Mobile road signage device

Abstract

The invention relates to a mobile road sign display device (10', 10'') comprising a conical structure whose apex portion incorporates means for projecting, along a projection direction, a luminous road sign pattern. Several similar mobile road sign display devices (10', 10'') can be stacked for storage and electrical recharging. The projection means include means for adjusting the orientation of the projection direction. It is used to improve the signaling of danger zones on the road, with several mobile road sign display devices (10', 10'') projecting patterns appropriate to the hazardous situation. Figure 14 is shown in the abstract.

Description

Title of the invention: Mobile road signaling device TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The field of the invention relates to a mobile road signaling device.

[0002] More specifically, the invention relates to the field of road safety, and in particular the marking of traffic lanes. It finds its application in particular for road signage after a road accident, or during roadworks, or more generally in different contexts where road signage is necessary to guide drivers. STATE OF THE ART

[0003] Road signs conventionally use mobile road signage devices in the shape of a cone, intended to be placed on or between traffic lanes. These cones are called traffic cones or BP type (prismatic strip) construction site cones and usually include two retro-reflective strips arranged in the height of the cone.

[0004] Such a mobile signaling device comprises a base and a conical-shaped structure having a base opening into the base. The base has a generally square shape and the conical-shaped structure is integral with or fixed to the base, at the base of the conical shape.

[0005] Traffic cones are deployed, for example, upstream of an accident zone and / or downstream of a road safety vehicle in order to prevent the risk of collision. They are also placed on the road to divert road traffic if necessary.

[0006] In order to improve road signage, a mobile road signage device is known which comprises means for projecting a luminous road sign pattern. It is thus possible to project a pictogram, for example a diversion arrow, onto the road in order to divert road traffic from one lane to another, without the risk of a physical collision.

[0007] Such a mobile road signaling device with means for projecting a light pattern is described in document CN114086487. A projector is fixed to the top of the traffic cone and projects a light pattern onto the ground, materializing a danger zone, following a direction of projection of the light pattern.

[0008] Such a traffic cone with a projector is however difficult to use. It requires the operator to position himself precisely on the road in order to direct the projected light pattern onto a road to be marked. Traffic cones generally have a ballast in their base to ensure their stability on the road, their handling and orientation by an operator is difficult.

[0009] Furthermore, the spotlight attached to the top of the cone is vulnerable and can easily be damaged in the event of an impact with a vehicle. Traffic cones with a spotlight attached to the top of the cone are also not stackable, which creates constraints for their storage and transport on roads. Statement of the invention

[0010] The present invention aims to remedy all or part of the drawbacks of the state of the art cited above.

[0011] To this end, the invention aims, according to a first aspect, at a mobile road signaling device comprising a base and a conical-shaped structure having a base opening into said base, said mobile road signaling device comprising means for projecting, in a projection direction, a luminous road signaling pattern.

[0012] According to the invention, the projection means are mounted inside the conical-shaped structure, in a top portion of said conical-shaped structure, said projection means comprising means for adjusting the orientation of said projection direction.

[0013] Thus, the projection means are located inside the conical-shaped structure and are placed in the upper part so that the mobile road signaling devices according to the invention can be stacked with each other or with mobile road signaling devices of similar shape, but without projection means.

[0014] Furthermore, the means for adjusting the orientation of the projection direction allow easy adjustment of the projection of a light pattern on the ground, without the need to move the mobile road signaling device once it is approximately positioned on the road, and although the operator has very limited access to the projection means which are integrated inside the conical-shaped structure.

[0015] According to an advantageous embodiment, the projection means are mounted in a top portion having a height less than 25% of the total height of the conical-shaped structure.

[0016] According to an advantageous characteristic, the projection means comprise means for adjusting orientation around an axis parallel to the height of the conical-shaped structure.

[0017] Once the mobile road signaling device is placed on the roadway, the projection means can be adjusted around the vertical axis of the conical structure so that adjusting the location of the light pattern projected onto the road, in upstream or downstream of the mobile road signaling device.

[0018] Preferably, the projection means comprise a projector of a road signal light pattern and the orientation adjustment means comprise an absolute rotary device adapted to pivot the projector at a pivot angle around an axis parallel to the height of the conical-shaped structure.

[0019] According to an advantageous characteristic, the projection means comprise means for adjusting orientation around an axis extending in a transverse plane of the conical-shaped structure.

[0020] Once the mobile road signaling device is placed on the roadway, the projection means can be adjusted around a horizontal axis in order to adjust the location of the light pattern projected onto the road, and in particular its distance from the mobile road signaling device.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the mobile road signaling device comprises a rechargeable electric current source, of the battery type, electrical connection means connecting said rechargeable electric current source and said projection means.

[0022] The mobile road signaling device is thus autonomous in terms of electrical power supply and suitable for temporary use for road signaling.

[0023] Preferably, the rechargeable electric current source of the battery type is integrated into said base, such that it helps to ballast the base and contributes to the stability of the mobile road signaling device on the roadway.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the mobile road signaling device further comprises an electronic communication and control module adapted to communicate remotely with a control device and / or other mobile road signaling devices, and to control said orientation adjustment means from adjustment instructions sent by said control device and / or said other mobile road signaling devices.

[0025] The adjustment of the orientation of the projection direction of the light pattern can thus be carried out remotely, taking into account the position of the mobile road signaling device on the roadway, and possibly the position of neighboring mobile road signaling devices.

