A control method and device of a variable lane sign

Abstract

The application provides a control method and device of a variable lane sign, relates to the technical field of electronics, and realizes low-cost, saving of manpower and material resources, and reduction of control risks of the variable lane sign control. The scheme comprises the following steps: obtaining reference information of the variable lane sign; the reference information is generated internally by a control unit, or the reference information is input by a user, or the reference information is sent by a remote network device; the reference information is used for indicating a target pattern displayed by the variable lane sign; the target pattern is any one of a plurality of patterns supported by the variable lane sign; a target terminal output level information corresponding to the target pattern of the variable lane sign is controlled, so that the variable lane sign displays the target pattern; and the target terminal is an output terminal connected to the target pattern of the variable lane sign in a driving circuit.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to the field of electronic technology, in particular to a control method and device of a variable lane sign. BACKGROUND

[0002] In recent years, with the continuous increase of traffic flow, the phenomenon of road congestion is more and more frequent, mostly caused by the mismatch between the configured lane and the actual traffic flow. For example, a large number of vehicles are queued in the left-turn lane, while there are only a few vehicles running in the multiple straight lanes.

[0003] In order to solve the problem of lane congestion, a new type of variable lane emerges as the times require. The variable lane refers to a lane that can adjust the direction of traffic. The direction of traffic of the variable lane can be changed at any time according to the traffic flow. The variable lane sign can be set to display the direction of traffic of the variable lane.

[0004] The control mode of the variable lane sign is usually determined by the hardware function of the variable lane sign itself. Some intelligent variable lane signs have control modules, and do not need to be connected with external controllers (such as traffic signal control machines) to complete the control instructions and display the contents corresponding to the control instructions. Other variable lane signs do not have control modules, only have simple display pattern functions, and need to be matched with variable lane controllers to send control instructions (or send control instructions to the traffic signal control machine that controls the traffic signal) by the variable lane controller, so that the variable lane sign displays the contents corresponding to the control instructions.

[0005] Obviously, the variable lane sign with a control module has high cost, and needs an additional control system for regulation and control to make the variable lane sign display the contents corresponding to the control instructions. For the variable lane sign controlled by the variable lane controller, although the cost of such variable lane sign is relatively low (only needs to be simple), the cost of the variable lane controller is relatively high, and a variable lane controller needs to be installed at each intersection to control the variable lane sign at the intersection, which consumes high labor and material resources. In addition, the variable lane controller needs to be connected with a data platform to obtain traffic flow to determine the control instruction, or needs to be connected with a traffic signal control machine to issue the control instruction. Once the connection between the devices fails, the control function may fail, increasing the control risk. SUMMARY

[0006] The present application provides a control method and device of a variable lane sign, which realizes low-cost, saves labor and material resources, and reduces the control risk of the variable lane sign.

[0007] To achieve the above purpose, the present application adopts the following technical solutions:

[0008] In a first aspect, the application provides a control method of a variable lane sign, applied to a control unit arranged in a traffic signal controller. The traffic signal controller can further include a driving circuit configured to determine a level information of an output terminal according to a control instruction input by the control unit, so that the traffic signal lamp displays different light colors and the variable lane sign displays different patterns. The driving circuit is connected to the control unit through a communication bus, and is electrically connected to the traffic signal lamp and the variable lane sign through the output terminal. The method can include: the control unit acquires reference information of the variable lane sign, the reference information being generated internally by the control unit, or input by a user, or sent by a remote network device; the reference information is used to indicate a target pattern displayed by the variable lane sign. The target pattern is any one of a plurality of patterns supported by the variable lane sign. The control unit controls a target terminal output level information corresponding to the target pattern of the variable lane sign, so that the variable lane sign displays the target pattern. The target terminal is an output terminal in the driving circuit connected to the target pattern of the variable lane sign.

[0009] According to the scheme provided by the application, the control unit arranged in the traffic signal controller controls the target terminal output level information corresponding to the target pattern of the variable lane sign according to the reference information generated internally or input by the user or sent remotely, and uses the driving circuit of the traffic signal controller to control the traffic signal lamp to display different light colors. In this way, the driving circuit of the traffic signal controller is used to control the variable lane sign to display the target pattern, without the need to deploy a variable lane controller at each intersection, thereby saving manpower and material costs.

[0010] In addition, the way of controlling the variable lane sign to display the target pattern only has one level of connection (the traffic signal controller and the variable lane sign, which is different from the two levels of connection required to control the variable lane sign to display the target pattern), which greatly reduces the control risk caused by connection failure. At the same time, the variable lane sign itself does not need to have a control module / system (a high-cost variable lane sign), thereby saving the material cost of erecting the variable lane sign at the intersection.

[0011] Further, the traffic signal controller for controlling the traffic signal lamp is a device already deployed at the current intersection, and has stable control performance. Therefore, the original control architecture of the control system of the traffic signal controller is used to control the variable lane sign to display the target pattern, thereby ensuring the stability of the control of the variable lane sign.

[0012] One possible implementation involves using a preset control strategy within the control unit as reference information. This strategy includes the patterns displayed on the variable lane signs during different control periods. Obtaining the reference information for the variable lane signs includes acquiring the current time. The pattern displayed on the variable lane signs during the control period specified in the control strategy is used as the target pattern. In this way, by using the preset control strategy within the control unit, the traffic signal controller can independently control the patterns displayed on the variable lane signs according to different dates, time periods, and varying cycles, based on the preset control strategy within the control unit.

[0013] As one possible implementation, the traffic signal controller also includes a human-machine interface module. Reference information includes a first command input by the user through the human-machine interface module, which instructs the variable lane sign to display a target pattern. The method for obtaining reference information about the variable lane sign includes receiving the first command input by the user through the human-machine interface module. In this way, the user can, according to actual needs, use the first command input through the human-machine interface module to cause the variable lane sign to display a specified pattern, thereby alleviating traffic congestion.

[0014] As one possible implementation, the reference information includes a second instruction sent by a remote network device, which instructs the variable lane sign to display a target pattern. The traffic signal controller also includes a network communication module to acquire the reference information of the variable lane sign, including receiving the second instruction sent by the remote network device via the network communication module. In this way, receiving the second instruction from the remote network device via the network communication module allows for remote control of the variable lane sign to display the target pattern, eliminating the need for on-site personnel to perform adjustments.

