EP1481380B1 - Method and device for triggering signal beacon - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention enables remote triggering, by means of a triggering device (1), of an action (Ak) executable by a beacon (Bj). Therefor, said action (Ak) is associated with at least an orientation code (OAk), and to trigger the action (Ak), the device (1) is oriented, and the action (Ak) is caused to be executed by the signal beacon (Bj) when the orientation of the device is true.

Description

The present invention relates to triggering, by a trigger device, at least one action executable by a tag. The action executable by the tag is for example, but not exclusively, the dissemination of information.

In the present text, the "triggering device" can be a portable device, carried by a natural person, called a user, or an orientable device embedded on a mobile object, such as for example a transport vehicle, or an installed device. on a fixed and adjustable installation.

In this text, the term "identification tag" generally refers to any element whose function is to perform an action under the control of a triggering device. These are among other things, and not exclusively, fixed elements providing information, including visual, light and / or readable, made available to a human being sufficiently close to the tag, or mobile elements , installed in particular in a vehicle for the purpose of providing such information to the same human being.

By way of example, among the main beacons concerned by the invention, mention may be made especially of signal lights, and in particular pedestrian warning lights placed at road junctions, one of the actions associated with the beacon being in this case the broadcasting of a message related to the status of the traffic light and the orientation of the corresponding protected passage. Mention may also be made of signposts carrying legible information, such as signs indicating a location or a direction (street name, name of a station or station, directions proposed, indication of the exit, etc.). But the tag can also be embedded in a vehicle, one of the actions associated with it being in this case the broadcast of a message related to the identification of the vehicle itself or its destination for example.

According to the invention, the action triggered by the triggering device is then generally translated at least by the broadcast, by the beacon, of the information associated with it. This diffusion can be translated by a local generation, by the beacon, of the information which is attached to it, and can more particularly be translated by a local emission by the beacon of a sound type information, which is audible by the user (eg transmission of a sound or a series of sounds characteristic of the information, or local restitution in voice and intelligible form of the information attached to the tag). Also, this broadcast may result in the transmission, by said tag that has been triggered, of all or part of the information attached thereto, to the triggering device, said device being in this case equipped with a receiver adapted and means for restoring (in sound, vibration, visual, ...) the information that has been transmitted remotely by the beacon.

More particularly, and by way of example, in a first application, the invention is intended for the selective control of one of the information associated with a descriptive beacon carrying visual information, such as, for example, traffic signals, signs indicators, information terminal, ..., by a user equipped with a triggering device, for the purpose of causing the said identification tag (and / or the triggering device itself) to broadcast a reproduction of the said visual information ( state of the traffic light, information carried by the sign, instructions, ...). In this application, the invention is preferably of interest to the visually impaired or blind.

Also, the invention finds its application, for example and not exclusively, remote triggering of information associated with a signaling tag, of the type equipping a station, a metro station or a bus stop, by a trigger device embedded in a transport vehicle. In this application, this triggering is translated for example by sending the transport vehicle information identifying the name of the station or the name or number of the station or stop, said vehicle being in this case equipped with means allowing sound and / or visual reproduction of this information for all the passengers of the transport vehicle. Also in this application, the triggering of the information can also result in a local return by the tag, in voice or visual form, information identifying the transport vehicle approaching the tag.

Devices for signaling and guidance system have already been proposed. Those based on a light transmission, especially infrared, rely mainly on a system that includes a transmitter placed on a fixed signal tag, which emits a signal characteristic of the tag, the receiver being worn by a user. For example, in an application, the infrared transmitter equips a road traffic light, and emits an infrared signal characteristic of the state (red or green) of the traffic light. The receiver is for example associated with a vibrator or the like, and makes it possible to restore for the user the infrared signal received in sound form. Thanks to the directivity of the light emission, the reception of the signal by the receiver allows a certain guidance of the user carrying the receiver.

Other systems, more advanced, use the same support to send the user more complete information, including voice (street names, proposed directions, ...). In these solutions, in addition to the fact that the photosensitive element of the mounted receiver must imperatively remain uncovered, the signage tag (for example the signaling light or an indicator panel equipped with a transmitter) must be substantially "aimed" by the user. who wishes to receive the information and be guided, this guidance remaining limited to the light beam itself. Therefore, if a user does not appear correctly in front of the transmitter, or if an obstacle intervenes between the transmitter and the receiver, he will not receive any information. In addition, this solution is likely to generate guiding errors (beam reflections on showcases for example) and the information transmitted is limited to the direction taken by the user, this system can not direct it accurately or correct its trajectory where appropriate; the information is therefore subject to interpretation: taking a right, for example, does not say how much should be turned to one's right to be correctly oriented in relation to the information given. The difficulty is even more important when several directions are proposed from different angles. Moreover, when the user has actually turned, no longer facing the transmitter, he can no longer receive information, unless there are several tags for the same intersection (for example one for each possible direction), which requires additional facilities and costs. Also, in this solution, the action of the identification tag is reduced to the continuous transmission of the information to be viewed; this solution is therefore not very flexible in terms of actions implemented by the beacon.

Other systems rely on radio transmission (HF). The emission, omnidirectional this time, has the advantage of not requiring a precise orientation of the user in the area of emission. In return, the user has no information on the direction to take according to his displacement or his real orientation; thus, any user present in the zone of emission receives the same information whatever is his personal destination. The information emitted by the beacon is therefore of a general nature and can not concern directions to be taken for lack of directivity but also and especially for lack of knowing the very orientation of the user likely to be interested in the information; this solution is therefore also very limited.

In these various solutions proposed, depending on the case, the information provided by the beacon is broadcast continuously, or broadcast repeatedly or triggered by the user; it is moreover preferred this last way to operate if the information associated with the beacon must be broadcast publicly (sound signal, voice information), and this for the obvious purpose of reducing discomfort for residents. In the case where the information is remotely transmitted privately, a continuous infrared emission does not pose an environmental problem, because of its spatial delimitation limited to a specific sector, even if it is preferred a repeated discontinuous emission in the simple goal of optimizing the life of the transmitter while reducing energy consumption. The radio can not be used continuously to avoid constant use of a frequency that can be used occasionally by other applications. The regular radio broadcast of audio information is therefore not desirable, not to mention the very durability of the transmitter.

Whether the information is broadcast publicly (loudspeaker) or private (infrared or radio transmission), the fact that the user systematically receives the information when it is in the emitter's transmission zone may have a problem. annoying for the regular who prefers a simple confirmation mark on a known course. This is an additional reason - in addition to the search for the limitation of noise annoyance through a public dissemination of the information on command - which pushes to trigger the issuance of its information by the tag information only when it is truly necessary, ie in the presence of the user, the best being still to limit this broadcast to the dissemination of the only information desired by the interested himself.

As for the manual trigger, the user is equipped with a remote control (transmitter), which allows him to remotely operate the beacon, which is equipped with a suitable receiver. This solution is therefore recommended in the case of sound beacons, for example a pedestrian traffic light, designed to deliver a voice message on the state fire. This solution, however, has major disadvantages: on the one hand, the user is forced to operate a remote control for the triggering of the tag, which greatly limits its interest in the case of blind or visually impaired, and On the other hand, each action on its part triggers all the beacons present in the emission field of its transmitter. As for the solution which consists in having the user's transmitter emitted automatically and regularly, on the one hand it does not allow the selective triggering of the beacons (the user triggers them all automatically in his or her way), and on the other hand the excessive and unnecessary consumption of energy which results considerably limits the autonomy of the portable triggering device.

European patent application EP-A-338 997 has also proposed a technical solution in which the user is equipped with a triggering device, of the radio remote control type, which can be used to remotely interrogate a fixed beacon, such as for example a traffic light equipped with a transmitter (T), which transmitter is able to broadcast information stored in memory. In this solution, the initiating device and the transmitter (T) of the beacon are each equipped with a directive type RF transmission antenna, and the remote communication takes place in two stages. In a first step, the user must correctly orient the trigger device so that its antenna is correctly oriented relative to the transmitter antenna (T) of the beacon. During this first step, the trigger device automatically tunes to the transmitter (T). Then, in a second step, the user can, for example by means of a keyboard provided on the triggering device, remotely interrogate the transmitter to trigger actions, and in particular for the transmitter (T) to transmit to the trigger device the information stored in memory.

The aforementioned solution described in the European patent application EP-A-338 997 has a major disadvantage: the good orientation of the triggering device relative to the beacon depends on the physical orientation of the communication antennas, which makes this solution fixed and not very flexible to use (only one possible orientation of the triggering device for all the actions executable by the beacon).

The purpose of the present invention is to propose a new method of triggering, by at least one trigger device, at least one action (A _k ) executable by a signaling tag (B _j ), which method makes it possible in particular to overcome the drawback above the solution described in European Patent Application EP-A-338 997.

This object is achieved by the process having the technical features of claim 1.