[0026] According to an advantageous embodiment, the mobile road signaling device comprises means for receiving communication signals transmitted by the control apparatus and / or by the other mobile road signaling devices and means for processing said received communication signals in order to generate adjustment instructions for controlling said means of orientation adjustment.

[0027] The mobile road signaling device thus comprises an on-board processing system, adapted to generate instructions for adjusting the means for adjusting the orientation of the projection direction of a light pattern. The adjustment of the projection direction can thus be implemented autonomously by the mobile road signaling device, even in the event of difficulties in receiving external adjustment control instructions, in particular when using the mobile road signaling device in tunnels.

[0028] In practice, said means for receiving communication signals comprise an array of antennas arranged on at least one circumferential portion of the conical-shaped structure.

[0029] The antenna array is thus arranged in a curved portion of the conical-shaped structure, and extends in a transverse plane, perpendicular to an axis extending in the height of the conical-shaped structure. It is particularly well suited to receiving communication signals, such as radio signals for example, coming from similar mobile road signaling devices arranged in the vicinity.

[0030] According to a practical embodiment, the mobile road signaling device comprises means for receiving communication signals transmitted by at least two other mobile road signaling devices and means for calculating a command for adjusting the projection direction of the projection means of said mobile road signaling device as a function of an angular measurement between the relative positions of said mobile road signaling devices.

[0031] According to an advantageous embodiment, the projection means comprise means for configuring the light pattern.

[0032] The light pattern itself (choice of pictogram) can be adapted to the conditions of use of the mobile road signaling device. Its orientation, its brightness (depending on the daytime or nighttime atmosphere, or the type of road surface), its structure (illuminated or unlit areas of the pattern) and its animation (alternation over time of illuminated or unlit areas in the pattern) can also be configured.

[0033] According to a practical embodiment, the mobile road signaling device comprises a camera, the means for configuring the light pattern being adapted to modify parameters of the light pattern, such as the orientation, brightness, color, animation or structure of the light pattern, as a function of an analysis of images recorded by said camera.

[0034] According to a second aspect, the invention also relates to an electric charging base and a stack of mobile road signaling devices as described above. electrical charging means pass through the mobile road signaling devices and are adapted to supply, in parallel, electrical energy storage element charging circuits.

[0035] It is thus possible to recharge the electrical energy storage elements, such as batteries, of each mobile road signaling device simultaneously, when these mobile road signaling devices are stored and stacked on top of each other. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0036] Other features and advantages of the invention will appear in the description below.

[0037] In the attached drawings, given as non-limiting examples: • [Fig. 1] is a sketch illustrating the implementation of a mobile road signaling device according to one embodiment of the invention; • [Fig.2A] is a front view of a mobile road signaling device according to one embodiment of the invention; • [Fig.2B] is a front view of two mobile road signaling devices according to the embodiment of [Fig.2A] stacked on top of each other; • [Fig.3] is an enlarged view of detail A of [Fig.2B]; • [Fig.4] is a schematic view of means for projecting a pattern road signaling light according to a first embodiment; • [Fig.5] is a schematic view of means for projecting a road signal light pattern according to a second embodiment; • [Fig.6A], [Fig.6B] and [Fig.6C] illustrate an electric charging base and a stack of mobile road signaling devices according to a first embodiment of the invention; • [Fig.7A] and [Fig.7B] illustrate an electric charging base and a stack of mobile road signaling devices according to a second embodiment of the invention; • [Fig.8] illustrates an electric charging base and a stack of mobile road signaling devices according to a third embodiment of the invention; • [Fig.9] is a block diagram illustrating an electronic communication and control system embedded in a mobile road signaling device according to one embodiment of the invention; • [Fig. 10] is a block diagram illustrating an electronic communication and control system embedded in a mobile road signaling device according to another embodiment of the invention; • [Fig. 11] a sketch illustrating an embodiment for determining a viewing angle of a second mobile road signaling device by a first similar mobile road signaling device; • [Fig. 12] is a sketch illustrating an embodiment for determining the relative positioning of three similar mobile road signaling devices; • [Fig. 13] is an example of a structured light pattern; and • [Fig. 14] schematically represents an example of the use of several mobile road signaling devices. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0038] The present description is given as a non-limiting example of embodiment.

[0039] We will first describe with reference to Figures 1 to 3 an example of a mobile road signaling device according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0040] Generally, the mobile road signaling device is in the form of a prismatic motorway signaling cone. Such a prismatic cone 10 comprises a base 11 and a conical-shaped structure 12 mounted on the base 11.

[0041] Of course, the shape of this mobile signaling device is not limiting and the present description applies to any type of mobile device intended to be used on the roadway to signal a danger, works or a change of lane.

[0042] Thus, in the remainder of the description, the mobile road signaling device will be referred to as a traffic cone without this name being able to be interpreted in a limiting manner.

[0043] As illustrated in [Fig.2A], the signal cone 10 has a conical structure shape 12 which extends in use in a vertical direction z. The conical structure shape is hollow, the base 12a of the conical structure 12 opening into the base 11. The distance separating the top portion 12b and the base 12a of the conical structure is typically of the order of 1 m. The diameter at the base 12a of the conical structure 12 is for example between 300 and 400 mm, and for example equal to 350 mm. The diameter of the top portion 12b of the conical structure 12 is for example between 40 and 60 mm.

