An Intelligent Sensor-Based Back Seat Monitoring System for Preventing Pediatric Vehicular Heatstroke

This research introduces an innovative automotive child back seat monitoring system aimed at preventing heatstroke incidents associated with leaving children unattended in vehicles. The device integrates sensors, wireless connectivity, and intelligent algorithms to detect and respond to potential risks. Internal sensors continuously monitor factors such as occupancy status, in-vehicle temperature, and the child's respiration rate in real-time. A hybrid approach is adopted for enhanced accuracy, utilizing Force Sensing Resistor (FSR) sensors for presence and breathing detection, along with motion sensors for movement tracking. Intelligent algorithms process the data to identify critical conditions and activate preventive measures. Data is transmitted through a mobile application for immediate alerts to caregivers. The system incorporates a Simplified Frequency Analysis (SFA) for rapid processing, surpassing conventional methods by up to 80 times faster on a low-cost Microcontroller (MC), which makes it ideal for real-time applications. Testing results confirm its high accuracy in real-time occupancy detection and breath monitoring, triggering alerts as needed. The proposed system meets rigorous automotive industry standards for temperature and power requirements, ensuring optimal functionality and energy efficiency in extreme environments. With a minimal standby current of 104 $\mu$A and the ability to withstand temperatures from −40 $^{\circ }$C to +85 $^{\circ }$C, this technology has the potential to save lives and establish child heatstroke prevention as a standard vehicle feature.