Compared with the aforementioned solution described in the European patent application EP-A-338 997, the method of the invention differs essentially in that an action executable by the beacon is associated with a parameterizable orientation code, the triggering the action depending on the orientation of the triggering device and this orientation code.

Preferably, the trigger device is equipped with a means, called a compass, designed to measure angularly the orientation of the triggering device with respect to a reference direction (D) relative to the earth's magnetic field, in an angular direction of rotation (S ).

To trigger at least the action (A _k ), said oriented action, executable by the identification tag (B _j ), the orientation code representative of the angle formed by the element linked to said tag and the code of orientation representative of the angle measured by the triggering device must be in accordance with each other. To allow a comparison of the respective orientation codes, and therefore angles of each of the two objects, a wireless communication is established between this tag and the triggering device, for example by positioning the triggering device (an object) near said beacon (B _j ) (another object) so that the emission of one of the objects can be received by the receiver of the other object. When a communication is established between the beacon (B _j ) and the triggering device, the orientation code (OA _k ) relating to the action (A _k ) associated with the beacon (B _j ) is compared with the orientation code (OM _t ) representative of the measurement of the angle formed by the trigger device, at time (t), relative to a reference direction (D2) relative to the earth's magnetic field. We will see later how this communication between the identification tag and the triggering device can be established.

The comparison and the verification of the conformity of the two codes can according to the application be carried out either by the triggering device, or by the beacon.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the descriptive beacon (B _j ) is advantageously able to perform several actions [A ₁ , ... A _n ], and each action (A _k ) is associated with an orientation code ( OA _k ) specific, so that it is possible to selectively trigger an action (A _k ) among the set of actions [A ₁ , ... A _n ] executable by the tag by directing the triggering device.

More particularly, but not necessarily, to associate each action (A _k ) executable by a tag with at least one orientation code (OA _k ), it stores said orientation code in the tag.

Triggered actions can take a variety of forms and depend on applications and achievements.

In a first embodiment, the action triggered by the identification tag is the transmission of a sound or voice signal, the selection of this action depending on the conformity of the orientations between said triggering device and the element linked to said identification tag.

In a second embodiment, the action triggered by the triggering device is the restitution by this triggering device of the information associated with the tag, the selection of this information depending on the conformity of the orientations between said triggering device and the linked element. to said descriptive tag.

In a third embodiment, the actions triggered by the beacon and each trigger device are all or part of the actions triggered in the first two embodiments, their selection depending on the conformity of the orientations between said trigger device and the tag.

• Dans la première variante, la communication entre balise signalétique et dispositif déclencheur est établie par une émission radio du dispositif déclencheur (télécommande) et une réception, adaptée à cette émission, par la balise signalétique. Au moment (t), quand l'usager active sa télécommande, le code (OM_t) représentant la mesure angulaire (par rapport au Nord magnétique terrestre par exemple) effectuée par le compas du dispositif déclencheur à ce moment (t), est émis par l'émetteur du dispositif déclencheur de l'usager. Le récepteur de la balise signalétique (intégrée dans le feu destiné aux piétons dans cet exemple) reçoit ce code et le compare au code (OA_k) qui y est mémorisé, représentatif de l'orientation du passage protégé (k) lié à ce feu (également par rapport au Nord magnétique terrestre par exemple). Si les deux codes (OM_t) et (OA_k) sont conformes, cela veut dire que le dispositif déclencheur est orienté dans la même direction que le passage protégé. Dans ce cas, l'action déclenchée par le feu est la génération d'un signal sonore par exemple, de la manière convenue selon son état. On considère les codes conformes entre eux lorsqu'ils représentent la même orientation, c'est à dire la même direction angulaire à la tolérance près prévue par programme, par rapport à une direction de référence selon le sens de rotation angulaire établi, ou lorsque la différence angulaire entre les orientations correspond à ce qui est effectivement attendu dans l'application.

Let's study the different variants:

• In the first variant, the communication between the identification tag and the trigger device is established by a radio transmission of the triggering device (remote control) and a reception, adapted to this transmission, by the tag. At the moment (t), when the user activates his remote control, the code (OM _t ) representing the angular measurement (with respect to the terrestrial magnetic north for example) made by the compass of the triggering device at this moment (t), is emitted by the transmitter of the trigger device of the user. The beacon receiver (integrated in the pedestrian light in this example) receives this code and compares it with the code (OA _k ) stored in it, representative of the orientation of the protected passage (k) related to this light. (also compared to the terrestrial magnetic North for example). If the two codes (OM _t ) and (OA _k ) are compliant, this means that the trigger device is oriented in the same direction as the protected pass. In this case, the action triggered by the fire is the generation of a sound signal for example, in the manner agreed according to its state. The codes conforming to each other are considered when they represent the same orientation, ie the same angular direction with the tolerance, which is prescribed by program, with respect to a reference direction in the established angular rotation direction, or when the angular difference between the orientations corresponds to what is actually expected in the application.

Each light (even that on the opposite sidewalk) having different orientations in memory, only the light directed in the same direction as that measured by the compass of the triggering device of the user is reacted, in particular by a sound or voice signal adapted to the circumstances. Thanks to this audible or vocal signal, the user can approach the fire he has fired and orient himself correctly in order to cross parallel to the axis of the protected passage.

The triggering of the action associated with the beacon is therefore a function of the results of the comparison between the orientation codes (OA _k ) of this protected passage, and (OM _t ), in particular at the time of the action on the part of the user on his remote control, this user being located in a perimeter relatively close to the fire intended for pedestrians, close enough for this beacon to be within range of the emitter of the triggering device, the emitting power of this emitter being sufficient to trigger the remote action.

Thus, the only action triggered is that associated with the only fire related to the orientation of the user, through the orientation of its trigger device; this action is triggered only if the user is correctly oriented with respect to the protected passage, the comparison tolerance avoiding a sharp search of the alignment with this protected passage. In absence of emission, the fire remains silent, likewise in case of emission when the codes are not in conformity with each other. The noise annoyance is thus limited to the strict minimum, the sound signal being no longer issued by all the beacons of the crossroads but only by that which concerns the well-oriented user who, eager to know the state of the fire and the orientation of the protected passage, activate its remote control.

We will note that the sound or voice signal can be replaced or supplemented by a message informing the user of the state of the fire that concerns him, and inviting him to come to the right side of the fire (left or right) ) to make it really face the protected passage by avoiding the risk of collision with potential obstacles located outside the planned crossing area.
The identification tag and the triggering device may also be equipped respectively with a transmitter and a radio receiver complementary, which would allow the beacon to communicate his messages privately to the user, but also to transmit to the trigger device the orientation code (OA _k ) of the action (A _k ) which is related thereto. This code can then be memorized for a few seconds by the triggering device and be regularly compared with the codes (OM _tx ) relating to the various angular measurements made regularly (at each instant tx) by the compass of the trigger device relative to a reference of the magnetic field. earthly. This makes it possible to regularly check the good presentation of the user facing the protected passage and to invite him if necessary, for example, to correct his trajectory during the crossing. This way of operating is more precisely the subject of the third variant embodiment.

In order to automate already somewhat the selection of the action to be triggered, it has been thought to provide for a regular activation of the transmitter of the triggering device which would thus proceed to the emission of the codes (OM _tx ) of said triggering device relating to to its orientation at different times. This avoids the need for manual activation on the part of the person concerned but has, in addition to the drawback of triggering all properly aligned tags encountered on its path, a significant and unnecessary consumption of energy incompatible with the autonomy sought for a lightweight and portable device.

To avoid these drawbacks, a second variant of the invention therefore consists of issuing their orientation codes by the identification tags themselves. This time, it is the signage tags that are equipped with a radio transmitter, and the triggering devices that are equipped with the appropriate radio receiver. Each beacon (B _i ) transmits, preferably repetitively, the orientation code (OA _k ) of the action (A _k ) associated with it, and if appropriate the message (I _k ) corresponding to the element (k) linked to this beacon (B _i ). When the initiating device reaches the transmitting perimeter of the beacon (the fire intended for pedestrians for example), it receives and stores this code as well as, possibly, the corresponding message (I _k ) (eg the state of the fire). The reception of this code can already be interpreted as a signal warning the user that he enters an area likely to perform an action or to provide information, regardless of the orientation of the triggering device.

From the reception of the orientation code (OA _k ), the triggering device memorizes it and regularly compares this code with the orientation code (OM _tx ) measured at each instant (tx) by the compass of the trigger device. In case of compliance of the codes, the initiating device authorizes the reception and / or distribution to the interested party of the message (I _k ) associated with the beacon and transmitted by the latter, message possibly memorized by the triggering device when it is received, or restores a message previously recorded in the triggering device corresponding to the possible code sent by the tag instead of or in addition to the message (I _k ). The user thus informed, in a private capacity for example (atrium), can then make decisions in full knowledge of its environment and activate public sound or voice only the beacon that interests him depending on the planned crossing. This trigger can also be manual but also operate automatically when the user has the same orientation for an agreed time so that its trigger device measures several times, during this time, substantially the same angle with respect to the reference direction.

