Memoria Investigaciones en Ingeniería, núm. 28 (2025). pp. 85-109
https://doi.org/10.36561/ING.28.8
ISSN 2301-1092 ISSN (en línea) 2301-1106 Universidad de Montevideo, Uruguay
Este es un artículo de acceso abierto distribuido bajo los términos de una licencia de uso y distribución CC BY-NC 4.0. Para ver
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Design of a vehicular emergency intercom system
using electronic circuits and sensors
Diseño de un sistema de intercomunicación de emergencia vehicular
utilizando circuitos electrónicos y sensores
Projeto de um sistema de intercomunicação de emergência veicular
utilizando circuitos eletrônicos e sensores
Holger Santillán
1
(*), Carolina López
2
, Kiara García
3
, David Cárdenas
4
Recibido: 04/10/2024 Aceptado: 26/01/2025
Summary. - This study presents the design of a vehicular emergency intercom system aimed at improving motorcyclist
safety through the integration of electronic circuits and sensors. The system employs an Arduino UNO R3
microcontroller, GSM SIM900L modules, and ultrasonic and proximity sensors. It is programmed in C++ to detect
falls and automatically trigger alerts with high efficiency.
Falls can be detected with 95% accuracy within a range of 2 to 100 cm, with an average response time of 1.2 seconds,
making it suitable for emergencies. The system's ability to send alerts quickly enhances user safety in critical situations
occurring at distances between 101 and 150 cm. However, limitations in the detection range were identified,
particularly at minimum distances between 0.02 cm and 1.96 cm and maximum distances between 151.36 cm and
177.72 cm, which fall outside the operational range. This suggests the need for future adjustments. This project offers
an innovative, efficient, and easy-to-implement solution for improving road safety, featuring high sensitivity to
optimize emergency response.
Keywords: Vehicle intercom; Traffic emergency; Collision prevention; Vehicle safety.
(*) Corresponding author.
1
Master's Degree in Telecommunications. Salesian Polytechnic University, Telecommunications Systems Research Group GISTEL,
hsantillan@ups.edu.ec ORCID iD: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4803-7016
2
Telecommunications Engineer. Salesian Polytechnic University, Telecommunications Systems Research Group - GISTEL,
clopezg3@est.ups.edu.ec, ORCID iD: https://orcid.org/0009-0001-0173-5637
3
Telecommunications Engineer. Salesian Polytechnic University, Telecommunications Systems Research Group - GISTEL,
kgarciag6@est.ups.edu.ec, ORCID iD: https://orcid.org/0009-0001-5404-1436
4
Master’s degree in communication technologies and systems. Salesian Polytechnic University, Telecommunications Systems Research Group -
GISTEL, dcardenasv@ups.edu.ec, ORCID iD: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4241-9929
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Memoria Investigaciones en Ingeniería, núm. 28 (2025). pp. 85-109
https://doi.org/10.36561/ING.28.8
ISSN 2301-1092 ISSN (en línea) 2301-1106 Universidad de Montevideo, Uruguay
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Resumen. - En el presente trabajo se ha diseñado un sistema de intercomunicadores de emergencia vehiculares,
enfocado a mejorar la seguridad de los motociclistas mediante la integración de circuitos electrónicos y sensores. Se
utiliza un microcontrolador Arduino UNO R3, módulos SIM900L GSM y sensores ultrasónicos y de proximidad, el
sistema está programado en C++ para detectar caídas y activar alertas automáticas con alta eficiencia.
Las caídas se pueden detectar con un 95% de precisión y en un rango de 2 a 100 cm, con un tiempo de respuesta
promedio de 1,2 segundos, lo que lo hace adecuado para emergencias. También se destacó la capacidad del sistema
para enviar alertas rápidamente, lo que aumenta la seguridad del usuario en situaciones críticas que van desde los
101 hasta los 150 cm. Sin embargo, se identificaron limitaciones en el rango de detección, especialmente a distancias
mínimas que oscilan entre 0,02 cm y 1,96 cm, y distancias máximas que oscilan entre 151,36 cm y 177,72 cm,
mediciones que están fuera del rango de operación, lo que sugiere la necesidad de realizar más ajustes en el futuro.
