in this step, the infant is still on the child seat 2.

Therefore, at a fourth time instant t3, defined as the sum between the third time instant t2 and a second time interval Ato, 2 (i.e. the propagation time of the first signal Si from the device 5 to the mobile device 7 in the step of figure IB) , the receiver 13 receives the first signal Si and sends it to the integrated logic 14; in particular, the integrated logic 14 processes the aforementioned first signal Si to determine a second distance di, present between the mobile device 7 and the device 5 at the fourth time instant t3.

The integrated logic 14 once again carries out the verification step through the app, in which it compares the second distance di with the radius Rthi of the first signaling region 6, i.e. whether the system 20 is in the proximity condition at the fourth time instant t3. In particular, in the second operative step, the integrated logic 14 determines that the second distance di is greater than the radius Rthi (distance condition) and, therefore, the mobile device 7 is far from the device 5. In other words, the integrated logic 14 determines whether the infant on the child seat 2 has been abandoned in the vehicle 3. Consequently, the integrated logic 14 generates a first monitoring signal S _m o indicative of the distance condition of the mobile device 7; based on the first monitoring signal S _m o, the integrated logic 14 generates, through the app, a second signaling notification on the mobile device 7, for example showing the phrase "baby on board", adapted for signaling the user of the abandonment in the vehicle 3 of the child seat 2 (and therefore of the infant) .

The monitoring and signaling method described above memorizes the most recent GPS position associated with a respective distance from the device 5 only when the aforementioned positioning verification in the first signaling region 6 gives a positive outcome (i.e. the mobile device 7 is in the first signaling region 6) .

Further examples of systems and of relative monitoring and signaling methods are described in US patent US 2018/0322758 A1.

Monitoring systems for infants and for pets in a vehicle are also known, like, for example, the monitoring and signaling system indicated in the article "Low-cost low- power in-vehicle occupant detection with mm-wave FMCW radar" by Alizadeh M. et al .

(https : //arxiv.org/pdf/19 ^Q 8.04417.pdf) .

However, the aforementioned systems and methods have drawbacks .

In particular, with reference to the system 1 of figures 1A and IB and to the relative method and as discussed earlier, the sending of the signaling notifications is subject to a verification of the position of the mobile device 7 in a predetermined spatial region (i.e. the first signaling region 6) , centered in the first beacon 11 of the device 5.

However, in some cases, the verification operation by the integrated logic 14 can generate false alarms. For example, when the infant is arranged on the child seat 2, but it is not in the vehicle 3, and the mobile device 7 is outside the first signaling region 6, the integrated logic 14 of the mobile device 7 detects the distance condition and, therefore, generates a corresponding signaling notification; such a signaling notification represents a false alarm, since the infant has not been abandoned in the vehicle 3.

Similar considerations are also valid for monitoring and signaling systems for pets.

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

The purpose of the present invention is to provide a system and a method that at least partially overcome the drawbacks of the prior art.

According to the present invention a monitoring and signaling system and a relative method for preventing the abandonment of infants in vehicles are made, as defined in the attached claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In order to provide a better understanding of the present invention preferred embodiments thereof will now be described, purely as a non-limiting example, with reference to the attached drawings, in which:

figures 1A-1B schematically show views from above of a known monitoring and signaling system in a first and a second operative step, respectively;

figure 2 schematically shows a signaling and detection device forming part of the monitoring and signaling system of figures 1A-1B;

figure 3 schematically shows a mobile device forming part of the monitoring and signaling system of figures 1A-1B;

figure 4 schematically shows a view from above of the present monitoring and signaling system used for monitoring the presence of an infant in a vehicle;

figures 5A-5B schematically show views from above of the monitoring and signaling system of figure 4 in a first operative mode;

figures 6A-6C schematically show views from above of the monitoring and signaling system of figure 4 in a second operative mode;

figure 7 schematically shows a view from above of the monitoring and signaling system in a third operative mode ;

figure 8 schematically shows a signaling and detection device forming part of the monitoring and signaling system of figures 4-7 used for monitoring the presence of an infant or of a pet in the vehicle;

figure 9 schematically shows a signaling and detection device configured to be coupled to the vehicle and forming part of the monitoring and signaling system of figures 4-7 according to an alternative embodiment;

figures 10A and 10B schematically show a signaling and detection device forming part of the monitoring and signaling system of figures 4-7 according to an alternative embodiment with respect to the embodiment of figure 2;

figures 11A and 11B schematically show a signaling and detection device forming part of the monitoring and signaling system of figures 4-7 according to an alternative embodiment with respect to the embodiment of figure 10 in a first and a second position;

figures 12A and 12B schematically show a signaling and detection device forming part of the monitoring and signaling system of figures 4-7 according to an alternative embodiment with respect to the embodiment of figures 10 and 11A-11B in a first and a second position; and

figure 13 schematically shows a view from above of the present monitoring and signaling system used for monitoring the presence of a pet inside the vehicle.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Figure 4 schematically shows a monitoring and signaling system 20 (indicated hereinafter as system 20); in particular, the system 20 has a similar structure to the system 1 of figures 1A-1B, 2-3 and, therefore, it will be described limited to the differences with respect to the aforementioned system 1.

In particular, the vehicle 3 is coupled to a second beacon 28, arranged, for example, on the dashboard of the vehicle 3. In greater detail, the second beacon 28 is, in a first approximation, a point-like source, for example positioned at a second point 0", configured to emit, independently from the first beacon 11, a second signal S2, for example in radio frequency, using, for example, Bluetooth Low Energy technology; in particular, the second signal S2 is emitted with a second periodicity T2, which, as a non limiting example, is assumed to be equal to the first periodicity Ti (i.e. comprised, for example, between 1 ms and 200 ms, for example 100 ms) .

In further embodiments, the second periodicity T2 is defined as the sum between the first periodicity Ti and a delay DT, for example equal to 1 ms; in this way, in use, the receiver 13 of the mobile device 7 receives the second signal S2 with a delay equal to the delay DT with respect to the first signal Si.

Assuming, for the sake of simplicity, that the first and the second beacon 11, 28 respectively emit the first and the second signal Si, S2 at the same time instant, the first and the second beacon 11, 28 emit the first and the second signal Si, S2 in an approximately spherical region (not shown and defined hereinafter as region of maximum reception) , with radius equal, for example, to 70 meters. In greater detail, in the hypothetical case in which the first and the second signal Si, S2 propagate in free space, the receiver 13 of the mobile device 7 has a sensitivity such as to be capable of correctly receive (and thus process to determine the corresponding data) both the first and the second signal Si, S2, when inside the aforementioned region of maximum reception . The integrated logic 14 is further configured to process the second signal S2 to generate a second processed datum; in particular, the second processed datum is a datum obtained through known algorithms adapted to determine, from the second signal S2, a corresponding distance between the mobile device 7 and the second beacon 28 from the second signal S2.

