Automatic traffic warning system
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Utility models
- Current Assignee / Owner
- CUB ELECPARTS
- Filing Date
- 2026-04-16
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-19
Smart Images

Figure 0003256284000001_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present invention relates to traffic warning equipment, and more particularly to a traffic automatic warning system that can detect road conditions and automatically issue warnings.
Background Art
[0002] To pay attention to traffic safety, it is common to install various road signboards such as "Children Caution" and "Continuous Curve" along the road to prompt special attention to road users. However, these signboards are just stereotypical warnings and do not reflect the actual road conditions. Therefore, many road users do not pay much attention even when they see the signboards. That is, the warning effect is low.
[0003] Some road signboards have an immediate detection function. For example, the radar road signboard disclosed by Patent Document 1 has an immediate detection function that detects the speed of an approaching vehicle and issues a warning accordingly. However, Patent Document 1 is limited to the immediate detection function for speeding violations, and since it is necessary to install the speed measurement device at a high position, it is often blocked by devices such as road sign guiding boards, street lights, and surveillance cameras on the road. That is, the application range of conventional traffic warning devices is still insufficient, and it is difficult to effectively improve traffic safety.
Prior Art Documents
Patent Documents
[0004]
Patent Document 1
Summary of the Invention
Problems to be Solved by the Invention
[0005] In view of the above-mentioned drawbacks, the main object of the present invention is to provide a traffic automatic warning system that can effectively improve traffic safety by detecting road conditions and automatically issuing warnings, and has high applicability. [Means for solving the problem]
[0006] To address the aforementioned challenges, the automatic traffic warning system comprises a vertical pole, a warning panel, a power generator, a radar device, and a control device. The vertical pole is erected in the ground. The warning panel is mounted on the vertical pole. The power generator is mounted on the vertical pole and positioned above the warning panel. The radar device is mounted on the vertical pole and positioned below the warning panel to detect objects within a predetermined range. The control device is mounted on the vertical pole and electrically connected to the warning panel, power generator, and radar device to control the warning panel based on the radar device's detection results.
[0007] Due to the structural features described above, the traffic automatic warning system according to this invention can be installed on the roadside and power can be supplied to the warning panel, radar device, and control device via a power generation device (e.g., solar panel or wind power generation equipment). Furthermore, if the traffic automatic warning system is installed in a location that requires particular attention, such as an intersection without traffic lights, it can detect the situation of pedestrians and vehicles coming from different directions. One or more radar devices are positioned facing the detection direction and can detect the situation in one direction or multiple directions. The warning panel is positioned facing the direction that will alert passersby. When an object within a predetermined range is detected by the radar device, the control device immediately determines the situation that passersby should pay attention to and simultaneously issues a warning via the warning panel, for example, by illuminating a warning light or warning sign. The radar device of the traffic automatic warning system is installed below the warning panel and can detect objects at a considerable distance, so it can not only avoid obstruction by road signs, streetlights, surveillance cameras, etc., but also ensure sufficient reaction time for passersby to take action after seeing the warning from the warning panel. In other words, the traffic automatic warning system according to this invention is highly applicable and can effectively improve traffic safety.
[0008] In relatively preferable cases, the radar system has a firing surface. The predetermined range detected by the radar system consists of a lateral visible range and a vertical visible range diverging from the firing surface. The lateral visible range is parallel to the ground. The vertical visible range is perpendicular to the ground.
[0009] More specifically, the radar device is installed below the warning panel and can detect both horizontally (parallel to the ground) and vertically (perpendicular to the ground). Therefore, its detection effect is not limited to the horizontal range, but can also issue warnings corresponding to conditions that require attention in the vertical range, depending on the height at which wind is cutting through the road and the height of pedestrians and vehicles, thereby effectively improving traffic safety.
[0010] In a relatively preferred configuration, the control unit comprises a power management module, a control module, and a battery. The power management module and the generator are electrically connected to the battery. The power management module has a charging circuit. The control module and the power management module are electrically connected to the battery. The control module has a controller for driving the warning panel. The battery supplies power to the warning panel.
[0011] More specifically, the traffic automatic warning system according to this invention arranges different functions and operations within the control unit on separate circuit boards. This not only prevents the loss of the entire system's functionality due to the failure of a single part, but also avoids the discarding of circuit modules with other functions functioning normally due to the inability to replace a damaged part caused by a shortage or discontinuation of production. Furthermore, since each circuit module within the control unit is arranged as an independent part, it is possible to change the design to accommodate various road conditions and needs, for example, by adopting high-performance circuit modules, and it is also convenient for future parts replacement and maintenance.
[0012] In relatively favorable cases, the controller of the control unit determines the movement of the organism's limbs based on the Doppler signal corresponding to the detection results of the radar device and controls the warning panel.