The manual trigger after knowledge of the environment, or its automation by substantially identical angular measurements in a given time, makes it possible to solicit the triggering device only in the case where it is actually in the emission zone of a tag and that its orientation matches that of the element linked to this tag; the autonomy of the triggering device is better ensured.

This variant is particularly suitable for cases where the action to be triggered remains localized to the triggering device, in this case in our example to the return of a message associated with the tag itself.

A third variant combines the advantages of the first two. It allows the triggering of an action associated with a tag by a user, again automatically or manually according to its criteria, taking into account the particulars of the user himself, while retaining the principles mentioned above on the limitation energy consumption and radio emissions.

The identification tag (B _i ) and the trigger device are each equipped with a transmitter and a receiver designed to allow an exchange of information between the two elements.

As in the second variant, each beacon (B _i ) emits, preferably in a repetitive manner, the orientation code (OA _k ) of the action (A _k ) associated therewith. When the initiating device reaches the transmitting perimeter of the beacon (the fire intended for pedestrians for example), it receives and stores this code. Here again, the fact of having received a code recognized as being an orientation code results in a memorization of this code by the triggering device and the regular comparison by said triggering device with its orientation code (OM _tx ) measured at each moment (tx) by the compass of the triggering device. In the event of compliance of the codes, the transmitter of the triggering device remotely triggers the audible or vocal signal of the beacon which thus manifests its spatial location to help the user to get closer to it. The system has become interactive.

The triggering of this signal is consecutive to the concordance of the orientations of the initiating device and the element (k) corresponding to the action (A _k ) of the tag, an action related to the same direction. Approaching the identification tag, the user is both correctly placed and correctly oriented with respect to the element (k) linked to the beacon. In our example, the user is informed of the location and direction of the protected passage.

All information from the tag can still be transmitted to the user by radio via the receiver of its triggering device. The orientation code (OA _k ) being stored in the triggering device, the user is notified if this code and the orientation code (OM _tx ) are no longer in conformity with each other, ie if away from the proper direction, so if the intended path is changed. In this case, for the example of a pedestrian fire, the initiating device may invite the user, in a private capacity, to correct his trajectory during his crossing if he moves away from the protected passage he has taken. .

When leaving the radio's radio coverage area (loss of the beacon's radio signal and the absence of reception of its orientation code), or by entering another zone (new beacon encountered), the memory of the triggering device beforehand the code of orientation (OA _k ) is reset to zero, and if necessary loaded with the new orientation code. Apart from any radio reception of codes signifying an action or information zone, the triggering device does not carry out comparisons of orientation codes.

Whatever the variant or application, and to avoid any misinterpretation of codes, it may be useful to precede each code code transmission with an agreed code to signal to the receiver that the code that follows will be a valid code. code that should be compared with the local code. For further explanation, this activation code of the angular comparison is called ACA code.

• la figure 1 représente schématiquement, vu de dessus, un carrefour équipé de feux de signalisation pour piétons, chaque feu étant équipé d'un circuit électronique qui est spécifique de l'invention, et qui permet de transformer le feu de signalisation en une balise signalétique selon l'invention;
• la figure 2 est un schéma synoptique qui illustre d'une part un exemple d'architecture électronique pour le circuit électronique équipant chaque feu de signalisation (balise signalétique), et d'autre part un exemple d'architecture électronique pour le dispositif déclencheur de l'invention; qui est destiné à être porté par un piéton, et qui est apte, en fonction de sa localisation, à communiquer à distance avec le circuit électronique d'un ou plusieurs feux de signalisation ;
• la figure 3 est un exemple d'organigramme de fonctionnement du circuit électronique d'un feu de signalisation ;
• la figure 4 est un exemple d'organigramme de fonctionnement du dispositif déclencheur;
• les figures 5 et 6 sont un autre exemple d'organigramme de fonctionnement des circuits électroniques respectifs d'un feu de signalisation (Balise) et du dispositif déclencheur ;
• la figure 7 représente, vu de dessus, un croisement de plusieurs voies (hall) proposant plusieurs destinations dans des directions différentes, ce croisement étant équipé d'une balise signalétique conforme à l'invention,
• la figure 8 représente, vue de dessus, une voie de circulation comportant de chaque coté deux stations de bus, chaque station étant équipée d'une balise signalétique conforme à l'invention.

Other features and advantages of the invention will appear more clearly on reading the following description of several applications of the method of the invention, which description is given by way of non-limiting example and with reference to the accompanying drawings on which :

• 1 shows schematically, seen from above, a junction equipped with pedestrian traffic lights, each fire being equipped with an electronic circuit which is specific to the invention, and which makes it possible to transform the traffic light into a signage beacon according to the invention;
• FIG. 2 is a block diagram which illustrates, on the one hand, an example of an electronic architecture for the electronic circuit fitted to each signaling light (signaling beacon), and, on the other hand, an example of an electronic architecture for the triggering device of the 'invention; which is intended to be worn by a pedestrian, and which is adapted, depending on its location, to communicate remotely with the electronic circuit of one or more traffic lights;
• FIG. 3 is an exemplary flow diagram of the operation of the electronic circuit of a traffic light;
• Fig. 4 is an exemplary flow chart of operation of the triggering device;
• FIGS. 5 and 6 are another example of an operating flow diagram of the respective electronic circuits of a signaling light (Beacon) and of the triggering device;
• FIG. 7 represents, seen from above, a crossing of several lanes (hall) proposing several destinations in different directions, this crossing being equipped with a descriptive beacon according to the invention,
• FIG. 8 shows, seen from above, a traffic lane comprising on each side two bus stations, each station being equipped with a descriptive beacon according to the invention.

APPLICATION / SIGNALING LIGHTS FOR PIETONS

In a first exemplary embodiment of the invention which will now be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 1 to 6, the identification markers (B _i ) are constituted by usual pedestrian traffic lights, which have each been equipped with a specific electronic circuit for carrying out the selective tripping method of the invention. In the remainder of the present description, for the sake of simplification, the term "signaling light" B _{i will} be used to designate the identification beacon (B _i ), that is to say, in fact, the signaling light fitted. of its specific electronic circuit of the invention.

In the particular example of FIG. 1, there is shown a four-lane road junction V ₁ , V ₂ , V ₃ , V ₄ , each lane being equipped on either side with two pedestrian traffic lights, which are arranged opposite to the pedestrian crossings (for example the lights B ₁ and B ₂ for the V1 track and the protected passage PP). Thus in the embodiment of Figure 1, there are eight traffic lights (B ₁ to B ₈ ). Usually, when the pedestrian signal light is green, pedestrians can cross the corresponding lane, and conversely when the pedestrian light is red, pedestrians must wait.

The electronic circuit that equips each signaling light (and an exemplary architecture of which is illustrated on the left-hand part of FIG. 2) is designed to communicate remotely with one or more triggering devices (1). This electronic circuit is preferably integrated into the existing housing but may for example be housed in another sealed housing, fixed to the signal light post, and provided with a inspection hatch allowing access to the electronic circuit for maintenance personnel.

A triggering device (1) (portable type) is carried by a pedestrian, for example in the saltire in the form of a medallion, or in the form of a badge, or partially or totally integrated in a pair of glasses. When a pedestrian equipped with a trigger device (1) is located in the transmission field CH _i of a traffic light B _i , he automatically receives initially the orientation code (OA _k ), stored and periodically transmitted by the electronic circuit of the traffic light B _i . This code is representative of the angle (α _x ) that the axis of the corresponding protected passage has with respect to the reference direction (D) (which may be terrestrial magnetic north for example) in an established direction of angular rotation ( S) (which may be the conventional trigonometric direction for example).

On receipt of this code by the triggering device (1), the latter stores it and warns the user that he has entered an information zone by a previously recorded signal or message. The compass of the triggering device then regularly makes a measurement of the angle (β) that it makes with the reference direction (D) in the established angular rotation direction (S). At each instant (t), this measurement is translated into a code (OM _t ) which is compared with the code (OA _k ). In case of conformity of the orientation codes (OA _k ) and (OM _t ), this means that the trigger device is oriented in the same way as the protected passage; the initiating device transmitter then sends this code (OM _t ) to the traffic light B _i which then recognizes compliance with its own code (OA _k ), which triggers the audible signal or the agreed voice message according to the state of the signaling lamp B _i and, where appropriate, any other planned action.

This audible signal (or voice message) allows the pedestrian to locate the traffic light B _i , the only fire triggered because only light representative of the same orientation as that of the trigger device and in the emission field of which it is located.

In a second step, after automatic triggering of the traffic light, according to the method of the invention, the pedestrian is automatically informed of the state (green or red) of the traffic light and its location (name of the street by example).