[0015] As one possible implementation, the remote network device can refer to a remote network device deployed in a computer room or centralized site that can control traffic signal controllers at multiple intersections, which is different from the devices deployed at the intersections.

[0016] For example, a remote network device is a traffic management server. A traffic management server can manage traffic signal controllers at hundreds of intersections. Based on big data analysis, the traffic management server can predict the peak traffic hours and optimal traffic directions for each intersection.

[0017] As one possible implementation, the reference information includes multiple options such as preset control strategies, user-input commands, and commands sent by remote network devices. Different reference information has different priorities, and the target pattern is the pattern indicated by the reference information with the highest priority. When multiple reference information is acquired simultaneously, the target pattern displayed on the variable lane sign is the one indicated by the reference information with the highest priority. In this way, this solution can acquire multiple different reference information, meaning it is compatible with multiple control methods, and the target pattern can be determined based on the priority of the reference information acquired by different control methods.

[0018] As one possible implementation, before controlling the output level information of the target terminal corresponding to the target pattern of the variable lane sign, the method may further include: controlling the flashing of the currently displayed pattern on the variable lane sign for a preset duration. In this way, before the variable lane sign switches its displayed pattern, controlling the flashing of the displayed pattern for a preset duration serves as a notification to external users that the variable lane sign is about to switch road direction indications, thus facilitating the clearing of the variable lane.

[0019] As one possible implementation, controlling the output level information of the target terminal corresponding to the target pattern of the variable lane sign includes: sending a first control command to the drive circuit via a communication bus, wherein the first control command is used to instruct the drive circuit to output level information at the target terminal.

[0020] As one possible implementation, the aforementioned drive circuit includes one or more terminal groups, each containing multiple terminals. The variable lane sign is connected to the terminals of a target terminal group in the drive circuit. When different terminals in the target terminal group output level information, the variable lane sign displays different patterns. The aforementioned control unit is configured with a light color conflict function, which controls a terminal group to output level information only at a time. The target terminal is the terminal in the aforementioned target terminal group that corresponds to the target pattern.

[0021] As one possible implementation, the above level information may include: high level, or low level, or others.

[0022] Secondly, this application provides a control device for a variable lane sign, which is deployed in a traffic signal controller used to control traffic lights. The traffic signal controller may further include a drive circuit, which determines the level information of its output terminals based on control commands input to the device, so that the traffic lights display different colors and the variable lane sign displays different patterns. The drive circuit is connected to the device via a communication bus, and is electrically connected to the traffic lights and the variable lane sign via the aforementioned output terminals. The device may include: an acquisition module for acquiring reference information of the variable lane sign. This reference information may be generated internally by the device, input by a user, or sent by a remote network device. The reference information is used to instruct the variable lane sign to display a target pattern, which is any one of a variety of patterns supported by the variable lane sign. A control module is used to control the output level information of the target terminal corresponding to the target pattern of the variable lane sign, so that the variable lane sign displays the target pattern. The target terminal is the output terminal of the drive circuit connected to the target pattern of the variable lane sign.

[0023] As one possible implementation, the aforementioned reference information represents a preset control strategy in the device, which includes the patterns displayed on the variable lane signs during different control periods. Specifically, the acquisition module is used to acquire the current time and use the pattern displayed on the variable lane signs during the control period specified in the control strategy as the target pattern.

[0024] As one possible implementation, the traffic signal controller also includes a human-machine interface module; the aforementioned reference information includes a first instruction input by the user through the human-machine interface module, the first instruction being used to instruct the variable lane sign to display a target pattern; the device may also include a receiving module for receiving the first instruction input by the user through the human-machine interface module.

[0025] As one possible implementation, the traffic signal controller also includes a network communication module; the aforementioned reference information includes a second instruction sent by a remote network device, the second instruction being used to instruct the variable lane sign to display a target pattern; the aforementioned receiving module is also used to receive the second instruction sent by the remote network device through the network communication module.

[0026] As one possible implementation, the reference information includes various types such as preset control strategies, user-input instructions, and instructions sent by remote network devices; different reference information has different priorities, and the target pattern is the pattern indicated by the reference information with the highest priority.

[0027] As one possible implementation, the control module is also used to control the flashing duration of the currently displayed pattern on the variable lane sign.

[0028] As one possible implementation, the device may also include a transmitting module for sending a first control command to the driving circuit via a communication bus, the first control command being used to instruct the driving circuit to output level information at the target terminal.

[0029] As one possible implementation, the aforementioned drive circuit includes one or more terminal groups, each containing multiple terminals. The variable lane sign is connected to the terminals of a target terminal group in the drive circuit. When different terminals in the target terminal group output level information, the variable lane sign displays different patterns. The aforementioned control unit is configured with a light color conflict function, which controls a terminal group to output level information only at a time. The target terminal is the terminal in the aforementioned target terminal group that corresponds to the target pattern.

[0030] As one possible implementation, the level information can include: high level, or low level, or others.

[0031] Thirdly, this application provides a server comprising one or more processors and one or more memories; the one or more memories are coupled to one or more processors, and the one or more memories are used to store computer program code, the computer program code including computer instructions, and when the one or more processors execute the computer instructions, the server performs the control method of the first aspect and any of its possible variable lane signs.

[0032] Fourthly, this application provides a computer-readable storage medium storing computer instructions that, when executed on a server, cause the server to perform control methods for variable lane signs as described in the first aspect and any of its possible methods.

[0033] Fifthly, this application provides a computer program product including computer instructions that, when executed on a server, cause the server to perform a control method for a variable lane sign as described in the first aspect and any of its possible methods. Attached Figure Description

[0034] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a scenario for an existing variable lane sign control system;

[0035] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a variable lane sign control system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0036] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a variable lane sign control system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0037] Figure 4A circuit connection diagram of a variable lane sign provided for an embodiment of this application;

[0038] Figure 5 A flowchart illustrating a control method for a variable lane sign provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0039] Figure 6 A flowchart illustrating another control method for a variable lane sign provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0040] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the structure of a control device for a variable lane sign provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0041] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the structure of another control device for a variable lane sign provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0042] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a server provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0043] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0044] In this article, the term "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that there can be three relationships. For example, A and / or B can represent three situations: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, and B exists alone.