The integrated logic 14 is further configured to verify, based on the distance obtained from the second signal S 2 , that the mobile device 7 is positioned in a second signaling region 30 (shown with a dashed line in figure 4); in particular, the second signaling region 30 is a predetermined geometric space having, for example, a spherical shape with radius R _ti m (for example equal to twenty meters) and center coinciding with the second point 0". Without any loss of generality, the radius Rthi of the first signaling region 6 is less than the radius R _ti m of the second signaling region 30. In addition, the radii Rthi , Rth2 of the first and the second signaling region 6, 30 respectively are less with respect to the radius of the region of maximum reception.

In particular, the system 20 is in a proximity condition when the distances obtained from the first and second signals S i , S 2 are less, respectively, than the first and second radius Rthi , Rtim , i.e. the mobile device 7 is both in the first and in the second signaling region 6, 30; furthermore, the system 20 is in a distance condition when the aforementioned distances are both greater than the first and the second radius Rthi , Rth2 respectively, i.e. the mobile device 7 is outside of both the first and the second signaling region 6, 30.

In addition, the system 20 is in a first intermediate condition when the distance obtained from the first signal S i is greater than the first radius Rthi and the distance obtained from the second signal S 2 is less than the second radius Rtim , i.e. the mobile device 7 is outside the first signaling region 6 and inside the second signaling region 30; furthermore, the system 20 is in a second intermediate condition when the distance obtained from the first signal Si is less than the first radius R _thi and the distance obtained from the second signal S2 is greater than the second radius R _th 2 , i.e. the mobile device 7 is inside the first signaling region 6 and outside the second signaling region 30.

Furthermore, the integrated logic 14 is configured to generate respective monitoring signals when it detects that the mobile device 7 is in the first or in the second intermediate condition or in the distance condition.

Furthermore, the integrated logic 14 is configured to execute the app to generate a signaling notification as a function of the aforementioned monitoring signals; in particular, the signaling notification is, for example, an SMS or an acoustic signal generated by the mobile device 7.

In a further embodiment of the device 5, shown in figure 8 and alternative to the embodiment of figure 2, the aforementioned device 5 comprises, as well as the pressure sensor 10 and the first beacon 11 and a battery (indicated in figure 8 with reference numeral 32), a further battery 33, of the rechargeable type; in particular, the further battery 33 is connected to a solar cell 34, the latter being adapted for charging the further battery 33 through a conversion of solar energy into electric energy. In addition, the device 5 comprises a signaling element 35, for example a buzzer, adapted for generating a signal (for example a vibration or an acoustic signal) adapted for identifying various types of notifications, like, for example, a correct installation of the device 5, as well as of the app on the mobile device 7 (i.e. a correct installation of the set-up for the operation of the system 20), a correct seating or a correct detection of the infant and/or of the pet and anomalies in the operation of the device 5. The device 5 shown in figure 8 operates in an analogous manner to what is described with reference to the device 5 of figure 2. Furthermore, the device 5 of figure 8 can be used both for the detection of the presence of an infant on a child seat 2 and for the detection of the presence of a pet in the vehicle 3; in the first case, the device 5 of figure 8 is arranged on the bottom part of the child seat 2 or it can be integrated into it and, in the second case, the device 5 of figure 8 is arranged, for example, on the surface of the bed of the boot of the vehicle 3 or on the surface of a base of a pet carrier adapted for containing the pet to be transported .

In use, the system 20 operates according to a monitoring and signaling method described in detail hereinafter. In particular, three operating modes are described hereinafter, alternative to one another. In particular, hereinafter and without any loss of generality, reference is made to a monitoring and signaling method for monitoring whether or not an infant is present on the child seat 2. In addition, for the sake of simplicity of description, hereinafter reference is made to a device of the type shown in figure 2; similar considerations extend to the devices of the type shown in figure 8.

Hereinafter, it is assumed, without any loss of generality, that the system 20 of figure 4 represents a first operative step (in particular, in a first time instant to') common to the three operative modes described hereinafter.

In greater detail, the operative step shown in figure 4 is analogous to the first operative step described with reference to figure 1A.

In a first time instant to' , the infant is arranged on the child seat 2 and, therefore, on the device 5; consequently, the pressure sensor 10 detects the presence of the infant, generates an electric signal and transmits it to the first beacon 11, which is activated and generates the first signal Si.

At the first time instant to' , the second beacon 28 emits the second signal S2 independently from the first beacon 11. For the sake of simplicity of description and without any loss of generality, it is assumed that the first and the second beacon 11, 28 emit the respective first and second signal Si, S2 in the same first time instant to' . Furthermore, it is assumed that the mobile device 7 receives the aforementioned first and second signal Si, S2 at the same time instant; in other words, hereinafter, for the sake of simplicity, the distance between first and second beacon 11, 28 will be ignored, except where specified otherwise.

At a second time instant ti' , defined as the sum between the first time instant to' and a first time interval Ato, 1 , the receiver 13 receives the first signal Si and transmits it to the integrated logic 14; in detail, the integrated logic 14 processes the aforementioned first signal Si according to the previously described modalities to determine the first processed datum, i.e. a first distance do' of the mobile device 7 with respect to the device 5 at the second time instant ti' .

At the same second time instant ti' , the receiver 13 further receives the second signal S2 and transmits it to the integrated logic 14; in detail, the integrated logic 14 processes the aforementioned second signal S2 according to the previously described modalities with reference to the first signal to determine the processed second datum, i.e. a second distance do" of the mobile device 7 with respect to the second beacon 28 at the second time instant ti' .

It should be noted that, since the receiver 13 receives both the first and the second signal Si, S2 at the second time instant ti' , the first time interval Ato, 1 represents the propagation time of the first and second signals Si, S2 from the device 5 and from the second beacon 28 respectively to the receiver 13 in the step of figure 4.

The first and the second signals Si, S2 received at the second time instant ti' form a first pair of signals.

Thereafter, the integrated logic 14 carries out a first verification through the app, in which it compares the first distance do' with the radius Rthi of the first signaling region 6 to determine whether the mobile device 7 is in the first signaling region 6. In the operative step of figure 4, the integrated logic 14 determines, through the app, that the first distance do' is less than the radius Rthi and, therefore, that the mobile device 7 is close to the device

5.