The other lamps also emit their orientation code, but with different transmission periods, which allows the receiver of the device (1) located in a common emission area with several lights for example to receive only one code both to perform the comparison of the codes received with that which it forms with respect to the reference direction (D). It will issue its code (OM _t ) only if it conforms to the code received, ie if it is correctly oriented with respect to a fire (or the corresponding protected passage) to trigger only the action associated with it.

This first application of the invention thus advantageously makes it possible, on the one hand, for each pedestrian equipped with a triggering device (1), to be able to locate easily in an urban environment, without having to read the signposts indicating the track names. , and secondly to be guided in its movement with respect to a traffic light, and to be automatically informed of the state of the fire relative to its crossing and near where it is located. This application is therefore more particularly, but not exclusively, suitable for visually impaired pedestrians (visually impaired or blind), and guide visually impaired pedestrians and improve the safety of their travel in urban areas, especially when crossing a traffic lane.

Circuit architecture (transmitter / receiver) of a beacon (B _i ) - figure 2

On the left-hand part of FIG. 1, an embodiment of an electronic circuit 2 of the invention, which equips each signaling light B _i , and whose electronic architecture is based on the implementation of FIG. of a microcontroller 20, such as for example the microcontroller PIC 16C84 MICROCHIP, being specified that other embodiments are possible for the skilled person, the programmable processing unit constituted by the microcontroller 20, in particular be able to realized by means of another microcontroller, a microprocessor, or a specific electronic circuit of the ASIC type.

• un processeur 201, cadencé par un quartz 202,
• des ports d'Entrées/Sorties 203, permettant de faire communiquer le processeur 201 avec des périphériques extérieurs,
• une première mémoire 204, de type ROM, dans laquelle est sauvegardée un programme résident, qui permet de faire fonctionner le processeur 201, et qui est spécifique de l'invention,
• et une deuxième mémoire 205, de type ROM, dans laquelle sont principalement sauvegardés plusieurs codes (OA_k, ACA, AMM1, AMM2) et informations ('MESSAGE') ; la nature et l'utilité de ces codes et informations seront expliquées ultérieurement lors de la description du fonctionnement de l'ensemble des balises (B_i) et d'un dispositif déclencheur (1).

The microcontroller 20 of the electronic circuit 2 essentially comprises:

• a processor 201, clocked by a quartz 202,
• I / O ports 203, making it possible to communicate the processor 201 with external peripherals,
• a first memory 204, of ROM type, in which is saved a resident program, which makes it possible to operate the processor 201, and which is specific to the invention,
• and a second memory 205, of ROM type, in which are mainly saved several codes (OA _k , ACA, AMM1, AMM2) and information ('MESSAGE'); the nature and utility of these codes and information will be explained later in the description of the operation of the set of tags (B _i ) and a trigger device (1).

• un émetteur radio (HF) 21, relié à un port de sortie adapté du microcontrôleur 20,
• un récepteur radio (HF) 22, relié à un port d'entrée adapté du microcontrôleur 20,
• un générateur sonore 23, qui selon le cas peut être un simple vibreur sonore ou un générateur de messages vocaux,
• le cas échéant, un compas magnétique 24, qui mesure l'angle effectif entre l'orientation de la balise, et une direction de référence relative au champ magnétique terrestre ; ce compas n'est pas toujours nécessaire, notamment dans le cas de balise signalétique fixe, où une seule mesure relative à l'orientation de l'élément associé à la balise est effectuée à la mise en service de la balise, cette mesure étant alors mémorisée sous la forme d'un code OA_k.

In addition to the microcontroller 20, the electronic circuit 2 comprises:

• a radio transmitter (HF) 21, connected to an output port adapted to the microcontroller 20,
• a radio receiver (HF) 22, connected to a suitable input port of the microcontroller 20,
• a sound generator 23, which according to the case can be a simple vibrator or a voice message generator,
• where appropriate, a magnetic compass 24, which measures the effective angle between the orientation of the beacon, and a reference direction relative to the earth's magnetic field; this compass is not always necessary, in particular in the case of fixed signage beacon, where a single measurement relating to the orientation of the element associated with the beacon is performed at the commissioning of the beacon, this measurement then being stored in the form of an OA code _k .

The power supply (not shown) of all of the above-mentioned active components of the electronic circuit 2 may, as the case may be, be made from the existing electrical supply of the other usual signaling light components, or be carried out independently at the same time. means of an autonomous electric source, batteries or batteries.

The radio transmitter (HF) 21 being of known design, its structure and operation will not be detailed. It generally makes it possible to transmit in an omnidirectional manner (FIG. 1 / CH ₁ emission field) and on a short range (in practice over a few meters to a few tens of meters), in the form of a radio signal. modulated high frequency (HF) carrier wave, data coded under Binary forms sent to it by the processor 201. By way of nonlimiting examples, for the radio transmission of the binary data transmitted to it by the processor 201, the radio transmitter 21 is designed to implement the protocols of standard communication based on frequency modulation or pulse width.

It is furthermore incumbent on the skilled person to choose in a judicious manner and known per se, the radiating means (antennas) of the radio transmitter 21, as well as the transmitted RF power, as a function of the intended application, and so as to obtain the required emission range. With reference to FIG. 1, and for the sake of clarity, only the transmission field CH ₁ of the radio transmitter 21 of the traffic light B ₁ has been represented by a circle. In this application, each radio transmitter (not shown in FIG. 1) of a light B _i has a range sufficient for the radio emission field to cover at least the entire width of the corresponding adjacent protected passageway (PP) without however covering too large a surface, the information must remain localized to guide the interested party. In practice, the radius of coverage required will depend on local facilities; for information, it should often be between 3 and 10 meters.

The radio receiver (HF) 22 allows in a known manner the omnidirectional reception of a modulated high frequency (HF) carrier wave (HF wave emitted by a trigger device 1) and the demodulation of this carrier wave. The binary data resulting from this demodulation can be communicated to the processor 201 via the input port to which the receiver (HF) 22 is connected. In practice, the sensitivity of the receiver (HF) 22 is sufficient to allow communication over several tens of minutes. meters.

With reference to FIG. 2, an input port of the microcontroller 20 further receives a signal 27, which is for example of digital type (all or nothing), and whose state characterizes the state (Green or Red) from the traffic light. This signal 27 comes from the control unit 26 (known in itself) of the traffic light B _i , which makes it possible, in the usual manner, to control the change of state of the light in time. Each change of state of the signal 27, which corresponds to a change of state of the pedestrian signaling light, generates on the corresponding input port an interruption for the processor 201. The processing of this interruption will be explained below in reference to Figure 3.

Architecture of the triggering device (1) - Figure 2

In the right-hand part of FIG. 2, an exemplary embodiment of a triggering device (1) of the invention is shown.

• un processeur 101, cadencé par un quartz 102,
• des ports d'Entrées/Sorties 103, permettant de faire communiquer le processeur 101 avec des périphériques extérieurs,
• une première mémoire 104, de type ROM, dans laquelle est sauvegardée un programme résident, qui permet de faire fonctionner le processeur 101 et qui est spécifique de l'invention,
• et une deuxième mémoire 105, de type ROM.

This device (1) comprises a microcontroller 10, which essentially comprises:

• a processor 101, clocked by a quartz 102,
• I / O ports 103, making it possible to communicate the processor 101 with external peripherals,
• a first memory 104, of ROM type, in which a resident program is saved, which makes it possible to operate the processor 101 and which is specific to the invention,
• and a second memory 105, ROM type.

The microcontroller 10 is for example constituted by a microcontroller PIC 16C84 MICROCHIP.

In the memory 105 are saved several codes (ACA, P) detailed below. The OM _t codes representative of the orientation of the device at each instant t are stored in this memory 105; each value is replaced by the next. Also, in this memory 105, at each address pointed to by the code 'AMM1' and by the code 'AMM2' of a traffic light, two sentences 'MESSAGE 1' and 'MESSAGE 2' are respectively saved.

• un récepteur radio (HF) 11, qui est relié à un port d'entrée du microcontrôleur 20,
• un émetteur radio (HF) 12, qui est relié à un port de sortie du microcontrôleur 20,
• une générateur de messages vocaux 13,
• un compas magnétique 14, qui mesure l'angle effectif entre son orientation et une direction de référence relative dans cet exemple au champ magnétique terrestre,
• une alimentation électrique autonome (non représentée) de type pile ou batterie, fournissant l'énergie électrique nécessaire à chaque composant actif du dispositif.

In addition to the microcontroller 10, the device (1) comprises:

• a radio receiver (HF) 11, which is connected to an input port of the microcontroller 20,
• a radio transmitter (HF) 12, which is connected to an output port of the microcontroller 20,
• a voice message generator 13,
• a magnetic compass 14, which measures the effective angle between its orientation and a relative reference direction in this example to the earth's magnetic field,
• an autonomous power supply (not shown) of battery or battery type, providing the necessary electrical energy to each active component of the device.