Este proyecto ofrece una solución innovadora, eficiente y fácil de implementar para mejorar la seguridad vial, con un
alto grado de sensibilidad para optimizar la respuesta a emergencias.
Palabras clave: Intercomunicador de vehículos; Emergencia de tráfico; Prevención de colisiones; Seguridad del
vehículo.
Resumo. - Neste trabalho, foi projetado um sistema de intercomunicação de emergência veicular, com foco na
melhoria da segurança de motociclistas por meio da integração de circuitos eletrônicos e sensores. Utilizando um
microcontrolador Arduino UNO R3, módulos GSM SIM900L e sensores ultrassônicos e de proximidade, o sistema é
programado em C++ para detectar quedas e disparar alertas automáticas com alta eficiência.
As quedas podem ser detectadas com 95% de precisão e em um alcance de 2 a 100 cm, com tempo médio de resposta
de 1,2 segundos, tornando-o adequado para emergências. A capacidade do sistema de enviar alertas rapidamente
também foi destacada, aumentando a segurança do usuário em situações críticas que variam de 101 a 150 cm. No
entanto, foram identificadas limitações no alcance de detecção, principalmente em distâncias mínimas que variam de
0,02 cm a 1,96 cm e máximas que variam de 151,36 cm a 177,72 cm, medidas que estão fora da faixa de operação,
sugerindo a necessidade de mais ajustes no futuro. Este projeto oferece uma solução inovadora, eficiente e fácil de
implementar para melhorar a segurança nas estradas, com alto grau de sensibilidade para otimizar a resposta a
emergências.
Palavras-chave: Intercomunicador veicular; Emergência de trânsito; Prevenção de colisões; Segurança veicular.
H. Santillán, C. López, K. García, D. Cárdenas
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1. Introduction. - Technological progress has revolutionized emergency management, making communication an
essential factor in improving response in critical situations, such as traffic accidents. Road safety regulations, promoted
by organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations (UN), highlight the importance
of having efficient communication systems that reduce response times in emergencies. These regulations underline the
need to incorporate advanced technologies into vehicular communication devices, thus ensuring their effectiveness
and reliability in difficult circumstances, which contributes significantly to road safety and the protection of lives. [1].
The highway via la Costa in Guayaquil, Ecuador, faces a recurring problem of traffic violations that complicate the
rapid response to accidents, affecting the effectiveness of emergency teams. To address this situation, it is proposed to
integrate advanced electronic circuitry and sensor systems into emergency communication on this road to improve the
transmission of vital data during critical incidents. This study justifies the need to innovate in intercom systems to
improve coordination and response to emergencies, contributing to the field of telecommunications engineering with
a solution adapted to local needs. [2].
This project has the potential to revolutionize road safety through an innovative system of emergency intercoms for
motorcycle helmets. Equipped with advanced technology, the system accurately detects falls and collisions using
proximity sensors and ultrasound. In the event of detecting a collision, the system automatically makes a call and sends
a message to an emergency contact, while, for accident prevention, it sends notifications to the driver to avoid
collisions. Experimental tests will be carried out at the Centenario Campus of the Salesian Polytechnic University of
Guayaquil, using an Arduino UNO R3 and a GSM SIM900L module to simulate accident scenarios. [3], [4].
This approach seeks to optimize response times in critical cases, improve the reliability and adaptability of the system
in various environments, and increase road safety. The system's ability to operate at specific distances and its speed of
response ensure efficient communication, significantly reducing risk and providing drivers with a reliable tool to
protect their well-being on the road, thus setting a new safety standard and contributing to accident prevention, saving
lives and reducing property damage. [3], [4].