At the same second time instant ti' , the integrated logic 14 carries out a second verification through the app, in which it compares the second distance do" with the radius R _th 2 of the second signaling region 30 to determine whether the mobile device 7 is in the second signaling region 30. In the step shown in figure 4, the integrated logic 14 determines that the second distance do" is less than the radius R _ti m, i.e. that the mobile device 7 is close to the second beacon 28 (and, therefore, to the vehicle 3) .

Therefore, since both the verification of the first distance do' with respect to the radius Rthi and the verification of the second distance do" with respect to the radius R _ti m have given a positive outcome, i.e. the system 20 is in the proximity condition, the integrated logic 14 activates the GPS receiver 16, which determines a first GPS position Po' of the mobile device 7 at the second time instant ti' . Thereafter, the first GPS position Po' , which is associated to the first and the second distance do' , do", is received by the integrated logic 14 and is memorized in the memory 15.

Furthermore, in the operative step described above, the integrated logic 14 executes the app to generate a first signaling notification, for example a text notification showing the phrase "baby on board" on the mobile device 7 (for example, on the screen); such a signaling notification makes it possible to warn the user of the mobile device 7 that the infant is on board the vehicle 3.

Figures 5A-5B show successive steps of a first operative mode, which follow the step shown in figure 4. In greater detail, each of the steps shown in figures 5A-5B carries out the same operations described with reference to figure 4. In particular, figure 5A, at a third time instant , after the second time instant ti' , the infant is still arranged on the child seat 2 and, therefore, on the device 5; consequently, also in this step, the first beacon 11 emits the first signal Si. At the same third time instant t2 ^r , the second beacon 28 once again emits the second signal S2.

At a fourth time instant t3 ^f , defined as the sum between the third time instant t2 ^f and a second time interval Ato, 2' , the receiver 13 receives the first signal Si and transmits it to the integrated logic 14; the integrated logic 14 processes the aforementioned first signal Si according to the previously described modalities to once again determine the first processed datum, i.e. a third distance di of the mobile device 7 with respect to the device 5 at the fourth time instant t3 ^f .

At the same fourth time instant t3 ^f , the receiver 13 receives the second signal S2 and transmits it to the integrated logic 14; in detail, the integrated logic 14 processes the aforementioned second signal S2 according to the previously described modalities with reference to the first signal Si to once again determine the processed second datum, i.e. a fourth distance di' of the mobile device 7 with respect to the second beacon 28 at the fourth time instant t ₃ ' .

In particular, the first and the second signal Si, S2 received at the fourth time instant t3 ^f form a second pair of signals.

Furthermore, similarly to what was discussed with reference to the first time interval Ato, 1' , the second time interval Ato, 2' represents the propagation time of the first and of the second signal Si, S2 from the device 5 and from the second beacon 28 respectively to the receiver 13 in the step of figure 5A.

Thereafter, the integrated logic 14 once again carries out the first verification through the app, in which it compares the third distance di with the radius Rthi of the first signaling region 6 to determine whether the mobile device 7 is in the first signaling region 6. In the operative step of figure 5A, the integrated logic 14 determines that the third distance di is greater than the radius Rthi of the first signaling region 6, i.e. that the mobile device 7 is far from the device 5.

At the same fourth time instant t3 ^f , the integrated logic 14 further carries out the second verification through the app, in which it compares the fourth distance di' with the radius R _ti m of the second signaling region 30 to determine whether the mobile device 7 is in the second signaling region 30. In the step shown in figure 5A, the integrated logic 14 determines that the fourth distance di' is less than the radius R _ti m and, therefore, the mobile device 7 is close to the second beacon 28.

Therefore, in figure 5A, the mobile device 7 is in the first intermediate condition.

In the operative step described above, the integrated logic 14 generates a second monitoring signal S _mi , indicative of the first intermediate condition of the mobile device 7; based on the second monitoring signal S _mi , the integrated logic 14 generates, through the app, a second signaling notification, for example a text notification showing the phrase "baby on board" for example on the screen of the mobile device 7. Furthermore, in the operative step of figure 5A, the integrated logic 14 deactivates the GPS receiver 16, i.e. it does not determine the GPS position of the mobile device 7 at the fourth time instant t3 ^f , since at least one of the aforementioned verifications based on the third and fourth distance di, di' has given a negative outcome. In this way, the first GPS position Po' determined in the operative step described with reference to figure 4 is kept in the memory 15 of the mobile device 7.

Figure 5B shows a step after the step described with reference to figure 5A; in particular, in the step of figure 5B, the same operations described with reference to figure 5A are repeated at moments of time after those indicated with reference to figure 5A.

In greater detail, at a fifth time instant ti' , after the fourth time instant t3 ^f , the first and the second beacon 11, 28 respectively emit the first and the second signal Si, S2 · The first and the second signal Si, S2 thus emitted are received by the receiver 13 at a sixth time instant ts' , the latter defined as the sum between the fifth time instant ti' and a third time interval Ato, 3' .

The first and the second signal Si, S2 received at the sixth time instant ts' form a third pair of signals.

Furthermore, similarly to what is discussed with reference to the first and to the second time interval Ato, 1' , Ato, 2' , the third time interval Ato, 3' represents the propagation time of the first and of the second signal Si, S2 respectively from the device 5 and from the second beacon 28 to the receiver 13 in the step of figure 5B .

Consequently, the receiver 13 transmits the first and the second signal S i , S2 thus received to the integrated logic 14, so that the latter determines, according to the previously described modalities, a fifth and a sixth distance d2, d2 ^f between the mobile device 7 and, respectively, the device 5 and the second beacon 28. Thereafter, the integrated logic 14 once again carries out the first and the second verification through the app, in which it compares the fifth and the sixth distance d2, d2 ^f with the radii Rthi , Rtim of the first and the second signaling region 6, 30 respectively to determine whether the mobile device 7 is in the first and/or the second signaling region 6, 30. In the operative step of figure 5B, the integrated logic 14 determines that the fifth and the sixth distance d2, d2 ^f are greater than the radii Rthi , Rth2 (distance condition) respectively and, therefore, that the mobile device 7 is far both from the second beacon 28 and from the device 5.

Therefore, in the operative step described above, the integrated logic 14 generates a third monitoring signal S _m 2 indicative of the distance condition of the mobile device 7; therefore, based on the third monitoring signal S _m 2, the integrated logic 14 generates a third signaling notification, for example a text notification showing the phrase "baby on board" for example on the screen of the mobile device 7. Furthermore, also in this case, the integrated logic 14 deactivates the GPS receiver 16, i.e. it does not acquire the GPS position of the mobile device 7 at the sixth time instant ts' , so that the first GPS position Ro' determined in the operative step described with reference to figure 4 is kept in the memory 15 of the mobile device 7.

