Signpost

Abstract

To provide a signpost that can deter acts that could cause damage. [Solution] The signpost 1 comprises a column portion 10 and a recognition portion 20 provided on the column portion 10. The column portion 10 has flexibility that allows it to be deformed by external force in a restorable manner. The column portion 10 has a pair of tip portions 11 and support end portions 12, and the column portion 10 is supported at the support end portions 12. The recognition portion 20 is provided on the tip portion 11 of the column portion 10 and is designed to recognize objects. The object is designed to deter actions that would damage the signpost 1.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a signpost, and more particularly to a flexible signpost.

Background Art

[0002] For example, on the road, columnar signposts are used to indicate the passage range to pedestrians, passing vehicles, etc. or as some kind of landmark (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Such signposts are made of a flexible material so that even if a person or a vehicle hits them, a large impact will not be transmitted to the person or the vehicle. When the material of the signpost is recognized as a flexible material, the signpost may be deliberately deformed or subjected to an impact, and as a result, the signpost may be deformed or damaged. Therefore, a configuration that can prevent an act that may cause damage to the signpost is required.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object thereof is to provide a signpost that can suppress an act that may cause damage.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] To achieve the above objective, the signpost according to the present invention comprises a columnar column portion and a recognition portion provided on the column portion, wherein the column portion has flexibility that allows it to be deformed by an external force in a restorable manner, the column portion has a pair of ends, a tip portion and a support end, the column portion is supported at the support end, the recognition portion is provided on the tip portion of the column portion and is designed to recognize objects, and the object is designed to prevent actions that would damage the signpost.

[0007] In a signpost according to one aspect of the present invention, the recognition portion has a projection that protrudes in a direction toward the tip portion from the support end.

[0008] In a signpost according to one aspect of the present invention, the width of the recognition portion is greater than the width of the column portion, and the widths are in directions perpendicular to the extension direction of the column portion, and the extension direction is the direction in which the column portion extends between the support end and the tip portion.

[0009] A signpost according to one aspect of the present invention is configured such that the line of sight is directed vertically upward from the tip of the column portion.

[0010] In a signpost according to one aspect of the present invention, the length between the tip of the column and the support end is set based on the average height of a predetermined age group.

[0011] In a signpost according to one aspect of the present invention, the recognition unit displays the object in two or three dimensions.

[0012] In a signpost according to one aspect of the present invention, the recognition part has a shape that mimics the aforementioned object.

[0013] In a signpost according to one aspect of the present invention, the object is a character.

[0014] In a signpost according to one aspect of the present invention, the column portion is made of polyurethane.

[0015] The signpost according to one aspect of the present invention further includes a base portion, and the base portion supports the column portion at the support end portion, and the column portion extends from the base portion.

[0016] In order to achieve the above object, the signpost according to the present invention is a signpost including a columnar column portion having flexibility that can be deformed by an external force in a recoverable manner, and at the tip of the signpost, there is provided a recognition portion for diverting the line of sight of a person looking at the signpost from the column portion.

[0017] In the signpost according to one aspect of the present invention, the recognition portion is anthropomorphic.

[0018] In the signpost according to one aspect of the present invention, the anthropomorphic object has a protruding portion that protrudes in a direction away from the column portion in the direction in which the column portion extends.

[0019] In the signpost according to one aspect of the present invention, when viewed in the direction in which the column portion extends, the dimensions of the anthropomorphic object are larger than the dimensions of the column portion.

[0020] In the signpost according to one aspect of the present invention, the anthropomorphic object is installed on the side in a direction away from the column portion in the direction in which the column portion extends.

[0021] In the signpost according to one aspect of the present invention, in the state where the signpost is installed, the position of the recognition portion is not at the same height as the average height of the age group of the person who wants to divert the line of sight from the column portion.