The experimental methodology to design a risk prevention circuit for motorcycle helmets through the integration of
advanced detection and warning technologies is based on the use of the Arduino UNO R3 Board, GSM SIM900L
Modules, and proximity sensors. Initially, individual tests of each component will be carried out to ensure its
functionality, followed by its integration into a prototype using a Protoboard board and suitable connections. [5], [6].
C++ programming will develop algorithms that respond to data in real time, triggering alerts through a buzzer and
LEDs. In addition, an exhaustive review of the literature will be carried out to identify the most effective technologies,
which will guide the design of C++ software that manages the communication between sensors and the GSM module
SIM900L. Detailed simulations will assess the detection capability and accuracy in generating alerts, ensuring that the
system responds efficiently to emergencies, with key parameters such as response speed measured and compared to
predetermined criteria. [7].
1.1 Related Jobs. - The Arduino Uno R3 board, which has been used to teach electronics and programming,
demonstrates the ability of this microcontroller to simplify the learning of complex concepts. It was taken as a reference
because it mentions the use of each pin that was used and thus able to connect it to the circuit, where each pin of the
board has an interface to make it work. [8].
To program the Arduino software, you will take coding examples found in the articles and load them onto the board.
The Arduino stands out for its versatility, used in both vehicle safety projects and education. The ease of use and
extensive support community make it ideal for both beginners and advanced projects. [9].
The Arduino is also used, as in the article, to integrate voice recognition technologies into vehicular communication
systems, demonstrating its versatility in critical communication applications. In this article, it is used for sensor
management and emergency communication, which focuses on data transmission to improve the interaction between
emergency vehicles [10], [11].
The GSM SIM900 module is one of the elements that stand out in the prototype because its function is to send and
receive SMS messages, make calls, and connect to the internet through a network next to the Arduino.
This article [12] Uses the GSM SIM900L module to send real-time alerts to homeowners when an intrusion or
suspicious activity is detected in the home. The system is based on IoT technology and uses a network of sensors to
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Memoria Investigaciones en Ingeniería, núm. 28 (2025). pp. 85-109
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monitor the environment of the house. When one of the sensors is activated, the SIM900L module is responsible for
transmitting an alert via text messages or calls.
The GSM SIM900L module is essential for applications that require remote communication. In educational projects,
its ease of integration and low consumption make it very useful, while in this article, its application in emergencies is
highlighted. And remote communication systems. This component is essential for real-time communication with
emergency contacts, which is critical for vehicle safety situations. [13], [14].
In this article, the buzzer is used to provide audible signals in case of emergency detection, functioning as a local alert
system complementary to SMS messages.
There are similar articles where buzzers are used for alerts in obstacle detection and home security systems, reinforcing
their usefulness as a warning signal in varied environments, and electromagnetic buzzers, although less common in
modern applications, are used in systems that demand greater sound intensity. [15].
In this article, he introduces the buzzer as an essential component in rapid notification systems, used for its ability to
generate immediate and effective alerts. Its application extends to educational projects, where it facilitates practical
learning of circuits and programming, as well as in vehicle and home security systems, where its distinctive sound
warns of dangerous situations or important events. This has helped us to know how the circuit works so that it can
work. [16].
The LED light diodes emit a strong signal to be able to establish a situation, in several articles, they are related to being
able to measure the depth and give the warning to the next phase, as we see in the article which the purpose of that
study was to determine if increasing the distance between the light source and the pit and fissure sealant affects its
curing depth, Concerning the article, it can be seen that to have an emergency start-up warning, these diodes can be
used and give better scope to the projects. [17].
In the article, the ultrasonic sensor is used in obstacle detection systems for robots and in security alarms. This
highlights the sensor's versatility for safety and navigation applications. With this base, it was possible to obtain
information to program the circuit, which in this project measures the distance between the motorcyclist's helmet and
the ground to detect falls, activating automatic alerts in case of an accident. [18], [19].
