Active signaling system for pedestrian crossings

Abstract

An active signaling system for pedestrian crossings, characterized in that it comprises at least two signaling units (10), each of which comprises: a first vehicle signaling module (20), comprising at least one high-visibility light source to attract the attention of drivers; a second pedestrian signaling module (30), including a projector to increase the visibility of the pedestrian crossing; a presence or movement detection system (40); a programmable electronic control unit (50), configured to activate the first and / or second signaling module (20, 30) in response to presence detection or by manual activation, as well as to manage operating parameters, collect usage data, and communicate with remote devices; a mechanical mounting base (11) comprising fixing means; a wireless communication module (60) for synchronizing the operation between the at least two signaling units (10) and transmitting operational information to a remote unit; and an electrical power supply system (70), said system being configured to activate the at least two signaling units (10) in a synchronized manner.

Description

Active signaling system for pedestrian crossings Technical field of the invention The present invention relates to the field of road safety systems, specifically to active signaling systems for pedestrian crossings that provide alerts to both drivers and pedestrians to improve safety at crossings. Background of the invention Statistics on accidents at pedestrian crossings reveal a significant problem in urban and interurban road safety. Traditional pedestrian crossing signage systems rely primarily on horizontal markings, using the typical white stripes painted on the pavement, sometimes supplemented with vertical signage and reflective elements. Some systems incorporate flashing lights that operate at the same intensity and constant frequency, regardless of whether pedestrians are crossing or not. Document ES1083729U discloses a sequential signaling system consisting of two control and power cells at the ends and six or more bidirectional light cells in the center of the roadway. This system detects pedestrian presence and sequentially activates the light cells to represent pedestrian movement. The control cells comprise electronic circuits, various sensors, an autonomous solar-powered system, and a microprocessor to manage multiple functions. However, this system has limitations because it is based on a monoblock concept that requires installation as an indivisible unit in the center of the crosswalk, which limits its adaptability and modularity. Document ES1069434U describes a horizontal signaling circuit for pedestrian crossings, comprising lighting elements arranged on the roadway in accordance with the crossing lines. The system incorporates automatic activation via rubber plates with sensors in the pavement or photoelectric cells installed between posts. The lighting elements can be of different colors when the crossing is regulated by traffic lights. However, this system has significant limitations due to the lack of communication between units, synchronization between multiple devices, and data management or remote communication capabilities, operating independently without coordination between elements. The limitations of these systems include the monotony of the signage, to which drivers easily become accustomed, gradually reducing their level of attention while driving at these critical points. Drivers often cannot accurately detect whether a pedestrian is actually crossing the crosswalk, and this precise identification of pedestrian movement is vital for preventing collisions. Furthermore, in the case of the system disclosed in ES1069434U, there is the problem that pedestrians, due to carelessness or lack of information, may not activate the lighting system associated with the crosswalk. It is therefore an objective of this disclosure to provide an active signaling system for pedestrian crossings that overcomes the above limitations at least in part, through a modular and adaptable design that improves communication between pedestrians and drivers, allows synchronization between multiple signaling units, reduces installation and maintenance costs, and provides greater visibility from multiple angles both day and night. Description of the invention One aspect of the present invention relates to an active signaling system for pedestrian crossings. An active signaling system can be understood as an organized set of components that provide visual and auditory warnings to drivers and pedestrians of the presence of a crossing area, using dynamic and adaptive signals. A pedestrian crossing is a designated area on the public roadway intended for pedestrian crossings, generally marked with road markings. Active signaling involves the use of devices that modify their operating state in response to external events or conditions. In one embodiment, the system comprises at least two signaling units. A signaling unit can be understood as a localized installation that includes several electronic devices designed to emit visual or projected signals. This arrangement allows for coverage of multiple access points to the pedestrian crossing, increasing visibility from different directions. One advantage of this configuration is that it facilitates modular integration into existing infrastructure, as the units can be installed independently. Furthermore, the synchronized operation of the units amplifies the visual impact and improves detection by drivers. In one embodiment, each signaling unit comprises a first vehicle signaling module, which includes at least one high-visibility light source to attract drivers' attention. A signaling module can be understood as a functional subassembly that emits specific signals. A high-visibility light source may refer to LED or strobe lights, with optical characteristics designed to stand out even in adverse conditions. This arrangement improves pedestrian safety by drawing drivers' attention to the crosswalk, reducing the risk of collisions. Localized activation allows for energy-efficient and maintenance-efficient operation. In one embodiment, each unit comprises a second pedestrian signaling module, which includes a projector to enhance the visibility of the pedestrian crossing. A projector can be understood as an optical device that projects light or images onto a surface, such as asphalt, to visually reinforce the crossing area. This arrangement provides a clear and visible indication even in low-light conditions or at night. The projector acts as an extension of the crossing, making its location and extent visible to both road users, thus directly contributing to pedestrian safety. In one embodiment, each unit comprises a presence or motion detection system. This system may include infrared, microwave, or image sensors that identify the presence of a pedestrian. This arrangement allows for intelligent activation of the system only when needed. One advantage is the reduction of false activations and increased energy efficiency. It also facilitates its application in urban environments