The radio receiver (HF) 11 is adapted to the radio transmitter (HF) 21 of each traffic light B _i , and provides a demodulation and decoding of the data transmitted by radio which are inverse to the modulation and coding performed by each radio transmitter (HF) 21.

The radio transmitter (HF) 12, is adapted to the radio receiver (HF) 22 of each traffic light B _i , and carries a carrier modulation (HF) that is capable of demodulating each radio receiver (HF) 22.

The audio section 13 is known and essentially comprises the audiofrequency amplifier and the miniature speaker necessary for the voice output of audible messages by the pedestrian equipped with the triggering device (1). This miniature speaker may be constituted by an earphone that the pedestrian houses in his ear, or has in the immediate vicinity of his ear, so that the voice messages delivered from the audio section 13 are audible by the pedestrian.

Operation of the beacons (Bi) and the triggering device - fig. 3 and 4:

The algorithm of FIG. 3 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a cycle of operation of the processor 201 of a signaling light B _i . Whenever the traffic light B; changes state (green or red light), the signal 27 received by the microcontroller 20 generates an interruption for the processor 201. At each interruption, the processor 201 restarts an operating cycle by performing the steps of the FIG. 3. This operating cycle is executed in a loop (iterative loop 307), as long as the signaling B _i does not change state. As soon as the signaling light B _i changes state, the processor 201 interrupts its operation (end of the cycle) and starts a new cycle.

During each operating cycle, the microcontroller 20 transmits (FIG. 3 / block 302) repeatedly, via the radio transmitter (HF) 21, a tag orientation code (OA _k ), which is contained in the memory 205 of the microcontroller, and which identifies the orientation, relative to a reference direction (D) relative to the earth's magnetic field in a direction of rotation established (S), the traffic light (B _i ), or more generally the orientation of the corresponding protected passage. As already indicated, in another variant, it is possible to realize a device in which it is the emitter of the triggering device (1) which emits a trigger code, regularly or on request, the triggering of the beacon being subordinate to the conformity of the orientation code (OM _t ) with respect to this same reference direction (D) with that stored in the beacon (B _i ) near which the user arrives. However, having the beacon (B _i ) issued regularly rather than the triggering device (1) enables the user of the latter to be informed of his arrival in an information zone by simply receiving the code of orientation (OA _k ) of a close beacon (B _i ) without requiring a maneuver on his part, while avoiding unnecessary energy consumption of the trigger device (1).

In the remainder of the description, for the application of FIG. 1, it will be considered that the range of the emission of each beacon (B _i ) integrated in the traffic light is insufficient to cover up to the coverage area of transmitting the beacon corresponding to the parallel channel. It will therefore be considered that each signaling light B _i is identified by a beacon orientation code (OA _i ) representative of the orientation of the element which is linked to it, in particular, in this case, the corresponding protected passage, relative to a reference direction (D) relative to the earth's magnetic field in an established direction of rotation (S). In other words, it will be admitted, solely for the sake of simplification, that the eight orientation codes beacon OB ₁ to OB ₈ are sufficient to distinguish the fires between them. This is not limiting of the invention. In other embodiments for traffic lights, or in other applications of the invention, several descriptive markers can be parameterized with the same orientation code tag, especially because they are representative of the same element (even protected passage for example).

An example of operation of the traffic lights B ₁ to B ₈ and the triggering device (1) of Figure 1 will now be detailed, with reference to the flow charts of Figures 3 and 4.

With reference to FIG. 1, a pedestrian equipped with the trigger device (1) is located in the emission field CH ₁ of the traffic light B ₁ (called visible beacon). It is assumed that this pedestrian, like its trigger device carried, is oriented in the same direction as that relating to the traffic light B ₁ , so that the orientation, with respect to a reference direction (D) relative to the magnetic field terrestrial in a direction of rotation established (S), its compass 14 is oriented in the same way with respect to the orientation of the protected passage whose orientation code is stored in the traffic light B ₁ .

Initially, the microcontroller 10 of the device (1) is waiting to receive an ACA code, which is an activation code of the angular comparison section of the device (1) (FIG. 4 / block 401 and test 402).

When the visible beacon B ₁ , during its operating cycle, transmits this ACA code (FIG. 3 / block 301), this code is received by the radio receiver (HF) 11 of the device (1), and is transmitted to the processor The ACA code informs the microcontroller 10 that the next code it will receive is a tag orientation code.

When the processor 101 receives and recognizes this ACA code, it automatically activates the compass 14 by means of the control signal 15 as well as the angular comparison program (FIG. 4 / step 404). The compass 14 thus proceeds to the regular measurements for the verification of the conformities, measurements which it transfers to the processor 101 by the control signal 16.

In another variant, it would be possible to make this angular comparison work constantly, but in this example the energy consumption would be unnecessarily increased.

After issuing an ACA code, the microcontroller 20 of the traffic light B ₁ transmits, via the radio transmitter (HF) 21, its orientation code (OA _k ), which is saved in memory 205 (FIG. 3 / block 302). For example, for each light B _i, this code represents the effective angle (α _i ) between the protected passage corresponding to the light B _i and the reference direction (D) relative to the earth's magnetic field in an established direction of rotation (S). . In another variant, this orientation code is derived from a regular measurement by a compass 24, of the effective angle between the orientation of the beacon and this reference direction (D), particularly in the case where a modification of the orientation must be taken into account, or when several information related to different directions are proposed by the tag. Such a regular measurement can also be used by the maintenance services to warn them of a modification of the orientation of the beacon by comparison with the code (OA _i ) stored during the installation and the code representative of the effective angle ( α _i ). This same compass 24 is necessary for applications where the tag is mobile, especially when it is embedded in a vehicle.

This code (OA _k ) is received by the processor 101 of the microcontroller 10 of the trigger device (1), which processor compares (FIG. 4 / block 405) this code with the code (OM _t ) representative of the angle that the compass 14 of the device (1) at time (t), relative to a reference direction (D) relative to the earth's magnetic field in an established direction of rotation (S). The orientation codes of the tag (OA _k ) and the triggering device (OM _t ) are then the same (to the tolerance provided by the comparison program), which allows on the one hand the transmission by the device (1) (FIG. 4 / block 406) of the activation code capable of triggering by the beacon (B _i ) certain particular operations such as a sound trigger, or a radio transmission, and secondly authorizes the operation of the audio section 13 of the triggering device (1) by means of the control signal 17.

We will note that without the recognition of the angular conformity between the codes (OA _k ) and (OM _t ), neither the selective triggering of the beacon (B _i ) nor the operation of the audio section of the triggering device are activated.

After issuing an orientation code, the microcontroller 20 of the traffic light B ₁ , transmits, via the radio transmitter (HF) 21, the message (variable 'MESSAGE'), which is saved in memory 205 (FIG. block 302). For example, for each traffic light B _i, this message consists of the following information: number and name of the road at which the traffic light B _i is located.

This message is received by the processor 101 of the microcontroller 10 of the device (1), which processor sends back (signal 18 / FIG. 2) the received information constituting this message to the audio section 13, which allows a vocal reproduction of this information for the pedestrian. The pedestrian is automatically informed of the number and the name of the path to which he is heading, which advantageously allows him to locate.

In place of the message, the beacon can transmit at least one code among the codes that are previously stored there (AMM1 and AMM2 for example). These codes are representative of the addressing of audio messages previously stored in the language of the wearer. When they are received, the triggering device (1) then renders the corresponding message or messages.

When the speech reproduction of the message is complete, the microcontroller 10 of the device (1) controls the stop (signal 17 / FIG. 2) of the audio section (FIG. 4 / block 405).

In another variant, it could be a device (1) in which the audio section 13 is constantly in operation. However, such a continuous operation of this audio section on the one hand causes an inconvenience (background noise) for the pedestrian, and on the other hand increases the energy consumption of the device (1). The temporary activation of the audio section 13, for the time sufficient to the voice output of the message, thus advantageously on the one hand to avoid an inconvenience for the user and on the other hand to significantly reduce the energy consumption of the device (1).

At the same time, the other traffic lights B ₂ to B ₈ , during their operating cycle, also transmit their beacon code repeatedly. However, the device (1) being placed in the reception field CH ₁ of the traffic light B ₁ , and the compass 14 of this device (1) giving the same code relating to the angle relative to the magnetic north of the Earth that the code relating to that of the compass 24 of the traffic light B ₁ , or the code stored therein representing the orientation of the corresponding protected passage (to the tolerance provided by the comparison program), only the orientation code beacon ( OA ₁ ) is accepted by the microcontroller 10 of the triggering device (1) of Figure 1; the other beacon orientation codes (OA ₂ to OA ₈ ) issued in parallel by the other traffic lights are not taken into account by the triggering device (1); each of them can be taken into account only if the trigger device (1), by changing its orientation, ends up having the same orientation as the element linked to the corresponding tag, in this case the protected passage. However, according to the angular recognition program of the triggering device, this selective tripping of the beacon (B _i ) may also concern a beacon representing another angle (OA _i + x °), for example the opposite beacon if the need arises. makes sense (OA _i + 180 °).