[0045] The terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, "multiple" means two or more. Furthermore, "at least one" means one or more, and "multiple" means two or more.

[0046] It should be noted that, in this application, the terms "exemplary" or "for example" are used to indicate that something is being described as an example, illustration, or illustration. Any embodiment or design described as "exemplary" or "for example" in this application should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or design solutions. Specifically, the use of terms such as "exemplary" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a concrete manner.

[0047] As described in the background section, existing variable lane sign control systems, such as Figure 1 As shown, the variable lane controller 101 is connected to the first drive circuit 1021 of the traffic signal controller 102, and the variable lane controller 101 sends control commands to the first drive circuit 1021 of the traffic signal controller 102. The variable lane sign 103 is connected to the traffic signal controller 102 through the first drive circuit 1021, and the first drive circuit 1021 of the traffic signal controller 102 outputs level information to the variable lane sign 103, so that the variable lane sign 103 displays the target pattern. The traffic light controller 1022 of the traffic signal controller 102 is connected to the second drive circuit 1023, and the traffic light controller 1022 sends control commands to the second drive circuit 1023. The traffic light 104 is connected to the traffic light controller 1022 through the second drive circuit 1023, and the second drive circuit 1023 of the traffic signal controller 102 outputs level information to the traffic light 104, so that the traffic light 104 displays the target light color. Obviously, the above solution requires data interaction between the variable lane controller 101 and the traffic signal controller 102, and then the first drive circuit 1021 of the traffic signal controller 102 outputs level information to the variable lane sign 103 so that the traffic signal controller 102 controls the variable lane sign 103 to display the target pattern.

[0048] Based on this, this application provides a control method for a variable lane sign, applied to a control unit deployed in a traffic signal controller. The control unit acquires reference information about the variable lane sign, which may be generated internally by the control unit, input by a user, or sent by a remote network device, to enable the variable lane sign to display a target pattern. Using the solution provided in this application, the control unit deployed in the traffic signal controller, based on internally generated reference information, user-input reference information, or remotely transmitted reference information, utilizes the driving circuit of the traffic signal controller to control the traffic lights to display different colors, and controls the output level information of the target terminal corresponding to the target pattern of the variable lane sign. In this way, by utilizing the existing driving circuit of the traffic signal controller to control the traffic lights to display different colors, the variable lane sign can be controlled to display the target pattern, eliminating the need to deploy variable lane controllers at each intersection, saving manpower and material costs. Furthermore, the method of controlling the variable lane sign to display the target pattern involves only one level of connection (the traffic signal controller and the variable lane sign, distinct from...). Figure 1The control of the variable lane sign to display the target pattern requires a two-level connection between the variable lane sign and the traffic signal controller, which greatly reduces the control risk caused by connection failure. At the same time, the variable lane sign does not need to have its own control module / system (which would result in high-cost variable lane signs), saving material costs for installing variable lane signs at intersections.

[0049] Furthermore, the traffic signal controller used to control traffic lights is an existing device deployed at the intersection, and its control performance is stable. Therefore, by utilizing the existing control architecture of the traffic signal controller's control system, the target pattern displayed on the variable lane sign can be controlled, thereby ensuring the stability of the variable lane sign control.

[0050] The application scenarios of the embodiments of this application will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0051] The solutions provided in the embodiments of this application can be applied to... Figure 2 In the illustrated variable lane control system. (For example...) Figure 2 As shown, the variable lane control system includes: a traffic signal controller 201, a variable lane sign 202, and a traffic light 203.

[0052] The variable lane sign 202 is an electronic display board with multiple traffic direction patterns (left turn, straight ahead, etc.). The traffic signal controller 201 controls the traffic lights 203 to display red, green, and yellow lights. The traffic signal controller 201 also controls the variable lane sign 202 to display different direction patterns.

[0053] like Figure 2 As shown, the traffic signal controller 201 may include a control unit 2011 and a drive circuit 2012. The control unit 2011 is connected to the drive circuit 2012 via a communication bus and is used to control the output level of the output terminal of the drive circuit 2012 connected to the traffic light 203, so that the traffic light 203 displays the color indicated by the control command. The control unit 2011 can also be used to control the output level of the output terminal of the drive circuit 2012 connected to the variable lane sign 202, so that the variable lane sign 202 displays different directional patterns.

[0054] As one possible implementation, the control unit 2011 can be a central processing unit (CPU), a network processor (NP), a digital signal processor (DSP), a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a programmable logic device (PLD), or any combination thereof. The control unit 2011 can also be any other device with processing capabilities, such as a circuit, device, or software module. The control unit 2011 can be used to select timing schemes according to different traffic demand periods, execute traffic light color changes, monitor color conflicts, and monitor power supply voltage, among other functions.

[0055] As one possible implementation, the control unit 2011 is equipped with a human-machine interaction module, which allows users to adjust the control mode of the control unit 2011 according to the actual traffic conditions.

[0056] Specifically, the control unit 2011 can execute the scheme provided in this application to control the variable lane sign 202 to display different directional patterns. The specific implementation of the control unit 2011 can be found in the detailed description of the embodiments of this application below, and will not be repeated here.

[0057] As one possible implementation, the driver circuit 2012 can be a lamp phase output unit.

[0058] As an example, such as Figure 3 As shown, the traffic signal controller 201 may include a control unit 2011 and a drive circuit 2012, which is a lamp phase output unit. The lamp phase output unit can control the on / off state of light bulbs and includes several sets of controllable red, yellow, and green components. Each lamp phase output unit can provide controllable red, yellow, and green components for motor vehicles and red and green components for pedestrians and non-motorized vehicles to control the on / off state of the corresponding light bulb. The output terminals of the lamp phase output units are connected to the variable lane sign 202 and the traffic light 203. The output terminals connected to the variable lane sign 202 and the traffic light 203 are different. The control unit 2011 controls the output level of the output terminals of the lamp phase output units via a communication bus to control the variable lane sign 202 to display different directional patterns, or to control the traffic light 203 to display red, green, and yellow light colors.

