Ground-based pedestrian signal control system

Abstract

This invention provides multiple ground-based pedestrian signals, wherein a control signal and a voltage control power supply are applied. In each ground-based pedestrian signal, the voltage control power supply is converted into a constant current power supply, which is applied to an LED array according to the control signal. Therefore, this invention can prevent the brightness of the ground-based pedestrian signals from decreasing with increasing distance from the controller, and maintain a constant lighting time for the multiple ground-based pedestrian signals, so that the visibility of the ground-based pedestrian signals remains constant even if the width of the pedestrian crossing increases.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a ground-based pedestrian signal control system, and more specifically, to a system for controlling the lighting and flashing of ground-based pedestrian signals with improved pedestrian visibility. Background Technology

[0002] Ground-based pedestrian signals are embedded in the ground, such as roads, and emit signal light through their upper surface. Ground-based pedestrian signals are highly valued for their effectiveness because they function as stop lines or guide lines for oncoming pedestrians while also being in their line of sight. In particular, an advantage is their ability to easily provide signal information to pedestrians, in response to the recent increase in pedestrians walking while looking at their smartphones.

[0003] However, unlike traffic lights mounted on pillars, ground-mounted pedestrian signals are buried in surfaces such as concrete or asphalt. Their upper surfaces must continuously withstand the loads and impacts from pedestrians, motorcycles, and in some cases, vehicles, and may be submerged in snow or rainwater during precipitation. As mentioned above, ground-mounted pedestrian signals have a harsher installation environment but are required to operate stably for extended periods.

[0004] Furthermore, ground-level pedestrian traffic signals should maximize pedestrian visibility while minimizing interference with drivers. Ground-level pedestrian traffic signals installed at the intersection of lanes (crosswalks) and sidewalks typically display three signals: red, green, and flashing green. These signals can cause visual obstruction or confusion for drivers, so it is ideal to minimize their use.

[0005] However, existing ground-based pedestrian signals are configured with multiple ground-based pedestrian signals connected in series and receiving constant current drive power. Therefore, they become darker closer to their ends, resulting in a decrease in visibility. Summary of the Invention

[0006] [Technical Issues]

[0007] The present invention is proposed to solve the above-mentioned problems and aims to provide a ground-type pedestrian signal control system, which applies control signals and voltage control power to multiple ground-type pedestrian signals, converts the voltage control power to constant current power through each ground-type pedestrian signal, and applies the constant current power to the LED array according to the control signal.

[0008] [Solution to the problem]

[0009] To achieve the above objectives, a ground-based pedestrian signal control system according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of ground-based pedestrian signals. Each ground-based pedestrian signal includes an LED array embedded in the ground between a lane and a sidewalk. The LED array includes LED elements of a first color and LED elements of a second color. Each ground-based pedestrian signal includes: an input terminal connected to a controller and one of the previous ground-based pedestrian signals, receiving control signals and voltage control power; and an output terminal connected to the next ground-based pedestrian signal, outputting the control signals and the voltage control power to the next ground-based pedestrian signal. A pedestrian signal controller; a constant current conversion module that converts the voltage control power input to the input terminal into a constant current power supply and outputs the constant current power supply; a communication module that receives and outputs the control signal input to the input terminal and sends the control signal to the output terminal; a control module that outputs a switching signal based on the control signal output from the communication module; and a switching module that applies the constant current power supply to the LED array and switches it so that the constant current power supply is applied to the LED element corresponding to one of the first color and the second color based on the switching signal.

[0010] The input terminal and the output terminal may include signal lines for transmitting the control signal, and the signal lines of the input terminal and the output terminal are connected to the communication module. In this case, the signal line of the input terminal may be connected to the input terminal of the communication module, and the signal line of the output terminal may be connected to the output terminal of the communication module.

[0011] The input terminal and the output terminal may include power lines for applying voltage control power, with the power lines of the input terminal connected to the power lines of the output terminal. In this case, the power line of one of the input terminal and the output terminal branches off to the constant current conversion module, thereby applying the voltage control power to the constant current conversion module.

[0012] The input terminal can be configured as a first adapter located on one end of a retractable cable, and the output terminal can be configured as a second adapter located on the other end of the cable. In this configuration, the input terminal extends to the exterior of the ground-type pedestrian signal, while the output terminal is disposed within the interior space of the main body of the ground-type pedestrian signal. Here, the output terminal can extend or retract to connect with the input terminal of a next ground-type pedestrian signal, with the output and input terminals of the next ground-type pedestrian signal disposed in a connected state within the interior space of the main body.

[0013] [Beneficial effects of the invention]

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a ground-type pedestrian signal control system applies control signals and voltage control power to multiple ground-type pedestrian signals, and each ground-type pedestrian signal converts the voltage control power into a constant current power, and applies the constant current power to the LED array according to the control signal. This solves the problem of brightness decrease as the distance from the controller in existing ground-type pedestrian signal control systems.

[0015] Furthermore, according to the ground-type pedestrian signal control system, by converting the voltage control power supply into a constant current power supply through the ground-type pedestrian signal and applying the constant current power supply to the LED array according to the control signal, the lighting time of multiple ground-type pedestrian signals can be kept constant.

[0016] Furthermore, according to the aforementioned ground-type pedestrian signal control system, by preventing the brightness of the ground-type pedestrian signal from decreasing and the lighting delay, the visibility of the ground-type pedestrian signal can be kept constant even when the width of the pedestrian crossing increases. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Figure 1 This is a diagram used to illustrate a ground-based pedestrian signal system.