[0044] The conical-shaped structure 12 is made of rigid plastic. Usually, the external surface 12c of the conical-shaped structure 12 is painted in color, for example orange or yellow, and comprises frustoconical peripheral strips 12d made of reflective material. In a non-limiting manner, the signal cone 10 illustrated in [Fig.2A] comprises two frustoconical peripheral strips 12d made of reflective material.

[0045] The base 11 is for example circular or square in shape, so that the cone of signaling 10 is symmetrical around its vertical central axis parallel to the vertical direction z. In order to ensure the stability of the signal cone 10, the base 11 may be formed from a solid block of plastic material. Typically, the weight of the signal cone is between 8 and 12 kg, and preferably of the order of 10 kg.

[0046] As shown schematically in [Fig.l] and visible in Figures 2A and 3, the signal cone 10 comprises means 20 for projecting a luminous road signaling pattern onto a lane of the roadway. A turning arrow has been illustrated here, but the luminous pattern can be adapted and varied according to the uses, as will become clear later in the description.

[0047] In principle, the projection means 20 are mounted inside the conical-shaped structure 12, in the top portion 12b of the conical-shaped structure 12. The conical-shaped structure 12 being hollow, the top portion 12b forms a housing 13 adapted to house the projection means 20.

[0048] As seen in Figures 2B and 3, the housing 13 has a truncated cone shape. Being located in the top portion 12b of the conical structure 12, signal cones 10, 10' of similar shape remain stackable.

[0049] The projection means 20 are mounted in a top portion 12b having a height less than 25% of the total height of the conical-shaped structure 12 in the vertical direction z. The height of the housing 13 located in the top portion 12b of the signal cone 10 is determined such that the projection means 20 do not come into contact with the top of a similar signal cone 10' inserted for storage inside the conical-shaped structure 12 of the signal cone 10.

[0050] Preferably, the height of the housing 13 in the top portion 12b is between 10% and 25% of the total height of the conical-shaped structure 12 of the signal cone 10. For a signal cone with a height of approximately 1m, the housing 13 has a height of approximately 10 cm for example.

[0051] The wall of the conical-shaped structure 12 is transparent in the top portion 12b so that the light pattern projected by the projection means 20 passes through the wall of the conical-shaped structure 12 to be projected outside the signal cone 10.

[0052] As clearly illustrated in Figures 4 and 5, the projection means 20 comprise means for adjusting the orientation of the projection direction of the light pattern.

[0053] These orientation adjustment means make it possible to orient the projection of the light pattern onto the ground, the signal cone 10 itself being difficult to orient once placed approximately on the track, in particular due to its weight.

[0054] The projection means comprise for example a matrix of LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) forming an emissive matrix 21 of light, associated with an integrated cooling system. An optical unit 22 cooperates with the emissive matrix 21 to project the image of the light pattern onto the roadway. Such a projector 20 associating an emissive matrix 21 and an optical unit 22 is known from the state of the art and does not need to be described in more detail here.

[0055] In this embodiment, the projector 20 is mounted on a support 23 associated with orientation adjustment means 24 around the vertical axis z, parallel to the height of the conical-shaped structure 12. The support 23 thus forms a rotating platform in a horizontal plane, inside the conical-shaped structure 12 of the signal cone 10.

[0056] The orientation adjustment means 24 comprise an absolute rotary device adapted to pivot the projector 20 at a pivot angle around an axis parallel to the height of the conical-shaped structure 12.

[0057] Such an absolute rotary device can be produced for example by means of a stepping motor 24 associated with at least one angular reference, or by a continuous motor associated with an angular encoder. Such an absolute rotary device ensures the rotation of the entire projector 20, with its emissive matrix 21 and its optical block 22, mounted on the support 23.

[0058] As a non-limiting example, a stepper motor may have an angular step of 1.8°, which corresponds to a precision of 16 cm for the projection of a light pattern at a distance of 5 m.

[0059] The orientation adjustment means 24 around the vertical axis z make it possible to adjust the positioning of the light pattern on the track, generally in an area upstream of the signal cone 10.

[0060] As illustrated in [Fig.5], the projection means 20 further comprise orientation adjustment means 25 around an axis y extending in a transverse plane of the conical-shaped structure 12.

[0061] The orientation adjustment means 25 around a horizontal axis y, extending in a horizontal plane and perpendicular to the vertical axis z of the conical-shaped structure 12, makes it possible to select the motorway lane, by allowing a projection of the light pattern further away from the traffic cone 10. The traffic cone 10 can thus be placed on a first traffic lane and project a light pattern onto a second traffic lane, parallel to the first traffic lane.

[0062] The orientation adjustment means 25 around a horizontal axis y may be of the same type as those described previously, and comprise an absolute rotary device adapted to pivot the projector 20 according to a pivot angle around the horizontal axis y, such as a stepping motor.

[0063] The coupling of the orientation adjustment means 24, 25 around the vertical axis z and the horizontal axis y thus makes it possible to adjust the projection of the light pattern in the plan of the roadway extending around traffic cone 10.

[0064] Advantageously, as illustrated in [Fig.2A], and in order to supply current to the projection means 20, the signaling cone 10 comprises a rechargeable electric current source 30, also referred to hereinafter as battery 30.

[0065] Preferably, the battery 30 is integrated into the base 11, so that it participates in the ballast of the signal cone 10 to ensure its stability on the track in use.

[0066] Of course, the battery could be housed in another part of the signal cone 10, and for example in the top portion 12b near the projection means 20.

