Ground level pedestrian signal

Abstract

The present invention provides a ground type pedestrian signal installed in the ground between a road and a sidewalk, which includes a reflector having a plurality of reflection surfaces corresponding to a plurality of LED elements, respectively. The present invention can prevent a decrease in brightness and improve the uniformity of brightness on a light emitting surface even if the distance between the light emitting surface and the LED elements is relatively long by using the reflector.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a ground-based pedestrian signal, and more specifically, to a ground-based pedestrian signal that improves pedestrian visibility. Background Technology

[0002] Ground-based pedestrian signals are embedded in the ground, such as roads, and emit signal light through their surface. Because they function as stop lines or guide lines for oncoming pedestrians while remaining in their line of sight, their effectiveness is highly valued. A particular advantage is their ability to easily provide signal information to pedestrians, coinciding with 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 vehicle lanes (pedestrian walkways) 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. Summary of the Invention

[0005] [Technical Issues]

[0006] The present invention aims to provide a ground-based pedestrian signal that includes a reflector having a reflective surface for improving the uniformity of brightness on the luminous surface, thereby improving visibility relative to pedestrians while minimizing interference with the driver's operation.

[0007] [Solution to the problem]

[0008] To achieve the above objectives, a ground-type pedestrian signal according to one embodiment of the present invention includes: a main body including a base surface that slopes upward from one side to the other; an LED module disposed on the base surface of the main body, wherein a plurality of LED elements for generating signal light are arranged in a matrix on the LED module; and a reflector disposed on the upper part of the LED module, including a plurality of reflective surfaces corresponding to the plurality of LED elements, the plurality of reflective surfaces being classified by columns and sequentially divided into a first column to an nth column of reflective surfaces from a position closer to one side to a position farther away from that side, wherein n is a natural number, each of the first to nth column of reflective surfaces includes a first wall surface and a second wall surface disposed at intervals in the width direction of the reflector, a first virtual line extending downward from the first wall surface and a second virtual line extending downward from the second wall surface forming a virtual angle at their intersection, at least two of the first to nth column of reflective surfaces having different virtual angles, and the virtual angle formed by a column of reflective surfaces becoming smaller as it gets closer to one side.

[0009] The first to nth columns of reflective surfaces can each be configured to have different virtual angles.

[0010] The open upper ends of the first to nth columns of reflective surface groups may all have the same area, and the open lower ends of the first to nth columns of reflective surface groups may all have the same area.

[0011] The open upper ends of the first to nth columns of reflective surface groups may all have the same width, and the open lower ends of the first to nth columns of reflective surface groups may all have the same width.

[0012] The first and second wall surfaces of each of the first to nth columns of reflective surface groups may be inclined in a direction that moves further away from the vertical line as they go upwards, the vertical line passing through the open upper and lower ends of each of the first to nth columns of reflective surface groups.

[0013] The lower surface of the reflector may be formed as an inclined surface corresponding to the base surface of the main body, the lower surface of the reflector and the base surface may be configured to face each other, and the upper surface of the reflector may be horizontally arranged.

[0014] The ground-type pedestrian signal may further include: a cover connected to the upper edge of the main body for accommodating the reflector and the upper part of the main body; a gasket inserted between the upper edge of the main body and the lower end of the cover for blocking the introduction of external moisture; and a buffer sheet inserted between the inner surface of the cover and the upper surface of the reflector for cushioning.

[0015] Multiple anti-slip protrusions can be formed by protruding from the upper surface of the cover.

[0016] The cover may include a nut located on its sidewall, and the main body may have a plurality of first insertion holes and a plurality of second insertion holes, the plurality of first insertion holes being formed at intervals along the periphery of the upper edge of the main body, the plurality of second insertion holes being formed at intervals along the periphery of the lower edge of the main body, and bolts fitted into the second insertion holes of the main body being fastened to the nut of the cover by passing through the first insertion holes.

[0017] The diameter of the first insertion hole may be smaller than the diameter of the second insertion hole, so as to form a stepped surface between the first insertion hole and the second insertion hole, and the head of the bolt may be supported by the stepped surface between the first insertion hole and the second insertion hole.

[0018] The cover may include a nut mounting groove formed in the side wall of the cover, and the nut may be mounted into the nut mounting groove in a horizontal direction, such that the nut hole at the center is located at a position corresponding to the first insertion hole.

[0019] The signal light generated by each of the plurality of LED elements can be emitted from an angle formed by tilting it vertically toward the sidewalk.

