TITLE: Smart Accident Detection and Response System usng IoT and Machine Vision

INTRODUCTION

A vehicle accident detection and alert system is a vital solution to reduce the number of
accidents and fatalities on Zimbabwe's roads. The proposed system utilizes Computer Vision
techniques to detect accidents from images and videos captured by cameras installed in
vehicles or at accident-prone areas. By leveraging object detection algorithms, such as YOLO or
SSD, the system can identify objects like vehicles, pedestrians, or road signs, and analyze scenes
to determine the severity of an accident. Upon detecting an accident, the system sends real-
time alerts and notifications to emergency services and registered mobile numbers using GSM
and GPS modules. This integrated system aims to reduce response times, prevent accidents,
and minimize the severity of accidents when they occur.

LITERATURE REVIEW

A comprehensive review of existing literature on accident detection systems will be conducted

to identify gaps and areas for improvement. This will include an examination of various sensors
and technologies used in accident detection, such as cameras, GPS, and accelerometer sensors.
The review will also explore the application of machine learning algorithms in accident
detection and the use of IoT technologies in real-time alert systems.

BACKGROUND

Road accidents are a significant problem in Zimbabwe, resulting in thousands of injuries and
fatalities every year. According to the Zimbabwe Republic Police, there were 4,506 road
accidents in 2020, resulting in 1,804 injuries and 1,184 fatalities. Reckless driving, driver fatigue,
and poor vehicle maintenance are major contributing factors to these accidents. The economic
costs of road accidents are also significant, with lost productivity, medical expenses, and
property damage all contributing to the overall cost. To address this issue, the implementation
of accident detection systems that can detect accidents in real-time and alert emergency
services could be a potential solution to improve road safety and save lives.

AIM

To design and develop a machine vision-based accident detection and alert system for vehicles.

RESEARCH QUESTIONS
1. How can machine vision be leveraged to detect accidents in real-time?
- What computer vision algorithms can be used to detect accidents?
 - How can machine learning be integrated with machine vision to improve accident
detection?
2. What is the effectiveness of IoT technologies in real-time alert systems for accident
detection?
- How can IoT sensors be integrated with machine vision to improve accident detection?
- What are the benefits and limitations of using IoT technologies in real-time alert systems?
3. How can the accuracy of accident detection systems be optimized through sensor
integration?
- What sensors can be integrated with machine vision to improve accident detection?
- How can sensor data be fused to optimize the accuracy of accident detection systems?
OBJECTIVES

1. To design a machine vision-based vehicle accident detection system using computer vision
algorithms and sensor integration.

2. To develop a real-time alert system that utilizes machine vision to detect accidents and notify
emergency services and registered mobile numbers.

3. To optimize the accuracy of the accident detection system through the integration of
machine vision with multiple sensors, such as GPS, shock, and tilt sensors.

METHODOLOGY

This research project will employ the VDI 2206 Mechatronics Methodology, a structured
approach to the design and development of mechatronic systems. The methodology consists of
five phases:

1.Requirements Analysis: Identify the problem, define the system boundaries, determine the
system requirements, and create a requirements list.

2. Conceptual Design: Develop a functional structure, create a morphological box, select a

conceptual solution, and create a geometric model.

3. Embodiment Design: Develop a detailed design, select components, and create a geometric
model.

4. Detail Design: Develop a detailed geometric model, select materials, and develop a
production plan.

5. Testing and Validation: Develop a testing plan, conduct tests, and evaluate results.

JUSTIFICATION
1. The proposed system reduces delays in emergency response through its alarm and alert
system.

2. The proposed system functions effectively in remote, uninhabited areas, such as

mountainous regions, using GPS technology to provide precise accident locations.

3. The proposed system has mechanisms in place to protect drivers and passengers, including
cutting off the vehicle's power source to prevent fires and other catastrophes.

4. The proposed system is designed to be resilient and durable, with a fortified exterior made of
water-resistant metallic cases and flexible composite materials that are fire-resistant.

5. The proposed system utilizes machine vision to detect accidents and alert emergency
services, reducing the risk of human error and providing a rapid response to accidents. This
enables the system to detect accidents in real-time, even in situations where human observers
may not be present.

SCOPE

Reducing Delays: The system uses sensors, including cameras, to quickly detect accidents and
send alerts to emergency services, reducing response time.

Functioning in Remote Areas: The system uses GPS technology to provide precise accident
locations, even in remote areas with no inhabitants.

Protecting Occupants: The system monitors occupant condition, including seatbelt use and
airbag deployment, and provides alerts to emergency services to prioritize medical attention.

System Resilience: The system is designed to be resilient and durable, with a fortified exterior
and backup power source, ensuring it can function even in harsh environments.

Machine Vision: The system utilizes machine vision through cameras to detect potential
hazards and accidents, enabling rapid response and reducing the risk of human error.

EXPECTED OUTCOMES

The proposed system aims to achieve the following outcomes:

1. Reduced response times: Reduce response times to road accidents in Zimbabwe through the
use of real-time alerts and notifications.

2. Improved road safety: Improve road safety in Zimbabwe by detecting accidents and alerting
emergency services in real-time.
3. Enhanced emergency response: Enhance emergency response to road accidents in Zimbabwe
by providing accurate and timely information to emergency services.

RESOURCES

1. Hardware: Raspberry Pi, cameras, sensors, and GPS modules.

2. Software: Computer vision libraries and machine learning algorithms.

3. Personnel: Researcher, supervisor, and technical support staff.

4. Budget: Estimated budget for hardware, software, and personnel costs.

TIMELINE

The project is expected to be completed within 12 months, with the following milestones:

1. Literature review and system design(3 months)

2. System development and testing(6 months)

3. Results analysis and reporting (3 months)