The HC-SR04 ultrasonic sensor is a flexible tool for both distance sensing in vehicle safety projects and robotics and
automation applications. Its easy programming and integration with Arduino make it a popular component in various
projects. By analyzing the items, it was possible to know the proper handling and what each pin is used for to connect
it to the circuit. [20].
The article relates the 4-pin pushbutton because it is a fundamental electronic component in circuit design, commonly
used in a variety of applications, from electronic devices to industrial control systems. This type of pushbutton is
characterized by its specific structure and functionality, which differentiates it from other kinds of switches and buttons.
For this article, it helps to control the circuit pass, it is used when we already have a signal and continue to the other
step, which is to transmit calls and alert messages [21].
Both jumpers and resistors are essential elements in the design and testing of electronic circuits. Jumpers provide
flexibility and ease for the temporary connection of project components, as visualized in this article, while resistors
allow precise control of current and voltage, protecting and optimizing the operation of circuits. Their correct use is
key to the development of functional and efficient circuits. [22].
You can find articles where these elements are used for the connection and fluidity of the components, in this article,
we find similar connections along with the breadboard where they fundamentally complement the operation. The
breadboard, according to the articles, is a crucial tool in electronics for the creation, testing, and adjustment of circuits.
Its ability to facilitate rapid and flexible prototyping, coupled with its ease of use, makes it indispensable for designers,
engineers, and students. [23], [24].
The breadboard is an indispensable tool for the development of electronic prototypes both in education and in advanced
emergency systems projects. It offers an efficient platform to experiment with different circuit configurations
visualized in the article and optimize the performance of electronic designs before moving on to a more permanent
stage of development. [25].
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Python is crucial in the design and management of modern electronic circuits due to its ease of use. By integrating
Python into electronic projects, as noted in the following articles, they can automate processes in the programming of
microcontrollers and embedded systems, as well as analyze and process sensor data in real-time. Python streamlines
the implementation of algorithms, communication between devices, and the creation of intuitive interfaces for user
use. [26], [27].
2. Materials and methods. - The experimental methodology for the design of a hazard prevention circuit for
motorcycle helmets is based on a meticulous integration of advanced detection and warning technologies. Using the
Arduino UNO R3 Board, GSM SIM900L modules, and proximity and ultrasound sensors, the aim is to design a robust
and efficient system. The methodological process ranges from the exhaustive review of the literature to select the most
effective technologies to the implementation and testing of the system in a functional prototype. Each phase of
development is designed to ensure that the system not only performs optimally but also meets the required safety and
accuracy standards.
Figure I is presented below, illustrating the six main phases of the methodology for the design of the motorcycle helmet
risk prevention circuit. The detailed explanation of each phase follows below to understand their role in the overall
process:
Figure I. Main phases of the methodology.
1. Preliminary data review and collection: A thorough literature review is conducted to identify best practices
and technologies available in warning and detection systems. This research allows us to select the most
effective sensors and modules and design a robust system based on the latest technologies.
2. Individual Component Testing: In this initial phase, each component of the system, such as the Arduino
UNO R3 Board, GSM SIM900L modules, and proximity and ultrasound sensors, undergoes extensive testing
to verify its functionality and compatibility. This ensures that each part of the system operates correctly before
being integrated into the prototype.
3. Component Integration: After validation of the individual components, the prototype is assembled using a
Protoboard board. This phase involves connecting the different elements of the system in a precise way to
form a functional circuit that allows communication between the Arduino and the GSM modules.
4. Software Development: In this stage, the C++ algorithms are developed to manage the communication
between the sensors and the GSM module SIM900L. Specific algorithms will be developed to detect risks,
send instant alerts to emergency contacts, and send prevention messages to the driver, thus optimizing the
speed and accuracy of the response.
5. System Simulations and Tests: Detailed simulations are carried out using specialized software to evaluate
the performance of the system under various conditions. This phase allows us to measure detection capacity,
accuracy in generating alerts, and speed of response, comparing the results with established performance
criteria.