[0018] Figure 2 and Figure 3 This is a diagram used to illustrate an existing ground-based pedestrian signal control system.

[0019] Figure 4 and Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating a ground-based pedestrian signal control system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating the controller of a ground-based pedestrian signal control system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 7 This is a perspective view showing a ground-type pedestrian signal according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 8 This is a plan view of a ground-type pedestrian signal according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 9 This is a bottom-side perspective view of a ground-type pedestrian signal according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 10 It means Figure 8 An exploded perspective view of a portion of the drive module in the main body.

[0025] Figure 11It means Figure 8 An exploded perspective view of a portion of the bottom surface of the main body.

[0026] Figure 12 It means Figure 8 An enlarged 3D view of a portion of the LED module.

[0027] Figure 13 These are a plan view and a bottom perspective view showing the reflector in a ground-type pedestrian signal according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 14 It means Figure 7 An enlarged cross-sectional view of the reflector in the image.

[0029] Figure 15 It means and Figure 14 Cross-sectional views of different deformed examples of the reflective surface.

[0030] Figure 16 This is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a ground-based pedestrian signal according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 17 This is a diagram showing the structure of a ground-type pedestrian signal connected to an adjacent ground-type pedestrian signal according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0032] Hereinafter, the most preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, so as to explain the present invention in detail to the extent that those skilled in the art can easily implement the technical concept of the present invention. First, it should be noted that when adding reference numerals to components in the various drawings, the same reference numerals are assigned to the same components as much as possible, even if they are shown in different drawings. Furthermore, when describing embodiments of the present invention, detailed descriptions of well-known configurations or functions will be omitted if it is believed that such detailed descriptions would obscure the main points of the present invention.

[0033] Reference Figure 1 The ground-type pedestrian signal 11, which is applied to the ground-type pedestrian signal control system 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention, is buried in the ground on one side of the pedestrian curb 40 located between the lane 20 and the sidewalk 30. In this case, multiple ground-type pedestrian signals 11 are connected to other adjacent ground-type pedestrian signals 11 via cables.

[0034] Multiple ground-mounted pedestrian signal controllers 11 can be electrically connected to signal controllers 12 located outside the road or other structures, and can be linked with pedestrian crossing traffic lights (not shown).

[0035] For example, when the red light of the pedestrian crossing traffic light is turned on under the control of the signal controller 12, the red light-emitting diode (LED) element in the ground-mounted pedestrian signal 11 is also lit to emit red light. Additionally, when the pedestrian crossing traffic light switching module is activated under the control of the signal controller 12, the green LED element in the ground-mounted pedestrian signal 11 can be lit to emit green light. At this time, when the pedestrian crossing traffic light switching module flashes under the control of the signal controller 12, the green LED element in the ground-mounted pedestrian signal 11 can flash along with it. As described above, through the signal controller 12, the ground-mounted pedestrian signal 11 buried in the ground can display red, green, and flashing green, thus allowing pedestrians who are looking at their phones while walking to be aware of their surroundings.

[0036] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 Multiple ground-mounted pedestrian signals 11 installed on the pedestrian crossing are connected by cables in the left-right direction.

[0037] The first ground-type pedestrian signal 11a is connected to the controller 13, the second ground-type pedestrian signal 11b is connected to the first ground-type pedestrian signal 11a, and the third ground-type pedestrian signal is connected to the second ground-type pedestrian signal 11b. Although in Figure 2 As not shown in the diagram, the nth ground-type pedestrian signal 11n is connected to the (n-1)th ground-type pedestrian signal 11.

[0038] In the existing ground-type pedestrian signal control system, the signal controller 12 sends control signals to the controller 13 to turn on (ON), turn off (OFF), and blink (Blink), and the controller 13 supplies constant current power to the ground-type pedestrian signal 11 according to the control signals.

[0039] In other words, controller 13 applies a first constant current power supply to the first ground-type pedestrian signal 11a in response to the control signal sent by signal controller 12. After the first ground-type pedestrian signal 11a applies the first constant current power supply to the LED array, it applies a second constant current power supply as the remaining constant current power supply to the second ground-type pedestrian signal 11b. After the second ground-type pedestrian signal 11b applies the second constant current power supply to the LED array, it applies a third constant current power supply as the remaining constant current power supply to the third ground-type pedestrian signal 11c. The nth constant current power supply, which is the remaining constant current power supply after the first to (n-1)th ground-type pedestrian signals 11 apply to the LED array, is applied to the nth ground-type pedestrian signal 11n located at the rear.

[0040] The existing ground-based pedestrian signal control system applies a constant current power supply to the ground-based pedestrian signal 11 in response to the control signal. After the ground-based pedestrian signal 11 lights up the LED array with a constant current power supply, the remaining constant current power supply is applied to the next ground-based pedestrian signal 11. Therefore, there is a problem that the brightness decreases as the ground-based pedestrian signal 11 moves away from the controller 13.

[0041] In addition, the existing ground pedestrian signal control system does not apply control signals to the ground pedestrian signal 11, but instead uses a constant current power supply to light up multiple ground pedestrian signals 11, which results in different lighting times for the ground pedestrian signals 11.