In further embodiments, the integrated logic 14 carries out a third verification, adapted for determining the veracity of the aforementioned notification of abandonment of the infant (figure 5B) . In particular, at a seventh time instant te' , defined as the sum between the sixth time instant ts' and a verification time interval At _ver (for example, equal to 60 s), the mobile device 7 carries out the same operations described with reference to figures 4 and 5A-5B; in other words, the system 20 is once again operated to determine the distances of the mobile device 7 itself with respect to the device 5 and the second beacon 28 and verify that the aforementioned distances are such that the mobile device 7 is in the first and/or in the second signaling region 6, 30 (therefore, that the mobile device 7 is in the proximity condition or in the first intermediate condition) . If the mobile device 7 is in the first and in the second signaling region 6, 30 (proximity condition) , the integrated logic 14 determines that the signaling notification generated in the step shown in figure 5B was not an indication of an actual abandonment of the infant in the vehicle 3, since, at the seventh time instant te' , the mobile device 7 is once again close to the child seat 2 and the vehicle 3. Therefore, the integrated logic 14 executes the app so that the aforementioned signaling notification is eliminated; furthermore, given the positive outcome of the aforementioned verifications, the integrated logic 14 executes the app to determine and memorize a second GPS position Po".

If the mobile device 7 is outside the first and/or the second signaling region 6, 30 (first intermediate condition or distance condition) , the integrated logic 14 determines that the previous signaling notification is an indication of an actual abandonment of the infant in the vehicle 3; therefore, such a signaling notification is once again signaled to the user on the mobile device 7 through the app.

The aforementioned verification mechanism makes it possible to reduce the number of false signaling notification; for example, the present method can advantageously be used in situations of momentarily going away from the vehicle 3 and from the child seat 2.

Figures 6A-6C show successive steps of a second operative mode, alternative to the first operative mode of figures 5A-5B. In detail, figures 6A, 6B show situations in which the user goes away from the vehicle 3 with the child seat 2 (figure 6A) to the point of being outside of the second signaling region 30 (figure 6B) ; figure 6C shows a situation in which the user has gone away both from the vehicle 3 and from the child seat 2. Furthermore, in the situations shown in figures 6A-6C the infant is still arranged on the child seat 2.

In particular, figure 6A, at a third time instant -i" _f since the infant is still arranged on the child seat 2 and, therefore, on the device 5, the first beacon 11 once again generates the first signal Si. At the same third time instant t2", the second beacon 28 once again emits the second signal S2 upon command of the respective integrated logic (not shown) .

At a fourth time instant t3", defined as the sum between the third time instant t2" and a second time interval Ato, 2", the receiver 13 receives the first signal Si and transmits it to the integrated logic 14; in detail, the integrated logic 14 processes the aforementioned first signal Si according to the previously described modalities to once again determine the first processed datum, i.e. a third distance d3 of the mobile device 7 with respect to the device 5 at the fourth time instant t3".

At the same fourth time instant t3", the receiver 13 receives the second signal S2 and transmits it to the integrated logic 14; in detail, the integrated logic 14 processes the aforementioned second signal S2 according to the previously described modalities with reference to the first signal Si to once again determine the second processed datum, i.e. a fourth distance d3 ^f of the mobile device 7 with respect to the second beacon 28 at the fourth time instant t ₃ ".

The first and the second signal Si, S2 received at the fourth time instant t3" form a fourth pair of signals.

It should be noted that, since the receiver 13 receives both the first and the second signal Si, S2 at the fourth time instant t3", the second time interval Ato, 2 represents the propagation time of the first and of the second signal Si, S2 respectively from the device 5 and from the second beacon 28 to the receiver 13 in the step of figure 6A.

Thereafter, the integrated logic 14 carries out a verification through the app, in which it compares the third and the fourth distance d3, d3 ^f with the radii Rthi, Rth2 of the first and the second signaling region 6, 30 respectively to determine whether the mobile device 7 is in the first and/or the second signaling region 6, 30. In the operative step of figure 6A, the integrated logic 14 determines that the third and the fourth distance d3, d3 ^f are less than the radii Rthi, Rth2 (proximity condition) respectively and, therefore, that the mobile device 7 is close to the device 5 and the second beacon 28.

Consequently, in light of the aforementioned verifications, the integrated logic 14 activates the GPS receiver 16, which determines a second GPS position Pi' of the mobile device 7 at the fourth time instant t3"; thereafter, the integrated logic 14 receives the aforementioned second GPS position Pi' and memorizes it in the memory 15.

Furthermore, in the operative step described above, the integrated logic 14 executes the app to generate a fourth signaling notification on the mobile device 7, for example showing the phrase "baby on board", to indicate that the mobile device 7 is in the first and in the second signaling region 6, 30.

Figure 6B shows a step after the step described with reference to figure 6A; in particular, in the step of figure 6B, the same operations described with reference to figure 6A are repeated.

In greater detail, at a fifth time instant ti" , after the fourth time instant t3", the first and the second beacon 11, 28 respectively emit the first and the second signal Si, S2 · The first and the second signal Si, S2, here forming a fifth pair of signals, thus emitted are received by the receiver 13 at a sixth time instant ts", defined as the sum between the fifth time instant ti" and a third time interval Ato, 3". Consequently, the receiver 13 transmits the first and the second signal Si, S2 to the integrated logic 14, so that the latter once again determines, according to the previously described modalities, the first and the second processed datum, i.e. a fifth and a sixth distance d4, d-j' between the mobile device 7 and, respectively, the device 5 and the second beacon 28.

Furthermore, similarly to what has been discussed with reference to the second time interval Ato, 2", the third time interval Ato, 3" represents the propagation time of the first and of the second signal Si, S2 respectively from the device 5 and from the second beacon 28 to the receiver 13 in the step of figure 6B .

Thereafter, the integrated logic 14 once again carries out the first verification through the app, in which it compares the fifth and the sixth distance d-, d-' with, respectively, the radii Rthi , Rth2 of the first and the second signaling region 6, 30 to determine whether the mobile device 7 is in the first and/or the second signaling region 6, 30. In the operative step of figure 6B, the integrated logic 14 determines that the fifth distance d ₄ is less than the radius Rthi and that the sixth distance d-' is greater than the radius Rtim , i.e. the mobile device 7 is close to the device 5 and far from the second beacon 28.

Therefore, the mobile device 7 is in the second intermediate condition, i.e. it is outside the second signaling region 30 and inside the first signaling region 6.