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6. Analysis and Documentation of Results: The results will be analyzed to measure the detectability and
accuracy of the alerts, comparing this data to predetermined performance criteria. The findings will be
documented and analyzed to validate the effectiveness of the system in preventing risks and improving road
safety.
2.1 Flowchart. - Figure II shows the process of running a prototype designed to notify emergencies and prevent
collisions over a specific distance range. It is divided into two main parts based on distance range:
Range from 2 to 100 cm (Collision): If the system detects a collision within this range, a call is made, and a
warning message is sent to the emergency contact configured in the programming, alerting to an accident.
Range of 101 to 150 cm (Collision Avoidance): If a potential collision is detected within this range, a caution
message is sent to the driver's contact to prevent an accident.
The flow highlights the importance of set distance ranges and the automatic actions the system takes based on detection,
prioritizing safety in both prevention and response to potential collisions.
Figure II. Flow chart of the prototype execution process.
2.2 Circuit Schematic. - To develop this project, an Arduino R3 board will be used, which will allow programming
and controlling several electronic components, as can be seen in Figure III. Among the materials to be used are a GSM
SIM900 board for mobile communication, a laptop to program and monitor the system, an operating chip, an LED
sensor, a 5V HC-SR04 4-pin ultrasonic sensor, a 4-pin pushbutton, a buzzer module, resistors, and a Protoboard board
to make the necessary connections.
1. Arduino Uno R3 Board
2. GSM SIM900 Board
3. Laptop
4. Operating chip
5. LED Diode Sensor
6. Ultrasonic Sensor 5v HC-SR04 4pin
7. 4-pin push button
8. Modulo buzzer zumbador
9. Resistance
10. Protoboard Board
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Figure III. Prototype of a design in Protoboard.
2.3 Data analysis methodology. - To start, the pins of the Arduino UNO R3 are related to those of the GSM board
SIM900L using a Headers pin, ensuring a correct union between the two. In addition, power was supplied via a power
cord to power the device. Once both boards were assembled, they were connected to the computer, and the
corresponding programming began. Figure IV shows the plate bonding scheme.
Figure IV. Arduino board and GSM board link scheme.
The stages described below correspond to phases 3 and 4 of the methodology. First, the linked boards, as shown in
Figure IV, are connected to the computer, and the appropriate development environment is opened. The necessary code
is typed or loaded into the IDE, then compiled and uploaded to the microcontroller. Once the programming has been
successfully uploaded, the green LED on the breadboard schematic in Figure III will light up, indicating that the system
is operating properly.
Next, manually turn on the GSM SIM 900 module, making sure that it is correctly connected to the microcontroller.
After a few seconds, when the GSM module has detected the signal, the red LED will light up, confirming that a signal
is available. Then, press the button connected to the microcontroller.
This action will turn on the yellow LED, indicating that the system has detected the activation of the button. At that
point, the ultrasonic sensor will begin to detect motion. The microcontroller will process the information from the
ultrasonic sensor to take the necessary actions according to the previously uploaded programming. All exposed
materials will be placed on the breadboard board, as shown in Figure V.
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Figure V. Protoboard scheme.
Once the Arduino and GSM boards have been connected, as shown in Figure III, all the sensors, modules, and resistors
are integrated into the breadboard. These components are interconnected by breadboard cables (jumpers) to establish
a functional and simulation-ready circuit.
The circuit in the breadboard, depicted in Figure V, includes a 5V ultrasonic sensor (HC-SR04, 4-pin), which acts as
a means of detecting movements based on the programmed distance. When the set thresholds are exceeded, the system
emits a warning sound through the buzzer and sends an SMS or makes a call to the pre-configured number.
Figure VI also shows the complete schematic of the circuit, detailing the connection between the GSM module, the
Arduino board, the buzzer, a proximity sensor, a pushbutton, resistors, and LEDs. All these components are connected
to a breadboard, powered with 9 volts for the amplifier and 3.3 volts for the sensor and the analog-to-digital converter,
ensuring the correct operation of the system.