[0042] These problems are not very prominent in pedestrian crossings with normal width, but in pedestrian crossings on roads with 8 or more lanes, as the width of the pedestrian crossing increases, the number of ground-mounted pedestrian signals 11 that need to be installed increases, and thus the problems of reduced brightness and lighting delay become prominent.

[0043] Therefore, refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 According to an embodiment of the present invention, the ground signal control system 10 applies a voltage control power supply and control signals ON, OFF, and Blink to the ground pedestrian signal 11. Here, in the provided example, the voltage control power supply is a power supply having a specific voltage and whose current is variable.

[0044] The first ground-type pedestrian signal 11a is connected to the controller 13 via a cable, the second ground-type pedestrian signal 11b is connected to the first ground-type pedestrian signal 11a via a cable, and the third ground-type pedestrian signal 11c is connected to the second ground-type pedestrian signal 11b via a cable. Although in Figure 4 As not shown, the nth ground-type pedestrian signal 11n is connected to the (n-1)th ground-type pedestrian signal 11 (not shown).

[0045] In the ground-type pedestrian signal control system 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention, the signal controller 12 (i.e., the connection plate 12a provided on the signal controller 12) sends control signals ON, OFF, and Blink to the controller 13. The control signals and voltage control power supply output from the controller 13 are applied to a plurality of ground-type pedestrian signals 11. Here, in the provided example, the signal ON is a control signal for controlling the ground-type pedestrian signal 11 to light up green, the signal OFF is a control signal for controlling the ground-type pedestrian signal 11 to light up red, and the signal Blink is a control signal for controlling the ground-type pedestrian signal 11 to flash green.

[0046] In other words, controller 13 outputs a voltage control power supply in response to the control signal sent by signal controller 12. The first ground-type pedestrian signal 11a to the nth ground-type pedestrian signal 11n convert the voltage control power supply into a constant current power supply. Simultaneously, controller 13 outputs a control signal to the first ground-type pedestrian signal 11a. The first ground-type pedestrian signal 11a sends the control signal to the second ground-type pedestrian signal 11b. The nth ground-type pedestrian signal 11n receives the control signal from the (n-1)th ground-type pedestrian signal 11.

[0047] The first ground-type pedestrian signal 11a to the nth ground-type pedestrian signal 11n perform a switching operation according to the control signal, applying constant current power to the LED light corresponding to the control signal.

[0048] Therefore, the ground pedestrian signal control system 10 according to the present invention can solve the problems of decreased brightness of the ground pedestrian signal 11 as it moves away from the controller 13 and the problem of lighting delay between the ground pedestrian signals 11.

[0049] Reference Figure 5 According to an embodiment of the present invention, the ground-type pedestrian signal control system 10 includes a controller 13 and a plurality of ground-type pedestrian signals 11.

[0050] Controller 13 is disposed adjacent to a plurality of ground-level pedestrian signal controllers 11. In the provided example, controller 13 is disposed within a traffic light installed at a pedestrian crossing. Controller 13 is connected to signal controller 12 and the plurality of ground-level pedestrian signal controllers 11. Controller 13, in response to control signals from signal controller 12, outputs voltage control power and control signals to the plurality of ground-level pedestrian signal controllers 11. In the example provided herein, the voltage control power supply is a power supply having a specific voltage and variable current.

[0051] Reference Figure 6 The controller 13 may include a first input terminal 710, a first control module 720, a first communication module 730, a power supply module 740, a conversion module 750, and a first output terminal 760.

[0052] The first input terminal 710 receives a control signal from the signal controller 12. The first input terminal 710 sends the received control signal to the first control module 720.

[0053] The first control module 720 responds to the control signal input through the first input terminal 710 by outputting a control signal transmission request and a power supply request. At this time, the first control module 720 sends a power supply request to the power supply module 740 and a control signal transmission request to the first communication module 730.

[0054] The first communication module 730 sends a control signal to the first output terminal 760 in response to a control signal transmission request from the first control module 720. At this time, in response to the control signal transmission request from the first control module 720, the first communication module 730 sends the control signal received from the signal controller 12 to the first output terminal 760. In the example described below, the first communication module 730 is configured as an RS-485 communication module. Of course, in addition to an RS-485 communication module, the first communication module 730 can also be replaced by a communication module with a communication method capable of sending and receiving control signals.

[0055] The power supply module 740 outputs power in response to a power supply request from the first control module 720. At this time, the power supply module 740 is configured as a switching mode power supply (SMPS), outputting either DC power or AC power to the conversion module 750.

[0056] The conversion module 750 converts the power output from the power supply module 740 into a voltage-controlled power supply. The conversion module 750 converts the power output from the power supply module 740 into a voltage-controlled power supply with a specific voltage and variable current. The conversion module 750 applies the converted voltage-controlled power supply to the first output terminal 760.

[0057] The first output terminal 760 is directly (mechanically) connected to the ground-type pedestrian signal 11. The first output terminal 760 includes two signal lines for transmitting control signals and two power lines for applying voltage control power. The first output terminal 760 sends control signals to the ground-type pedestrian signal 11 through the signal lines and applies voltage control power to the ground-type pedestrian signal 11 through the power lines.

[0058] Multiple ground-based pedestrian signals 11 are connected in a daisy-chain manner to send and receive control signals. In other words, multiple ground-based pedestrian signals 11 are connected in a daisy-chain manner to receive control signals from the previous ground-based pedestrian signal 11 or controller 13 and send the control signals to the next ground-based pedestrian signal 11. Of course, in addition to the daisy-chain connection method, network structures capable of transmitting (i.e., sending and receiving) control signals can also be used for multiple ground-based pedestrian signals 11.