[0059] It should be noted that, Figure 2 and Figure 3 The number and form factor of the various devices included in the variable lane control system shown can be configured according to actual needs. Figure 2 and Figure 3This is merely an example and does not limit the structure of the system.

[0060] The technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will now be described with reference to other accompanying drawings.

[0061] Before describing the specific solution provided in this application, the circuit connection between the traffic signal controller and the variable lane sign will be described first.

[0062] Assume the variable lane sign supports displaying N patterns, labeled Pattern 1 to Pattern N. The external interface of the variable lane sign has N terminals, each corresponding to one of the N images. These N terminals can be connected to N idle output terminals of a traffic signal controller. These N idle output terminals belong to the same terminal group within the traffic signal controller, and only one terminal in each terminal group outputs a power level signal at any given time. When a terminal is powered on, the variable lane sign displays the pattern corresponding to that powered terminal.

[0063] For example, such as Figure 4 The diagram shows an example of the circuit connection for a variable lane sign. The traffic signal controller 201 includes a control unit 2011 and a drive circuit 2012. The variable lane sign 202 supports displaying two patterns: Pattern 1 (straight ahead) and Pattern 2 (left turn). The external interface of the variable lane sign 202 has two terminals, terminal a and terminal b. When terminal a is powered on, Pattern 1 (straight ahead) is displayed; when terminal b is powered on, Pattern 2 (left turn) is displayed. One terminal group A of the drive circuit 2012, consisting of A1, A2, and A3, is connected to the red, yellow, and green output terminals of the traffic signal light 203, respectively. The other terminal group B of the drive circuit 2012, consisting of B1, B2, and B3, connects B1 to terminal a of the variable lane sign 202 and B3 to terminal b of the variable lane sign 202. When the control unit 2011 of the traffic signal controller 201 outputs a level signal to terminal B1 of the drive circuit 2012, the variable lane sign 202 displays pattern 1 (straight ahead); when the control unit 2011 of the traffic signal controller 201 outputs a level signal to terminal B3 of the drive circuit 2012, the variable lane sign 202 displays pattern 2 (left turn). When the control unit 2011 of the traffic signal controller 201 inputs a level signal to terminal A1 of the drive circuit 2012, the traffic light 203 illuminates red; when the control unit 2011 of the traffic signal controller 201 inputs a level signal to terminal A2 of the drive circuit 2012, the traffic light 203 illuminates yellow; and when the control unit 2011 of the traffic signal controller 201 inputs a level signal to terminal A3 of the drive circuit 2012, the traffic light 203 illuminates green.

[0064] As one possible implementation, the aforementioned drive circuit includes one or more terminal groups, each containing multiple terminals. The variable lane sign is connected to the terminals of a target terminal group in the drive circuit. When different terminals in the target terminal group output level information, the variable lane sign displays different patterns. The aforementioned control unit is configured with a light color conflict function, which controls a terminal group to output level information only at any given time. The target terminal is the terminal in the target terminal group that corresponds to the target pattern.

[0065] In real-world scenarios, traffic signal controllers actually contain several of the aforementioned color-coded terminal groups (i.e., output terminals of the drive circuit) used to control the colors of traffic lights (red, green, and yellow). Each color-coded terminal group has three terminals for connecting different colors of traffic lights. In the industry, the three terminals in a color-coded terminal group are typically referred to as the red light terminal, yellow light terminal, and green light terminal. The red light terminal of the traffic signal controller is connected to the terminal that controls and displays the red light on the traffic light, while the other two terminals are connected according to their respective colors.

[0066] It is worth noting that, because the traffic signal controller itself has the function of detecting display light color conflicts, that is, only one light color terminal in one terminal group (3 light color terminals) of the drive circuit output has an output level information. The solution provided in this application, based on the above characteristics, uses a specific connection method (such as connecting the input terminal of the variable lane sign control display of straight pattern 1 to the green light terminal in a group of idle light color terminals of the traffic signal controller, and connecting the input terminal of the variable lane sign control display of left turn pattern 2 to the red light terminal in the same light color terminal group) so that when the variable lane sign displays a pattern, only one terminal receives the level information, avoiding the situation where the variable lane sign displays multiple patterns at the same time, causing traffic indication information disorder.

[0067] As an example, when a variable lane sign supports displaying two patterns, and the first pattern is a straight-ahead pattern, and the second pattern is any one of a left turn, right turn, straight-ahead plus left turn, or straight-ahead plus right turn pattern, the green light terminal of any terminal group of the traffic signal controller is connected to the terminal displaying the first pattern on the variable lane sign, and the red light terminal of any terminal group of the traffic signal controller is connected to the terminal displaying the second pattern on the variable lane sign.

[0068] As another example, when the variable lane sign supports displaying three patterns, and the first pattern is a straight-ahead pattern, the second pattern is a left-turn or right-turn pattern, and the third pattern is a straight-ahead plus left-turn or straight-ahead plus right-turn pattern, the green light terminal of any terminal group of the traffic signal controller is connected to the terminal of the variable lane sign displaying the first pattern, the red light terminal of the same terminal group is connected to the terminal of the variable lane sign displaying the second pattern, and the yellow light terminal of the same terminal group is connected to the terminal of the variable lane sign displaying the third pattern.

[0069] It is understood that the connection method between the variable lane sign and a set of light color terminal groups of the traffic signal controller can be adjusted according to the pattern type supported by the variable lane sign, and this application does not limit this.

[0070] For example, if a variable lane sign has three output terminals that support the display of three patterns, namely pattern 1 (straight ahead), pattern 2 (left turn), and pattern 3 (straight to left), then the terminal of pattern 1 (straight ahead) can be connected to the green light terminal of any available terminal group of the traffic signal controller, the terminal of pattern 2 (left turn) can be connected to the red light terminal of the aforementioned terminal group, and the terminal of pattern 3 (straight to left) can be connected to the yellow light terminal of the aforementioned terminal group to implement the solution provided in this application.