[0013] In other words, the radar device can determine whether or not something is a human being based on the Doppler signal corresponding to the detection result, thereby ensuring the safety of passersby.
[0014] In relatively preferred cases, the control unit has a metal housing and two waterproof boxes within the metal housing. The power management module and the control module are housed separately in the two waterproof boxes. Each waterproof box has one or more waterproof connectors on its exterior. The power management module, control module, drive module, and battery are electrically connected to each other via one or more waterproof connectors.
[0015] More specifically, the metal housing provides shielding and reduces signal interference. Furthermore, since control devices are typically installed outdoors, they are susceptible to damage from sunlight, rain, and reptile intrusion. In contrast, this invention effectively protects the circuit boards from short circuits and damage by housing each circuit board in a waterproof box and electrically connecting them via waterproof connectors.
[0016] In a relatively preferred configuration, the control device comprises a metal housing, multiple waterproof boxes within the metal housing, and multiple circuit modules within the multiple waterproof boxes. Each waterproof box has one or more waterproof connectors on its exterior. The multiple circuit modules are electrically connected to each other via one or more waterproof connectors.
[0017] More specifically, the multiple circuit modules within the control device are not arranged together on a single circuit board, but rather separately on independent circuit boards. This prevents the loss of functionality of the entire system due to the failure of a single component, and avoids the need to discard a circuit board because the damaged component cannot be replaced. Furthermore, this invention allows for design modifications to meet different needs and facilitates parts replacement and maintenance. The metal housing provides shielding, reducing signal interference, while the waterproof box effectively protects the circuit modules from short circuits and damage.
[0018] In relatively preferable cases, the traffic automatic warning system according to the present invention further comprises a wireless communication device. The wireless communication device is electrically connected to the control device and transmits the detection results of the radar device to another traffic automatic warning system.
[0019] More specifically, the traffic automatic warning system according to this invention can respond to various road conditions through the function of the wireless communication device. For example, if two traffic automatic warning systems are installed separately on a mountain road or curve, and the radar device of one traffic automatic warning system detects an object, the traffic automatic warning system transmits the detection result to the other traffic automatic warning system via the wireless communication device, thereby generating a warning.
[0020] In a relatively favorable case, the wireless communication device transmits the detection results of the radar device using broadcasting technology, causing one or more moving objects within the effective transmission range of the broadcasting technology to receive the detection results.
[0021] More specifically, if a moving object enters the transmission range of broadcasting technology, the system can capture detection results from the automated traffic warning system and issue warnings to the driver to alert them, thereby optimizing driving safety.
[0022] In relatively preferable cases, the radar device is mounted on a vertical column by a mounting member. The mounting member has a fixing unit and an angle adjustment member. The fixing unit is fixed to the vertical column. The angle adjustment member is connected to the fixing unit in a way that allows for angle adjustment. The radar device is fixed to the angle adjustment member.
[0023] More specifically, by installing an automatic traffic warning system on uphill and downhill road surfaces, and adjusting the angle of the radar device using an angle adjustment member to match the angle of the ground, the detection effect of the radar device can be greatly enhanced.
[0024] Preferably, the fixing unit has a weight block and a connecting member. The weight block is arranged on the vertical column. The connecting member is fixed to the weight block. The angle adjusting member is connected to the connecting member in an angle-adjustable manner.
[0025] Specifically, since the warning panel needs to be installed at a height visible to pedestrians, the vertical column is quite high. Both the power generation device and the warning panel are installed at a high position on the vertical column. The radar device is installed at a relatively low position, so it is difficult to achieve weight balance at a high position. In contrast, if a weight block is arranged at the installation location of the radar device, the height of the center of mass of the traffic automatic warning system can be lowered, and it is possible to avoid the traffic automatic warning system from being blown over or bent by strong winds. Also, if the weight block is arranged on the vertical column and the radar device is installed on the weight block by the angle adjusting member and the connecting member, the radar device can be easily attached to and stabilized at the installation position.
[0026] The radar device is installed on the vertical column by a mounting member. The mounting member has a weight block. The weight block is arranged on the vertical column.
[0027] Specifically, if a weight block is arranged at the installation location of the radar device, the height of the center of mass of the traffic automatic warning system can be lowered, and it is possible to avoid the traffic automatic warning system from being blown over or bent by strong winds. [[ID=k13]]
[0028] Preferably, the radar device has a housing and a radar unit inside the housing. The radar unit has a transmitting surface. The housing has a drainage shield located above the transmitting surface.