[0059] Multiple ground-mounted pedestrian signals 11 convert the voltage control power applied by the controller 13 into a constant current power supply. The multiple ground-mounted pedestrian signals 11 operate in one of the following states: green, red, and flashing green, by applying a constant current power supply to a green LED or a red LED based on a control signal.

[0060] Reference Figures 7 to 9 According to an embodiment of the present invention, the ground-type pedestrian signal 11 may include a main body 100, an LED module 200, a reflector 300, a drive module 400, and a cover 500.

[0061] The main body 100 may include a base surface 110 that slopes upward from one side to the other. The slope of the base surface 110 allows the LED module 200 to be positioned at an angle of approximately 10 degrees. The base surface 110 may be configured such that its height on the sidewalk 30 side is lower than its height on the lane 20 side. By mounting the LED module 200 on the base surface 110, signal light generated from each of the plurality of LED elements 220 of the LED module 200 can be emitted toward the sidewalk 30 at an angle of approximately 10 degrees relative to the vertical direction.

[0062] Therefore, pedestrians waiting for a signal on the ground between lane 20 and sidewalk 30 can more easily perceive the light generated by LED module 200. Furthermore, it is possible to increase the light directed towards pedestrians while minimizing interference from light directed towards drivers of vehicles. In other words, pedestrian visibility can be further improved while reducing interference with drivers' driving.

[0063] Multiple holes 111 can be formed at predetermined intervals in the base surface 110. The holes 111 in the base surface 110 can be formed in a manner corresponding to the mounting holes 211 of the LED module 200 and the lower protrusion 332 of the reflector 300. In other words, the lower protrusion 332 of the reflector 300 can be inserted through the mounting holes 211 of the LED module 200 and the holes in the base surface 110, so the LED module 200 and the reflector 300 can be easily aligned at predetermined connection positions on the base surface 110. The main body 100 can be formed of polycarbonate, but is not limited to this.

[0064] Meanwhile, the cover 500 can be connected to the upper edge 130 of the main body 100 to form a receiving space 510 for accommodating the reflector 300 and the upper part of the main body 100.

[0065] The cover 500 may include a rectangular upper plate 520 having a flat upper surface and sidewalls 530 extending downward from the edge of the upper plate 520.

[0066] The upper plate 520 of the cover 500 may have a surface with a plurality of anti-slip protrusions 521. The plurality of anti-slip protrusions 521 are used to prevent slippage, and preferably, the anti-slip protrusions 521 have a slip resistance of 40 BPN or greater.

[0067] The cover 500 may be formed of a light-transmitting material such as polycarbonate, and is preferably formed of a material that can maintain chemical resistance and corrosion resistance. In addition, it is preferred that the cover 500 be formed of a material that can withstand loads and impacts from pedestrians, motorcycles, and in some cases vehicles, etc., and the thickness of the upper plate 520 may be approximately 8 mm.

[0068] A long nut N1 can be fitted into a plurality of holes spaced apart along the upper edge of the side wall 530 of the cover 500. Furthermore, a plurality of bolt holes 531 can be spaced apart along the bottom edge of the side wall 530 of the cover 500. The upper part of the plurality of bolt holes 531 can be formed to connect to the nut N1, and the lower part of the plurality of bolt holes 531 can be formed to connect to the first insertion hole 131 of the main body 100. Therefore, a fastener such as a bolt inserted into the first insertion hole 131 at the lower end of the main body 100 can be fastened to the nut N1 through the bolt holes 531 penetrating the cover 500, thereby securely connecting the main body 100 and the cover 500. Reference will be made below. Figure 11 The connection structure between the main body 100 and the cover 500 is described in detail.

[0069] Simultaneously, the washer 600 can be inserted between the upper edge 130 of the main body 100 and the lower end of the cover 500, forming an annular shape corresponding to the periphery of the lower end of the cover 500. For example, the washer 600 can be formed into a rectangular annular shape. The washer 600 has a fastening hole 610 formed along its edge. Because the fastening hole 610 of the washer 600 is formed corresponding to the first insertion hole 131 of the main body 100 and the bolt hole 531 of the cover 500, the fastening 610 can be pressed when a fastener such as a bolt is tightened in the state of being inserted between the cover 500 and the main body 100. The washer 600 can provide dustproof and waterproof functions to prevent water or contaminants from entering the gap between the cover 500 and the main body 100. In other words, when water, moisture, etc. are introduced from the outside, a gasket 600 can be provided to prevent problems such as cut-off or short circuits caused by corrosion of the circuit patterns formed in the LED module 200 and the driver module 400. As the gasket 600, a rubber gasket such as EPMD or fluororubber (Viton) can be used, but it is not limited to these.

[0070] A buffer sheet S can be disposed between the inner surface of the cover 500 and the upper surface 320 of the reflector 300 to provide a buffering effect between the inner surface of the cover 500 and the upper surface 320 of the reflector 300. The buffer sheet S can be formed of materials such as silicone, rubber, or sponge. Since the first hole H1 is formed corresponding to the open upper end 321 of the reflector 300, the buffer sheet S will not cover the open upper end 321 even if it is disposed on the upper surface 320 of the reflector 300. Furthermore, since the buffer sheet S has a second hole H2 corresponding to the upper protrusion 322 of the reflector 300, the second hole H2 can be adapted to the upper protrusion 322 of the reflector 300, thereby allowing it to be easily disposed at a predetermined position.