Advantages of the Invention

[0022] According to the signpost of the present invention, it is possible to suppress an act that may cause damage.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0023] [Figure 1] It is a front view of the signpost according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2]It is an exploded view showing the components of the signpost shown in FIG. 1 decomposed. [Figure 3] It is a diagram showing the widths of the character part and the column part, and is a diagram showing the projection planes of the character part and the column part. [Figure 4] It is a diagram showing an example of the recognition part. [Figure 5] It is a diagram showing an enlarged view of the character part when the column part is deformed or vibrated. [Figure 6] It is a diagram showing an enlarged view of the recognition part for showing another example of the recognition part. [Figure 7] It is a diagram showing an example of the usage state of the signpost. [Figure 8] It is a diagram showing an example of the usage state of the signpost. [Figure 9] It is a diagram showing an example of the usage state of the signpost. [Figure 10] It is a diagram showing an example of the usage state of the signpost. [Figure 11] It is a diagram for showing a modified example of the recognition part.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0024] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0025] FIG. 1 is a front view of a signpost 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, the signpost 1 includes a columnar column part 10 and a recognition part 20 provided on the column part 10. The column part 10 has flexibility that can be deformed by an external force and can be restored. The column part 10 has a tip part 11 and a support end part 12 which are a pair of end parts, and the column part 10 is configured to be supported at the support end part 12. The recognition part 20 is provided at the tip part 11 of the column part 10 and is configured to recognize an object. The object is configured to suppress an act that reaches the damage of the signpost 1. Hereinafter, the configuration of the signpost 1 will be specifically described.

[0026] Figure 2 is an exploded view showing the components of the signpost 1 in disassembled form. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the signpost 1 further comprises a base 30. The base 30 supports the column portion 10 at the support end 12, and the column portion 10 extends from the base 30. In Figure 2, the column portion 10 and the base 30 are shown in cross-section.

[0027] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the column portion 10 extends in a columnar shape in the direction of its extension. The direction of extension of the column portion 10 is the direction in which the column portion 10 extends between the support end 12 and the tip end 11. As shown in Figure 2, the column portion 10 extends, for example, along an imaginary straight line, which is axis x. For the sake of explanation, in the direction of axis x, the side moving from the support end 12 to the tip end 11 will be referred to as the upper side, and the side moving from the tip end 11 to the support end 12 will be referred to as the lower side.

[0028] The column portion 10 has a cylindrical or cylindrical external shape extending along the axis x, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, for example, and has a cylindrical or substantially cylindrical side surface 13. The column portion 10 is, for example, hollow. However, the column portion 10 may be solid. Furthermore, the external shape of the column portion 10 is not limited to a cylindrical shape, but may be a rectangular prism, for example, and the cross-sectional shape of the column portion 10 is not limited to a circle, but may be a polygon such as a triangle or a quadrilateral, or any other shape.

[0029] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the tip portion 11 has, for example, a tip surface 14 that faces upward. The tip surface 14 extends, for example, along a plane perpendicular to the axis x. Also, the tip surface 14 is, for example, a closed surface. That is, the tip portion 11 is closed so that the hollow interior of the column portion 10 is not opened. Note that the tip surface 14 is not limited to a closed surface, but may be an annular surface in which a space is formed inside. In this case, the tip portion 11 leaves the hollow interior of the column portion 10 open.

[0030] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2, the support end 12 has, for example, a support end face 15 that faces downward. The support end face 15 extends, for example, along a plane perpendicular to the axis x. Also, the support end face 15 is, for example, an annular surface that forms a space inside. In other words, the support end 15 opens up the hollow interior of the column portion 10. Note that the support end face 15 is not limited to an annular surface, but may be a closed surface. In this case, the support end 12 is closed so that the hollow interior of the column portion 10 is not opened.

[0031] The length L1 of the column section 10 is, for example, a predetermined length. The length L1 of the column section 10 is the length in the extension direction of the column section 10, and is the length between the tip section 11 and the support end section 12. Specifically, it is the distance between the tip surface 14 and the support end surface 15 in the x-axis direction. Details of the length L1 of the column section 10 will be described later.

[0032] As described above, the column portion 10 has flexibility that allows it to be deformed by external forces in a restorable manner. Specifically, it has the flexibility to deform even in the event of an impact such as contact by a person. Furthermore, the column portion 10 has the ability to return to its original shape, or approximately its original shape, after being deformed by an external force and then having that force removed. The column portion 10 is made from an elastic material having the flexibility described above. The elastic material used to make the column portion 10 is, for example, an elastomer, specifically, polyurethane. The column portion 10 may also be made from other elastic materials such as other resins or rubber that have the flexibility described above.