with variable traffic patterns. In one implementation, each unit comprises a programmable electronic control unit, configured to activate the signaling modules in response to presence detection or manual activation, as well as to manage operating parameters, collect data, and communicate with remote devices. A control unit can be a microcontroller or an electronic board that executes logical instructions. This arrangement gives the system great flexibility. It allows for customization of parameters such as activation time, light intensity, and time periods. Data collection enables analysis and predictive maintenance, and remote communication improves centralized management. In one embodiment, each unit comprises a mechanical mounting base with fastening means. A base can be understood as a structural support designed to stabilize each unit, including anchors or fixing elements for the ground or street furniture. This arrangement allows for simple and secure installation in pre-existing locations without requiring major modifications. One advantage is its low installation and maintenance cost, which facilitates its implementation even in areas with limited resources. In one embodiment, each unit comprises a wireless communication module for synchronization between units and the transmission of operational information to a remote unit. This module may incorporate technologies such as Zigbee, LoRa, Wi-Fi, or cellular networks. This arrangement enables the units to operate in a coordinated manner, enhancing consistency and visual impact. Furthermore, the transmission of operational information allows for real-time monitoring, facilitating remote maintenance. In another embodiment, each unit comprises a power supply system. This system may include rechargeable batteries, solar panels, or a grid connection. This arrangement ensures autonomous operation even without a mains power supply, increasing system reliability. The use of solar power further enhances sustainability and reduces long-term operating costs. Finally, the system is configured to activate at least two signaling units in a synchronized manner. Synchronization means that the modules operate in a coordinated fashion over time. This arrangement increases the visibility of the crossing from different directions, providing a clear signal to drivers. Its direct technical effect is improved road safety and a reduction in accidents under low-visibility conditions. In one embodiment, the first vehicle signaling module comprises at least one strobe light configured to emit high-intensity intermittent flashes. A strobe light can be understood as a luminous device that generates very bright pulses at regular intervals. This arrangement improves the visibility of the vehicle from a greater distance and in adverse conditions such as fog or rain. One advantage is that the intermittent flashing creates a visual pattern that is easily recognizable even among other urban stimuli. In one example, the second pedestrian signaling module includes a high-efficiency LED spotlight positioned to project its beam directly onto the crossing, improving its visibility. An LED spotlight is a light emitter with high efficiency and low energy consumption. This arrangement allows for precise illumination of the crossing area, increasing safety without causing glare. In one example implementation, the power supply system comprises a photovoltaic panel and a rechargeable battery, configured to provide energy autonomy. The panel converts solar energy into electricity, and the battery allows for its storage. This arrangement ensures operation without the need for a grid connection, enabling its use in areas without infrastructure. Furthermore, it reduces environmental impact and operating costs. In one example, the base comprises a support that integrates the various elements of the system. A support is a load-bearing mechanical structure that organizes the components. This arrangement promotes compactness and facilitates transport and installation. It contributes to aesthetic and functional integration with the urban environment by reducing visible elements. In one example, the base is designed for installation on existing street signs, poles, or lampposts. These vertical elements are already part of the road infrastructure. This arrangement allows for the use of existing structures, reducing installation costs and time. A key technical advantage is its adaptability to different environments without requiring any civil engineering work. In one embodiment, the support includes a rotating mechanism for orienting a photovoltaic panel towards the sun. This mechanism allows for adjusting the panel's tilt or orientation. This arrangement increases energy efficiency by ensuring greater solar capture. Energy independence is improved without altering the overall system design. In one implementation, the electronic control unit is configured to activate the signaling modules in response to a manual signal generated by the pedestrian. This signal can originate from an accessible push button. This arrangement allows the pedestrian to initiate the activation, ensuring that the signal is emitted upon crossing. One advantage is the reduction of unnecessary activations, thus optimizing energy consumption. In one example implementation, the electronic control unit is configured to automatically activate the modules in response to presence detection by the detection system. This detection can be performed using infrared, image, or radar sensors. This arrangement allows for activation without user intervention, improving accessibility. One advantage is that it responds to the actual flow of pedestrians without requiring additional actions. In one implementation, the electronic control unit is configured to alternate or combine manual and automatic activation modes according to programmable parameters. These parameters can include schedules, light levels, or passage frequencies. This arrangement allows the system's operation to be adjusted to the environmental conditions, maximizing operational efficiency and reducing component wear. In one embodiment, the electronic control unit includes means for recording and storing usage data, including the number of activations, peak time slots and days, and for transmitting this data to a remote unit. Recording is performed using internal memory, and transmission is via wireless communication. This arrangement allows for analysis of system usage and planning of improvements. Early fault detection is facilitated through remote monitoring. In one implementation, the electronic control unit is configurable via a mobile device, preferably a smartphone, through which parameters such as crossing times, light intensity, and signal duration are adjusted. The smartphone acts as an interface via an application or wireless protocol. This arrangement improves the system's usability and customization. One advantage is the speed of adjustments and maintenance, reducing the need for technical interventions. In one embodiment, the wireless communication module comprises radio frequency communication media for synchronizing the signaling units. Radio