[0020] An internal space may be formed between the bottom surface of the main body and the base surface, and a cable for providing power to the LED module and transmitting control signals may be provided in the internal space.

[0021] The two ends of the main body in the longitudinal direction may be provided with a first connecting hole and a second connecting hole. A first adapter may be provided at one end of the cable and a second adapter may be provided at the other end. The length between the first adapter and the second adapter is telescopic. The first adapter may be provided to the outside through the first connecting hole. The second adapter may be provided in the internal space of the main body. The first adapter may be connected to another adjacent pedestrian signal. When connected to another pedestrian signal, the first adapter may be inserted into the internal space of the main body through the second connecting hole and connected to the second adapter.

[0022] [Beneficial effects of the invention]

[0023] According to the present invention, by classifying the multiple reflective surfaces of the reflector into columns, dividing them into columns 1 to n (n is a natural number) of reflective surface groups, and forming the virtual angle of the reflective surface group closer to one side smaller than the virtual angle of the reflective surface group farther from that side, it is possible to prevent brightness reduction even when the distance between the light-emitting surface and the LED element is relatively long, thereby improving the brightness uniformity of the light-emitting surface.

[0024] Furthermore, according to the present invention, by providing pedestrian signals illuminated on the ground at pedestrian crossing waiting lines, accidents such as those caused by pedestrians looking down at their smartphones and not being aware of their surroundings can be prevented.

[0025] Furthermore, according to the present invention, by fastening the bolts passing through the first insertion hole and the second insertion hole of the main body and the bolt hole of the cover to the nut provided on the side wall of the main body, the main body and the cover can be firmly connected, and the component manufacturing cost and product manufacturing cost can be reduced. Attached Figure Description

[0026] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating the state of a ground-type pedestrian signal according to an embodiment of the present invention being buried in the ground.

[0027] Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing a ground-type pedestrian signal according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view showing a planar side of a ground-type pedestrian signal according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view showing the bottom side of a ground-type pedestrian signal according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 5 It means Figure 3 An exploded perspective view of a portion of the drive module in the main body.

[0031] Figure 6 It means Figure 4 An exploded perspective view of a portion of the bottom surface of the main body.

[0032] Figure 7 It means Figure 3 An enlarged 3D view of a portion of the LED module.

[0033] Figure 8 It means Figure 2 A-A' sectional view.

[0034] Figure 9This is a cross-sectional view of a first variant example showing a different connection structure between the main body and the cover.

[0035] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of a second variant example showing a different connection structure between the main body and the cover.

[0036] Figure 11A This is a perspective view showing the planar side of the reflector of a ground-type pedestrian signal according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 11B This is a perspective view showing the bottom side of the reflector of a ground-type pedestrian signal according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 12 It means Figure 8 An enlarged cross-sectional view of the reflector in the image.

[0039] Figure 13 It means having the same as Figure 12 A cross-sectional view of another variation of the different reflective surfaces. Detailed Implementation

[0040] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0041] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating the state in which the ground-type pedestrian signal 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is buried in the ground.

[0042] like Figure 1 As shown, multiple ground-mounted pedestrian signal controllers 1 can be buried in the ground on one side of the pedestrian crossing curb 30 located between the lane 10 and the sidewalk 20. As will be explained below, the multiple ground-mounted pedestrian signal controllers 1 can be connected in the left-right direction via cable C (see...). Figure 2 ).

[0043] Multiple ground-mounted pedestrian signal controllers 1 can be electrically connected to a signal controller 2 located externally, such as on a road, and are linked to pedestrian crossing traffic lights (not shown). For example, when the red light of the pedestrian crossing traffic light is illuminated under the control of the signal controller 2, the red light-emitting diode (LED) element in the ground-mounted pedestrian signal controller 1 (see...) Figure 7 The green light in the pedestrian crossing traffic light can be illuminated simultaneously to emit red light. Additionally, when the green light in the pedestrian crossing traffic light is illuminated under the control of signal controller 2, the green LED element in the ground-type pedestrian signal 1 (see...) Figure 7 The signal controller 2 can be turned on to emit green light. As described above, the ground-mounted pedestrian signal 1 buried in the ground can display red, green and flashing green, so that pedestrians who are looking down at their mobile phones while walking can be aware of their surroundings.

[0044] Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing a ground-type pedestrian signal according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view showing a planar view of a ground-type pedestrian signal according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view showing the bottom side of a ground-type pedestrian signal according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] like Figure 2-4 As shown, the ground-type pedestrian signal 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a main body 100, an LED module 200, a reflector 300, a drive module 400, and a cover 500.