[0067] Electrical connection means 31 connect the rechargeable electric current source 30 and the projection means 20. The electrical connection means 31 are, for example, conductive electric wires.

[0068] When the battery 30 is integrated into the base 11 of the signal cone 10, the electrical connection means 31 may be in contact with the internal wall or be incorporated into the wall of the conical-shaped structure 12. The electrical connection means 31 are thus protected from being torn off. They do not interfere with and are not damaged when stacking, one inside the other, conical-shaped structures of several signal cones 10, 10' for storage.

[0069] The battery 30 which powers the projection means 20 must have a capacity suitable for generating sufficient light power (in lux) so that the light pattern is visible in normal outdoor lighting conditions, and in particular at night.

[0070] The battery must also allow sufficient autonomy of the projection means 20 for the entire duration of the intervention, for example estimated at 3 hours.

[0071] By way of non-limiting example, a battery 30 with a capacity of 600 Wh is used, allowing a consumption of 100 W during an operating time of 3 hours of the projection means 20 (the usual rules for using batteries recommend using only half of their capacity in order to ensure reliability and a good lifespan of the battery).

[0072] For purely illustrative purposes, if the projection means 20 comprise an LED matrix having an output of 100 lumens / W, a luminous flux of 10,000 lumens is obtained.

[0073] To calculate the illumination achieved (in lux), this overall luminous flux must be divided by the surface area of ​​the projected light pattern. The illuminated part of a turn-off arrow on a track as illustrated in [Fig.l] typically has a length of 6 m and an average width of 50 cm, i.e. an area of ​​approximately 3 m2. This gives an illumination of approximately 3,000 lux, which is sufficient to ensure good visibility of the pattern. bright at night.

[0074] It will be noted that the electrical power consumption of the signal cone 10 is mainly linked to the projection means 20, the orientation adjustment means 24, 25 of the stepper motor type having negligible electrical consumption (of the order of 25W) during a very short period of use. In addition, the orientation adjustment means 24, 25 operate when the projector 20 is off, or at reduced power.

[0075] Such a battery 30 may have a weight of between 4 and 6 kg and thus contributes to the ballast of the signal cone 10 when it is placed in the base 11.

[0076] The battery charging device 30 is also preferably placed in the base 11 of the traffic cone 10, such that the traffic cone 10 can be placed upright on a charging base during storage. The base 11 of the traffic cone 10 is thus in contact with the charging base and any known technology for recharging a battery on a charging base can be implemented.

[0077] During their storage and transport before use, the traffic cones 10 are generally stacked inside each other in order to limit their bulk.

[0078] Figures 6A to 6C, 7A to 7B and 8 illustrate different embodiments of an electrical charging base for simultaneously charging a stack of traffic cones 10 as described previously. In their general principle, the electrical charging means pass through the traffic cones 10 and are adapted to supply in parallel charging circuits of electrical energy storage elements such as batteries 30. The batteries 30 of several traffic cones 10 can thus be recharged simultaneously.

[0079] When the batteries 30 are integrated into each base 11 of the traffic cones 10, the electrical recharging means can pass through the bases 11 of the traffic cones 10.

[0080] In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 6A to 6C, the charging base 40 comprises a recharging bar 41 adapted to establish electrical contact between a battery 30 to be recharged integrated in a base 11 of the signal cone 10 and the charging base 40 connected to a source of electric current (not illustrated).

[0081] The charging bar 41 comprises in its length a positively polarized face 41a and a negatively polarized face 41b. In use, the charging bar 41 is adapted to extend parallel to the vertical axis z of the cone-shaped structure 12 and perpendicular to the base 11 of the signal cone 10.

[0082] As illustrated in [Fig.6C], the base 11 of a signaling cone 10 comprises a notch 110 adapted for the passage of the recharging bar 4L. The dimensions of the notch 110 in the horizontal plane of the base 11 are such that the positively polarized face 41a and the negatively polarized face 41b of the recharging bar 41 come in contact with an internal face of the notch 110. The notch 110 comprises on its internal face two contact strips 111, 112 of respectively positive and negative polarity, to be electrically connected to the two positively polarized faces 41a and negatively polarized faces 41b of the recharging bar 41. The contact strips 111, 112 are part of an electrical charging circuit (not visible in the figures) of the battery 30 integrated in the base 11.

[0083] When several similar traffic cones are stacked inside each other, the bases 11, 11', 11”, 11”' are stacked on the charging base 40, the charging bar 41 passing through the notch 110, 110', 110”, 110”' of each base 11, 11', 11”, 11”'. The charging circuits of each battery 30 of the traffic cones are thus electrically connected in parallel on the charging bar 4L

[0084] The charging bar 41 thus makes it possible to simultaneously recharge the batteries 30 of several traffic cones.

[0085] It will be noted that a standard signal cone, without projection means 20, can be stacked with signal cones 10 on a recharging base 40 as soon as a notch, similar to the notch 110 of the signal cone 10 to be recharged, is provided in the base of the standard signal cone for the passage of the recharging bar 41, without electrical connection. It is thus possible to obtain, ready for use, a stack of signal cones, with an alternation of signal cones, with or without projector, according to the signaling needs.

[0086] Figures 7A and 7B illustrate a second embodiment of a device for recharging the battery 30 integrated in a base 11 of a signaling cone 10. In this embodiment, the base 11 of each signaling cone 10 comprises two connection devices 115 (only one is illustrated in Figures 7A and 7B) of opposite polarity, one positive, the other negative.