[0071] This application provides a control method for variable lane signs, which can be applied to... Figure 2 In the variable lane control system shown, a control unit is deployed within a traffic signal controller. This traffic signal controller may also include a drive circuit. The drive circuit determines the level information of the output terminals based on the control commands input from the control unit, thereby causing the traffic lights to display different colors and the variable lane signs to display different patterns. This drive circuit is connected to the control unit via a communication bus and is electrically connected to the traffic lights and variable lane signs via the aforementioned output terminals. The traffic signal controller can be... Figure 2 The traffic signal controller 201 shown can have a control unit that can be Figure 2 The control unit 2011 shown can have a drive circuit that can be Figure 2 The drive circuit 2012 shown can be used for variable lane signs. Figure 2 The variable lane sign 202 shown can have traffic lights that are... Figure 2 The traffic light shown is 203.

[0072] like Figure 5 As shown, the control method for variable lane signs provided in this application embodiment may include:

[0073] S501, The control unit obtains reference information from the variable lane sign, which is used to instruct the variable lane sign to display the target pattern.

[0074] The reference information can be generated internally by the control unit, input by the user, or sent by a remote network device. The target pattern can be any of the various patterns supported by the variable lane sign.

[0075] Specifically, methods for obtaining reference information about reversible lane signs may include, but are not limited to, the following:

[0076] Option 1: Reference information is generated internally by the control unit.

[0077] For example, the reference information may be a preset control strategy in the control unit, which includes the pattern displayed on the variable lane sign during different control periods.

[0078] When the control unit executes S501, the control unit can obtain the current time and use the pattern displayed on the variable lane sign during the control period in the control strategy as the target pattern.

[0079] For example, assume that the variable lane sign supports displaying two patterns: Pattern 1 for going straight and Pattern 2 for turning left. The control unit has a preset control strategy as shown in Table 1. Specifically, from 07:00:00 to 08:59:59, Pattern 1 and Pattern 2 of the variable lane sign are displayed alternately; that is, from 07:00:00 to 07:09:59, Pattern 1 for going straight (or Pattern 2 for turning left) is displayed, and from 07:10:00 to 07:19:59, Pattern 2 for turning left (or Pattern 1 for going straight) is displayed.

[0080] Table 1

[0081]

[0082] It should be noted that the preset control strategy in the control unit shown in Table 1 is only for understanding this scheme. The specific control strategy can be set according to the actual situation. This application does not limit the content and format of the preset control strategy.

[0083] Furthermore, the control strategy may also include the patterns displayed on the variable lane signs during different control periods on different dates.

[0084] It is understandable that when the traffic signal controller is operating independently (such as when the network is down or there is an abnormality in data interaction with external devices), the traffic signal controller can control the display patterns of the variable lane signs according to different dates, time periods, and cycles, based on the preset control strategy in the control unit.

[0085] Option 2 includes a human-machine interaction module for the traffic signal controller, where reference information is input by the user.

[0086] In Scheme 2, the reference information includes a first command input by the user through the human-machine interaction module, which instructs the variable lane sign to display the target pattern. When the control unit executes S501, it acquires the reference information of the variable lane sign, including receiving the first command input by the user through the human-machine interaction module.

[0087] For example, suppose the traffic flow in the northbound straight lane at an intersection is heavy, and the variable lane sign is currently displaying a left-turn icon. Traffic coordinators can use the control panel or remote control of the traffic signal controller at that intersection to input a first command into the traffic signal controller. The first command is for the variable lane sign 1 to display a straight-ahead icon for 7 minutes. The traffic signal controller's human-machine interface module receives the input first command as reference information.

[0088] Option 3: Reference information is sent by a remote network device.

[0089] In Option 3, the reference information includes a second instruction sent by a remote network device, which instructs the variable lane sign to display the target pattern.

[0090] Correspondingly, the traffic signal controller may also include a network communication module. When the control unit executes S501, it receives a second instruction sent by a remote network device as reference information through the network communication module.

[0091] It should be noted that the remote network device in this solution refers to a remote network device deployed in a computer room or centralized site that can control traffic signal controllers at multiple intersections, which is different from the device deployed at the intersections themselves. Common remote network devices include traffic management servers. A single traffic management server can manage traffic signal controllers at hundreds of intersections. Based on big data analysis, the traffic management server can predict peak traffic times and optimal traffic guidance routes for each intersection.

[0092] For example, suppose the variable lane sign 'a' at an intersection heading north has both straight and left-turn patterns. Based on big data analysis from the traffic management server, it is determined that the left-turn lane at this intersection may experience congestion between 18:00 and 18:20 on that day. Variable lane sign 'a' indicating a left-turn lane can alleviate traffic pressure near the intersection. The traffic management server sends a second instruction via the network to the traffic signal controller at the intersection. This second instruction instructs variable lane sign 'a' to display a left-turn pattern for 20 minutes. The control unit of the traffic signal controller receives this second instruction from a remote network device as reference information via a network communication module.

[0093] Of course, the above three methods for obtaining reference information from variable lane signs are only illustrative examples. In practical applications, the content and method of obtaining the reference information can be configured according to actual needs, and this application embodiment does not limit them.

[0094] In one possible implementation, the control unit can execute any of the above-described schemes for acquiring reference information of the variable lane sign in order to determine the target image.

[0095] In another possible implementation, the control unit is configured with multiple schemes for acquiring reference information, with different reference information having different priorities, and the target pattern being the pattern indicated by the reference information with the highest priority.

[0096] For example, the priorities of different reference information are as follows: the reference information input by the user has the highest priority, the reference information sent by the remote network device has the second highest priority, and the preset strategy generated inside the control unit has the lowest priority.

[0097] S502, The control unit controls the output level information of the target terminal corresponding to the target pattern of the variable lane sign so that the variable lane sign can display the target pattern.

[0098] The target terminal is the output terminal in the drive circuit that connects to the target pattern of the variable lane sign.

[0099] As one possible implementation, the level information may include: a high level, or a low level, or other preset level values.

[0100] For example, the circuit design of the variable lane sign is to light up when the level is low. The control unit controls the terminal corresponding to the target pattern of the variable lane sign to output a low level, so that the variable lane sign displays the target pattern.