[0029] Specifically, the drainage shield can prevent rainwater mixed with dust from adhering to the transmitting surface of the radar unit and affecting the function of the radar unit. It can not only delay the aging and embrittlement of the radar unit due to sunlight, but also prevent water vapor from penetrating into the interior of the radar unit and causing a short circuit. ]>
[0030] The detailed structure, features, assembly, and usage method of the automatic traffic warning system according to this invention will be clarified through the detailed description of the embodiments below. Furthermore, it should be understood by anyone with common sense in the field of this invention that the following detailed description and the radar embodiments presented herein are merely examples for illustrating this invention and cannot limit the scope of the claims of this invention. [Brief explanation of the drawing]
[0031] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view showing an automatic traffic warning system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a side view of the automatic traffic warning system according to the first embodiment of the present invention, as seen from the front. [Figure 3] This is an enlarged view showing a portion of Figure 2. [Figure 4] This is an exploded perspective view showing a radar device and mounting member of an automatic traffic warning system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] This is an exploded perspective view showing a radar device and mounting member of an automatic traffic warning system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] This is a schematic diagram showing a predetermined range that can be detected by the radar device of the traffic automatic warning system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] This is a perspective view showing a control device for an automatic traffic warning system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] This is a perspective view showing the waterproof box and circuit module of the control device for the automatic traffic warning system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] This is a schematic diagram illustrating the construction of an automated traffic warning system according to the present invention. [Figure 10] This is a schematic diagram showing the application of the traffic automatic warning system according to the present invention at a T-junction without traffic lights. [Figure 11] This is a schematic diagram showing the application of the traffic automatic warning system according to the present invention at a U-shaped intersection without traffic lights. [Figure 12]This is a schematic diagram showing the application of the traffic automatic warning system according to the present invention to a curve without traffic lights. [Figure 13] This is a perspective view showing an automatic traffic warning system according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] This is an enlarged view showing a portion of Figure 13. [Figure 15] This is an exploded perspective view showing a radar device and mounting member of an automatic traffic warning system according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] This is an exploded perspective view showing a radar device and mounting member of an automatic traffic warning system according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] This is a perspective view showing a part of an automatic traffic warning system according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] This is an exploded perspective view showing a radar device and mounting member of an automatic traffic warning system according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]
[0032] The traffic automatic warning system according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In this specification, the same reference numerals in the figures indicate the same or similar parts or their structural features. On the other hand, in order to clarify the technical features of the present invention, the ratio of the radar drawings presented in the embodiments does not match the ratio of the actual object. The features of each embodiment are not unilaterally limited and may be applied to one another. The method of arranging one part to another part is not limited to direct arrangement but may also be indirect arrangement. That is, the method of indirectly arranging one part to another part is to place one or more parts between the two parts. The method of directly arranging one part to another part is to place nothing between the two parts.
[0033] (First Embodiment) As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the first embodiment of the present invention, an automatic traffic warning system 10, comprises a vertical pole 12, a power generator 13, two warning panels 14 and 15, two radar devices 20, and a control device 30. The vertical pole 12 is erected on the ground 11. The power generator 13, warning panels 14 and 15, two radar devices 20, and control device 30 are installed on the vertical pole 12. The control device 30 is electrically connected to the power generator 13, warning panels 14 and 15, and radar devices 20, and controls the warning panels 14 and 15 based on the detection results of the radar devices 20.
[0034] The power generation device 13 is installed above the warning panels 14 and 15, and is particularly preferably installed at the tip of the vertical column 12. In the first embodiment, the power generation device 13 is composed of a solar panel, but is not limited to this, and may be a vertical-axis wind power generation device. The automatic traffic warning system 10 may employ several different types of power generation devices. The power generation device 13 supplies electricity to the warning panels 14 and 15, the radar device 20 and the control device 30 by generating electricity, and at the same time provides a basis for adjusting the brightness of the warning panels 14 and 15 by detecting ambient light.
[0035] The number of warning panels in the automatic traffic warning system 10 is not particularly limited. In the first embodiment, warning panels 14 and 15 are of different types. Warning panel 14 has a warning light 141, which illuminates or flashes when a warning is needed. Warning panel 15 has an information display area 151, which displays a sufficiently bright text message such as a speed limit or warning sign on the information display area 151 when a warning is needed.
[0036] The number of radar devices 20 in the automatic traffic warning system 10 is not particularly limited. The first embodiment employs installing two radar devices 20 facing opposite directions on the road for detection. The two radar devices 20 are located separately below the warning panels 14, 15, and are preferably installed at a distance of 700 to 200 cm from the ground 11. In the first embodiment, the two radar devices 20 are installed at a distance of 150 cm from the ground 11. As shown in Figures 3 to 5, the radar device 20 has a housing 21 and a radar unit 22 inside the housing 21. The radar unit 22 has a firing surface 221. The firing surface 221 is perpendicular to the ground 11. The radar device 20 is mounted on a vertical column 12 by a mounting member 40. In the first embodiment, the mounting member 40 has a fixing unit 41 and an angle adjustment member 47. The fixing unit 41 is fixed to the vertical column 12. The angle adjustment member 47 is connected to the fixing unit 41 so as to be angle adjustable. The radar device 20 is fixed to the angle adjustment member 47.