[0071] Reference Figure 10 The main body 100 may have a mounting groove 120 for mounting the drive module 400. The mounting groove 120 may be configured as a space between the protective housing 180 connected to the cable C and the base surface 110.

[0072] The drive module 400 can be configured to control the drive of the LED module 200, and multiple fixing slots 410 can be formed at intervals on the edge of the drive module 400. Furthermore, the main body 100 can have fixing holes 121a formed on multiple mounting surfaces 121 provided in the mounting slot 120, and these fixing holes 121a can be formed in a manner corresponding to the fixing slots 410 of the drive module 400. Therefore, the drive module 400 is detachably connected to the mounting surfaces 121 of the main body 100 by fasteners (not shown) such as bolts passing through the fixing slots 410 and fixing holes 121a.

[0073] Reference Figure 11 The main body 100 may have a plurality of connecting holes 142 spaced apart along the periphery of its lower edge 140. The connecting holes 142 are used to connect to the bottom surface 150, and the bottom surface 150 may have through holes 151 corresponding to the connecting holes 142 of the main body 100. Therefore, the bottom surface 150 can be detachably connected to the lower edge 140 of the main body 100 by fasteners (not shown) such as bolts passing through the through holes 151 and the connecting holes 142.

[0074] As described above, the bottom surface 150 disposed at the bottom of the main body 100 may only cover a portion of the internal space 160 of the main body 100, thereby allowing the heat transferred from the LED module 200 to dissipate easily. In other words, the heat generated when the LED element 220 in the LED module 200 emits light is transferred to the PCB board (Printed Circuit Board) 210 of the LED module 200, and the heat of the PCB board 210 can be dissipated into the ground through the base surface 110 of the main body 100 and the open internal space 160.

[0075] The bottom surface 150 may be formed of synthetic resin or stainless steel (SUS, Steel Use Stainless) material that does not corrode in moisture, thereby allowing the low temperature of the ground to be transferred to the interior space 160 through the bottom surface 150.

[0076] An internal space 160 may be formed between the bottom surface 150 and the base surface 110 provided at the bottom of the main body 100. The internal space 160 may be provided with a cable C for supplying power to the LED module 200 and sending control signals.

[0077] The main body 100 may have a first connecting hole h1 and a second connecting hole h2 formed at both ends along its length. The first connecting hole h1 and the second connecting hole h2 may be configured to connect to the internal space 160. Furthermore, the cable C has a first adapter CA1 at one end and a second adapter CA2 at the other end, and the length between the first adapter CA1 and the second adapter CA2 is designed to be extendable. Here, the first adapter CA1 may be configured to extend to the outside through the first connecting hole h1, and the second adapter CA2 may be disposed within the internal space 160 of the main body 100.

[0078] Since a single ground-type pedestrian signal 11 is approximately 30 cm long, multiple ground-type pedestrian signals 11 can be arranged in a row along their length when installed on the ground. Here, cable C can be used to provide power and transmit control signals between adjacent pedestrian signals.

[0079] Although not shown in detail, when one pedestrian signal is connected to another adjacent pedestrian signal, the first adapter CA1 provided on the cable C of the pedestrian signal can be inserted into the internal space 160 of the main body 100 through the second connection hole h2 of the other pedestrian signal, and connected to the second adapter CA2 provided on the cable C of the other pedestrian signal.

[0080] The first adapter CA1 and the second adapter CA2 may each include a pair of first terminals t1 and a pair of second terminals t2. Here, the pair of first terminals t1 can provide power (e.g., a constant voltage DC24V) to the drive module 400, and the pair of second terminals t2 can be configured as an interface for RS-485 communication, thereby enabling communication between the drive module 400 and the signal controller 12 on the ground (see reference). Figure 1 Traffic light control signals are transmitted between the LEDs. These signals include red on / off, green on / off, and green flashing signals. The driver module 400 can control the driving of each LED element 220 based on the traffic light control signals.

[0081] Meanwhile, a pair of cable connectors 170 may be provided on both sides of the protective housing 180 located in the internal space 160 of the main body 100. The cable connectors 170 are used to connect the cable C to the protective housing 180, are made of stainless steel, and are encapsulated or sealed to provide waterproofing. The cable C can be connected to the drive module 400 through the protective housing 180.

[0082] Reference Figure 12 The LED module 200 may have a plurality of LED elements 220 arranged in a matrix on one surface of the PCB board 210 for generating signal light. In an example according to an embodiment of the present invention, the LED elements 220 are configured as a pair of red LED elements 221 and green LED elements 222, which are arranged at equal intervals in a matrix of 12 rows and 6 columns (72 in total), but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the LED elements 220 may be configured such that a single element selectively emits red and green light. Furthermore, the power consumption of the LED elements 220 may be in the range of 4.5W to 5W.

[0083] In the prior art, circular LED elements 220 are mainly used. However, according to the embodiments of the present invention, the LED element 220 is configured as a chip type, so the pointing angle is relatively wider compared to existing elements. Therefore, the ground-based pedestrian signal 11 according to the embodiments of the present invention can adjust the angle of light by using a reflector 300, and increase brightness by focusing the light. Since the light generated from the surface of the LED element 220 is reflected by the reflective surface 310 of the reflector 300, from the perspective of a pedestrian, not only the LED element 220, but also the reflective surface 310 appears as a light source, thereby significantly expanding the light-emitting area. The reflector 300 may be made of polycarbonate material, but is not limited to this.