frequency enables wireless data transmission. This arrangement ensures effective coordination even between physically separated units. One advantage is the system's scalability without the need for cabling. Brief description of the drawings Figure 1 Figure 1 shows an example of an embodiment according to the invention of a signaling unit. Figure 2 Figure 2 shows a schematic representation of the active signaling system with two signaling units. Figure 3 Figure 3 shows a second example of embodiment according to the invention of a signaling unit in a front view. Figure 4 Figure 4 shows a second example of embodiment according to the invention of a signaling unit in a rear view. Figure 5 Figure 5 shows a third embodiment according to the invention of a signaling unit in a front view. Detailed description of an implementation example The following detailed description presents numerous specific examples to provide a thorough understanding of the relevant teachings. However, it will be evident to those skilled in the subject that these teachings can be put into practice without such details. Figure 1 shows a preferred example of the embodiment of a signaling unit (10) belonging to an active signaling system for pedestrian crossings. First, a mechanical mounting base (11) is visible, which serves as a support and integration structure for all elements of the system. The base (11) can be installed on existing urban signage, such as posts or poles, and is designed to facilitate the incorporation of the different system modules. Attached to the base is a first vehicle-oriented signaling module (20), which in the example shown incorporates at least one strobe light (21). The strobe light (21) is configured to emit high-intensity intermittent flashes, effectively capturing the attention of drivers when pedestrians are detected. Additionally, a second pedestrian-oriented signaling module (30) is provided. In this case, the second module (30) comprises a projector, preferably a high-efficiency LED spotlight, whose function is to directly illuminate the pedestrian crossing to increase its visibility and reinforce the perception of safety for users. Both signaling modules (20), (30) are managed by a programmable electronic control unit, not visible in the figure, which receives data from a presence or motion detection system, also not explicitly shown in this view. The control unit is responsible for automatically or manually activating the modules in response to a detection or activation signal emitted by the user, allowing adjustment of operating parameters, recording of usage data, and communication with remote devices. The unit's power supply is ensured by an independent power system (70). In this example, the power system includes a photovoltaic panel (71) mounted on top of the structure, which converts solar energy into electricity and powers the various system components. This design allows for installation in locations without direct access to the electrical grid. The interaction between these elements allows the control unit, upon detecting a pedestrian, to simultaneously activate the strobe light (21) to alert drivers and the projector (30) to illuminate the crossing, all supported by the base (11) and powered by the photovoltaic panel (71). The assembly thus offers a comprehensive and autonomous solution for active pedestrian crossing signaling. As an example, the operating system is designed so that the motion and presence detector senses people approaching the crossing. Upon detection, the signaling elements are activated, primarily for drivers in both directions. On two-way roads, this activation may include a rotating orange beacon that provides a highly visible warning, in addition to a strobe light that emits high-intensity flashes toward the lane closest to the crossing. Simultaneously, a spotlight projects a beam of light onto the pedestrian crossing area, significantly improving pedestrian visibility. This light may incorporate ultraviolet technology to generate high contrast, highlighting the pedestrian's silhouette even at night or in low-visibility conditions.Additionally, the system may include an acoustic component that reinforces the warning signal by means of sounds directed at pedestrians and drivers, providing an additional sensory layer of warning. Figure 2 represents a schematic example of two signaling units (10) installed facing each other on both sides of a pedestrian crossing, highlighting their coordinated operation. When one of the units detects the presence of a pedestrian using the detection system (40), it transmits a signal to the other unit via the communication module (60), so that both activate simultaneously. This synchronized activation ensures that the vehicle and pedestrian signaling modules on both sides of the crossing illuminate in unison, providing a clear and consistent warning in both directions of traffic. In addition, each unit is powered independently by the electrical power supply system (70), which includes a photovoltaic panel (71). Figure 3 shows an example of an implementation where the photovoltaic panel (71) is mounted on a rotating mechanism (12), which allows its orientation to be adjusted to optimize sunlight capture throughout the day. This mechanism is particularly useful in installations with variable solar incidence, thus ensuring more efficient energy performance of the power supply system (70). Below the panel, the first signaling module (20) can also be seen, which incorporates the strobe light (21), as well as the second module (30) and the detection system sensor 40, all integrated into a compact arrangement. Figure 4, meanwhile, shows a bottom view revealing the power supply unit (709), which in this example is housed in a protected compartment located directly below the solar panel, along with the programmable electronic control unit (50) and the wireless communication module (60). This detail demonstrates how the system is designed to maximize functional integration, minimizing the space occupied and protecting sensitive components. Figure 5 shows a perspective view of an active signaling unit 10 installed on a vertical urban signage element. The assembly is mounted on a support (11) that acts as a structural base, allowing the system to be attached to the vertical sign, partially represented by a pedestrian crossing sign. At the front of the main body is a first signaling module for vehicles (20), which includes two strobe lights. On one side is a second signaling module for pedestrians (30), which comprises an LED projector or spotlight directed towards the pedestrian crossing to improve its visibility by projecting a light beam. The unit also includes a detection system (40), comprising presence or motion sensors such as infrared, image or radar, and is oriented towards the road to detect the proximity of vehicles. The control unit (50), the communication module (60), and the power supply system (70) are integrated into the top of the unit. These components are arranged within the main housing of the device for protection against environmental agents and to facilitate a compact and robust installation.