[0037] The fixing unit 41 has a fastening member 42. The fastening member 42 has two joints 43. The joints 43 have an arc-shaped structure with two arc-shaped concave notches 431. By bringing the arc-shaped concave notches 431 of the joints 43 into contact with the cylindrical surface of the vertical column 12 and tightening the two joints 43 with bolts 44 and nuts 45, the fastening member 42 can be fixed to the vertical column 12.
[0038] The fixing unit 40 further has a connecting member 46. The connecting member 46 is fixed to the fastening member 42. The angle adjustment member 47 is connected to the connecting member 46 in an angle-adjustable manner. The connecting member 46 is connected to one joint 43 of the fastening member 42 by bolts, washers and nuts, etc. More specifically, in the first embodiment, one joint 43 of the fastening member 42 has an extension arm 432. The extension arm 432 connects the fastening member 42 and the connecting member 46. The connecting member 46 has an intermediate portion 461 facing the fastening member 42 and two side portions 462 formed extending from both sides of the intermediate portion 461. The two side portions 462 of the connecting member 46 each have a rotating shaft hole 464 and an arc-shaped groove 465 that penetrate the side portion 462. The angle adjustment member 47 has a connecting portion 471 corresponding to the shape of the connecting member 46, a fixing portion 472 connected to the connecting portion 471, a rotating shaft hole 473 passing through the connecting portion 471, and an adjustment hole 474. In the first embodiment, the connecting portion 471 is formed facing each other and extending from both sides of the fixing portion 472. The connecting member 46 covers the outside of the connecting portion 471 of the angle adjustment member 47. Two rotating shafts 475 are fixed by passing through the rotating shaft hole 464 of the connecting member 46 and the rotating shaft hole 473 of the angle adjustment member 47. Two clamping members 477 are fixed by passing through the arc-shaped groove 465 of the connecting member 46 and the adjustment hole 474 of the angle adjustment member 47. The angle adjustment member 47 rotates toward the connecting member 46 around the rotating shaft 475. The clamping members 477 slide within the arc-shaped groove 465. When the angle adjustment member 47 is adjusted to a predetermined angle, the tightening member 477 tightens and fixes the angle adjustment member 47 and the connecting member 46.
[0039] The housing 21 of the radar device 20 is fastened to the fixing part 472 of the angle adjustment member 47 with bolts (not shown in the figure), so the angle of the radar device 20 can be adjusted by the angle adjustment member 47. Furthermore, when installing the automatic traffic warning system 10 on the roadside of uphill and downhill slopes, the angle of the radar device 20 can be adjusted to match the slope of the ground. For example, if the emission surface 221 is perpendicular to the ground, the radar device 20 can exhibit good detection effectiveness. Also, by adjusting the detection direction of the radar device 20 according to the road conditions, the actual road conditions can be grasped.
[0040] Figure 6 is an illustrative diagram and does not represent the actual scale. As shown in Figure 6, the radar device 20 detects objects that enter a predetermined range 23. The predetermined range 23 consists of a horizontal visible range 24 and a vertical visible range 25 that diverge from the firing surface 221. The horizontal visible range 24 is parallel to the ground 11, as shown in the straight line in Figure 6. The vertical visible range 25 is perpendicular to the ground 11 and is in the range of 30 degrees or more above and below the normal. The radar device 20 can exhibit high discrimination capability; for example, with a vertical angle discrimination rate of 15 degrees, the entire area can be divided into three areas: high, medium, and low.
[0041] More specifically, the radar device 20 transmits the detection result to the control device 30, which processes the signal to determine whether a warning is necessary for the detected object. In this invention, the processing differs depending on the signal reflected back to the radar device 20 from the object. For example, reflected signals from metal manhole covers and drain covers on the ground are strong, but they do not affect the vehicle's progress, so signals related to them may be excluded. Flower pots, stairs, stone blocks, and small animals are objects that are slightly elevated from the ground, so signals related to them may also be excluded. Reflected signals from a height of 30 cm or more from the ground are judged to indicate a risk of collision. In such cases, the radar device 20 issues a warning.