[0084] Reference Figure 13 The multiple reflective surfaces 310 of the reflector 300 can be arranged in a 12-row, 6-column matrix corresponding to the multiple LED elements 220 arranged in a 12-row, 6-column matrix.

[0085] Here, the multiple reflective surfaces 310 can be classified by columns, and are respectively divided into column 1 to column n reflective surface groups (where n is a natural number) from the closest to one side to the furthest from one side. In an embodiment of the present invention, corresponding to the multiple LED elements 220 arranged in 12 rows and 6 columns, the multiple reflective surfaces are respectively divided into column 1 to column 6 reflective surface groups m1, m2, m3, m4, m5 and m6. In this case, each column 1 to column 6 reflective surface group m1, m2, m3, m4, m5 and m6 includes 12 reflective surfaces 310 arranged adjacent to each other along the row direction (i.e., the length direction of the reflector 300). Specifically, column 1 reflective surface group m1 consists of 12 reflective surfaces 310 arranged in the first column closest to one side, and column 6 reflective surface group m6 consists of 12 reflective surfaces 310 arranged in the sixth column furthest from said one side. In addition, the reflective surface groups m2, m3, m4 and m5 in columns 2 to 5 represent a total of 12 reflective surfaces 310 set in each column.

[0086] Reference Figure 14 The first to sixth reflective surface groups m1, m2, m3, m4, m5, and m6 can each include a first wall surface 311 and a second wall surface 312 spaced apart in the width direction of the reflector 300. Here, a first virtual line S1 extending downward from the first wall surface 311 and a second virtual line S2 extending downward from the second wall surface 312 form a virtual angle θ at their intersection.

[0087] For example, the first virtual line S1 and the second virtual line S2 of the first column of reflective surface group m1 form the first virtual angle θ1 at the intersection, the first virtual line S1 and the second virtual line S2 of the second column of reflective surface group m2 form the second virtual angle θ2 at the intersection, and the first virtual line S1 and the second virtual line S2 of the remaining third to sixth column of reflective surface groups m3, m4, m5 and m6 form the third virtual angle θ3, the fourth virtual angle θ4, the fifth virtual angle θ5 and the sixth virtual angle θ6 at the intersection, respectively.

[0088] In this configuration, at least two of the six reflective surface groups m1, m2, m3, m4, m5, and m6 can have different virtual angles, and the virtual angles formed can decrease as a single reflective surface group moves closer to one side. Preferably, the first virtual angle θ1, the second virtual angle θ2, the third virtual angle θ3, the fourth virtual angle θ4, the fifth virtual angle θ5, and the sixth virtual angle θ6 of the six reflective surface groups m1, m2, m3, m4, m5, and m6 are all different virtual angles, and the virtual angles formed can decrease as a single reflective surface group moves closer to one side.

[0089] The lower surface 330 of the reflector 300 is formed as an inclined surface corresponding to the inclined base surface 110 of the main body 100, and the upper surface 320 of the reflector 300 is horizontally disposed. Therefore, the lengths of the first wall surfaces 311 and 312 of the second row of reflective surface groups m2 are shorter than the lengths of the first wall surfaces 311 and 312 of the first row of reflective surface groups m1, and the lengths of the first wall surfaces 311 and 312 gradually decrease as they approach the sixth row of reflective surface groups m6. In other words, the distance between the upper surface 320, which is the light-emitting surface of the reflector 300, and the lower surface 330 of the reflector 300 that contacts the LED module 200 gradually decreases as one moves from the first row of reflective surface groups m1 toward the sixth row of reflective surface groups m6.

[0090] Among the reflective surface groups m1, m2, m3, m4, m5 and m6 in columns 1 to 6, the reflective surface group m6 in column 6 appears the brightest because the distance between the light-emitting surface and the LED element 220 is the shortest. Compared with the reflective surface group m6 in column 1, the reflective surface group m1 in column 6 appears relatively less bright because the distance between the light-emitting surface and the LED element 220 is longer.

[0091] Therefore, the ground-based pedestrian signal 11 according to an embodiment of the present invention is configured such that the first virtual angle θ1, the second virtual angle θ2, the third virtual angle θ3, the fourth virtual angle θ4, the fifth virtual angle θ5, and the sixth virtual angle θ6 of the first to sixth rows of reflective surface groups m1, m2, m3, m4, m5, and m6 have the relationship "θ1 < θ2 < θ3 < θ4 < θ5 < θ6". In other words, since the first virtual angle θ1 of the first row of reflective surface group m1 is smaller than the sixth virtual angle θ6 of the sixth row of reflective surface group m6, light can be emitted in a more concentrated state even if the distance between the light-emitting surface and the LED element 220 is relatively long.

[0092] The areas of the open upper ends 321 of the reflective surface groups m1, m2, m3, m4, m5, and m6 in columns 1 to 6 can all be the same, and the areas of the open lower ends 331 of the reflective surface groups m1, m2, m3, m4, m5, and m6 in columns 1 to 6 can all be the same.

[0093] In addition, the width of the open upper end portion 321 of the first to sixth column reflective surface groups m1, m2, m3, m4, m5, m6 can all be the same, and the width of the open lower end portion 331 of the first to sixth column reflective surface groups m1, m2, m3, m4, m5, m6 can all be the same.