Figure VI. Circuit diagram.
2.4 Schematic simulation methodology of the circuit compiled on an Arduino UNO R3 board. -
2.4.1 Programme implementation. - Figure VII shows the complete signaling process of the GSM module. Initially,
the program is entered without a signal, displaying the AT+CREG message, which indicates that the module is looking
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for a signal. Once the signal is established, the system transmits a message confirming "alarm fully initiated," and the
red LED lights up to indicate that the GSM module has been successfully connected and is ready to go.
Figure VII. Programmed implementation.
Figure VIII illustrates the connection of the GSM SIM900 module to the network. The red LED light confirms that the
module has established a network signal and is operational. This visual indicator shows that the GSM module is
properly integrated and ready to transmit data.
Figure VIII. Programmed implementation.
Figure IX illustrates the detection of a movement at 5 cm, which is within the predefined range of 2 to 100 cm. This
distance confirms that the detected object is in the specific range for which the system is designed to trigger alerts. The
correct identification of this distance within the set range is crucial for the accurate operation of the system, ensuring
that appropriate response measures are activated in emergencies.
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Figure IX. Collision detection.
Figure X illustrates the complete process that the system follows when detecting a collision using the ultrasonic sensor.
When the sensor detects a potential collision, the system immediately activates the emergency protocol, which includes
making a call to the pre-configured emergency contact. This call is made to quickly and effectively alert about the
incident, ensuring that help is requested without delay and increasing the chances of a timely response to the
emergency.
Figure X. Emergency call.
Figure XI illustrates the complete process after making an emergency call. Once the call has been made, the system
automatically sends a message to the emergency contact with the text "Warning! An accident has been detected." This
notification ensures that the emergency contact is immediately alerted to the critical situation, providing essential
information for rapid intervention.
Figure XI. Emergency message.
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Figure XII illustrates motion detection at different distances: 127, 123, 124, and 104 cm, all within the preset range of
101 to 150 cm. In these situations, the system is designed to send an alert message to the driver that says, "Watch out!
Take precautions." This message aims to warn the driver of a potential impending collision, allowing them to take
preventative measures to avoid an accident.
Figure XII. Collision avoidance message.
Figure XIII illustrates that the system sends a warning message to the driver's contact. This message, transmitted
automatically, is crucial for the driver to be able to take proper precautions and avoid a potential collision. By receiving
this alert, the driver receives real-time information, allowing them to adjust their behavior and improve safety on the
road. The figure clearly shows how the system facilitates this vital communication, highlighting its role in accident
prevention by enabling a quick and effective response to potentially dangerous situations.
Figure XIII. A collision warning message addressed to the driver.
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4. Results. -
4.1 Distance analysis calculations and alert activation. -
Sound Speed Formula:
Distance formula:
(1)
Where:
t: Time it takes for the signal to go and return.
x: Total distance traveled by the signal (round trip).
v: Signal propagation speed, which in this case is the speed of sound.

 
(2)
Where:
v: The speed of sound in the air, expressed in
centimeters per second. It is considered 34000 cm/s (equivalent to 340 m/s).


  (3)
Where:
This is the conversion of the time it takes for a
signal to travel 1 cm (round trip) at a speed of 34000 cm/s. The result is 29,411 microseconds.
The signal goes back and forth therefore, half the distance will be taken.
Distance (cm)= 󰇛󰇛󰇜  󰇜󰇜 (4)
Distance (cm) = 󰇛󰇛󰇜 (5)
Distance (cm) =  󰇛󰇜  (6)
4.2 Simulation results. - In scenario 1, the moment when a collision occurs is captured within the range of 1 to 100
cm, specifically at 19 cm. At that proximity, the system activates, making a call and sending an SMS to the emergency
contact, notifying them of the collision and allowing an immediate response, as visualized in Figure XIV.