[0042] The radar device 20 is positioned below the warning panels 14 and 15, that is, at a low position relatively close to the ground 11 on the vertical column 12. In other words, it is not necessary to install the radar device 20 at a downward angle to the ground 11. Since the lateral visible range 24 that the radar device 20 can detect can be parallel to the ground 11, the radar device 20 can detect the maximum lateral distance. For example, even if the radar device 20 has an effective detection range of 100m, if it is installed at a high position at a 30-degree downward angle, it can only detect objects within a range of 87m from the ground to the automatic traffic warning system 10. In contrast, this invention positions the radar device 20 below the warning panels 14 and 15, for example, at a position 70cm from the ground, and the emission surface 211 is perpendicular to the ground 11. This not only allows for the effective detection of objects within a range of 100m from the ground to the automatic traffic warning system 10, but also ensures sufficient reaction time for pedestrians who see the warning to take action. Furthermore, the height of the radar device 20 is determined by its vertical visible range 25 to determine whether there is a risk of hitting pedestrians or vehicles. Therefore, if a warning is necessary, it can issue a warning to effectively enhance traffic safety. The two radar devices 20 are positioned below the warning panels 14 and 15, thus avoiding obstruction by road signs, streetlights, surveillance cameras, etc. Also, since the installation position of the radar devices 20 does not need to avoid obstacles, the detection range of the radar devices 20 is symmetrical. The signal calculation method of the radar devices 20 does not require individualization and is general-purpose. In addition, because the radar devices 20 are positioned below the warning panels 14 and 15, it is easier to clean the emission surface 221 or related parts using a water column to remove accumulated dust or oil stains, and the detection effect can be maintained well, compared to when the radar devices 20 are positioned at the top of the vertical column. The radar devices 20 have a waterproof function, so not only can water not penetrate the interior during the cleaning process, but even if they are affected by flooding, they can be used again after being soaked in clean water overnight or longer.
[0043] As shown in Figures 7 to 9, the control device 30 has a metal housing 31 and three waterproof boxes 32 inside the metal housing 31. Each of the three waterproof boxes 32 has a circuit module 33 inside. In other words, in the first embodiment, as shown in Figure 9, the control device 30 has three waterproof boxes 32, namely a power management module 33A, a control module 33B, and a drive module 33C. The power management module 33A, the control module 33B, and the drive module 33C are housed separately in the waterproof boxes 32. The metal housing 31 has a rust-preventive coating and drainage holes on the outside. The metal housing 31 has a box body 311 and a door 312. The door 312 is single-opening or double-opening and has a movable angle of 130 degrees or more. The box body 312 requires drilling for wiring and cannot be completely waterproof. Therefore, it is necessary to place a waterproof box 33 for each circuit module 33. The waterproof box 33 has a casing 321, a lid 322, and a sealing member 325 (e.g., an O-ring) between the casing 321 and the lid 322. The casing 321 and the lid 322 are tightly fastened at four corners by bolts or mating members. Each waterproof box 32 has one or more waterproof connectors 323 on the outside. The waterproof connectors 323 have connection terminals inside and are designed so that the connection terminals are not exposed to the outside, so that the circuit module 33 can input and output signals and make electrical connections, as well as maintain a good waterproof effect. The control device 30 further has a battery 34. The battery 34 is a lead-acid battery. Because lead-acid batteries have a low energy density, they are large in both volume and mass, but they help to lower the height of the center of gravity of the automatic traffic warning system 10. The power management module 33A, the control module 33B, the drive module 33C, and the battery 34 are electrically connected to each other via the waterproof connectors 323. Each waterproof connector 323 is electrically connected to each other by a cable.
[0044] More specifically, the power management module 33A has a current monitoring circuit 331 and a charging circuit 332. The current monitoring circuit 331 is electrically connected to the power generator 13. The charging circuit 332 is electrically connected to the current monitoring circuit 331 and the battery 34. The current monitoring circuit 331 monitors the current generated by the power generator. The charging circuit 332 charges the battery 34 with the electrical energy generated by the power generator 13. The charging circuit 332 may also be electrically connected to the city power supply 16. If the electrical energy generated by the power generator 13 is insufficient, the battery 34 can be charged by the city power supply 16. The control module 33B has a protection circuit 333, a controller 334, and a wireless transmission circuit 335. The protection circuit 333 consists of an ESD (electrostatic discharge) and / or a lightning surge protection circuit, and is electrically connected to the radar device 20. The controller 334 consists of an MCU (microcontroller) and / or a DSP (digital signal processor), and is electrically connected to the protection circuit 333. The wireless transmission circuit 335 consists of an IoT (antenna front-end circuit) and is electrically connected to the controller 334. The controller 334 receives power via the battery 34 by electrically connecting the battery 34 and the charging circuit 332, and simultaneously controls the charging circuit 332. The drive module 33C has a driver 336 for driving the warning panels 14 and 15. The driver 336 receives power via the battery 34 by electrically connecting the controller 334, the battery 34, and the warning panels 14 and 15. The controller 334 controls the warning panels 14 and 15 via the driver 336 based on signals from the radar device 20. In another embodiment, the drive module 33C is fitted into the warning panels 14 and 15, so that the drive module 33C and its corresponding waterproof box 32 in the control unit 30 can be omitted, and the volume of the metal housing 31 can be reduced.