Therefore, in the operative step described above, the integrated logic 14 generates a fourth monitoring signal S _m 3 indicative of the second intermediate condition; based on the fourth monitoring signal S _m 3, the integrated logic 14 executes the app to generate a fifth signaling notification, for example a text notification showing the phrase "thank you for using us" and determines that, since the mobile device 7 is close to the child seat 2, but not to the vehicle 3, the signaling can be deactivated and, therefore, it is not necessary to generate further notifications. In other words, the fourth monitoring signal S _m 3 is a signaling inhibiting signal for the mobile device 7.

Figure 6C shows a step after the step described with reference to figure 6B; in particular, in the step of figure 6C, the same operations described with reference to figures 6A-6B are repeated.

In greater detail, at a seventh time instant t ₆ ", after the sixth time instant ts", the first and the second beacon 11, 28 respectively emit the first and the second signal Si, S2 · The first and the second signal Si, S2 thus emitted and here forming a sixth pair of signals are received by the receiver 13 at an eighth time instant t7", defined as the sum between the seventh time instant e" and a fourth time interval Ato, 4" ; consequently, the receiver 13 transmits the first and the second signal Si, S2 to the integrated logic 14, so that the latter determines, according to the previously described modalities, a seventh and an eighth distance ds, ds' between the mobile device 7 and, respectively, the device 5 and the second beacon 28.

Furthermore, similarly to what has been discussed with reference to the third time interval Ato, 3", the fourth time interval Ato, 4" represents the propagation time of the first and the second signal Si, S2 respectively from the device 5 and from the second beacon 28 to the receiver 13 in the step of figure 6C.

Thereafter, the integrated logic 14 carries out a verification through the app, in which it compares the seventh and eighth distance ds, ds' with the radii Rthi, Rth2 of the first and of the second signaling region 6, 30 respectively to determine whether the mobile device 7 is in the first and/or in the second signaling region 6, 30. In the operative step of figure 6C, the integrated logic 14 determines that the seventh and the eighth distance ds, ds' are greater than the radii Rthi, Rth2 (distance condition) respectively and, therefore, that the mobile device 7 is far both from the device 5 and from the second beacon 28.

In this case, the integrated logic 14 generates a fifth monitoring signal S _m 4 indicative of the distance condition of the mobile device 7; based on the aforementioned fifth signal S _m 4, the integrated logic 14 once again determines that, since the previous verification has not given a positive outcome, the signaling continues to be interrupted. Therefore, the fifth monitoring signal S _m 4 is also a signaling inhibiting signal for the mobile device 7.

Figure 7 shows a third operative mode, alternative to the first or to the second operative mode described with reference to figures 5A-5B and 6A-6C respectively. In particular, the third operative mode of figure 7 can be carried out both before and after the step described with reference to figure 4; hereinafter, it is assumed that the third operative mode of figure 7 is carried out after the operative step of figure 4.

In particular, at a third time instant t2 ^r ' ' , the infant is not arranged on the child seat 2 and, therefore, on the device 5; consequently, the pressure sensor 10 does not detect the presence of the infant and, therefore, the first beacon 11 is not active. Therefore, the first beacon 11 does not emit the first signal Si. Moreover, at the same third time instant t2 ^f ' ' , the second beacon 28 once again emits the second signal S2 upon command of the respective integrated logic (not shown) .

At a fourth time instant t3 ^f ' ' , defined as the sum between the third time instant t2 ^f ' ' and a second time interval Ato, 2' ' ' , the receiver 13 receives the second signal S2 and transmits it to the integrated logic 14; in detail, the integrated logic 14 processes the aforementioned second signal S2 according to the previously described modalities to once again determine the second processed datum, i.e. a fourth distance d ₆ ^f of the mobile device 7 with respect to the second beacon 28 at the fourth time instant t3 ^f ' ' .

Given the lack of the first signal Si, the integrated logic 14 is not able to verify that the mobile device 7 is in the first signaling region 6.

Therefore, the second time interval Ato, 2' ' ' is the propagation time of the second signal S2 from the second beacon 28 to the receiver 13.

However, at the same fourth time instant t3 ^f ' ' , the integrated logic 14 once again carries out the second verification through the app, in which it compares the fourth distance d ₆ ^f with the radius R _ti m of the second signaling region 30 to determine whether the mobile device 7 is in the second signaling region 30. In the step shown in figure 6A, the integrated logic 14 determines that the fourth distance d ₆ ^f is less than the radius R _ti m of the second signaling region 30 and, therefore, that the mobile device 7 is close to the second beacon 28. Consequently, in the operative step described above, the integrated logic 14 does not generate a further monitoring signal and does not execute the app to generate a new signaling notification, since the infant is not on the child seat 2; therefore, the signaling is interrupted.

Figure 13 shows a system analogous to the system 20 of figures 4, 5A-5B, 6A-6C and 7; in particular, figure 13 shows a system 120 having a structure similar to the system 20 of figures 4, 5A-5B, 6A-6C and 7. Therefore, parts similar to those described with reference to figures 4, 5A-5B, 6A-6C and 7 are indicated with the same reference numerals and are not described any further.

In particular, in the system 120, the device 5, which can be either of the type shown in figure 2 or of the type shown in figure 8, is arranged on the surface of the bed of the boot of the vehicle 3; in other words, the device 5 is adapted for detecting the presence of a pet inside the vehicle 3.

In use, the system 120 operates in an analogous way to what has been described with reference to figures 4, 5A-5B and 7.

The present method and the present system have different advantages .

In particular, the present system uses the first and the second beacon 11, 28 and the receiver 13 for monitoring and signaling a possible abandonment of an infant in a vehicle. The synergy between the aforementioned elements makes it possible to verify that the user, using the mobile device 7, is distant both from the child seat 2 and from the vehicle 3.

In particular, the verification of proximity to the vehicle 3 through the reception of the second signal S2, emitted by the second beacon 28, makes it possible to determine the distance of the mobile device 7 with respect to the second beacon 28 at any time instant. In this way, the generation of signaling notifications is subject to at least two verifications by the integrated logic 14, which make it possible to verify whether the abandonment of the infant and/or of the pet has actually occurred, consequently limiting the false signaling notifications. As an example, as described with reference to figures 6A-6B, the child seat 2 can accommodate the infant, be distant from the mobile device 7, but not be arranged in the vehicle 3; in this case, the present system and the relative method make it possible to avoid the generation of an otherwise false signaling notification .

Finally, it is clear that modifications and variants can be brought to the system and to the method described and illustrated here without for this reason departing from the scope of protection of the present invention, as defined in the attached claims.

For example, the device 5 can be a sensor different from a pressure sensor, for example an optical sensor.