When it receives the beacon orientation code OB ₁ , the microcontroller 10 of the device (1) saves this tag code in random access memory 104 (FIG. 4 / block 403), then use it if necessary to constitute the trigger code of the beacon, and transmit it via its transmitter (HF) 22. This OB ₁ code being transmitted omnidirectionally, it is appropriate to limit the scope from the transmitter of the triggering device or provide identification codes specific to each beacon of an area covered by a large range emission, received in this case by the microcontrollers 20 of all traffic lights B ₁ to B ₈ .

Code of orientation (OA _k )

In general, the selective triggering of a beacon is subordinated to the conformity of the orientation code (OM _t ) (FIG. 4 / block 405) of the triggering device (1), a code representative of its actual orientation with respect to a reference direction (D) relative to the earth's magnetic field at time t, with the beacon code (OA _k ) representative of the orientation of the beacon B _j itself with respect to this same reference direction (D ), or the orientation of the element linked to this beacon (that is to say respectively the fire B ₁ and the protected passage PP of the channel V1 in the case of the example of operation of Figure 1 ).

More particularly, in a first variant embodiment, this conformity is total, the orientation code OA _k of the beacon B _j and the OM _t code of the triggering device (1) representing the same angles with respect to this reference direction ( D) relative to the Earth's magnetic field at time t, to the required tolerance near.

In a second variant embodiment, compliance is verified if the beacon code (OA _k ) determined by the orientation of a triggering device (1) is representative of a different orientation from that of the beacon (or of the element corresponding to the beacon), this different orientation being planned by program to be considered as another triggering condition, for example when it is necessary to trigger at the same time two differently oriented beacons (two opposed beacons for example) or when the compass of the beacon trigger device (1) is installed at a different angle than the trigger itself while the conditions are met to allow the trigger, these examples not being limiting.

Treatment of the orientation code (OM _t ) by the fires B _i

During an operating cycle, each signaling light B ₁ to B ₈ is waiting for a predetermined duration of receipt of an orientation code (OM _t ) of a triggering device (FIG. test 303) (first and third variants mentioned above). When a triggering device sends its orientation code (OM _t ), this code is received by the traffic lights present in the limited emission zone, in particular the lights of the adjacent lanes, and each of these lights makes a comparison of this code (OM _t ) with its own beacon orientation code (Figure 3 / block 304), and verifies the compliance of the orientation code (OM _t ) received with its own beacon code (OA _i ) (Figure 3 / test 305). When a signaling light B _i receives a beacon code (OM _t ) sent by the device (1) which conforms to its beacon orientation code (OA _i ), said signaling light B _i triggers one or more actions ( Figure 3 / Step 306).

When the orientation code (OM _t ) which is transmitted by the device (1) is identical to the received beacon orientation code (OA _i ) (first and third variants mentioned above), the verification of the conformity of the codes by each light B _i (FIG. 3 / block 305) is a simple detection of conformity of the codes. Thus, in the example of FIG. 1, the signaling light B ₁ , when it receives a code (OM _t ) which conforms to the code (OA ₁ ), detects that it is the same orientation and automatically triggers the planned actions. On the other hand, since the other traffic lights are parameterized with different code orientation codes (OA ₁ ), when they receive the code (OM _t ) transmitted by the device (1), they do not recognize a conformity of this code. code with theirs and therefore do not trigger any action. Thus, the comparison of the orientation codes between the signaling light B ₁ and the device (1) advantageously makes it possible to cause the device (1) to trigger, selectively and automatically, only the traffic light B ₁ which is normally visible by the pedestrian.

Treatment of the orientation code (OA _k ) by the triggering devices

During an operating cycle, each triggering device is waiting for the receipt of an orientation code (OA _k ) issued by a beacon (second and third variants above). When a beacon sends its orientation code (OA _k ), this code is received by the triggering device (s) present in the beacon transmission zone, and each of these triggering devices regularly measures the angle. that it forms with the reference direction (D) relative to the terrestrial magnetic field (figure 4 / block 404), then proceeds for each measurement carried out to the comparison of this code (OA _k ) received with its own orientation code ( OM _t ) by checking the conformity of the orientation code (OA _k ) received with its own code (OM _t ) (FIG. 4 / test 405). When one of these measurements corresponds to that represented by the code (OA _k ) sent by a beacon, that is to say when the orientation code (OM _t ) conforms to the orientation code (OA _k ) received, said triggering device triggers one or more actions (FIG. 4 / step 406).

Triggered actions

The action or actions that are automatically triggered by a signaling light B _i (FIG. 3 / block 306), or by a triggering device (FIG. 4 / block 406) may be of various natures, and will of course depend on the application . Among these actions triggered automatically by the beacon that recognized the conformity of the orientations, that is to say the fire B ₁ in the example of Figure 1, we can mention the automatic transmission of the tag information information (status of the green or red light in the application at traffic lights) to the pedestrian wearing the triggering device (1).

In a first embodiment, the transmission of this information can be generated locally at the traffic light. For example, the action triggered by the traffic light consists of control of its local voice message generator 23, so as to emit in audible and vocal form by each pedestrian who is at a short distance a sound signal or a voice message indicating the state of the fire (for example a distinctive sound signal for the green phase or a verbal signal "red light - wait" for the red phase). Also, in a more simplified embodiment variant, the signaling light may be equipped with a buzzer, which is automatically controlled according to the state of the light (for example buzzer controlled with a predetermined frequency characteristic of the state of the fire. fire) so as to emit a characteristic sound of the green or red state of the fire.

In a second variant embodiment, which can be combined with the first variant above, the transmission of the information on the state of the fire can be carried out, by transmitting this information by the signaling light, via its radio transmitter. (HF) 21, to the device (1), the sound format of this information is provided by the trigger device (1). More particularly, in a preferred embodiment, the action triggered by the traffic light consists of sending a memory addressing code (AMM 1 or AMM 2 according to the state of the light) via its radio transmitter (HF). microcontroller 10 of the triggering device (1) receives this memory addressing code, it retrieves the message saved in memory at the address corresponding to the code received (MESSAGE 1: "pedestrian green light" / MESSAGE 2: "red light, wait! "). Then the microcontroller 10 controls the voice generator 13, so as to send the message (MESSAGE 1 or MESSAGE 2) which is addressed by the code (AMM 1 or AMM 2) received. It can be the same with other messages previously stored in the language of the user, including to inform the side of the tag to which to go safely.

The triggering device provided for a deaf person can translate the transmission of information on the state of fire in a vibratory manner. Thus, the actions triggered by a trigger device may be the dissemination of information privately in the language of the person concerned, but also the setting in function of a vibrator, or the issuing of a code, without these examples being limiting.

Special code P

In a more sophisticated variant, each trigger device (1) is designed so as to transmit in addition to the orientation code (OM _t ) of the instant t, at least one additional code, said particular code P. This particular code P allows to characterize specificities specific to the trigger device (1) and more particularly specific to the pedestrian wearing this device. For example, this particular code P may contain an indication on the pedestrian's language. In this case, when the traffic light that received this code triggers an action, it can take into account the language of the pedestrian to trigger this appropriate action, such as for example a transmission by the voice generator of the traffic light of a message in the language of the pedestrian, or the transmission of an AMM code _x corresponding to a memory address of the triggering device (1) in which is stored the message corresponding to the state of the fire in the language of the pedestrian, without these examples. be limiting.

The particular code P can also characterize the handicap of the pedestrian. In particular, in an alternative embodiment, it can be provided at the trigger device (1), in addition to a voice generator 13, a mechanical vibrator (not shown in the figures) as already indicated. When the particular code P returned indicates to the traffic light that the pedestrian carrying the triggering device (1) is hearing-impaired, in this case the action which is triggered by the traffic light may consist in the vocal form of a message on the state of the fire for example locally at the traffic light, but with a higher power of restitution.

In the particular application to traffic lights which has just been described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4, the local sound signal and the A message indicating to the user which side to approach the traffic light advantageously allows guidance of the pedestrian relative to the protected passage to which he is heading. In particular, when the pedestrian clearly receives the fire location message, he knows that it is oriented in the same direction as the corresponding protected passage. If he approaches the fire that is signaling, it will be correctly positioned for the crossing.

The use of a radio-type omnidirectional transmission between the beacon and the triggering device is not however limiting of the invention. In other implementations, it will be possible to provide at each beacon, instead of a radio transmitter, a directional transmitter, of the type for example infrared; in this case, each trigger device (1) is equipped instead of a radio receiver, a directional type receiver adapted to the beacon transmitter. Also, in another variant, the identification tags may be equipped with an additional transmitter, for example of the HF type, the trigger device (1) comprising in this case an additional receiver HF, adapted to the RF transmitter beacons. These additional HF transmitter and receiver can for example be used for the transmission of the location message (message that is sent by the traffic light after sending an activation code), on another frequency for example; in this case, after receiving this activation code, the microcontroller 10 is preferably designed so as to activate temporarily, not only the low frequency amplifier of the audio section 13 as previously described, but also the demodulator of the receiver Additional HF.