[0101] It should be noted that the level information output by the target terminal corresponding to the target pattern of the variable lane sign controlled by the control unit is determined by the circuit design of the variable lane sign. Those skilled in the art can easily adjust the type of output level information according to the actual situation, so this application does not limit it.

[0102] The solution provided in this application allows the control unit deployed in the traffic signal controller to control the drive circuits that display different colors of traffic lights based on internally generated reference information, user-input reference information, or remotely transmitted reference information. This, in turn, controls the output level information of the target terminal corresponding to the target pattern on the variable lane sign. In this way, by utilizing the existing drive circuits of the traffic signal controller to control the display of different colors of traffic lights, the display of the target pattern on the variable lane sign is controlled, eliminating the need for variable lane controllers deployed at each intersection and saving manpower and material costs. Furthermore, the method of controlling the display of the target pattern on the variable lane sign involves only one level of connection (the traffic signal controller and the variable lane sign, distinct from...). Figure 1 The control of the variable lane sign to display the target pattern requires a two-level connection between the variable lane sign and the traffic signal controller, which greatly reduces the control risk caused by connection failure. At the same time, the variable lane sign does not need to have its own control module / system (which would result in high-cost variable lane signs), saving material costs for installing variable lane signs at intersections.

[0103] Furthermore, the traffic signal controller used to control traffic lights is an existing device deployed at the intersection, and its control performance is stable. Therefore, by utilizing the existing control architecture of the traffic signal controller's control system, the target pattern displayed on the variable lane sign can be controlled, thereby ensuring the stability of the variable lane sign control.

[0104] Specifically, the drive circuit of the traffic signal controller can be a lamp phase output unit. The lamp phase output unit can be... Figure 3 The driving circuit in 2012. The lamp phase output unit and the control unit are deployed in the traffic signal controller and connected via a communication bus. The lamp phase output unit is electrically connected to the traffic lights and variable lane signs via output terminals.

[0105] The lamp phase output unit is used to determine the output level of the output terminal according to the control command input by the control unit. The target terminal is the output terminal on the lamp phase output unit that is connected to the target pattern of the variable lane sign, and controls the output level information of the target terminal corresponding to the target pattern of the variable lane sign.

[0106] In one possible implementation, the control unit sends a first control command to the lamp phase output unit via a controller area network (CAN) bus, causing the lamp phase output unit to output level information at the target terminal according to the first control command. The lamp phase output unit, through an electrical connection with the variable lane sign, outputs level information at the target terminal according to the first control command.

[0107] For example, in such Figure 3In the control system of the variable lane sign shown, the control unit 2011 sends a first control command to the drive circuit 2012 via the CAN bus. The first control command is used to instruct the drive circuit 2012 to output level information at the terminal connected to pattern 1 of the variable lane control sign 202, so that the variable lane control sign 202 displays pattern 1.

[0108] Furthermore, such as Figure 6 As shown, the variable lane sign control method provided in this application embodiment may further include S503:

[0109] S503, the control unit controls the flashing time of the currently displayed pattern on the variable lane sign.

[0110] The preset duration can be set according to actual needs.

[0111] As an example, when the pattern displayed on the variable lane sign changes from pattern 1 to pattern 2, 15 seconds before the change is executed, the control unit controls the currently displayed pattern 1 on the variable lane sign to flash for 15 seconds to remind the user that the variable lane is about to change direction and that they should not continue driving in the variable lane. The control unit controlling the flashing of pattern 1 on the variable lane sign can be achieved by the control unit periodically outputting level information to the terminal corresponding to pattern 1 on the variable lane sign, causing the variable lane sign to flash pattern 1. It should be noted that the flashing frequency can be set according to actual conditions and is not limited here.

[0112] As can be seen, the above mainly describes the technical solutions provided by the embodiments of this application from a methodological perspective. To achieve the functions, the embodiments of this application provide corresponding hardware structures and / or software modules for executing each function. Those skilled in the art should readily recognize that, in conjunction with the modules and algorithm steps of the various examples described in the embodiments disclosed herein, the embodiments of this application can be implemented in hardware or a combination of hardware and computer software. Whether a function is executed in hardware or by computer software driving hardware depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this invention.

[0113] This application embodiment can divide the control unit into functional modules according to the above method example. For example, each function can be divided into a separate functional module, or two or more functions can be integrated into one processing module. The integrated module can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional module. Optionally, the module division in this application embodiment is illustrative and only represents one logical functional division; other division methods may be used in actual implementation.

[0114] This application provides a control device for a variable lane sign, such as... Figure 7 As shown, the control device 70 for the variable lane sign is deployed in a traffic signal controller, which controls traffic lights. The traffic signal controller may also include a drive circuit, which determines the level information of the output terminals based on the control commands input by the control device, so that the traffic lights display different colors and the variable lane sign displays different patterns. The drive circuit is connected to the control device via a communication bus, and is electrically connected to the traffic lights and the variable lane sign via the aforementioned output terminals. The control device 70 for the variable lane sign may include an acquisition module 701 and a control module 702.

[0115] The acquisition module 701 can be used to acquire reference information of the variable lane sign. This reference information may be generated internally by the device, input by the user, or sent by a remote network device. The reference information is used to instruct the variable lane sign to display a target pattern, which is any one of a variety of patterns supported by the variable lane sign. For example, the acquisition module 701 can be used to support the control device 70 of the variable lane sign in execution. Figure 5 or Figure 6 The process of S501.

[0116] The control module 702 can be used to control the output level information of the target terminal corresponding to the target pattern of the variable lane sign, so that the variable lane sign displays the target pattern. The target terminal is the output terminal on the drive circuit that is connected to the target pattern of the variable lane sign. For example, the control module 702 can be used to support the execution of the control device 70 of the variable lane sign. Figure 5 or Figure 6 The process of S502.

[0117] Furthermore, such as Figure 8 As shown, the control device 70 of the variable lane sign may further include a receiving module 703 and a transmitting module 704.

[0118] As one possible implementation, the aforementioned reference information is a preset control strategy in the control device 70 of the variable lane sign, which includes the patterns displayed on the variable lane sign during different control periods. The aforementioned acquisition module 701 can specifically be used to acquire the current time and use the pattern displayed on the variable lane sign during the control period in which the current time falls, as the target pattern, as specified in the control strategy.