[0033] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the base 30 functions as the base of the signpost 1 and extends radially outward from the column portion 10. The radial direction is perpendicular to the direction in which the signpost 1 extends (axis x direction). The base 30 has, for example, a disc shape and has a bottom surface 31 as a contact surface and a support portion 32 formed at a position opposite to the bottom surface 31. The support portion 32 is the part to which the support end 12 of the column portion 10 is attached and supports the column portion 10. The support portion 32 is also detachable from the column portion 10. The support portion 32 has, for example, a recess 33 for accommodating the support end 12 of the column portion 10, as shown in Figure 2. The recess 33 is recessed on the lower side and is shaped such that, for example, the support end 12 of the column portion 10 is press-fitted into it. Specifically, the recess 33 has, for example, a cylindrical side surface 33a and a bottom surface 33b. The side surface 33a is in contact with the side surface 13 of the column portion 10 housed in the recess 33. The bottom surface 33b is in contact with the lower end surface 15 of the column portion 10 housed in the recess 33. Note that the shape of the base portion 30 is not limited to a disc shape and may be other shapes.

[0034] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2, a weight 34 is provided on the base 30. The base 30 is, for example, solid, and the weight 34 is embedded inside the base 30. The weight 34 may also be exposed from the surface of the base 30. The base 30 may have one weight 34, or it may have multiple weights 34. The base 30 is made of, for example, polyurethane. The material of the base 30 may be other materials. The weight 34 is made of, for example, metal. The material of the base 30 may be other materials.

[0035] The base 10 and column 10 of the signpost 1 are components similar to road signposts such as post cones (registered trademark).

[0036] As described above, the recognition unit 20 is designed to recognize objects. The recognition unit 10 displays objects in two or three dimensions, for example. Furthermore, the objects recognized by the recognition unit 20 are designed to deter actions that could damage the signpost 1. In other words, the recognition unit 20 is designed to deter actions that could damage the signpost 1. Specifically, for example, the objects recognized by the recognition unit 20 are designed to deter intentional deformation of parts of the signpost 1, such as the column 10, or intentional impacts to parts of the signpost 1, such as the column 10.

[0037] For example, the recognition unit 20 has a projection that protrudes upward. Also, for example, the width W1 of the recognition unit 20 is greater than the width W2 of the column unit 10. The width W1 of the recognition unit 20 is the width in the direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the column unit 10, specifically the width of the recognition unit 20 in the direction perpendicular to the axis x, and similarly the width W2 of the column unit 10 is the width in the direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the column unit 10, specifically the width of the column unit 10 in the direction perpendicular to the axis x. More specifically, the width W1 of the recognition unit 20 is the width of the projection plane of the recognition unit 10 on a plane perpendicular to the axis x in the direction perpendicular to the axis x, and similarly the width W2 of the column unit 10 is the width of the projection plane of the column unit 10 on a plane perpendicular to the axis x in the direction perpendicular to the axis x.

[0038] Furthermore, the object recognized by the recognition unit 20 is, for example, a character. The character may be a specific character or an original character. Characters include characters based on various things. Specifically, characters include characters based on people, animals, logos, products such as electronic devices, or other objects, as well as characters based on creations and other various things.

[0039] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, as an example, the recognition unit 20 displays the character in three dimensions. Specifically, the recognition unit 20 has a shape that allows for character recognition, for example, it is modeled after a character. The recognition unit 20 has, for example, a character part 21 which is modeled after a character, and a support part 22 which is a part that supports the character part 21. The support part 22 is the part that fixes the recognition unit 10 to the column part 10.

[0040] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the support portion 22 is provided on the tip surface 14 of the tip portion 11 of the column portion 10. Various means can be used to fix the support portion 22 to the tip surface 14. The support portion 22 may be attachable to the tip surface 14 by means of fixing means such as screws or adhesives, or by engaging means formed between it and the tip surface 14, or it may be integrally formed with the tip surface 14. The support portion 22 may be provided at a location other than the tip surface 14 of the column portion 10. For example, the support portion 22 may be provided in the vicinity of the tip surface 14 of the tip portion 11 of the column portion 10, at another location on the tip portion 11, or on the side surface 13.

[0041] The means by which the support portion 22 supports the character portion 21 can be varied. The support portion 22 may be able to support the character portion 21 by means of fixing means such as screws or adhesives, or by engaging means formed between it and the character portion 21, or it may be formed integrally with the character portion 21.