[0087] Each connection device 115 makes it possible to transfer the electrical contact from the lower face to the upper face of a base 11 of a traffic cone 10. The connection devices 115, 115', 115” of the bases 11, 11', 11” of traffic cones 10, 10', 10” stacked on a charging base 140 are thus connected in series to a connection terminal 141 of the recharging base 140. They make it possible to simultaneously supply electrical current to the batteries to be recharged integrated in the bases 11, 11', 11” of the traffic cones 10, 10', 10”.

[0088] As clearly illustrated in [Fig.7A], in order to increase the reliability of the electrical contact between the connection devices 115, 115' of two signal cones 10, 10' stacked one inside the other, each connection device 115, 115' preferably comprises elastic means 116, 116' between its connection pads 117, 118, 117', 118' opening onto the upper and lower faces of the base 11, 11'.

[0089] So that the position of the stacking of the traffic cones 10, 10', 10” on the charging base 140 is rotationally corrected around the vertical axis z with respect to the polarity, the two connection devices 115, of positive and negative polarity, of the same base 11 are not placed symmetrically with respect to the vertical axis z of the signal cone 10. Advantageously with respect to the size, they are placed in two non-opposite corners of the base 11 of each signal cone 10.

[0090] [Fig.8] illustrates a third embodiment of a battery recharging device 30 integrated into a base 11 of a traffic cone 10.

[0091] In this embodiment, the electrical connections for charging the battery are arranged along the conical-shaped structure 12 of the signal cone 10. In practice, the conical-shaped structure 12 comprises two conductive rings 217, 218, one of positive polarity, the other of negative polarity, arranged on the outer face, in the lower part of the conical-shaped structure 12. Each conical-shaped structure 12 comprises at least two connection pads 227, 228, one of positive polarity, the other of negative polarity, arranged on the inner face of the conical-shaped structure 12.

[0092] The charging base 240 has a truncated cone shape, complementary in shape to the base of the conical structure 12, and comprises two conductive rings 241, 242, one of positive polarity, the other of negative polarity.

[0093] When, for example, two traffic cones 10, 10' are stacked on the charging base 240, their respective connection pads 227, 227' of the same positive polarity come into contact with a respective conductive ring 217', 241 of the same positive polarity, located on the element located immediately below, either the traffic cone 10' or the charging base 240. Similarly, the respective connection pads 228, 228' of the same negative polarity come into contact respectively with the respective conductive rings 218', 242 of the same negative polarity located respectively on the traffic cone 10' and on the charging base 240. To ensure the transmission of the electrical power supply between the stacked traffic cones 10, 10', the connection pads 227 and 228 of the same first traffic cone 10 are both electrically connected to the strips of the same polarity, respectively to the conductive rings 217 and 218.Similarly, in a second signal cone 10', the connection pads 227' and 228' are electrically connected to the strips of the same polarity, i.e. respectively to the conductive rings 217' and 218'.

[0094] In this third embodiment, the stacking of the traffic cones 10, 10' on the charging base 240 can be carried out without orientation constraints for the electrical connection when recharging a battery integrated in the base 11, 11' of a traffic cone 10, 10'.

[0095] Embodiments have been described above in which the integrated battery 30 in the base 11 of the signal cone 10 is recharged on a charging base 40, 140, 240. In an alternative or complementary embodiment, a flexible photovoltaic panel, arranged on the conical-shaped structure 12, can be used to supply the battery 30 with electric current, particularly during the day.

[0096] The signal cone 10 as described above can thus be electrically autonomous for the projection of a light pattern and the adjustment of the direction of projection of this light pattern on the track.

[0097] In one embodiment (not shown), the traffic cone may include control buttons accessible on the conical-shaped structure 12 allowing an operator to control a stepper motor to adjust the projection direction of the light pattern as previously described. Such use is particularly well suited for use of the traffic cones 10 on a road construction site.

[0098] In another embodiment as illustrated schematically in [Fig.9], the signal cone 10 comprises an electronic communication and control module 50 adapted to communicate remotely with a control device (not illustrated) and to control the orientation adjustment means of the projection means 20 from adjustment instructions sent by the control device.

[0099] The control device can for example be located in a patrol truck or on-site intervention vehicle. The communication system can be global (GSM, satellite) or local (WiFi network type). A local network has the advantage of not being dependent on network accessibility, and of being usable in white zones such as tunnels. Any type of wireless communication network, short or long distance, can be implemented.

[0100] For this purpose, the electronic communication and control module 50 cooperates with means for receiving communication signals 51, such as a WiFi signal receiving antenna, in order to receive instructions for adjusting the orientation of the light pattern projection means. The electronic communication and control module 50 further comprises means 52 for processing the received communication signals and means 53 for controlling the angular displacement of the projection means 20, as a function of the received adjustment instructions. The remote control of an absolute rotary device, such as a stepper motor, is known and does not need to be detailed here.

[0101] In one embodiment, the projection means 20 may be coupled to a camera 54 allowing the operator to view the field scanned by the projection means 20 in order to adjust the projection direction. In such a case, the electronic communication and control module 50 cooperates with a signal reception and transmission antenna in order to ensure two-way communication between the communication and control module 50 and the remote control device.

[0102] In another embodiment, the signal cone 10 is autonomous and includes all the means necessary for adjusting the projection direction of the light pattern.