Figure XIV. Scenario 1: Collision message.
Table 1 presents the distances measured by the ultrasonic sensor, calculated using formula (6):
A column labeled "Collision" has been included, indicating whether the system detects a driver’s fall at a specific
distance. This data is essential for evaluating the system’s accuracy and effectiveness in identifying accidents.
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The system determines that an accident has occurred when it detects a helmet fall within the predefined range in the
programming (2 cm distance 100 cm). In this case, an emergency protocol is automatically activated, which
includes sending an SMS message and making a call to an emergency contact, alerting them about a potential collision.
This process is illustrated in Figures 9, 10, and 11.
Distance (cm) = Measured time
(μs) * 0.017
Distance
COLLISION
120
2.04
YES
600
10.20
YES
900
15.31
YES
1200
20.41
YES
1500
25.51
YES
1800
30.61
YES
2100
35.71
YES
2400
40.82
YES
2650
45.07
YES
2950
50.17
YES
3250
55.27
YES
3550
60.37
YES
3850
65.48
YES
4150
70.58
YES
4450
75.68
YES
4750
80.78
YES
5000
85.03
YES
5300
90.14
YES
5600
95.24
YES
5900
100.34
YES
Table 1. Collision results, applying the sound speed formula.
Figure XV provides a graphical representation of the data from Table 1, highlighting the direct relationship between
measured time in microseconds and distance travel. To enhance visualization, distances are presented in 5-cm
increments.
The graph illustrates that as time increases, distance also increases, suggesting a constant movement or a process in
which one variable is directly dependent on the other. Additionally, the figure indicates that when the distance falls
within the established range, a collision is detected.
Figure XV. Graphical representation of collision detection.
H. Santillán, C. López, K. García, D. Cárdenas
Memoria Investigaciones en Ingeniería, núm. 28 (2025). pp. 85-109
https://doi.org/10.36561/ING.28.8
ISSN 2301-1092 ISSN (en línea) 2301-1106 Universidad de Montevideo, Uruguay
98
Scenario 2 shows the moment when the system detects a potential collision at a distance of 114 cm, within the range
intended for collision avoidance. In this case, the system proceeds to send a collision avoidance message to the driver
to avoid the impact, as presented in Figure XVI.
With the integrated and processed circuit, the emergency alert is detected, reacting immediately to a possible fall.
Figure XVI. Scenario 2: Collision avoidance
Table 2 presents the distances measured by the ultrasonic sensor, calculated using formula (6). The system specifically
evaluates the distance range defined by the condition "else if (distance > 101 && distance <= 150)", which refers to a
proximity zone where the detection of an obstacle does not necessarily imply an immediate collision, but it could
represent a potential risk to the driver. Within this range, the system interprets that the driver must remain cautious and
be prepared to take corrective actions in case of an emergency.
Consequently, a warning message is triggered to alert the driver about the proximity of the object without a collision
occurring. In addition, an audible alarm is activated, reinforcing the visual alert and enhancing the visibility of the
impending danger. This system behavior is depicted in Figures 12, 13, 14, and 15, which provide a detailed illustration
of how the detection of this intermediate zone triggers the alert mechanisms for the user.
Distance (cm) = Measured
time (μs) * 0.017
COLLISION
5950
YES
6200
YES
6500
YES
6800
YES
7100
YES
7350
YES
7650
YES
7950
YES
8250
YES
8550
YES
8850
YES
Table 2. Collision avoidance results by applying the sound speed formula.
Figure XVII provides a graphical representation of the data shown in Table 2, illustrating the direct correlation between
the distances detected by the system and the time measured in microseconds. This relationship suggests that, as time
increases, the distance traveled also increases proportionally, reinforcing the notion that both parameters are closely
linked in the proximity measurement process.