[0042] The support portion 22 supports the character portion 21, for example, so that the character portion 21 is supported by the column portion 10. Specifically, for example, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the support portion 22 supports the character portion 21 so that the character portion 21 is positioned above and spaced apart from the tip surface 14. Alternatively, the support portion 22 may be configured to support the character portion 21 in such a way that it is hidden by the character portion 21. In this case, for example, when viewing the character portion 21 from a viewpoint at a predetermined height and a predetermined distance from the character portion 21, the support portion 22 is formed so that it is hidden by the character portion 21 and not visible. Furthermore, the support portion 22 may be formed so that it is hidden by the character portion 21 and not visible when viewing the entire circumference of the character portion 21, or when viewing a specific area such as the front side of the character portion 21, the support portion 22 is formed so that it is hidden by the character portion 21 and not visible.

[0043] Furthermore, the width W1 of the character section 21 is greater than the width W2 of the column section 10. Specifically, as shown in Figure 3, the width W1 of the projection plane of the character section 21 on a plane perpendicular to axis x in a direction perpendicular to axis x is greater than the width W2 of the projection plane of the column section 10 on a plane perpendicular to axis x in a direction perpendicular to axis x.

[0044] The character part 21 has a protruding portion 23 that protrudes upward, as shown in Figures 1 and 2. Specifically, the protruding portion 23 is formed by a part of the character that the character part 21 imitates. However, the protruding portion 23 does not have to be formed by a part of the character that the character part 21 imitates. For example, the recognition part 20 may have a protruding portion 24 in addition to the character part 21, as shown in Figure 4, which protrudes upward above the character part 21.

[0045] The character modeled by the character unit 21 is a character that is expected to deter actions that could damage the signpost 1. The character gives some kind of impression to people who see it. Among the impressions that the character gives is the impression that can deter actions that could damage the signpost 1, such as a person intentionally deforming parts of the signpost 1 such as the column part 10, or a person intentionally impacting parts of the signpost 1 such as the column part 10. The character modeled by the character unit 21 is a character that can give such an impression that can deter actions that could damage the signpost 1. Whether or not a character can give an impression that can deter actions that could damage the signpost 1 can be judged, for example, based on the impression the character gives and general concepts. Alternatively, whether or not a character can give an impression that can deter actions that could damage the signpost 1 can be judged, for example, based on statistical surveys such as questionnaires. Based on such judgments, the character modeled by the character unit 21 can be identified or created.

[0046] For example, if the character modeled by the character part 21 is an adorable character, the impression of this character has a significant effect in deterring people from intentionally deforming parts of the signpost 1 such as the column part 10, or from intentionally applying impact to parts of the signpost 1 such as the column part 10.

[0047] Characters are also called mascot characters or mascots. For example, a character is a personified being, and can have features that resemble a human face, a human body, a face, eyes, a mouth, a nose, ears, hands, feet, facial expressions, be two-dimensional or three-dimensional, etc. One reason why people find characters endearing when they see them is that they are personified beings, and they possess elements derived from humans, such as features that resemble a human face, a human body, a face, eyes, a mouth, a nose, ears, hands, feet, facial expressions, be two-dimensional or three-dimensional.

[0048] Furthermore, the character part 21 may be designed to deform in response to deformation or vibration of the column part 10. Various means can be used to make the character part 21 deform in response to deformation or vibration of the column part 10. Such means include, for example, making only a specific part of the character part 21 softer than other parts, or connecting the inside of the column part 10 and the inside of the character part 21 via a support part 22 or the like to change the pressure inside the character part 21 in response to deformation or vibration of the column part 10. By such means, when the column part 10 deforms or vibrates, for example, a part of the character part 21 may deform. Specifically, for example, when the column part 10 deforms or vibrates, the facial expression of the character part 21 may change to a crying expression, or a specific part of the character part 21 may pop out.

[0049] Figure 5 is an enlarged view of the character part 21 when the column part 10 is deformed or vibrates. As shown in Figure 5, for example, the protruding part 23 of the character part 21 deforms when the column part 10 is deformed or vibrates. The protruding part 23 of the character part 21 is, for example, softer than other parts of the character part 21, and the inside of the column part 10 and the inside of the character part 21 are connected via the support part 22. In other words, the support part 22 has a flow channel 22a that communicates the inside of the column part 10 and the inside of the character part 21. Also, the protruding part 23 of the character part 21 is, for example, thinner than other parts of the character part 21, or is made of a softer material than other parts of the character part 21. As shown in Figure 5, the deformed character part 21 has a sad expression.