[0103] An example of the architecture of such an embedded system is shown in [Fig. 10]. For a local communication network, a wireless radio communication technology can be implemented from an antenna network 61 in communication with a radio modem 62.

[0104] The radio modem 62 provides the transmission and reception functions: it comprises a radio-frequency (RF) chain and a digital part (BB) carrying out at least baseband modulation / demodulation processing.

[0105] The antenna array 61 allows spatially selective reception, as well as omnidirectional transmission. As will be described below, the antenna array 61 of a first signal cone 10 allows the reception of communication signals transmitted by other signal cones 10 arranged in the vicinity of said first signal cone 10.

[0106] For example, millimeter wave radio technology (mmWave), operating beyond 26 GHz over wide frequency bands (typically up to several GHz), may be suitable for this application, whether due to the permitted ranges (~ 100m) or its ability to provide directive transmissions (due to the use of antenna arrays). Of course, any other radio technology with the same properties, whether standardized or proprietary, is also likely to be applied.

[0107] Advantageously, the antenna array 61 may be arranged on the curved external face of the conical-shaped structure 12 of a signaling cone 10. The means for receiving communication signals thus comprise an antenna array 61 arranged on all or part of a circumferential portion of the conical-shaped structure 12 of the signaling cone 10. A step of calibrating the antenna array 61 may be necessary to take into account its curved shape when receiving an incident radio wave.

[0108] Thus, the signals emitted by neighboring signal cones are received by the antenna network 61 of a first signal cone 10.

[0109] The first signal cone 10 comprises means 62, 63 for processing the received signals in order to generate adjustment instructions for controlling the orientation adjustment means 20.

[0110] In practice, an angle of arrival is determined by the radio modem 62 in order to know the relative positions of the neighboring signal cones.

[0111] The principle of determining the angle of [Fig. 11] is schematically illustrated. view of a second traffic cone 10j from a first traffic cone 10i.

[0112] At a location where a series of traffic cones are deployed, for each cone lOi the reference angle aMi is known between the mechanical reference axis (orientation arrow of the mechanical reference mark) of the direction of the traffic cone lOi (relative to which the projection direction of the light pattern will ultimately be oriented) and the reference axis of the radio system (radio orientation arrow, at the level of the antenna network 61).

[0113] In practice, the second signal cone 10j emits an omnidirectional radio signal. The radio module 62 of the first signal cone 10i receives this omnidirectional radio signal and can determine the radio reception angle aRij by an analysis method known per se and which does not need to be described in detail here (for example, by scanning all or part of the angular space to determine the arrival angle aRij which corresponds to a maximum of the power received by the radio module 62 of the first signal cone 10i).

[0114] The viewing angle aij of the second viewing cone lOj from the first viewing cone lOi, from the mechanical reference axis of the first viewing cone lOi is deduced from the arrival angle aRij and the reference angle aMi.

[0115] The determination of the viewing angle aij of a viewing cone lOj from another viewing cone lOi can be implemented for different pairs of viewing cones lOi, lOj and makes it possible to provide an angular measurement between the relative positions of the signal cones when they are deployed on a site to be protected.

[0116] In practice, a time-sequenced protocol can be implemented so that each viewing plot lOi, lOj deployed on the same site is alternately transmitting or receiving radio signals in order to determine all the viewing angles aij between each pair of viewing cones lOi, lOj.

[0117] The radio module 62 comprises a storage memory making it possible to store, in each traffic cone lOi, a table of association of the viewing angles aij between this traffic cone lOi and the neighboring traffic cones.

[0118] In addition to the viewing angles aij between this traffic cone lOi and all other detected traffic cones, the association table includes the amplitude values ​​of the received communication signals. The lower the amplitude value, the greater the distance between this traffic cone and a neighboring traffic cone.

[0119] As illustrated in [Fig.10], the system embedded in the signal cone 10 comprises means 63 for calculating a command for adjusting the orientation of the projection direction of the light pattern.

[0120] The position of the traffic cone 10 relative to the other traffic cones, whether it is at the end of an alignment of traffic cones or framed by two other traffic cones, is determined by analyzing the association table of viewing angles associated with the amplitude values, by decreasing distance.

[0121] The particular case of an association table which only includes one amplitude value corresponds to the presence of only two traffic cones. In this case, the command for adjusting the orientation of the projection of the light pattern corresponds to a direction perpendicular to this viewing angle.

[0122] In all other cases, the calculation means 63 take into account the first two viewing angles of the association table, classified in order of increasing distance.

[0123] If the difference between these first two viewing angles is less than 90°, this means that the traffic cone 10 is at the end of an alignment of traffic cones. The projection orientation adjustment command corresponds to a direction perpendicular to the first viewing angle in the association table according to the classification in order of increasing distance.

[0124] Otherwise, the traffic cone 10 is framed by two neighboring traffic cones in alignment and the projection orientation adjustment command corresponds to the bisector of the first two viewing angles in the association table according to the classification in order of increasing distance.

[0125] In this embodiment described with reference to [Fig. 10], all the calculations necessary to adjust the projection direction of the light pattern are carried out on-board.

[0126] Of course, as a variant, the traffic cones can also exchange their respective association table of the viewing angles, for example by encapsulating this information in messages transmitted sequentially between traffic cones 10. This allows in particular the calculation of a map of the relative positions of the traffic cones and the commands for adjusting the orientation of the projection of their light patterns take into account all of the tables of viewing angles.