[0045] The controller 334 consists of an MCU and / or a DSP, or either one, and may employ a high-performance device (Edge AI BOX) that enables AI inference processing and data transmission at the edge. When an Edge AI BOX is employed, it not only retains data autonomy, computational control rights, and regional management by AI models in urban areas, but also enables real-time analysis of traffic flow and speeding violations, and simultaneously calculates the optimal TTC (time to collision, i.e., time to collide with the vehicle ahead) based on weather conditions (e.g., rain, fog, and ambient light). The TTC is generated from the human reaction time limit and redundancy time. Redundancy time is determined based on detection results from sensors for ambient light, water level, fog, and haze. Based on the redundancy time, the controller 334 controls the warning panels 14 and 15, issuing warnings and adjusting the display brightness. When the battery voltage 34 falls below a threshold, it instructs the driver 336 to automatically limit the power consumption of modules that may be excluded, for example, by disabling IoT functions or by not displaying a warning message on the warning panel 15, and only illuminating the warning light on the warning panel 14. Furthermore, by referring to daily and / or weekly power consumption curves, a power consumption prediction model for intersections can be constructed to estimate power consumption and battery level for the next few hours. If the battery level is low, it can be used preferentially during peak traffic hours.
[0046] Since the control device 30 is usually installed outdoors, it is at risk of damage from sunlight, rain, and intrusion by reptiles. In contrast, this invention effectively protects the circuit modules 33 from short circuits and damage by housing each circuit module 33 in a waterproof box 32 and the waterproof box 33 and battery 34 in a metal housing 31. Because the control device 30 is divided internally into four units, namely three circuit modules 33 and a battery 34, it not only avoids the loss of the entire system's function due to the failure of a single part, but also avoids the discarding of circuit modules that are otherwise functioning normally due to the inability to replace a damaged part because of a shortage or discontinuation of production of that part. Furthermore, it is possible to change the design to respond to various road conditions, needs, and changes in the surrounding environment of the road (for example, urban planning or large-scale redevelopment), for example, by adopting high-performance circuit modules. In short, this invention makes future parts replacement and maintenance easier by dividing the inside of the control device 30 into four units.
[0047] The automatic traffic warning system 10 may be installed on the roadside where attention should be paid to the flow of pedestrians and vehicles traveling in different directions. As shown in Figure 10, when the automatic traffic warning system 10 is installed at an unsignalized T-junction, the two radar devices 20 detect two opposing directions of travel toward the same road. Warning panels 14 and 15 are positioned toward a blind spot that is not in the line of sight of another pedestrian or driver. When an object within a predetermined range 23 is detected by the radar device 20, the control device 30 immediately determines the situation that pedestrians should pay attention to and simultaneously issues a warning via the warning panels 14 and 15. Radar with angular and velocity resolution in the vertical plane can detect specific Doppler signals produced by the swinging of the arms and legs of moving organisms (humans, cats, dogs, etc.). The patterns of these signals are related to the amplitude of the swing of limbs (arms, lower limbs, etc.). After collecting samples in the application environment, the controller 334, equipped with AI edge computing capabilities, identifies any of the amplitude, cross-sectional area (RCS less than 5 dBsm), and frequency characteristics of these swings to determine whether the pedestrian is physically frail or not. The automatic traffic warning system 10 may also be installed at intersections and curves where vehicles need to pay particular attention to pedestrians, such as intersections around schools or hospitals. As shown in Figure 12, when a pedestrian attempting to cross an intersection is detected by the radar device 20, the warning panels 14 and 15 can continuously illuminate warning lights in the direction of detection on the road, prompting the vehicle to slow down or yield to the pedestrian. Furthermore, since the radar device 20 can detect objects at a considerable distance, the driver has sufficient reaction time to see the warnings on the warning panels 14 and 15 and yield to the pedestrian. In short, the automatic traffic warning system 10 according to this invention is not only highly applicable but can also effectively improve the safety of physically frail pedestrians.
[0048] Furthermore, since the traffic automatic warning system 10 according to this invention can transmit warnings via remote notification, it can be applied to extreme environments (such as mountain roads and curves). As shown in Figure 9, this invention further includes a wireless communication device 17 such as an IoT (Internet of Things) antenna. The IoT (Internet of Things) antenna transmits signals using wireless communication technology, such as LPWAM technology (low-power wide-area network, i.e., low-power wide-area networks such as LoRa®, Sigfox, and NB-IoT). The wireless communication device 17 is electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit 335 of the control module 33B, thereby transmitting the detection result of the radar device 20 to another traffic automatic warning system 10. As shown in Figure 11, the two traffic automatic warning systems 10 are installed in two locations, such as a mountain road or a curve. When the radar device 20 of one traffic automatic warning system 10 detects an object, the control device 30 transmits the detection result to the other traffic automatic warning system 10 via the wireless communication device 17 and simultaneously issues a warning. The other traffic automatic warning system 10 may employ the traffic system of a main road. The device can maintain connectivity with large-scale transportation networks via the wireless communication device 17.