[0046] 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 20 side is lower than its height on the lane 10 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 20 at an angle of approximately 10 degrees relative to the vertical direction.

[0047] Therefore, pedestrians waiting for a signal on the ground between lane 10 and sidewalk 20 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] As described below, refer to Figure 8 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. The following will refer to… Figure 8 The connection structure between the main body 100 and the cover 500 is described in detail.

[0054] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 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 includes 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.

[0055] 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.

[0056] Figure 5 It means Figure 3 An exploded perspective view of a portion of the drive module in the main body.

[0057] Reference Figure 5 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.

[0058] 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.

[0059] Figure 6 It means Figure 4 An exploded perspective view of a portion of the bottom surface of the main body.

[0060] Reference Figure 6 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.

[0061] 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 can be 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.

[0062] 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.

[0063] The internal space 160 may be formed between the bottom surface 150 and the base surface 110 provided on the bottom of the main body 100. The internal space 160 may be provided with a cable C for providing power to the LED module 200 and transmitting control signals.

[0064] The main body 100 has a first connecting hole h1 and a second connecting hole h2 formed at both ends along its length. These connecting holes h1 and h2 can 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 can be extended to the outside through the first connecting hole h1, and the second adapter CA2 can be disposed within the internal space 160 of the main body 100.

[0065] Since a single ground-type pedestrian signal 1 is approximately 30 cm long, multiple ground-type pedestrian signal 1s 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 signal 1s.

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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 DC 24V) to the drive module 400, and the pair of second terminals t2 can be formed by an interface for RS-485 communication, thereby enabling communication between the drive module 400 and the signal controller 2 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.

[0068] 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.

[0069] Figure 7 It means Figure 3 An enlarged 3D view of a portion of the LED module.

[0070] Reference Figure 7 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.

[0071] 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 1 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.

[0072] Figure 8It means Figure 2 A-A' sectional view.

[0073] Reference Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 8 The main body 100 may have a plurality of first insertion holes 131 formed at intervals along the periphery of the upper edge 130, and a plurality of second insertion holes 141 formed at intervals along the periphery of the lower edge 140.

[0074] The first insertion hole 131 and the second insertion hole 141 may be connected to each other, and the diameter of the first insertion hole 131 may be smaller than the diameter of the second insertion hole 141. In other words, a stepped surface f may be formed between the first insertion hole 131 and the second insertion hole 141 due to the diameter difference.

[0075] The main body 100 and the cover 500 can be connected to each other by fasteners such as bolts. In this embodiment of the invention, bolts are used as fasteners in the example described. Bolt B1 can be fitted into the second insertion hole 141 of the main body 100 to pass through the first insertion hole 131, and can be fastened to the nut hole N1a of the nut N1 through the fastening hole 610 of the washer 600 and the bolt hole 531 formed on the lower part of the side wall 530 of the cover 500. Here, the head h of bolt B1 can be supported by the stepped surface f between the first insertion hole 131 and the second insertion hole 141. The connection structure using bolt B1 and nut N1 has the advantages of achieving a strong connection and reducing component manufacturing costs and product manufacturing costs.

[0076] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of a first variant example showing a different connection structure between the main body and the cover.

[0077] Reference Figure 9 Nut N2 is not fitted to the upper part of the side wall 530 of the cover portion 500. As shown by the arrow, it can be fitted horizontally into the nut mounting groove 540 formed in the side wall 530. In this case, nut N2 can be located at the position where the nut hole at the center corresponds to the first insertion hole 131 of the main body portion 100.

[0078] After the nut N2 is assembled into the nut mounting slot 540 as described above, the bolt B2 can be assembled into the second insertion hole 141 of the main body 100 to pass through the first insertion hole 131, and can be fastened to the nut hole of the nut N2 through the fastening hole 610 of the washer 600 and the bolt hole 531 of the cover 500. In this case, the head h of the bolt B2 can be supported by the stepped surface f between the first insertion hole 131 and the second insertion hole 141.

[0079] As described above, the method of inserting nut N2 into nut mounting groove 540 and fastening nut N2 with bolt B2 is as follows: Figure 8 As shown in the embodiment, the main body 100 and the cover 500 can be securely connected to each other.

[0080] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of a second variant example showing a different connection structure between the main body and the cover.