Furthermore, in another embodiment, alternative to the one shown in figures 4, 5A-5B, 6A-6C and 7 and shown in figure 9, the vehicle 3 is coupled to a signaling device 40, which comprises the second beacon 28. In addition to the second beacon 28, the signaling device 40 comprises: a microcontroller 41, connected to the second beacon 28 is configured to control it through a respective plurality of control signals so that it emits the second signals S2; a battery 42, connected to the microcontroller 41 and configured to power the latter when in use; a position sensor 43, for example a GPS sensor, connected to the microcontroller 41, and configured to generate a plurality of position signals indicative of the geographical position of the vehicle 3, which is received and processed by the microcontroller 41; an inertial sensor 44, for example an accelerometer or a gyroscope, connected to the microcontroller 41, and configured to generate a plurality of inertial signals relative to an amount indicative of a motion state of the vehicle 3, which is received and processed by the microcontroller 41; a PIR ("Passive Infrared") sensor 45 connected to the microcontroller 41, and configured to generate a plurality of signals indicative of an optical detection carried out by the PIR sensor 45, which is received and processed by the microcontroller 41; at least one SIM card 46 connected to the microcontroller 41 and configured to memorize at least one emergency telephone number; and a signaling element 47, for example a buzzer, connected to the microcontroller 41 and configured to generate a signal, for example a vibration or an acoustic signal, as a function of a control signal transmitted by the microcontroller 41 to identify various types of notifications (for example, a correct installation of the set-up for the operation of the system 20 or of the system 120, a correct seating or a correct detection of the infant and/or of the pet, anomalies in the operation of the device 5 and depletion of the battery 42) .

It should also be noted that the microcontroller 41 is configured to control the position sensor 43, the inertial sensor 44 and the PIR sensor 45 through corresponding control signals. Furthermore, the microcontroller 41 is configured to communicate through radio frequency signals, using, for example, Bluetooth Low Energy technology, both with the first beacon 11 in a unidirectional manner (i.e. the microcontroller 41 is configured to receive the first signal Si at any time instant) and with the mobile device 7 in a bi-directional manner. In particular, in this latter case, the microcontroller 41 and the integrated logic 7 are configured to communicate with each other, i.e. the microcontroller 41 is capable of interrogating the integrated logic 14 through the emission of a verification signal (for example, in radio frequency, using, for example, Bluetooth Low Energy technology) to investigate the operative state thereof, as well as of receiving a response signal from the integrated logic 14 indicative of the operative state of the mobile device 7. In other words, the response signal is processed by the microcontroller 41 to determine whether the mobile device 7 is capable of receiving signals from external devices, for example from the device 5 and from the second beacon 28.

In greater detail, the microcontroller 4 1 interrogates the mobile device 7 sending, at a time instant of a time interval T _ctri , verification signals to the mobile device 7 . If the microcontroller 4 1 receives a response signal at a time instant after the one at which the verification signal was sent and belonging to the time interval T _ctri , the microcontroller 4 1 determines that the mobile device 7 is active (first operating condition); alternatively, if the microcontroller 4 1 does not receive a response signal within the time interval T _ctri , the microcontroller 4 1 determines that the mobile device 7 is inactive (second operating condition) .

In addition, the battery 42 is for example a lithium battery that can be replaced and recharged through a connection port (not shown) to the vehicle 3, like, for example, a USB connection port or cigarette lighter socket of the vehicle 3. Furthermore, the battery 42 is capable of determining whether the aforementioned battery 42 is connected to the vehicle 3 through the connection port or whether the vehicle 3 is turned off and, therefore, the aforementioned battery 42 is not powered by means of the connection port; in particular, if the battery 42 is disconnected from the connection port or does not receive further power signals from the vehicle 3, the power circuit (not shown) of the same battery 42 generates a notification signal, which is transmitted to the microcontroller 41 to warn it. In other words, upon the disconnection of the battery 42 from the vehicle 3, i.e. in a condition of a lack of power, the battery 42 sends a signal to the microcontroller 41.

When in use, the microcontroller 41 is capable of determining the geographical position of the vehicle 3 at a time instant as a function of a position signal of the plurality of position signals transmitted by the position sensor 43; in particular, each position signal is processed by the microcontroller 41 to determine the geographical position of the vehicle 3 at a given time instant.

Similarly, when in use, the microcontroller 41 is capable of determining the motion state of the vehicle 3 at a time instant as a function of a corresponding inertial signal of the plurality of inertial signals transmitted by the inertial sensor 44; in particular, as stated briefly earlier, the inertial sensor 44 allows to detect a magnitude relative to the motion of the vehicle 3 (for example, an acceleration in the case of an accelerometer or an orientation in a triaxial XYZ reference system in the case of a gyroscope) . Furthermore, each inertial signal is processed by the microcontroller 41 to determine the motion state of the vehicle 3 at a given time instant.

Furthermore, the PIR sensor 45 makes it possible, in use, to optically detect the presence, for example, of a driver of the vehicle 3 at a time instant and to generate a signal of the plurality of signals indicative of the optical detection carried out by the PIR sensor 45; in particular, such a signal is transmitted to the microcontroller 41, which processes it to determine whether the driver is in the vehicle 3.

In addition, when in use, the microcontroller 41 is configured to send telematic signals (for example, SMS) to the at least one emergency telephone number, memorized in the at least one SIM card 46, if there are connection problems between the mobile device 7 and the device for a vehicle 40 and the first beacon 11 is active (i.e. the microcontroller 41 determines, receiving the first signals Si, that the infant or the pet are in the vehicle 3) .

In particular, if the mobile device 7 is temporarily inactive (for example, it is in an area at a greater distance than the second reference distance R _ti m, or in an area with poor coverage or the battery of the mobile device 7 has run out) and, therefore, it cannot receive the first and the second signal Si, S2 generated respectively by the device 5 and by the device 40, the integrated logic 14 is unable to generate any signal to warn the user of the abandonment of the infant or of the pet in the vehicle 3; in addition, the integrated logic 14 is unable to repond to a possible signal coming from the microcontroller 41, which investigates whether the mobile device 7 is reachable and operative. Consequently, the microcontroller 41, not receiving a signal from the mobile device 7 in the time interval T _crti , determines that the mobile device 7 is not in the conditions to receive the first and the second signal Si, S2.