[0050] Furthermore, the signpost 1 is designed to direct the viewer's gaze vertically upward from the tip 11 of the column section 10. In other words, the signpost 1 is designed so that the viewer's gaze is directed vertically upward from the tip 11 of the column section 10. For example, the length L1 of the column section 10 is set based on the average height of a predetermined age group. Specifically, for example, the length L1 of the column section 10 is such that the character section 21 is within the field of vision of a person of the average height of a predetermined age group while walking, but the column section 10 is not, or only the vicinity of the tip surface 14 of the column section 10 is within their field of vision. Also, specifically, for example, the length L1 of the column section 10 is longer than the average height of a predetermined age group. A predetermined age group is, for example, adults or students of a specific age, such as elementary school students.

[0051] Figure 6 is an enlarged view of the recognition unit 20 to show another example of the recognition unit 20. As shown in Figure 6, the character unit 21 may appear to be integral with the tip 11 of the column unit 10. For example, the recognition unit 20 may not have a support unit 22, and the lower end of the character unit 21 may be connected to the tip 11 without a boundary or with an inconspicuous boundary. Various means can be used to connect the lower end of the character unit 21 to the tip 11. The character unit 21 may be connected to the tip 11 by fixing means such as screws or adhesives, or by engaging means formed between the tip surface 14 or other parts of the tip 11, or it may be integrally formed with the tip 11.

[0052] The recognition unit 20 is made of, for example, an elastic material. The elastic material used to make the recognition unit 20 is, for example, a harder elastic material than the elastic material used to make the column 10. However, the elastic material used to make the recognition unit 20 is not limited to an elastic material that is harder than the elastic material used to make the column 10. The elastic material used to make the recognition unit 20 may be a softer elastic material than the elastic material used to make the column 10, or it may be an elastic material of the same or approximately the same hardness as the elastic material used to make the column 10. Also, the elastic material used to make the recognition unit 20 may be the same as the elastic material used to make the column 10. The material of the recognition unit 20 is not limited to an elastic material, but may be other materials such as metal. Furthermore, in the recognition unit 20, the material used to make the character unit 21 and the material used to make the support unit 22 do not have to be the same.

[0053] The signpost 1 has the configuration described above, with the column section 10 supported by the base section 30, the column section 10 extending upward from the base section 30, and a recognition section 20 having a character section 21 attached to the tip section 11 of the column section 10. The signpost 1 is used by being placed on a mounting surface such as the ground. In the state of use of the signpost 1, the bottom surface 31 of the base section 30 is in contact with the mounting surface, the column section 10 stands on the mounting surface, and the recognition section 20 is located above the mounting surface. Since a weight 34 is provided on the base section 30, the signpost 1 can stand stably on the mounting surface.

[0054] Figure 7 shows an example of how the signpost 1 is used. Note that Figure 7 shows the signpost 1 as viewed from above. The signpost 1 is installed such that, for example, as shown in Figure 7, the direction D1 in which the character part 21 faces forward is opposite to the direction D2 in which pedestrians walk. In this case, the character's line of sight will be aligned with the pedestrian's line of sight.

[0055] Figure 8 shows another example of the signpost 1 in use. Note that Figure 8 shows the signpost 1 as viewed from above. As shown in Figure 8, in the use state, for example, the installation angle of multiple signposts 1 around the axis x is adjusted so that the direction D1 in which the front of the character faces is opposite to the direction D3 in which the pedestrian's line of sight is directed. In this case, the lines of sight of multiple characters will align with the line of sight of the pedestrian.

[0056] Figure 9 shows another example of the signpost 1 in use. Note that Figure 9 shows the signpost 1 as viewed from above. As shown in Figure 9, in use, the installation angle of each of the multiple signposts 1 around their axis x is adjusted so that, for example, the direction D1 in which the character's front faces always keeps it looking at pedestrians.

[0057] Figure 10 shows another example of the signpost 1 in use. Note that Figure 10 shows the signpost 1 as viewed from above. As shown in Figure 10, in use, the installation angle of each of the multiple signposts 1 around their respective axis x is adjusted so that, for example, multiple characters face each other directly.