[0094] In the ground-type pedestrian signal 11, the following problem exists: the LED module 200 is set on the inclined base surface 110 and tilted at a standardized angle, so the distance between the light-emitting surface and the LED element 220 is different, resulting in uneven brightness.

[0095] To address this issue, when the areas or widths of the open upper ends 321 of the first to sixth reflective surface groups m1, m2, m3, m4, m5, and m6 are all the same, and the areas or widths of the open lower ends 331 of the first to sixth reflective surface groups m1, m2, m3, m4, m5, and m6 are all the same, the virtual angle can become increasingly smaller as the lengths of the first wall surface 311 and the second wall surface 312 increase. In other words, as the lengths of the first wall surface 311 and the second wall surface 312 further increase from the sixth reflective surface group m6, which is closer to the driveway 20, to the first reflective surface group m1, which is relatively closer to the sidewalk 30, the virtual angle can become increasingly smaller. In other words, from the sixth reflective surface group m6 to the first reflective surface group m1, the virtual angle gradually decreases with a relationship of "θ1 < θ2 < θ3 < θ4 < θ5 < θ6," thus, the light is emitted in a more concentrated state as it gets closer to the first reflective surface group m1. As described above, even if the distance between the light-emitting surface and the LED element 220, i.e. the light path, is relatively long, the brightness will not decrease, thus improving the brightness uniformity on the light-emitting surface.

[0096] Furthermore, the area of ​​the open upper portion 321 of the first to sixth columns of reflective surface groups m1, m2, m3, m4, m5, and m6 may be greater than the area of ​​the open lower portion 331 of the first to sixth columns of reflective surface groups m1, m2, m3, m4, m5, and m6. Furthermore, the width of the open upper portion 321 of the first to sixth columns of reflective surface groups m1, m2, m3, m4, m5, and m6 may be greater than the width of the open lower portion 331 of the first to sixth columns of reflective surface groups m1, m2, m3, m4, m5, and m6.

[0097] Reference Figure 15 The first wall surface 311' and the second wall surface 312' of each of the first to sixth columns of reflective surface groups m1, m2, m3, m4, m5 and m6 can be formed to be inclined relative to the vertical line L passing through the open upper and lower ends in a direction away from the upper end.

[0098] The reflector 300' is manufactured by injection molding. When the first wall surface 311' and the second wall surface 312' are formed at an angle that moves upwards and closer to the vertical line L, it is difficult to easily remove the mold component (not shown) inserted to form the first wall surface 311' and the second wall surface 312' after the reflector 300' is formed. On the other hand, when the first wall surface 311' and the second wall surface 312' are inclined in a direction that moves upwards and further away from the vertical line L, the mold component can be easily removed from the top.

[0099] According to the embodiment of the present invention, the ground-type pedestrian signal 11 does not reduce brightness even if the distance between the light-emitting surface and the LED element, i.e., the optical path, is relatively long, thus improving the brightness uniformity on the light-emitting surface.

[0100] Furthermore, according to the embodiment of the present invention, when the ground-type pedestrian signal 11 needs to be repaired or replaced while it is buried in the ground, the reflector, LED module, etc. can be easily repaired or replaced by loosening the bolts or other means to separate the cover, thereby facilitating maintenance.

[0101] Reference Figure 16 and Figure 17 The ground-type pedestrian signal 11 includes a second input terminal 810, a constant current conversion module 820, a second communication module 830, a second control module 840, a switching module 850, an LED array 860, and a second output terminal 870.

[0102] Here, the constant current conversion module 820, the second communication module 830, the second control module 840, and the switching module 850 can be formed by printed circuit boards with chips and circuits mounted / formed on them, and are built into the interior of the main body. Furthermore, the LED array 860 corresponds to the LED module 200, and the second input terminal 810 and the second output terminal 870 correspond to the first adapter CA1 and the second adapter CA2 connected to the cable C, respectively.

[0103] Furthermore, the term "previous ground-type pedestrian signal 11" used in the following description of embodiments of the present invention refers to a ground-type pedestrian signal 11 that is adjacent to the ground-type pedestrian signal 11 described herein and is located closer to the controller 13 than the ground-type pedestrian signal 11.

[0104] Furthermore, the "next ground-type pedestrian signal 11" used in the following description of the embodiments of the present invention refers to the ground-type pedestrian signal 11 that is adjacent to the ground-type pedestrian signal 11 to be described and is located further away from the controller 13 than the ground-type pedestrian signal 11.

[0105] The second input terminal 810 is connected to the controller 13 or the previous ground-type pedestrian signal 11. The second input terminal 810 receives control signals from the controller 13 or the previous ground-type pedestrian signal 11 and receives voltage control power. Here, the second input terminal 810 corresponds to the first adapter CA1.

[0106] The second input terminal 810 includes two signal lines for transmitting control signals and two power lines for applying voltage control power. At this time, a pair of signal lines are connected to the input terminal of the second communication module 830, thereby sending control signals to the second communication module 830. A pair of power lines are connected to the power lines of the second output terminal 870 to apply voltage control power to the second output terminal 870. At this time, the pair of power lines branch off to the constant current conversion module 820, thereby applying voltage control power to the constant current conversion module 820.