In addition to such information, the microcontroller 41 verifies the geographical position of the vehicle 3; in particular, the microcontroller 41 interrogates the position sensor 43, which, in response to the interrogation of the microcontroller 41, detects the geographical position of the vehicle 3 and generates a corresponding position signal and transmits it to the microcontroller 41. The interrogation by the microcontroller 41 and the consequent reception of the position signals is carried out at a predetermined time interval, indicated hereinafter as sample time interval T _s : in particular, if the position signals sampled at any time instant of the sample time interval T _s are indicative of the fact that the vehicle 3 is in the same geographical position (i.e. the vehicle 3 is in a first position condition, where the position signals are indicative, except for an error, of the same geographical position) , the microcontroller 41 determines that the vehicle 3 is stationary in a geographical position; alternatively, if, starting from a reference time instant t _rif of the sample time interval T _s , the position signals are indicative of the fact that the vehicle 3 has moved (i.e. the vehicle 3 is in a second position condition, where the position signals, starting from the reference time instant t _rif , are indicative of one or more different geographical positions), the microcontroller 41 determines that the vehicle 3 has moved.

In addition to the aforementioned information, the microcontroller 41 verifies the motion state of the vehicle 3; in particular, the microcontroller 41 interrogates the inertial sensor 44, which, in response to the interrogation of the microcontroller 41, detects the motion state of the vehicle 3 and generates a corresponding inertial signal and transits it to the microcontroller 41. The interrogation by the microcontroller 41 and the consequent reception of the inertial signals is carried out in a predetermined time interval, which is assumed to be equal to the sample time interval T _s (i.e. the microcontroller 41 verifies, in the same time interval, both the geographical position and the motion state) : in particular, if the inertial signals sampled at any time instant of the sample time interval T _s are indicative of the fact that the vehicle 3 is not in motion (i.e. the vehicle 3 is in a first motion condition, where the inertial signals are indicative, except for an error, of zero acceleration and speed) , the microcontroller 41 determines that the vehicle 3 is not in motion; alternatively, if, starting from a further reference time instant t _r ±f' of the sample time interval T _s , the inertial signals are indicative of the fact that the vehicle 3 is in motion (i.e. the vehicle 3 is in a second motion condition, where the inertial signals, starting from the further reference time instant t _r ±f' , are indicative of non-zero acceleration and/or speed), the microcontroller 41 determines that the vehicle 3 has moved, i.e. it is in motion .

In addition to the aforementioned information, the microcontroller 41 also interrogates the PIR sensor 45, which detects whether the driver is present on the vehicle 3 through optical detection; consequently, the PIR sensor 45 generates a signal indicative of the optical detection carried out and transmits it to the microcontroller 41, which processes it to determine whether the driver is in the vehicle 3 (i.e. whether the PIR sensor 45 detects a first occupation condition) or whether the driver is outside of the vehicle 3 (i.e. whether the PIR sensor 45 detects a second occupation condition) . Also in this case, the interrogation by the microcontroller 41 and the consequent reception of the signals indicative of the optical detection is carried out in a predetermined time interval, which is assumed to be equal to the sample time interval T _s (i.e. the microcontroller 41 also verifies, in the same time interval, the occupation state of the vehicle 3) : in particular, if the signals indicative of the optical detection sampled at any time instant of the sample time interval T _s are indicative of the fact that the driver is outside of the vehicle 3 (i.e. the PIR sensor 45 detects the second occupation condition) , the microcontroller 41 determines that the vehicle 3 is unoccupied; alternatively, if, starting from another reference time instant t _rif " of the sample time interval T _s , the signals indicative of the optical detection are indicative of the fact that the driver is not in the vehicle 3 (i.e. the PIR sensor 45 detects, starting from the other reference time instant t _rif ", the first occupation condition) , the microcontroller 41 determines that the vehicle 3 is occupied.

In addition to the aforementioned information, the microcontroller 41 verifies the state of the battery 42 through the reception of the notification signal, which, as stated earlier, is indicative of the condition of a lack of power. Alternatively, the microcontroller 41 can verify the state of the battery 42 by sending a power verification signal at a time instant of a predetermined time interval, for example the sample time interval T _s ; in this case, if the battery 42 responds at a subsequent time instant t _rif ' belonging to the sample time interval T _s , the aforementioned battery 42 will generate a power response signal or, alternatively, the aforementioned signal indicative of the condition of a lack of power. Differently, if the aforementioned battery 42 does not respond to the aforementioned power verification signal at the aforementioned sample time interval T _s , the microcontroller 42 determines that the battery 42 is depleted, i.e. it is in a depletion condition.

If, together with the fact that the mobile device 7 is at a greater distance than the second reference distance R _th 2, the microcontroller 41 detects that the vehicle 3 is stationary (i.e. it is in the first position condition and/or in the first motion condition) in the sample time interval T _s , the driver is not in the vehicle 3 (i.e. it is in the second occupation condition) and/or the battery 42 is disconnected from the vehicle 3 or is depleted (i.e. is alternatively in the condition of a lack of power or in the depletion condition) , the aforementioned microcontroller 41 autonomously activates an emergency service, i.e. it generates a signaling notification (for example, an SMS or a pre-recorded voice message, which are supplied together with the GPS position, communicated by the position sensor 43, to the microcontroller 41) and transmits it to the at least one emergency telephone number memorized in the at least one SIM 46. In other words, the microcontroller 41 automatically activates one or more signals to the at least one emergency telephone number as a function of one or more signals indicative of the geographical position, of the motion state, of the occupation state and/or of the connection state of the device for a vehicle 40 to the vehicle 3 to notify other users, in order to notify them of the abandonment of the infant or of the pet in the vehicle 3.

In addition, the device 5 can be made according to further embodiments, described hereinafter with reference to figures 10A-10B, 11A-11B and 12A-12B.

Figures 10A and 10B show another embodiment of the device 5, alternative to the embodiments of figures 2 and 8. In particular, figures 10A and 10B show a device 50 analogous to the device 5 of figures 2 and 8; therefore, parts similar to those of figures 2 and 8 are indicated in figures 10A and 10B with the same reference numerals and will not be described any further hereinafter.

In detail, the device 50 here is in the form of a clip and is arranged on safety belts 52 of the child seat 2, so that, when the infant is arranged on the child seat 2, the device 50 operates as further closure element, besides the closure clip 58 of the child seat 2, which makes it possible to arrange the safety belts 52 so that they securely fix the infant to the child seat 2. The device 50 comprises a first and a second portion 54, 56 shaped in a matching manner and configured to physically and electrically couple with each other when the infant is arranged on the child seat 2. In detail, as shown in figure 10B, the first portion 54 comprises a main body 54A, comprising the first beacon 11 and a battery 55 (for example, of the replaceable and/or rechargeable type through solar cells), able to be electrically connected to the first beacon 11 when the first and the second portion 54, 56 are connected to one another (i.e. the safety belts 52 fix the infant to the child seat 2) and configured to power it when it is connected to the same first beacon 11; and an end 54B, adapted for coupling to a corresponding end 56B of the second portion 56. Furthermore, the second portion 56 comprises a body 56A, physically coupled to the end 56B and adapted for allowing the complete closure of the device 50. Furthermore, the ends 54B, 56B of the first and the second portion 54, 56 comprise respective electric contacts 57, 58, matching one another, connected through respective conductive paths (not shown) to the battery 55 and to the first beacon 11 and configured, in use, to establish an electric connection between the first and the second portion 54, 56 so that the battery 55 is connected to the first beacon 11; in other words, the first and the second portion 54, 56, when coupled, allow the electric connection between the battery 55 and the first beacon 11, which is thus operative according to the previously described modalities with reference to figures 2 and 8, as well as to figures 4, 5A-5B, 6A-6C and 7.

