Driving assistance device and procedure

The present invention relates to an integrated hardware and software system designed to enhance Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) capabilities in vehicles. The system complements the vehicle's existing visual systems by adding real-time sound detection and analysis capabilities. It consists of strategically placed microphones around the vehicle that capture sounds from the surrounding environment. These sound data are processed by specific hardware and dedicated software, which analyze the direction, distance, movement, and proximity of sound sources, particularly those of interest, such as emergency vehicle sirens or other relevant events for driving safety. Safe driving depends not only on the driver's visual perception but also on their ability to detect and appropriately respond to auditory signals, such as emergency vehicle sirens, car horns, etc. In many situations where an emergency vehicle is trying to make its way through traffic, drivers do not clearly perceive the sound and are almost never able to distinguish the direction it is coming from. This is due to increasingly better interior insulation in vehicles, or the playback of music inside the vehicle. These situations can create stress and lead to incorrect driver reactions. In some next-generation vehicles, visual systems using cameras are employed, but they only detect very close vehicles and are not useful for the mentioned use cases. ADAS systems with accurate auditory information could reduce the risk of accidents and improve road safety. The present invention, therefore, addresses the development of a comprehensive solution that complements other ADAS systems in a vehicle, providing the driver with relevant auditory information for safer and more efficient driving.