Claims

1. An active signaling system for pedestrian crossings, characterized in that it comprises at least two signaling units (10), each of which comprises: a first vehicle signaling module (20), comprising at least one high-visibility light source to attract the attention of drivers; a second pedestrian signaling module (30), including a projector to increase the visibility of the pedestrian crossing; a presence or movement detection system (40); a programmable electronic control unit (50), configured to activate the first and / or second signaling module (20, 30) in response to presence detection or by manual activation, as well as to manage operating parameters,collecting usage data and communicating with remote devices; a mechanically secured base (11) comprising fastening means; a wireless communication module (60) for synchronizing the operation of the at least two signaling units (10) and transmitting operational information to a remote unit; and a power supply system (70), said system being configured to activate the at least two signaling units (10) in a synchronized manner.

2. Active signaling system according to claim 1, characterized in that the first vehicle signaling module (20) comprises at least one strobe light (21) configured to emit high-intensity intermittent flashes.

3. Active signaling system according to any of the preceding claims,characterized in that the second pedestrian signaling module (30) comprises a high-efficiency LED spotlight arranged to project its light beam directly onto the pedestrian crossing, improving its visibility.

4. Active signaling system according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the power supply system (70) comprises a photovoltaic panel (71) and a rechargeable battery (70), being configured to provide energy autonomy to the system.

5. Active signaling system according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base (11) comprises a support that integrates the various elements of the signaling system.

6. Active signaling system according to claim 5, characterized in that the base (11) is configured for installation on existing urban signage, poles, posts, or lampposts.

7. Active signaling system according to claims 4 to 6,characterized in that the support comprises a rotating mechanism (12) for orienting a photovoltaic panel towards the sun.

8. Active signaling system according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the wireless communication module (60) comprises radio frequency communication means for synchronizing the signaling units.