[0081] Reference Figure 10 Nut N3 can be embedded within the cover 500 during injection molding. The cover 500 can be manufactured by plastic injection molding, in which case nut N3 can be embedded within the side wall 530 of the cover 500. For example... Figure 9 As shown in the first modified example, the bolt B3 can be fitted into the second insertion hole 141 of the main body 100 to pass through the first insertion hole 131, and can be fastened to the nut hole of the nut N3 through the fastening hole 610 of the washer 600 and the bolt hole 531 of the cover 500.

[0082] As described above, the method of fastening bolt B3 to nut N3 embedded in cover 500 has the advantage of making the connection between main body 100 and cover 500 more secure, but the manufacturing cost may be slightly increased.

[0083] Reference Figures 8 to 10 The reflector 300 may be disposed on the upper part of the LED module 200 and may include a plurality of reflective surfaces 310 corresponding to a plurality of LED elements 220 respectively.

[0084] The lower surface 330 of the reflector 300 may be formed as an inclined surface corresponding to the base surface 110 of the main body 100. The lower surface 330 of the reflector 300 may be configured to face the inclined base surface 110 of the main body 100. As described above, the lower surface 330 and the base surface 110 of the reflector 300 may be formed to have corresponding inclinations, be configured to face each other, and the upper surface of the reflector 300 may be horizontally arranged.

[0085] The light generated by each LED element 220 can be reflected by the reflective surface 310 of the reflector 300. In this case, the light is not emitted vertically, but can be emitted at an angle of about 10 degrees from the vertical direction toward the sidewalk 20 to the cover 500.

[0086] Because the tilt angle is as described above, tilted towards the sidewalk 20 in the opposite direction to lane 10, the light emitted towards lane 10 is significantly reduced, and more light is emitted towards sidewalk 20. In other words, the light emitted towards pedestrians can be increased while minimizing interference from light directed towards vehicle drivers. Therefore, pedestrian visibility can be further improved while reducing driving interference for drivers.

[0087] Figure 11AThis is a perspective view showing the planar side of the reflector of a ground-type pedestrian signal according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 11B This is a perspective view showing the bottom surface of the reflector of a ground-type pedestrian signal according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 12 It means Figure 8 An enlarged cross-sectional view of the reflector in the image.

[0088] like Figure 11A and Figure 11B As shown, the plurality of reflective surfaces 310 of the reflector 300 can be arranged in a 12-row, 6-column matrix corresponding to the plurality of LED elements 220 arranged in a 12-row, 6-column matrix.

[0089] Here, the multiple reflective surfaces 310 are classified by columns, and are respectively divided into column 1 to column n (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 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.

[0090] like Figure 12 As shown, the reflective surface groups m1, m2, m3, m4, m5, and m6 in columns 1 to 6 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.

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] 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.

[0095] Therefore, the ground-based pedestrian signal 1 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 longer.

[0096] 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.

[0097] 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.

[0098] In the ground-type pedestrian signal 1, 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.

[0099] 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 10, to the first reflective surface group m1, which is relatively closer to the sidewalk 20, 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.

[0100] 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.

[0101] Figure 13 It means having the same as Figure 12A cross-sectional view of another variation of the different reflective surfaces.

[0102] Reference Figure 13 The first wall surface 311' and the second wall surface 312' of each of the first to sixth column reflective surface groups m1, m2, m3, m4, m5 and m6 can be formed to be inclined in a direction that moves further away from the vertical line L as it goes upward, the vertical line L passing through the open upper and lower ends of each of the first to sixth column reflective surface groups m1, m2, m3, m4, m5 and m6.

[0103] 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.

[0104] According to the embodiments of the present invention, the brightness of the ground-type pedestrian signal will not decrease 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.

[0105] Furthermore, according to the embodiments of the present invention, when the ground-mounted pedestrian signal needs to be repaired or replaced while 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.