[0107] The constant current conversion module 820 is connected to a branch line branching off from a pair of power lines connecting the second input terminal 810 and the second output terminal 870. The constant current conversion module 820 converts the voltage control power applied through the branch line into a constant current power supply. The constant current conversion module 820 applies the converted constant current power supply to the switching module 850.

[0108] The second communication module 830 transmits control signals received from the second input terminal 810 to the second control module 840 and the second output terminal 870. The second communication module 830 includes an input terminal connected to the signal line of the second input terminal 810 and an output terminal connected to the signal line of the second output terminal 870. The second communication module 830 transmits control signals received through the input terminal to the second control module 840. The second communication module 830 transmits control signals received through the input terminal to the second output terminal 870 through the output terminal.

[0109] The second control module 840 controls the operation of the switching module 850 based on the control signals received from the second communication module 830. At this time, the second control module 840 outputs one of the first, second, and third switching signals to the switching module 850 based on the control signals. For example, when the received control signal is an ON signal, the second control module 840 outputs the first switching signal; when the received control signal is an OFF signal, it outputs the second switching signal; and when the received control signal is a Blink signal, it outputs the third switching signal.

[0110] The switching module 850 applies a constant current power supply output from the constant current conversion module to the LED array 860. At this time, the switching module 850 applies a constant current power supply to some of the LEDs in the LED array 860 based on the switching signal from the second control module 840.

[0111] The switching module 850 switches to apply a constant current power supply to the green LED element of the LED array 860 in response to the first and third switching signals from the second control module 840. The switching module 850 also switches to apply a constant current power supply to the red LED element of the LED array 860 in response to the second switching signal from the second control module 840. At this time, the switching module 850 may repeat the switching operation for the green LED element of the LED array 860 in response to the third switching signal from the second control module 840, so that the constant current power supply is applied to the green LED element at preset intervals (time intervals).

[0112] LED array 860 includes multiple green LED elements and multiple red LED elements. The green LED elements and red LED elements of LED array 860 can be paired to form a lamp array, which is formed by arranging multiple lamp arrays in a matrix.

[0113] The second output terminal 870 is connected to the next ground-type pedestrian signal 11. The second output terminal 870 is connected to the second input terminal 810 of the next ground-type pedestrian signal 11. The second output terminal 870 outputs control signals and voltage control power to the next ground-type pedestrian signal 11.

[0114] The second output terminal 870 is formed as a spring-shaped cable, which is typically built into the lower part of the main body and extends when connected to the second input terminal 810 of another ground-type pedestrian signal 11. Here, the output terminal corresponds to the second adapter CA2.

[0115] The second output terminal 870 includes: a pair of signal lines connected to the output terminal of the second communication module 830; and a pair of power lines connected to the power line of the second input terminal 810. At this time, the pair of signal lines are connected to the output terminal of the second communication module 830, thereby transmitting control signals to the next ground-type pedestrian signal 11. The pair of power lines are connected to the power line of the second output terminal 870, thereby applying voltage control power to the second output terminal 870.

[0116] The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above, but various modifications can be made to the present invention. Those skilled in the art can make various changes and modifications to the present invention without departing from the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A ground-based pedestrian signal control system, characterized in that, It includes multiple ground-mounted pedestrian signals, each comprising an LED array embedded in the ground between the driveway and the sidewalk. The LED array includes LED elements of a first color and LED elements of a second color. The ground-based pedestrian signal includes: The input terminal connects to one of the controller and the previous ground-type pedestrian signal to receive control signals and voltage control power. The output terminal is connected to the next ground-type pedestrian signal, and outputs the control signal and the voltage control power supply to the next ground-type pedestrian signal. A constant current conversion module converts the voltage control power input to the input terminal into a constant current power supply and outputs the constant current power supply. A communication module that receives and outputs the control signals input to the input terminal, and sends the control signals to the output terminal; The control module outputs a switching signal based on the control signal output from the communication module; and A switching module applies the constant current power supply to the LED array and switches it so that, based on the switching signal, the constant current power supply is applied to the LED element corresponding to one of the first color and the second color. The input terminal and the output terminal include signal lines for transmitting the control signal, and the signal lines of the input terminal and the output terminal are connected to the communication module.

2. The ground-based pedestrian signal control system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The signal line of the input terminal is connected to the input terminal of the communication module, and the signal line of the output terminal is connected to the output terminal of the communication module.

3. The ground-based pedestrian signal control system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The input terminal and the output terminal include power lines for applying voltage control power, and the power lines of the input terminal are connected to the power lines of the output terminal.

4. The ground-based pedestrian signal control system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The power line of one of the input terminals and the output terminals branches off to the constant current conversion module, thereby applying the voltage-controlled power supply to the constant current conversion module.

5. The ground-based pedestrian signal control system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The input terminal is formed as a first adapter, which is disposed on one end of a cable with a retractable length, and the output terminal is formed as a second adapter, which is disposed on the other end of the cable.

6. The ground-based pedestrian signal control system according to claim 5, characterized in that, The input terminal is led out to the outside of the ground-type pedestrian signal.

7. The ground-based pedestrian signal control system according to claim 5, characterized in that, The output terminal is located inside the main body of the ground-type pedestrian signal.

8. The ground-based pedestrian signal control system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The output terminal extends or retracts to connect to the input terminal of the next ground-based pedestrian signal.

9. The ground-based pedestrian signal control system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The output and input terminals of the next ground-type pedestrian signal are configured in a connected state within the interior space of the main body.

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