[0049] In the traffic automatic warning system 10 according to this invention, the wireless communication device 17 can configure information within its effective transmission (communication) range. In the first embodiment, the wireless communication device 17 establishes a communication network by transmitting detection results to moving objects within its effective transmission range using broadcasting technology. The traffic automatic warning system 10 can also improve the accuracy of the dynamic vehicle position through matching with satellite positioning technology and correction parameters within the traffic automatic warning system 10. For example, the position error can be reduced from several meters to 30-15 cm. If a moving object enters the effective transmission range via broadcasting technology, the detection result can be captured. Moving objects, i.e., moving vehicles such as school buses, fire trucks, and ambulances, capture the detection result using IoT (Internet of Things) self-diagnostic devices (On-Board Diagnostics, OBD). Since the IoT self-diagnostic device is either installed separately on the moving vehicle or built into the electronic hardware of the moving vehicle, it can be applied to the aftermarket and also ensure compatibility with older vehicle models. Furthermore, broadcasting technology is not limited to specific objects. Any vehicle equipped with receiving hardware can capture the signal if it enters the effective transmission range.
[0050] Figure 12 shows the view from inside the vehicle of a moving object 50, looking forward. The moving object 50, equipped with an ITO wireless vehicle diagnostic device 51, captures detection results using broadcasting technology. Subsequently, the ITO wireless vehicle diagnostic device 51 analyzes the detection results and determines whether or not the alarm conditions are met. If it is determined that the conditions are met, it transmits a warning signal to one or more output devices of the moving object 50, issuing a warning via blind spot warning lights, hazard lights, horn, LCD screen, steering wheel, rearview mirror (electronic rearview mirror), indicator lights, or buzzer. In other words, existing vehicle hardware can be used without adding additional warning lights. The ITO wireless vehicle diagnostic device 51 is also connected to another module or part of the moving object 50 by a vehicle gate device (not shown in the figure) and transmits information via a transmission interface (e.g., CAN-BUS). Since the warning signal uses a standard format, there is no need to analyze the vehicle manufacturer's proprietary format. By transmitting a warning signal to the output device, causing the driver of the moving object 50 to slow down or to pay attention to the road surface conditions, accidents involving collisions with pedestrians in pedestrian priority sections of the road during commuting or school hours can be avoided.
[0051] In another embodiment, the automated traffic warning system 10 can capture signals or information from the IoT wireless vehicle diagnostic device 51 of a moving object 50. By feeding back the driver's actions (vehicle speed, accelerator pedal position, steering wheel angle, etc.) to the automated traffic warning system 10, the system can perform edge AI calculations and optimize road safety by immediately providing a recommendation message.
[0052] (Second Embodiment) Figures 13 to 16 are schematic diagrams showing an automatic traffic warning system 10' according to a second embodiment of the present invention. The differences from the first embodiment are the placement of the radar device 20, the size and placement method of the warning panel 15, and the structure and connection method of the fixing unit 41 and angle adjustment member 47 of the mounting member 40'.
[0053] In the second embodiment, the radar device 20 is installed 70 cm above the ground to increase the space available for the warning panel 15. The warning panel 15 has an information display area 151 as well as an auxiliary warning unit 152. The auxiliary warning unit 152 is composed of a light-emitting member or a reflector and attracts attention through light.
[0054] In the second embodiment, the fixing unit 41 has a weight block 42A and a connecting member 46. The weight block 42A has two joints 43. The two joints 43 come together to form a single hollow rectangular housing, each having two arc-shaped concave notches 431. The weight block 42A can be fixed to the vertical column 12 by bringing the arc-shaped concave notches 431 of the two joints 43 into contact with the cylindrical surface of the vertical column 12 and tightening the two joints 43 with bolts 44 and nuts 45. Since the weight of the weight block 42A varies depending on the material, the weight of the weight block 42A can be increased by placing another weight member (not shown in the figure) in the internal space 421 according to the actual needs. The height of the vertical column 12 reaches 4m so that the traffic automatic warning system 10 alerts pedestrians with warning panels 14 and 15. The power generator 13 and warning panels 14 and 15 are installed at relatively high points on the vertical column 12. In particular, the power generation device 13 located at the tip of the vertical column 12 has a fall prevention structure, making it difficult to achieve weight reduction. If the weight block 42A is not placed on the automatic traffic warning system 10', the center of gravity of the automatic traffic warning system 10' is located in the upper half of the vertical column 12, and is offset from the geometric center of the automatic traffic warning system 10'. Therefore, when strong winds such as those during typhoon season and northeasterly wind season strike, if the surface area of the warning panel, i.e., the surface exposed to the wind, is particularly large, the automatic traffic warning system 10' often tips over or bends. In contrast, this invention lowers the height of the center of gravity of the automatic traffic warning system 10' by placing the weight block 42A at the position of the radar device 20, bringing the center of gravity closer to the geometric center. Due to the structural features described above, torque due to strong winds can be reduced, preventing the automatic traffic warning system 10' from tipping over or bending.