[0058] The signpost 1 has a recognition unit 20 with a character-shaped character unit 21 at the tip 11 of the column unit 10. The character unit 21 and the support unit 22 have the above-described configuration, which can deter actions that would damage the signpost 1 from being inflicted upon it.

[0059] Specifically, the character part 21 or the recognition part 23 has a protruding part 23. This causes pain when a person steps on the recognition part 20. Therefore, it is possible to deter people from stepping on the signpost 1, and thus deter damage to the signpost 1 caused by people stepping on it.

[0060] Furthermore, the width W1 of the character section 21 is greater than the width W2 of the column section 22. This ensures that when a person approaches the signpost 1, the character is visible when they are far away, and the column section 10 becomes visible as they get closer. As a result, people approaching the signpost 1 are less likely to focus on the column section 10, thus preventing actions that could damage the signpost 1.

[0061] Furthermore, the character section 21 is supported by the column section 10. Specifically, the character section 21 is supported by a support section 22 provided on the tip surface 11 of the column section 10. This makes the character section 21 more conspicuous than the column section 10. As a result, the attention of people who see the signpost 1 can be reduced towards the column section 10, and actions that could damage the signpost 1 can be suppressed.

[0062] Furthermore, the length L1 of the column section 10 is set to a predetermined length as described above. Specifically, the length L1 of the column section 10 is set so that the character section 21 is within the field of vision of a person of a certain age group, while the column section 10 is less likely to be in their field of vision. This makes the character section 21 more noticeable than the column section 10. As a result, the attention of people who see the signpost 1 can be reduced towards the column section 10, and actions that could damage the signpost 1 can be suppressed.

[0063] Furthermore, the character portion 21 is designed to appear as an integral part of the tip portion 11 of the column portion 10. This blurs the boundary between the character portion 21 and the column portion 10, making the column portion 10 appear as part of the character portion 21. This makes the character portion 21 more noticeable than the column portion 10. As a result, people who see the signpost 1 will pay less attention to the column portion 10, and actions that would damage the signpost 1 can be suppressed.

[0064] Furthermore, the character part 21 is designed to deform in response to deformation or vibration of the column part 10. This gives the impression that the character part 21 can deter acts that could damage the signpost 1, such as intentionally deforming the column part 10 or other parts of the signpost 1, or intentionally applying impact to the column part 10 or other parts of the signpost 1. Therefore, the character part 21 can deter acts that could damage the signpost 1 from being applied to the signpost 1.

[0065] Furthermore, the character modeled by the character part 21 can give the impression that it can deter acts that damage the signpost 1, such as intentionally deforming parts of the signpost 1, such as the column part 10, or intentionally impacting parts of the signpost 1, such as the column part 10. Therefore, the character part 21 can deter acts that damage the signpost 1 from being inflicted upon it.

[0066] The function of the character in character section 21 will be explained in detail using the example of a personified character. Among people who look at a signpost, some will think that the signpost is soft. Among those who think that the signpost is soft, some will want to play a prank on the soft signpost. Among those who want to play a prank on the soft signpost, some will play a prank on the soft signpost. In contrast, in signpost 1, a character section 21 representing a personified character is installed at the top of signpost 1. Among people who look at signpost 1 with a personified character section 21 installed at the top, some will look at the personified character section 21 at the top. Among those who look at the personified character section 21 installed at the top of signpost 1, some will notice that a personified object is installed at the top of signpost 1. Among those who notice that a personified object is installed at the top of signpost 1, some will find the personified character section 21 at the top of signpost 1 endearing. Among those who find this anthropomorphic character part 21 endearing, some will not take their eyes off the anthropomorphic character part 21 installed at the top of the signpost 1. Among those who do not take their eyes off this character part 21, some will not shift their gaze to the column part 10 of the signpost 1. Among those who do not shift their gaze to the column part 10, some will not consider the column part 10 of the signpost 1 to be soft. Among those who do not consider the column part 10 of the signpost 1 to be soft, some will not feel like playing a prank on the signpost 1 because they do not consider the column part 10 to be soft. Among those who do not feel like playing a prank on the signpost 1, some will not play a prank on the signpost 1. Thus, if the character of the character part 21 installed at the top of the signpost 1 is anthropomorphic, it is possible to suppress the urge to play a prank on the signpost 1.