Also, in the embodiment variant which has been described above, the emission of a message on the location of the fire with a view to its restitution in voice form or the like for the pedestrian, is optional.

FIGS. 5 and 6 show another variant embodiment in which there is no transmission of orientation codes from the tag for the trigger device (1); here, it is a manual action on the part of the interested party, or a repetitive emission of the triggering device which triggers the angular comparison and, where appropriate, the action associated with the beacon. Step 501 of the flowchart of FIG. 5 is identical to step 404 of the flowchart of FIG. 4; steps 502 and 503 are respectively identical to steps 301 and 302 of the flowchart of FIG. 3; step 601, test 602, and steps 603 and 605, as well as test 604 of the flowchart of FIG. 6, are identical at step 401, at test 402, and at steps 403 and 406, respectively. than at test 405 of the flowchart of FIG. 4.

In this variant embodiment, the activation characteristics of the angular comparison section of the beacon are also found by the issuance of an ACA code by the trigger (1), followed by the transmission of a code of orientation by said device, which code is compared by the beacon to trigger the action if appropriate.

APPLICATION / TAG OF INFORMATION AND ORIENTATION

FIG. 7 shows another application of the invention in which the beacon B _i is a terminal having information on directions corresponding to proposed or desired destinations. This terminal, called BIO, is more particularly positioned in public places, the "nodes" of possible directions, such as crossing corridors, intersections of ways, as we meet in halls of public or private buildings (railway stations). , metro stations, shopping centers, etc.).

More particularly, there is shown schematically an information terminal and orientation (BIO) disposed at the intersection of 6 different paths V1 to V6 leading to 6 different destinations DS1 to DS6. The BIO is equipped with an identification tag B _i of the invention, which is designed to communicate with triggering devices present in the transmission zone CH of the BIO, such as the triggering device carried by the user U.

In this application, the beacon B _i is equipped with an electronic circuit whose architecture is identical to that previously described with reference to FIG. 2, except that the microcontroller of the beacon of FIG. 7 does not receive necessarily input an interrupt signal 27 from a change of state of a display (except local features), unlike the tag previously described with reference to Figure 2.

In the application of FIG. 7, the user U is equipped with a trigger device (1) whose electronic architecture is for example identical to that already described for the previous application.

The main difference between this application and the previously described application of pedestrian traffic lights is the two resident programs that operate the respective microcontrollers of the beacon and triggering devices. The operating flowcharts of the respective programs which are executed by the microcontrollers of the BIO and the triggering device (1) carried by the interested party are for example identical to those shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, except that the code (OA _k ) successively takes the values corresponding to the various orientation codes proposed by the BIO.

With reference to FIG. 7, the user U that is represented (carrier of a trigger device 1) is located in the transmission field CH of the beacon B _i of the terminal BIO. The triggering device (1) of the user U receives from the beacon B _i of the terminal BIO the various orientation codes (OA ₁ ) to (OA ₆ ), respectively representative of the 6 directions DS1 to DS6 of the channels V1 to V6 proposed by said terminal BIO with respect to a reference direction (D) of the earth's magnetic field. These codes are then memorized by the trigger device (1) which, at each instant t, compares each of them with its own orientation code (OM _t ) representative of the angle it forms with the reference direction (D) measured by the compass 24.

If the codes (OM _t ) and (OA _x ) are compliant, then the orientation of the user with respect to the DSx direction (where x represents one of the six possibilities of the example), the triggering device (1) performs a certain number of actions, for example the emission of its code orientation (OM _t ).

In our example, the user is directed to channel 3; the compass of the triggering device (1) carried by the user U naturally measures, at each instant t, the angle β _{t which} it forms with respect to the reference direction (D). Each measurement is converted into a code (OM _t ). This angle β _t is only consistent with the angle α ₃ of channel 3 (α ₃ and α ₆ are very different); the orientation code (OM _t ) is therefore compliant with the orientation code (OA ₃ ) which has been memorized by the trigger device (1) when it arrives in the transmission zone CH. This compliance, therefore, triggers actions, such as the sending by the triggering device (1) of its code (OM _t ) which is received by the beacon B _i of the BIO. Said tag in turn compares this orientation code (OM _t ) received with its orientation codes that it has in memory. It then recognizes the conformity of codes (OM _t ) and (OA ₃ ) and selectively performs a certain number of actions; for example, it sends a precise message, in this case the one corresponding to the direction of the channel 3 in our example, without transmitting all the available messages.

The user therefore only receives the message corresponding to his orientation. If it changes, it receives the new message corresponding to its new orientation as soon as the latter corresponds to a direction proposed by the tag.

We can imagine that the user formulates himself, in some way (choice from a drop-down menu, voice wording, etc.), a request on a specific destination (proposed or not by the terminal BIO), the beacon B _i specifying to the user, if any that he is in the right direction, or inviting him to correct his trajectory otherwise, the triggering device then being designed to invite his user to move differently when it proves necessary, the trigger of each of these actions being always dependent on the conformity of the orientation codes with each other.

APPLICATION / BUS STATIONS

FIG. 8 shows another application of the invention in which each identification tag B _i is an identification tag of a location, and more particularly is positioned at a bus station S _i , and allows to identify said station.

More particularly, there is shown diagrammatically in FIG. 8 a two-way traffic lane V, and two bus stations S ₁ and S ₂ facing each other, on both sides. the other side of the traffic lane V. The station Si is equipped with a descriptive beacon of the invention B ₁ , which is designed to communicate with buses traveling on the upper lane, such as the bus B of FIG. 8, which is directed towards the bus station S ₁ , the orientation code (OA ₁ ) being provided to comply with the direction of traffic of the buses corresponding to this path. In the same spirit, the beacon B ₂ is designed to communicate with oncoming buses on the lower part of the taxiway.

More generally, this embodiment could be generalized to any station for public transport vehicle, and may for example be transposed to metro stations, train stations, etc.

In this application, each beacon B _i is equipped with an electronic circuit whose architecture is identical to that previously described with reference to FIG. 2, except that the microcontroller of the beacons of FIG. input an interrupt signal 25, unlike the beacon previously described with reference to Figure 2.

In the application of FIG. 8, each bus traveling in an urban environment, such as, for example, bus B, is equipped with an on-board triggering device (1), whose electronic architecture is for example identical to that already described for previous applications.

With reference to FIG. 8, the bus B that is shown is located in the transmission field CH ₁ of the beacon B ₁ of the station S ₁ , and goes towards the station S ₁ . This bus B thus receives the beacon orientation code (OA ₁ ), representative of an angle α ₁ , which is sent to it by the beacon B ₁ and compares this code with its orientation code (OM _t ). This orientation code (OM _t ) transmitted by the bus is well representative of the angle β _t that the bus forms at the moment (t) with respect to a reference direction (D) relative to the terrestrial magnetic field according to a direction of rotation established (S), according to what has been previously described for the first application. With this code, the onboard trip device transmits the particular code P which advantageously contains a bus identification information (eg bus number, line served, destination, origin, or information that the bus is not service and therefore does not take a passenger on board).

When the beacon B ₁ has received the orientation code (OM _t ) and the particular code P sent to it by the bus, it detects that the code (OM _t ) transmitted to it conforms to its orientation code. tag (OA ₁ ), and thus automatically triggers a number of actions below. On the other hand, the beacon B _2, which can also receive these codes (OM _t ) and P, detects that the code (OM _t ) received does not comply with its code (OA ₂ ) representative of its angle α ₂ , and therefore does not trigger any particular action.

The actions triggered by the beacon B ₁ are for example the following. The beacon B ₁ triggers, for example, a first action, which consists of transmitting, via a radio or infrared transmitter for example, to the approaching bus B, a message which identifies the station S ₁ (for example the name of the station). The triggering device (1) embedded in the bus B, is in this case equipped and programmed for after receiving such a message, broadcast said message in voice and audible form by all the passengers of the bus. Also, another action that can be triggered by the beacon B ₁ , is broadcast locally at the station S ₁ , a message, which is audible by the passengers waiting in the station, and which identifies the bus B approach (bus number, line served, ...). This message is generated automatically by the microcontroller of the beacon B ₁ , from the information contained in the code P which was returned to it by the bus B approaching.

Also, this message can also be communicated by the beacon B ₁ to any pedestrian equipped with a triggering device (1), in order to be broadcast in audible form for the pedestrian by the microcontroller of the triggering device (1) carried by the pedestrian.

Advantageously, in the embodiment just described, the stations S ₁ being each time automatically informed of the identification of each bus approach (thanks to the particular code P), it becomes possible to link each of the stations S _i to a central location of buses. Each station S _i is further designed to communicate to this central location the identification of each bus approach (special code P). It is thus possible centrally and remotely to know the location of each bus in circulation.