[0127] The calculation means 63, allowing the establishment of such a map of relative positions, implement a known triangulation technique. This makes it possible to determine the distances between the traffic cones only in a relative manner, which is sufficient for determining the viewing angles.

[0128] Of course, the preceding calculation examples are not limiting. The commands for adjusting the orientation of the projection of the light patterns can be determined by more sophisticated algorithms than the calculations of perpendicular directions or bisectors implemented in the embodiment described previously.

[0129] Alternatively, the calculation of a map of the relative positions of the traffic cones and / or the determination of the projection direction can be carried out from remote manner outside the traffic cone 10, for example by remote calculation means (integrated for example in a patrol truck, a control center, or even a remote server). In this case, the angles of arrival, estimated at each traffic cone 10, must be communicated to the remote calculation means, for example by means of the same radio technology as that used for determining the angles of arrival. In this case, the remote calculation means must retransmit the projection direction adjustment instructions to each traffic cone 10.

[0130] According to another embodiment, [Fig. 12] illustrates an implementation of several traffic cones 10, and here of three traffic cones 10, 10', 10” which each integrate a geolocation system of the GPS type for example.

[0131] Each traffic cone 10, 10', 10” incorporates a GPS position sensor and processing means for generating adjustment instructions for controlling the orientation adjustment means.

[0132] For example, for a traffic cone 10, which is arranged between two other traffic cones 10', 10”, the means for adjusting the projection direction of the light pattern are adapted to orient the projection means with a projection direction perpendicular to the direction defined by the two other traffic cones 10', 10”. In practice, the processing means determine an angle a between the main orientation of the traffic cone and the projection direction of the light pattern on the ground.

[0133] For this, the processing means acquire the coordinates of the traffic cone 10, thanks to its GPS position sensor, as well as those of the neighboring traffic cones 10', 10”. The coordinates of the neighboring traffic cones 10', 10” originate from their respective GPS position sensors and are transmitted to the processing means by a radio signal communication system as described previously with reference to [Fig.9].

[0134] From the coordinates of the two neighboring traffic cones 10', 10”, the processing means are adapted to calculate an angle b between a straight line which passes through the coordinates of the two neighboring traffic cones 10', 10” and a predetermined direction of the geolocation system (typically North). The complementary angle at 90° of the angle b gives an angle ç between the direction of projection on the ground and North. The desired angle a is the sum of the angle ç and an angle d, the angle d being the angle between the main orientation of the traffic cone 10 and North.

[0135] Alternatively or in a complementary manner, when the traffic cone 10 further incorporates a camera 54, the orientation of the projection direction, for example perpendicular to a direction of alignment of two neighboring traffic cones and / or judiciously in relation to the demarcation lines of the lanes of traffic, can be implemented by analyzing the images captured by the camera. The camera can be pivotally mounted in the traffic cone 10, for example on the support 23 forming a rotating platform in a horizontal plane. The analysis of the images captured by the camera makes it possible to detect the presence and positioning of neighboring traffic cones and / or lane boundary lines and thus to determine a map of the neighborhood of the traffic cone 10. The projection direction of the light pattern is then adjusted to be, for example, perpendicular to the direction of alignment of the traffic cones with a correction for adaptation to the boundaries of the traffic lanes.

[0136] Various embodiments have been described previously for adjusting the orientation of the projection direction of a light pattern.

[0137] Whatever the embodiment described previously, the projection means 20 comprise means for configuring the light pattern.

[0138] As illustrated for example in [Fig.9], the parameterization means 55 can be integrated into a communication and control module 50 of a signaling cone 10 adapted to communicate remotely with a control device.

[0139] The parameterization means can also be integrated into an autonomous signal cone 10 as described previously with reference to [Fig. 10].

[0140] The means 55 for configuring the light pattern firstly make it possible to select the type of light pattern projected: folding arrow, various pictograms indicating danger, a speed limit, an obstacle, etc.

[0141] The parameterization means 55 of the light pattern are further adapted to modify parameters of the light pattern, such as the orientation, brightness, color, animation or structure of the light pattern.

[0142] For example, [Fig. 13] illustrates an example of a structured light pattern for a folding arrow: instead of projecting a solid arrow, the pattern can be structured by alternating unlit and lit areas in space.

[0143] Such a structure has the advantage of reducing the total illuminated surface by a factor of 2 to 3 compared to a solid arrow, illuminated over its entire surface on the ground.

[0144] The structuring of the light pattern thus makes it possible to reduce the electrical consumption of the projection means 20.

[0145] Furthermore, this structuring of the light pattern can be combined with an animation of the light pattern, that is to say by alternating over time unlit areas and lit areas. This animation makes it possible to increase the visibility of the light pattern.

[0146] This animation can be shifted both in time and in space so as to give the impression of a pattern appearing on the ground over time.

[0147] In a particular case, the animation of the light pattern may consist of completely switching off and on the light pattern, so as to obtain a flashing light pattern, capable of attracting more attention from road users. Furthermore, by making the light pattern flashing, the average power consumed by the projection means 20 is reduced.

[0148] When the signal cone 10 comprises a camera 54, mounted on the support 23 forming a rotating platform for the projection means 20, the parameterization means 55 of the light pattern can take into account an analysis of images recorded by the camera 54.

[0149] In particular, the contrast between the light pattern projected onto the ground and the latter can be analyzed on the images captured by the camera 54. The color, the animation, the structure of the light pattern or the light intensity of the projection means 20 can be regulated as a function of this contrast analysis in order to improve it.