[0119] As one possible implementation, the traffic signal controller also includes a human-machine interface module; the aforementioned reference information includes a first command input by the user through the human-machine interface module, the first command being used to instruct the variable lane sign to display a target pattern. The aforementioned receiving module 703 can be used to receive the first command input by the user through the human-machine interface module.

[0120] As another possible implementation, the traffic signal controller also includes a network communication module; the aforementioned reference information includes a second instruction sent by a remote network device, the second instruction being used to instruct the variable lane sign to display a target pattern. The aforementioned receiving module 703 can also be used to receive the second instruction sent by the remote network device via the network communication module.

[0121] As one possible implementation, the reference information includes various types such as preset control strategies, user-input instructions, and instructions sent by remote network devices; different reference information has different priorities, and the target pattern is the pattern indicated by the reference information with the highest priority.

[0122] As one possible implementation, the control module 702 can also be used to control the flashing duration of the currently displayed pattern on the variable lane sign. For example, the control module 702 can be used to support the control device 70 of the variable lane sign in performing its functions. Figure 6 The process of S503.

[0123] As one possible implementation, the control device 70 of the variable lane sign may also include a sending module 704, which can be used to send a first control command to the drive circuit via a communication bus. The first control command is used to instruct the drive circuit to output level information at the target terminal.

[0124] As one possible implementation, the level information can include either a high level or a low level.

[0125] Furthermore, an embodiment of this application provides a schematic diagram of the structure of a server, as shown below. Figure 9 As shown, the server 90 may include a processor 901, and optionally, a memory 902 connected to the processor 901.

[0126] The processor 901 is used to execute the steps in any of the control methods for variable lane signs provided in the above embodiments.

[0127] Processor 901 can be a CPU, NP, DSP, microprocessor, microcontroller, PLD, or any combination thereof. Processor 901 can also be any other device with processing capabilities, such as a circuit, device, or software module. Processor 901 can also include multiple CPUs, and processor 901 can be a single-core processor or a multi-core processor. Here, "processor" can refer to one or more devices, circuits, or processing cores used to process data (e.g., computer program instructions).

[0128] The memory 902 can be a read-only memory (ROM) or other type of static storage device capable of storing static information and instructions, random access memory (RAM) or other type of dynamic storage device capable of storing information and instructions, or it can be an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM) or other optical disc storage, optical disc storage (including compressed optical discs, laser discs, optical discs, digital universal optical discs, Blu-ray discs, etc.), magnetic disk storage media or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium capable of carrying or storing desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures and accessible by a computer. This application embodiment does not impose any limitations on this. The memory 902 can exist independently or be integrated with the processor 901. The memory 902 may contain computer program code. The processor 901 is used to execute the computer program code stored in the memory 902, thereby implementing any of the variable lane sign control methods of this application embodiment.

[0129] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium including computer-executable instructions that, when run on a computer, cause the computer to execute any of the control methods for variable lane signs provided in the above embodiments.

[0130] This application also provides a computer program product containing computer execution instructions, which, when run on a computer, causes the computer to execute any of the control methods for variable lane signs provided in the above embodiments.

[0131] In the above embodiments, implementation can be achieved, in whole or in part, through software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented using software programs, implementation can be, in whole or in part, in the form of a computer program product. This computer program product includes one or more computer-executable instructions. When these computer-executable instructions are loaded and executed on a computer, all or part of the flow or function according to the embodiments of this application is generated. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable device. The computer-executable instructions can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transmitted from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, computer-executable instructions can be transmitted from one website, computer, server, or data center to another via wired (e.g., coaxial cable, fiber optic, digital subscriber line (DSL)) or wireless (e.g., infrared, wireless, microwave, etc.) means. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium accessible to a computer or a data storage device containing one or more servers, data centers, etc., that can be integrated with the medium. The available media can be magnetic media (e.g., floppy disks, hard disks, magnetic tapes), optical media (e.g., DVDs), or semiconductor media (e.g., solid-state disks, SSDs).

[0132] Although this application has been described herein in conjunction with various embodiments, those skilled in the art, by reviewing the accompanying drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims, will understand and implement other variations of the disclosed embodiments in carrying out the claimed application. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other components or steps, and "a" or "an" does not exclude multiple instances. A single processor or other unit can implement several functions listed in the claims. While different dependent claims may recite certain measures, this does not mean that these measures cannot be combined to produce good results.

[0133] Although this application has been described in conjunction with specific features and embodiments, it is obvious that various modifications and combinations can be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of this application. Accordingly, this specification and drawings are merely exemplary illustrations of this application as defined by the appended claims, and are considered to cover any and all modifications, variations, combinations, or equivalents within the scope of this application. Clearly, those skilled in the art can make various alterations and modifications to this application without departing from the spirit and scope of this application. Thus, if such modifications and modifications of this application fall within the scope of the claims of this application and their equivalents, this application is also intended to include such modifications and modifications.