Finally, it is perfectly possible to provide a signaling tag embedded in the vehicle in place of the trigger device, signage tag that will issue repetitively the current orientation code, code relating to the orientation of the vehicle. As in the application of pedestrian lights, this regular emission is intended for the triggering devices present in the zone of emission of the beacon, mobile this time. These triggering devices, installed in a fixed manner or carried by mobile users, then compare these orientation codes received with theirs and trigger various actions associated with the beacon (sending messages ...) according to the compliance of the respective codes. This allows a person waiting for the arrival of a bus to be notified of his arrival (without being notified of the arrival of the bus to the station opposite) the triggered actions being for example the emission over there tag of a message relating to the destination of the bus on approach.

The invention is not limited to the applications that have just been described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 8, but can find many other applications. In particular, the invention can be applied to any tag for communicating remotely at least one piece of information that is attached thereto.

Also, in the variant embodiments described with reference to the appended figures, the verification of the conformity of the orientation of the triggering device with each orientation code (OA _k ) is performed by the triggering device. This is not limiting of the invention. In another variant embodiment, this function could be provided by the beacon. In this case, the triggering device is preferably designed to communicate to the beacon information characteristic of its orientation in space.

In the examples which will be described, the directions are measured with respect to a reference direction relative to the terrestrial magnetic field, and the measuring means are in particular magnetic compasses or compasses. But other reference directions and the means adapted to measure the angles formed with respect to these reference directions can be used. These reference directions can be given, for example, by terrestrial or spatial transmitter beacons to enable comparison measurements for the purpose of determining and comparing directions.

Claims (34)

1. Process using a triggering device (1) for remote triggering of an action (A_k) to be carried out by a signal beacon (Bj), characterised by the fact that the aforementioned action (A_k) is associated with at least one orientation code (OA_k), and by the fact that to trigger the action (A_k) the trigger device (1) is orientated, and that the action (A_k) carried out by the signal beacon (Bj) is made to occur when the orientation of the trigger device (1) conforms to the orientation code (OA_k) associated with the action (A_k).
2. Process as described in claim 1 characterised by the fact that the signal beacon (Bj) is capable of carrying out several actions [A₁,...A_n], and by the fact that each action (A_k) is associated with a specific orientation code (OA_k), so that it is possible to selectively trigger one action (A_k) from amongst the set of actions [A₁,...A_n] that can be carried out by the beacon by orientation of the trigger device (1).
3. Process as described in claim 1 or 2 characterised by the fact that in order to associate each action (A_k) with an orientation code (OA_k), the aforementioned orientation code is memorised in the beacon.
4. Process as described in any of claims 1 to 3 characterised by the fact that each orientation code (OA_k) represents an angle (α_x) formed relative to a reference direction (D1) along a reference direction of angular rotation (S1) and by the fact that each trigger device measures the angle (β_t) that it forms at a time (t) relative to a reference direction (D2) along a reference direction of angular rotation (S2), a measurement that it identifies by an orientation code (OM_t), and by the fact that in order to trigger at least the action (A_k), a comparison or their respective orientation codes is made, and the action (A_k) is triggered when the orientation code (OM_t) of the trigger device conforms to the orientation code (OA_k).
5. Process as described in claim 4 characterised by the fact that the reference directions (D1) and (D2) are the same, and/or by the fact that the reference directions of angular rotation (S1) and (S2) are the same.
6. Process as described in claim 4 characterised by the fact that the angles represented by the orientation codes (OA_k) and (OM_t) are in conformance with each other to within a predetermined tolerance for the application.
7. Process as described in claims 1 to 6 characterised by the fact that the orientation code (OA_k) is determined using the measurement made by the signal beacon (B_j) of the angle that it forms relative to a reference direction (D1) along a reference direction of angular rotation (S1).
8. Process as described in claim 4 characterised by the fact that the orientation code (OM_t) is a predetermined code associated with the trigger device (1).
9. Process as described in claim 4 characterised by the fact that the orientation code (OM_t) is determined using the measurement made by the trigger device (1) of the angle that it forms relative to a reference direction (D2) along a reference direction of angular rotation (S2).
10. Process as described in any of claims 1 to 9, characterised by the fact that the signal beacon (B_j) transmits its orientation code (OA_k), preferably in a repetitive manner.
11. Process as described in any of claims 1 to 10, characterised by the fact that the transmission from the beacon (B_j) and/or from the device (1) is omnidirectional.
12. Process as described in any of claims 1 to 11, characterised by the fact that the trigger device (1) transmits its orientation code (OM_t), in a repetitive manner if required.
13. Process as described in any of claims 1 to 12, characterised by the fact that the transmission from the beacon (B_j) and/or from the device (1) is a high frequency carrier wave modulation transmission.
14. Process as described in any of claims 1 to 13 characterised by the fact that the action (A_k) that is triggered is the local broadcast, preferably in audible form, of information associated with the beacon.
15. Process as described in any of claims 1 to 14 characterised by the fact that the action (A_k) that is triggered is a command to the device (1), so that the aforementioned device broadcasts, preferably in audible form, the information associated with the beacon or previously recorded information.
16. Process as described in claims 1 to 15 characterised by the fact that each transmission of an orientation code is preceded by the transmission of a predetermined code (ACA) in order to inform the object which is the destination to which this code (ACA) is transmitted that the following code to be transmitted is an orientation code.
17. Process as described in any of claims 1 to 16, characterised by the fact that the beacon is a signal light.
18. Process as described in claim 17 characterised by the fact that one action (A_k) that can be carried out by the beacon is the broadcast of information on the status of the lamp.
19. Process as described in any of claims 1 to 16 characterised by the fact that the signal beacon is an orientation beacon, with one action (A_k) carried out by the aforementioned beacon being the transmission of information relating to a direction.
20. Process as described in any of claims 1 to 19, characterised by the fact that the trigger device is on board a transport vehicle.
21. Signal beacon for the operation of the procedure described in any of claims 1 to 20 whatsoever, characterised by the fact that it is designed to carry out at least one remotely triggered action (A_k), depending on at least one predetermined orientation code (OA_k).
22. Beacon as described in claim 21 characterised by the fact that the orientation code (OA_k) is stored in the memory of the beacon.
23. Beacons as described in claim 21 or 22 characterised by the fact that it is designed to measure the angle that it forms relative to a reference direction and to determine an orientation code (OA_k) which represents this measurement.
24. Signal beacon as described in any of claims 21 to 23 characterised by the fact that it includes a transmitter (21) and that it is designed to automatically transmit, prkeferably in a repetitive manner, at least one orientation code (OA_k) associated with an action (A_k) that can be carried out by the beacon.
25. Signal beacon as described in any of claims 21 to 24 characterised by the fact that it includes a receiver (22), and that it is designed to automatically trigger one or predefined actions when it receives an orientation code (OM_t) which conforms to its orientation code (OA_k).
26. Signal beacon as described in claim 25 characterised by the fact that it includes means which allow the conformance of the orientation code received (OM_t) to be verified against the orientation code (OA_k) associated with the action (A_k) and for triggering the action (A_k) and by the fact that it is designed to control the aforementioned means for carrying out the action (A_k) after verification of the conformance of the orientation code (OM_t) with the orientation code (OA_k) so that the action (A_k) is performed.
27. Signal beacon as described in any of claims 21 to 26 characterised by the fact that it forms a signal lamp, with one action associated with the beacon being, in particular, the transmission of the status of the lamp.
28. Signal beacon as described in any of claims 21 to 26 characterised by the fact that it forms an information and orientation beacon, with the action associated with the beacon being in particular the transmission of information relating to a direction.
29. Trigger device (1) allowing a the remote triggering of a beacon to be carried out in accordance with the procedure described in any of claims 1 to 20 whatsoever, characterised by the fact that it is made up of a transmitter (12) and means (14) for measuring the angle that it forms relative to a reference direction.
30. Device as described in claim 29 characterised by the fact that it is designed to transmit, in repetitive manner where required, an orientation code (OM_t) which represents the measurement for this angle.
31. Device as described in claim 29 characterised by the fact that it includes a receiver (11) and means (14) of measuring the angle that it forms relative to the reference direction and by the fact that it is designed to automatically trigger one or more predefined actions when it receives an orientation code (OA_k) which conforms to its orientation code (OM_t) which represents the measurement for this angle.
32. Information and orientation terminal (BIO) equipped with a signal beacon (B_j) as described in any of claims 21 to 28.
33. Transport vehicle (B) equipped with a trigger device (1) as described in any of claims 29 to 31, or a signal beacon (B_j) as described in any of claims 21 to 28.
34. Station (S₁) equipped with a trigger device (1) as described in any of claims 29 to 31, or a signal beacon (B_j) as described in any of claims 21 to 28.

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