[0150] [Fig. 14] illustrates a non-limiting example of implementation of the signal cones 10 as described previously.

[0151] Preferably, traffic cones 10 as described above are deployed upstream of a security vehicle or patrol truck 80. These traffic cones 10 are arranged for example on a right-hand traffic lane and make it possible to reach the central or left-hand traffic lanes by projection of light patterns (pictograms indicating a danger, diversion arrows or others, etc.) in order to divert road traffic smoothly, without risk of material collision.

[0152] It will be noted that the traffic cones 10, with projection means 20, can be placed on the roadway alternately with traditional traffic cones, without means for projecting a light pattern.

[0153] Thanks to the projection direction adjustment means, each traffic cone 10 can be placed on the roadway, according to an approximate orientation.

[0154] A step of adjusting and orienting the projection direction is then implemented according to an embodiment described previously. During this step of adjusting the projection direction, the light pattern is not projected (or at very low light intensity) so as not to project a light pattern, such as an arrow, poorly oriented on the roadway.

[0155] Once the projection direction has been set, the light pattern can be projected onto the lane on which the traffic cone 10 is placed, or onto one of the parallel lanes, and preferably upstream of the traffic cone 10 following the direction of movement of the vehicles on this lane.

[0156] Of course, the present invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments described previously.

[0157] In particular, the means for adjusting the orientation of the projection direction can be integrated into the projector when the latter is a wide-angle projector. Modifying the projection angle makes it possible to orient the projection of the light pattern onto the track. This implementation avoids the use of an electromechanical device, of the stepper motor type, to adjust the projection direction of the light pattern and thus avoids mechanical movements of the projector inside the traffic cone.

[0158] Alternatively, the projection direction can be adjusted manually by an operator: when the projection means are mounted on a rotating platform around the vertical axis z, the operator can manually rotate the rotating platform for example using a rod extending projecting from the top of the conical-shaped structure 12 of the signal cone 10.

[0159] Light patterns of various shapes and structures have been described, alternating between illuminated and unlit areas. Of course, the projector could be a color projector, with higher power consumption, but offering more varied signage possibilities.

[0160]

Claims

Claims

1. Mobile road signaling device comprising a base (11) and a conical-shaped structure (12) having a base (12a) opening into said base (11), said mobile road signaling device (10) comprising projection means (20), in a projection direction, of a luminous road signaling pattern, said projection means (20) being mounted inside the conical-shaped structure (12), in a top portion (12b) of said conical-shaped structure (12), and said projection means (20) comprising orientation adjustment means (24, 25) of said projection direction, characterized in that the projection means (20) comprise orientation adjustment means (24) around an axis (z) parallel to the height of the conical-shaped structure (12).

2. Mobile road signaling device according to claim 1, characterized in that said projection means (20) are mounted in a top portion (12b) having a height less than 25% of the total height of the conical-shaped structure (12).

3. Mobile road signaling device according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that said projection means (20) comprise a projector (21, 22) of a road signaling light pattern, said orientation adjustment means (24) comprising an absolute rotary device adapted to pivot the projector (21, 22) at a pivot angle around an axis (z) parallel to the height of the conical-shaped structure (12).

4. Mobile road signaling device according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that said projection means (20) comprise orientation adjustment means (25) around an axis (y) extending in a transverse plane of the conical-shaped structure (12).

5. Mobile road signaling device according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that it comprises a rechargeable electric current source (30), of the battery type, electrical connection means (31) connecting said rechargeable electric current source (30) and said projection means (20).

6. Mobile road signaling device according to claim 5, characterized in that said rechargeable electric current source (30), of the battery type, is integrated in said base (11).

7. Mobile road signaling device according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that it further comprises an electronic communication and control module (50) adapted to communicate remotely with a control device and / or other road signaling devices, and to control said orientation adjustment means (24, 25) from adjustment instructions sent by said control device and / or said other road signaling devices.

8. Mobile road signaling device according to claim 7, characterized in that it comprises means (51; 61) for receiving communication signals transmitted by said control apparatus and / or by said other mobile road signaling devices and means (52; 62, 63) for processing said communication signals received in order to generate adjustment instructions for controlling said orientation adjustment means.

9. Mobile road signaling device according to claim 8, characterized in that said means (51; 61) for receiving communication signals comprise an array of antennas arranged on at least one circumferential portion of the conical-shaped structure (12).

10. Mobile road signaling device according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that it comprises means (61) for receiving communication signals emitted by at least two other mobile signaling devices (10', 10”) and means (63) for calculating a command for adjusting the projection direction of the projection means of said mobile road signaling device (10) as a function of an angular measurement between the relative positions of said mobile road signaling devices (10', 10”).

11. Mobile road signaling device according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the projection means (20) comprise means (55) for parameterizing the light pattern.

12. Mobile road signaling device according to claim 11, characterized in that it comprises a camera (54), the parameterization means (55) of the light pattern being adapted to modify parameters of the light pattern, such as the orientation, brightness, color, animation or structure of the light pattern, as a function of an analysis of images recorded by said camera (54).

13. Electrical charging base (40; 140; 240) and stack of dis- mobile road signaling devices (10, 10', 10”) according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that electrical recharging means (41; 115; 241, 242, 217, 217', 227, 227', 218, 218', 228, 228') pass through the mobile road signaling devices and are adapted to supply, in parallel, electrical energy storage element charging circuits (30).

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