[0067] Furthermore, since the recognition part 20 protrudes upward from the tip 11 of the column part 10, the recognition part 20 makes it difficult to sit on the column part 10. Also, if the recognition part 20 is made of a hard material, the recognition part 20 makes it even more difficult to sit on the column part 10. In this respect as well, the signpost 1 can deter people from intentionally damaging the signpost 1 by sitting on it or impacting it.

[0068] Furthermore, in use, as described above (see Figures 7-9), the signpost 1 is installed so that the direction D1 facing the front of the character part 21 is opposite to the direction D2 in which the pedestrian walks, opposite to the direction D3 in which the pedestrian's line of sight is directed, or in a direction in which it is always looking at the pedestrian. This makes it possible to ensure that the character's line of sight matches that of the pedestrian. As a result, it is possible to make the character's impression on pedestrians and to deter actions that would damage the signpost 1.

[0069] Furthermore, in use, as described above (see Figure 10), each of the multiple signposts 1 is installed so that the characters of the multiple character sections 21 face each other. This enhances the endearing impression of the characters. As a result, the characters are more likely to make an impression on pedestrians, and actions that would damage the signposts 1 can be suppressed.

[0070] Furthermore, since the base 30 and the column 10 are separable, the base 30 and the column 10 can be separated from each other and stored separately. In this way, the signpost 1 can be stored in a smaller space.

[0071] As described above, according to the signpost 1 of the embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to suppress actions that could cause damage.

[0072] The recognition unit 20 may also be provided with a sensory transmission unit that transmits sensations such as sight, hearing, and touch. The sensory transmission unit may be, for example, a device that displays information such as characters or pictures, a device that generates sound, or a device that generates vibration or electricity. These are just examples of sensory transmission units, and the sensory transmission unit transmits various sensations so that various sensations can be perceived, and the sensations transmitted by the sensory transmission unit can be various sensations.

[0073] As described above, the character part 21 of the recognition unit 20 is not limited to being modeled after a specific character, but may be modeled after various products such as people, animals, logos, electronic devices, or other objects, and the object that the recognition unit 20 intends to recognize can be a variety of objects. For example, if the recognition unit 20 is modeled after an object that would cause hesitation to touch it, such as an object that is recognized as having an electric shock or other impact, it will have a great effect in deterring actions that would damage the signpost 1 from being taken against the signpost 1.

[0074] Furthermore, the recognition unit 20 may display the character in two dimensions. In this case, for example, as shown in Figure 11, the recognition unit 20 has a plate-shaped member as the character unit 21, and the character is displayed on the plate-shaped character unit 21. The character is, for example, painted on the plate-shaped character unit 21. Alternatively, for example, a sticker or other member with the character painted on it is attached to the plate-shaped character unit 21. Note that there may be other ways in which the recognition unit 20 displays the character in two dimensions.

[0075] Furthermore, the character portion 21 may be given a metallic sheen. For example, the character portion 21 may be painted to have a metallic sheen or a similar sheen. In this case, a person who sees the signpost 1 will be given the impression that the character portion 21 is made of metal. This can deter actions that would damage the signpost 1 from being taken.

[0076] Furthermore, the recognition unit 20 may be attachable to and detachable from the column portion 10. For example, a recess extending downward from the tip surface 14 may be formed at the tip portion 11 of the column portion 10, and a portion of the recognition unit 20 that can be accommodated in this recess, such as a protruding part, may be formed thereon. Alternatively, for example, a recess extending inward may be formed in the recognition unit 20, and a portion of the tip surface 14 of the column portion 10 that can be accommodated in this recess, such as a protruding part, may be formed thereon.

[0077] Furthermore, an engaging portion may be provided between the recess 33 of the base 30 and the support end 12 of the column 10 to engage the base 30 and the column 10 with each other. The engaging portion is, for example, a protrusion or recess formed in the recess 33 of the base 30 and a recess or protrusion formed in the support end 12 of the column 10. When the column 10 is housed in the recess 33 of the base 30, the engagement of this engaging portion strengthens the fixation between the base 30 and the column 10. Moreover, the configuration in which the base 30 supports the column 10 is not limited to the above configuration. For example, the column 10 may be fixed to the base 30. In this case, for example, the column 10 may be housed in the recess 13 of the base 30 and fixed to the base 30. Fixation is done, for example, by fixing members such as bolts or adhesives. The fixing method is not limited to this.