[0134] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any changes or substitutions within the technical scope disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A control method for a variable lane sign, characterized in that, The system is applied to a control unit deployed in a traffic signal controller; the traffic signal controller further includes a drive circuit; the drive circuit is used to determine the level information of the output terminal according to the control command input by the control unit, so that the traffic lights display different colors and the variable lane signs display different patterns; the drive circuit is connected to the control unit via a communication bus; the drive circuit is electrically connected to the traffic lights and the variable lane signs via the output terminal; The external interface of the variable lane sign includes N terminals, and each of the N terminals corresponds to one of the N patterns. The N terminals are respectively connected to the N idle output terminals of the traffic signal controller, and the N idle output terminals belong to the same terminal group in the traffic signal controller; At most one terminal in the same terminal group outputs level information at any given time; when any one of the N idle output terminals outputs level information, the variable lane sign displays the corresponding pattern. The driving circuit includes multiple light color terminal groups. When N is not greater than 3, the N idle output terminals belong to the same idle light color terminal group, so as to utilize the light color conflict avoidance function of the light color terminal group to make the variable lane sign display at most one pattern at a time; the idle indicates that the light color terminal group is not connected to the traffic light. The method includes: The system acquires reference information from the variable lane sign; the reference information is generated internally by the control unit, or input by the user, or sent by a remote network device; the reference information is used to instruct the variable lane sign to display a target pattern; the target pattern is any one of a variety of patterns supported by the variable lane sign; the reference information is a preset control strategy in the control unit, the control strategy including the pattern displayed by the variable lane sign during different control periods; The step of obtaining reference information for the variable lane sign includes: Get the current time; The pattern displayed on the variable lane sign during the control period in which the current time is located, in the control strategy, is taken as the target pattern. The target terminal corresponding to the target pattern of the variable lane sign is controlled to output level information so that the variable lane sign displays the target pattern; the target terminal is the output terminal of the drive circuit that is connected to the target pattern of the variable lane sign.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The traffic signal controller also includes a human-machine interaction module; the reference information includes a first instruction input by the user through the human-machine interaction module, the first instruction being used to instruct the variable lane sign to display the target pattern; The step of obtaining reference information for the variable lane sign includes: receiving the first instruction input by the user through the human-computer interaction module.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The reference information includes a second instruction sent by the remote network device, the second instruction being used to instruct the variable lane sign to display the target pattern; the traffic signal controller further includes a network communication module, and the acquisition of the reference information of the variable lane sign includes: The network communication module receives the second instruction sent by the remote network device.

4. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The reference information includes multiple types of information such as preset control strategies, user-input instructions, and instructions sent by the remote network device; different reference information has different priorities, and the target pattern is the pattern indicated by the reference information with the highest priority.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, Before controlling the output level information of the target terminal corresponding to the target pattern of the variable lane sign, the method further includes: Control the flashing of the currently displayed pattern on the variable lane sign for a preset duration.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The control of the target terminal output level information corresponding to the target pattern of the variable lane sign includes: A first control command is sent to the drive circuit via the communication bus. The first control command is used to instruct the drive circuit to output the level information at the target terminal.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The drive circuit includes one or more terminal groups, and each terminal group includes multiple terminals; the variable lane sign is connected to a target terminal group in the drive circuit, and when different terminals in the target terminal group output the level information, the variable lane sign displays different patterns; the control unit is configured with a light color conflict function, which is used to control that only one terminal in a terminal group outputs the level information at any given time. The target terminal is the terminal in the target terminal group that corresponds to the target pattern.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The level information includes: high level, or low level.

9. A control device for a variable lane sign, characterized in that, The device is deployed in a traffic signal controller; the traffic signal controller further includes a drive circuit; the drive circuit is used to determine the level information of the output terminal according to the control command input by the device, so that the traffic lights display different colors and the variable lane signs display different patterns; the drive circuit is connected to the device via a communication bus; the drive circuit is electrically connected to the traffic lights and the variable lane signs via the output terminal; The external interface of the variable lane sign includes N terminals, and each of the N terminals corresponds to one of the N patterns. The N terminals are respectively connected to the N idle output terminals of the traffic signal controller, and the N idle output terminals belong to the same terminal group in the traffic signal controller; At most one terminal in the same terminal group outputs level information at any given time; when any one of the N idle output terminals outputs level information, the variable lane sign displays the corresponding pattern. The driving circuit includes multiple light color terminal groups. When N is not greater than 3, the N idle output terminals belong to the same idle light color terminal group, so as to utilize the light color conflict avoidance function of the light color terminal group to make the variable lane sign display at most one pattern at a time; the idle indicates that the light color terminal group is not connected to the traffic light. The device includes: The acquisition module is used to acquire reference information of the variable lane sign; the reference information is generated internally by the device, or input by the user, or sent by a remote network device; the reference information is used to instruct the variable lane sign to display a target pattern; the target pattern is any one of a variety of patterns that the variable lane sign supports displaying; The reference information is a preset control strategy in the device, which includes the pattern displayed by the variable lane sign during different control periods; the acquisition module is specifically used to: acquire the current time; and take the pattern displayed by the variable lane sign during the control period in which the current time is located as the target pattern. The control module is used to control the output level information of the target terminal corresponding to the target pattern of the variable lane sign, so that the variable lane sign displays the target pattern; the target terminal is the output terminal of the drive circuit connected to the target pattern of the variable lane sign.

10. The apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that, The traffic signal controller further includes a human-machine interaction module; the reference information includes a first instruction input by the user through the human-machine interaction module, the first instruction being used to instruct the variable lane sign to display the target pattern; the device further includes a receiving module, used to: receive the first instruction input by the user through the human-machine interaction module; The traffic signal controller further includes a network communication module; the reference information includes a second instruction sent by the remote network device, the second instruction being used to instruct the variable lane sign to display the target pattern; the receiving module is further configured to: receive the second instruction sent by the remote network device through the network communication module; The reference information includes multiple types of information such as preset control strategies, user-input instructions, and instructions sent by the remote network device; different reference information has different priorities, and the target pattern is the pattern indicated by the reference information with the highest priority. The control module is also used to: control the flashing of the currently displayed pattern on the variable lane sign for a preset duration; The device further includes a transmitting module, which is configured to: transmit a first control command to the driving circuit via the communication bus, wherein the first control command is configured to instruct the driving circuit to output the level information at the target terminal; The drive circuit includes one or more terminal groups, and each terminal group includes multiple terminals; the variable lane sign is connected to the terminals of the target terminal group in the drive circuit; when different terminals in the target terminal group output the level information, the variable lane sign displays different patterns; the control unit is configured with a light color conflict function, which is used to control that only one terminal of a terminal group outputs the level information at any given time. The target terminal is the terminal in the target terminal group that corresponds to the target pattern; The level information includes: high level, or low level.

11. A server, characterized in that, Includes one or more processors and one or more memories; The one or more memories are coupled to the one or more processors, the one or more memories being used to store computer program code, the computer program code including computer instructions, and when the one or more processors execute the computer instructions, the server performs the method as described in any one of claims 1-8.

12. A computer storage medium, characterized in that, Includes computer instructions that, when executed on a server, cause the server to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1-8.

13. A computer program product, characterized in that, When the computer program product is run on a computer, it causes the computer to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1-8.

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