[0106] The preferred embodiments of the present invention have now been disclosed in the accompanying drawings and description. Although specific terminology has been used herein, its use is merely illustrative and not intended to limit the meaning or scope of the invention as described in the claims. Therefore, those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and equivalent embodiments can be made based on the disclosure of this invention. Consequently, the true technical scope of the present invention should be determined by the technical concept of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A ground-based pedestrian signal, characterized in that, The ground-mounted pedestrian signal, embedded in the ground between the driveway and the sidewalk, includes: The main body includes a base surface that slopes upward from one side to the other. An LED module, disposed on the base surface of the main body, wherein multiple LED elements for generating signal light are arranged in a matrix on the LED module; and A reflector, disposed on the upper part of the LED module, includes multiple reflective surfaces corresponding to the plurality of LED elements. The multiple reflective surfaces are classified by columns, with the positions closest to one side and furthest from that side being divided into columns 1 to n, where n is a natural number. Each of the first to nth columns of reflective surface groups includes a first wall surface and a second wall surface that are spaced apart in the width direction of the reflector. The first virtual line extending downward from the surface of the first wall and the second virtual line extending downward from the surface of the second wall form a virtual angle at their intersection. At least two of the first to nth columns of reflective surfaces have different virtual angles, and the virtual angles formed become smaller as the first column of reflective surfaces gets closer to the side.

2. The ground-based pedestrian signal according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first to nth columns of reflective surface groups are each formed with different virtual angles.

3. The ground-based pedestrian signal according to claim 1, characterized in that, The open upper ends of the first to nth columns of reflective surface groups all have the same area.

4. The ground-based pedestrian signal according to claim 1, characterized in that, The open lower ends of the first to nth columns of reflective surface groups all have the same area.

5. The ground-based pedestrian signal according to claim 1, characterized in that, The open upper ends of the first to nth columns of reflective surface groups all have the same width. The open lower ends of the first to nth columns of reflective surface groups all have the same width.

6. The ground-based pedestrian signal according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first and second wall surfaces of each of the first to nth columns of reflective surface groups are inclined in a direction that moves further away from the vertical line as they go upwards, and the vertical line passes through the open upper and lower ends of each of the first to nth columns of reflective surface groups.

7. The ground-based pedestrian signal according to claim 1, characterized in that, The lower surface of the reflector is formed as an inclined surface corresponding to the base surface of the main body. The lower surface and the base surface of the reflector are configured to face each other, and the upper surface of the reflector is configured horizontally.

8. The ground-based pedestrian signal according to claim 1, characterized in that, Further includes: A cover portion, which is connected to the upper edge of the main body portion, is used to accommodate the reflector and the upper part of the main body portion; as well as A gasket, inserted between the upper edge of the main body and the lower end of the cover, is used to prevent the introduction of external moisture.

9. The ground-based pedestrian signal according to claim 8, characterized in that, It further includes a buffer sheet, which is inserted between the inner surface of the cover and the upper surface of the reflector to provide a buffering effect.

10. The ground-type pedestrian signal according to claim 8, characterized in that, Multiple anti-slip protrusions are formed in such a way that they protrude from the upper surface of the cover.

11. The ground-based pedestrian signal according to claim 8, characterized in that, The cover includes a nut located on its side wall. The main body has a plurality of first insertion holes and a plurality of second insertion holes. The plurality of first insertion holes are formed at intervals along the periphery of the upper edge of the main body, and the plurality of second insertion holes are formed at intervals along the periphery of the lower edge of the main body. The bolt, which is fitted into the second insertion hole of the main body, is fastened to the nut of the cover by passing through the first insertion hole.

12. The ground-based pedestrian signal according to claim 11, characterized in that, The diameter of the first insertion hole is smaller than the diameter of the second insertion hole, so as to form a stepped surface between the first insertion hole and the second insertion hole. The head of the bolt is supported by the stepped surface between the first insertion hole and the second insertion hole.

13. The ground-based pedestrian signal according to claim 11, characterized in that, The cover includes a nut mounting groove formed in the sidewall of the cover. The nut is assembled into the nut assembly slot in a horizontal direction, such that the nut hole at the center is located at the position corresponding to the first insertion hole.

14. The ground-based pedestrian signal according to claim 1, characterized in that, The signal light generated by each of the plurality of LED elements is emitted at an angle formed by tilting it from the vertical direction toward the sidewalk.

15. The ground-based pedestrian signal according to claim 1, characterized in that, An internal space is formed between the bottom surface of the main body and the base surface. The internal space is equipped with cables for supplying power to the LED module and transmitting control signals.

16. The ground-based pedestrian signal according to claim 15, characterized in that, The main body has a first connecting hole and a second connecting hole formed at both ends along its length. The cable has a first adapter at one end and a second adapter at the other end, and the length between the first adapter and the second adapter is extendable. The first adapter is configured to extend to the outside through the first connection hole, and the second adapter is disposed in the internal space of the main body. The first adapter is connected to another adjacent pedestrian signal. When connected to another pedestrian signal, the first adapter is inserted into the internal space of the main body through the second connection hole and connected to the second adapter.

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