[0078] Furthermore, the base 30 does not necessarily have to be provided with a weight 34. Also, the base 30 may have a configuration such that it is fixed to the installation object on which the signpost 1 is placed by fixing means such as bolts. For example, the base 30 may have a threaded portion extending downward from the bottom surface 31. The threaded portion has screw threads. In this case, the signpost 1 can be fixed to the installation surface by tightening the threaded portion into a screw hole formed in the installation surface.

[0079] Although the present invention has been described above through the embodiments described above, the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the scope described in the embodiments above. It will be obvious to those skilled in the art that various modifications or improvements can be made to the embodiments described above. It will be clear from the claims that such modified or improved forms may also be included in the technical scope of the present invention.

[0080] The embodiments described above are for the purpose of facilitating understanding of the present invention and are not intended to limit its interpretation. Furthermore, the embodiments described above do not limit the scope of application of the present invention, and the present invention may encompass anything as its target application. The components of the above embodiments, as well as their arrangement, materials, conditions, shapes, and sizes, are not limited to those exemplified and can be modified as appropriate. For example, the present invention includes differences that arise in the implementation of manufacturing tolerances, etc. Furthermore, components shown in different embodiments can be partially substituted or combined to the extent that they do not contradict each other in a technical sense. In addition, each configuration can be selectively combined as appropriate to achieve at least some of the problems and effects described above. [Explanation of symbols]

[0081] 1 Signpost, 10 Post section, 11 Tip section, 12 Support end, 13 Side view, 14 Tip surface, 15 Support end surface, 20 Recognition section, 21 Character section, 22 Support section, 22a Flow channel, 23,24 Protruding sections, 30 Base, 31 Bottom surface, 32 Support section, 33 Recess, 33a Side view, 33b Bottom surface, 34 Weight, D1 Direction the character's front faces, D2 Direction the pedestrian walks, D3 Direction the pedestrian's line of sight, L1 Length, W1,W2 Width, x-axis

Claims

1. A columnar column section, The column portion comprises a recognition unit, The column portion has flexibility that allows it to be deformed by external force in a way that allows it to return to its original shape. The column portion has a pair of ends, namely a tip and a support end. The column portion is supported at the support end, The recognition unit is provided at the tip of the column and is designed to recognize objects. The aforementioned object is designed to prevent actions that could damage the signpost. signpost.

2. The recognition portion has a projection that protrudes in the direction toward the tip portion from the support end, The signpost according to claim 1.

3. The width of the recognition portion is greater than the width of the column portion. Each of the aforementioned widths is the width in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the column portion. The extension direction is the direction in which the column extends between the support end and the tip. The signpost according to claim 1.

4. The line of sight is directed upward in the vertical direction from the tip of the column portion. The signpost according to claim 1.

5. The length between the tip and support end of the column is set based on the average height of a predetermined age group. The signpost according to claim 4.

6. The recognition unit displays the object in two or three dimensions. A signpost according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The recognition unit has a shape that mimics the object. The signpost according to claim 6.

8. The aforementioned is a character, The signpost according to claim 6.

9. The aforementioned column is made of polyurethane. The signpost according to claim 1.

10. It further includes a base, The base supports the column portion at the support end, The column portion extends from the base portion, The signpost according to claim 1.

11. A signpost comprising a columnar column section having flexibility that allows it to be deformed by an external force in a way that restores its shape, The tip of the signpost is provided with a recognition unit that diverts a person's line of sight away from the signpost. signpost.

12. The aforementioned recognition unit is anthropomorphized. The signpost according to claim 11.

13. The personified entity has a projection that protrudes in a direction away from the column in the direction in which the column extends. The signpost according to claim 12.

14. When viewed in the direction in which the column extends, the dimensions of the personified entity are larger than the dimensions of the column. The signpost according to claim 12.

15. The personified element is installed on the side away from the column in the direction in which the column extends. The signpost according to claim 12.

16. When the signpost is installed, the position of the recognition unit is not at the same height as the average height of the age group of people who are to be directed away from the signpost. The signpost according to claim 11.

Images