To facilitate interpretation, distances are displayed in 5-cm increments, which enhances the visualization of variations
within the measurement range. The graph emphasizes that when distances fall within a specific range, a collision
avoidance message is triggered, indicating the presence of a potential risk. This preemptive alert is critical for the
driver to take the necessary precautions and avoid hazardous situations. The graphical analysis allows for a deeper
understanding of how distance and time interact in real-time within the detection process, showcasing the system’s
effectiveness in identifying potential threats.
H. Santillán, C. López, K. García, D. Cárdenas
Memoria Investigaciones en Ingeniería, núm. 28 (2025). pp. 85-109
https://doi.org/10.36561/ING.28.8
ISSN 2301-1092 ISSN (en línea) 2301-1106 Universidad de Montevideo, Uruguay
99
Figure XVII. Graphical representation of collision avoidance.
4.3 Experimental results: Non-collision scenarios. - In Scenario 3 it shows a minimum distance of 0 cm and then a
distance of 2 cm, where it begins to detect collisions. It is important to note that the minimum distances range from
0.02 to 1.96 cm, in which the system will not detect falls since they are outside the range established for detection, as
shown in Figure XVIII.
Figure XVIII. Scenario 3 Minimum distances.
Figure XIX illustrates a clearly defined trend line, demonstrating that as time, measured in microseconds, increases,
the detected distance also increases proportionally. However, distances fall within the range of 0.02 cm to 1.96 cm,
which is minimal and indicates that no significant movement is detected. This suggests that at these very short
distances, the sensor is unable to register any form of collision or impact, highlighting its limitations in detecting
objects within this range.
H. Santillán, C. López, K. García, D. Cárdenas
Memoria Investigaciones en Ingeniería, núm. 28 (2025). pp. 85-109
https://doi.org/10.36561/ING.28.8
ISSN 2301-1092 ISSN (en línea) 2301-1106 Universidad de Montevideo, Uruguay
100
Figure XIX. Graphic representation: No collision at minimum distances.
Scenario 4 has a maximum distance of 174 cm, as shown in Figure XX. It is important to note that the maximum
distances range from 151 to 177 cm, where the system will not be able to activate automatic alerts, this is caused
because they are outside the range established for detection.
Figure XX. Scenario 4 Maximum distances.
Figure XXI illustrates that at distances between 151 cm and 177 cm, the sensor fails to detect any motion. This
observation, also detailed in Table 4, suggests that the sensor's effective range for detecting collisions or impacts does
not extend within these distances, highlighting the limits of its detection capabilities outside the defined proximity
range for accurate monitoring.
H. Santillán, C. López, K. García, D. Cárdenas
Memoria Investigaciones en Ingeniería, núm. 28 (2025). pp. 85-109
https://doi.org/10.36561/ING.28.8
ISSN 2301-1092 ISSN (en línea) 2301-1106 Universidad de Montevideo, Uruguay
101
Figure XXI. Graphical representation: No collision at maximum distances.
Table 3 presents the results of 50 tests conducted to evaluate the performance of an emergency communication system
based on distance detection. The data includes key aspects such as the distance from the detected object or event (in
centimeters), the detection time (in seconds), the signal activation time, the SMS sending time, and the total time from
detection to SMS dispatch.
The total time, which is the sum of the individual times for detection, activation, and sending, shows significant
variation, ranging from 1.8 seconds at very short distances (e.g., 3 cm) to 10.6 seconds at longer distances (e.g., 149
cm). These variations are critical for assessing the system’s efficiency, particularly in emergencies where rapid
response is essential. This data helps evaluate the system's ability to process and communicate information effectively
in real time, offering insights into the timeliness and reliability of the system's emergency response.
COMMUNICATION EFFICIENCY TABLE
Test
Distance
(cm)
Detection Time(s)
Signal(s) activation
time
SMS Sending
Time(s)
Total
Time(s)
1
72
3.1
0.52
1.1
4.72
2
30
1.9
0.3
1.2
3.4
3
100
5.9
0.3
1.2