In use, when the first and the second portion 54, 56 are disconnected from one another, the first beacon 11 is not powered by the battery 55 and, therefore, does not emit any first signal Si; differently, when the first and the second portion 54, 56 are connected to one another (i.e. the electric contacts 57, 58 are in contact with one another and, therefore, are electrically connected) , the battery 55 is electrically connected to the first beacon 11, which is thus powered by the battery 55 and can emit the first signals Si according to the previously described modalities with reference to figures 2 and 8, as well as to figures 4, 5A- 5B, 6A-6C and 7.

When the device 50 is used alternatively to the device 5 of figures 2 and 8 in the system 20, the latter operates according to the modalities described with reference to figures 4, 5A-5B, 6A-6C and 7.

In further embodiments, now shown here, the device 50 can be integrated in the closure clip 58, i.e. the coupling of the portions 54, 56 also determines the fixing of the infant to the child seat 2.

Figures 11A and 11B show a device similar to the device 5 of figure 2. In particular, figures 11A and 11B show a device 60 analogous to the device 5 of figures 2 and 8; therefore, parts similar to those of figures 2 and 8 are indicated in figures 11A and 11B with the same reference numerals and will not be described any further hereinafter.

In detail, the device 60 comprises a collar 62, shown partially and in open configuration in figure 11A and in closed configuration in figure 11B, having a first closure element 62A adapted to physically couple to a second closure element 62B (shown only in figure 11B) to allow the closure of the collar 62 and the operativity of the device 60 itself. In greater detail, the pressure sensor 10 and the first beacon 11, the latter connected to the pressure sensor 10, are electrically coupled to a battery 64, adapted for powering them in use, and are arranged on an inner portion 62C of the collar 62, facing towards the neck of the pet wearing the aforementioned collar 62; in addition, solar cells 63, coupled to the battery 64, configured to charge the battery 64 and thus keep the operativity of the pressure sensor 10 and of the first beacon 11, are arranged on an outer portion 62D of the collar 62, i.e. towards the outside environment to effectively receive the solar rays and convert the corresponding solar energy into electric energy to power the detection unit 10 and the first beacon 11.

The aforementioned embodiment can advantageously be used in the case in which it is wished to detect the presence in the vehicle 3 of a pet, the latter wearing the collar 62.

In use, the device 60 operates in an analogous way to what has been discussed with reference to figures 2 and 8; furthermore, when the device 60 is used alternatively to the device 5 in the system 120, the latter operates according to the modalities described with reference to figure 13, as well as, therefore, to figures 4, 5A-5B, 6A-6C and 7.

Figures 12A and 12B show a device similar to the device 60 of figures 11A and 11B. In particular, figures 12A and 12B show a device 70 analogous to the device 60 of figures 11A and 11B; therefore, parts similar to those of figures 11A and 11B are indicated in figures 12A and 12B with the same reference numerals and will not be described any further hereinafter .

In detail, the device 70 comprises only the battery 64, the first beacon 11 and the solar cells 63, which are arranged as described earlier with reference to figures 11A and 11B; in other words, in an analogous way to what has been discussed with reference to figures 10A, 10B, the device 70 lacks the detection unit 10. In addition, at the closure elements 62A, 62B of the collar 62, the device 70 comprises respective electric contacts 72, 73, which are shaped to be electrically coupled with each other and are electrically connected to the battery 64 and to the first beacon 11 through conductive paths (not shown) extending on the inner portion 62C of the collar 62; in particular, when the first and the second closure element 62A, 62B are physically coupled with one another (i.e. the collar 62 is in closed configuration), the electric contacts 72, 73 are also coupled with one another and, in an analogous way to what has been described with reference to figures 10A, 10B, the electric contact between the electric contacts 72, 73 allow to electrically connect the battery 64 to the first beacon 11, which is thus operative. Therefore, similarly to what has been discussed with reference to figure 10, the first beacon 11 is active thanks to the electric contact provided by the ends 70A, 70B of the collar 62. The present embodiment can also advantageously be used to detect the presence of pets, wearing the device 70, inside the vehicle 3.

In use, the device 70 operates in an analogous way to what has been discussed with reference to figures 10A and 10B; furthermore, when the device 70 is used alternatively to the device 5 in the system 120, the latter operates according to the ways described with reference to figure 13, as well as, therefore, to figures 4, 5A-5B, 6A-6C and 7.

In further embodiments, not shown here, the collar 62 has a closure clip independent from the closure elements 62A, 62B, i.e. the latter can be coupled independently from the coupling of the portions of the closure clip; in other words, the collar 62 can be closed on the neck of the pet without the electric contacts 72, 73 being connected and, therefore, allowing the powering of the first beacon 11.

In addition, the system 20, 120 can comprise more than one device 5, 50, 60, 70; in other words, in a same system 20, 120, there may be, for example, a device 5 of the type shown in figure 2 for the detection of the presence of the infant in the vehicle 3 and a device 5 of the type shown in figure 8 for the detection of the presence of the pet for example in the boot of the aforementioned vehicle 3 simultaneously. Furthermore, if the first and the second signal Si, S2 are dephased from one another, the determining of the pair of signals that the receiver 13 acquires and that is processed by the integrated logic 14 according to the previously described modalities to determine the condition of the system 20 can take place, for example, by selecting the second signal S2 received at a first time instant t _n and the first signal Si received at the immediately preceding time instant t _n-i .

Furthermore, with reference to the step shown in figure 6B, if the integrated logic 14 detects that the mobile device 7 is in the proximity condition at a time instant after the sixth time instant ts" (i.e. that the mobile device 7 is once again in the condition shown in figure 6A) , the corresponding monitoring signal, generated by the integrated logic 14, would be indicative of the proximity condition and, therefore, the integrated logic 14 would once again carry out the aforementioned monitoring and signaling operations. In other words, the corresponding monitoring signal would be a signaling enabling signal for the mobile device 7.