[0055] In the second embodiment, the connecting member 46 is fixed to the weight block 42A. The angle adjustment member 47 is connected to the connecting member 46 so as to be angle-adjustable. More specifically, the joint portion 43 of the weight block 42A has two locking grooves 433. The connecting member 46 has an intermediate portion 461 facing the weight block 42A, two side portions 462 formed extending from both sides of the intermediate portion 461, and locking portions 463 formed extending from the two side portions 462 toward the weight block 42A. The two locking portions 463 fit into the two locking grooves 433 to fix the connecting member 46 to the weight block 42A. The connecting member 46 also has a rotating shaft hole 464 and an adjustment hole 466 that penetrate the two side portions 462. The angle adjustment member 47 has a connecting portion 471 corresponding to the shape of the connecting member 46, two fixing portions 472 extending in opposite directions from the connecting portion 471, and a rotating shaft hole 473 and an arc-shaped groove 479 that pass through the connecting portion 471. The connecting member 46 fits over the outside of the connecting portion 471 of the angle adjustment member 47. The rotating shaft 475 passes through the rotating shaft hole 464 of the connecting member 46 and the rotating shaft hole 473 of the angle adjustment member 47 and is fixed with a nut 476. The fastening member 477 passes through the adjustment hole 466 of the connecting member 46 and the arc-shaped groove 479 of the angle adjustment member 47. The angle adjustment member 47 rotates toward the connecting member 46 around the rotating shaft 475. The fastening member 477 slides within the arc-shaped groove 479. When the angle adjustment member 47 is adjusted to a predetermined angle, the fastening member 477 and the angle adjustment member 47 are fixed together to the connecting member 46 with a nut 478.
[0056] Based on the descriptions of the first and second embodiments, it has been found that the arrangement angle of the radar device can be adjusted even if the positions of the arc-shaped groove and adjustment hole in the angle adjustment member or connecting member are swapped. In another embodiment, the angle adjustment member 47 and the connecting member 46 are not limited to those described in the first and second embodiments, and parts that can perform other adjustment functions may be used.
[0057] (Third embodiment) This invention allows for changes in the structure of the parts of the automatic traffic warning system 10, 10'. Figures 17 and 18 are schematic diagrams showing an automatic traffic warning system according to a third embodiment of this invention. The difference from the second embodiment lies in the radar device 20'. In the third embodiment, the housing 21' of the radar device 20' has an opening 211. The radar device 20' is housed within the housing 21', and the firing surface 211 is exposed to the opening 211. The housing 21' further has an arc-shaped drainage shield 212. The drainage shield 212 is mounted above the firing surface 211. As shown in Figure 17, the connecting member 46 of the right radar device 20' is longer than the connecting member 46 of the left radar device 20' (see Figure 18). In other words, this invention allows for the use of connecting members 46 or other parts of different sizes depending on the actual needs.
[0058] In the third embodiment, the radar device 20' is positioned below the warning panels 14 and 15, so that drainage flowing from the devices above directly falls on the radar device 20'. In contrast, the third embodiment shields the area above the firing surface 211 of the radar device 20' with a drainage shield 212, preventing dusty rainwater from adhering to the firing surface 211. This not only slows down the aging and embrittlement of the radar unit 22 due to sunlight, but also prevents water vapor from penetrating the inside of the radar unit 22, cooling it and causing a short circuit.
[0059] As stated above, the present invention is not limited in any way to the embodiments described above, and can be implemented in various forms without departing from the spirit of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]
[0060] 10, 10': Automatic traffic warning system 11: Ground 12: Vertical column 13: Power generation equipment 14: Warning Panel 141: Warning light 15: Warning Panel 151: Information display area 152: Auxiliary warning unit 16: City power supply 17: Wireless communication equipment 20, 20': Radar equipment 21: Housing 211: Opening 212: Drainage Shield 22: Radar Unit 221: Launch surface 23: Prescribed range 24: Horizontal visible range 25: Vertical visible range 30: Control device 31: Metal housing 311: Box body 312: Door 32: Waterproof Box 321: Box body 322: Lid 323: Waterproof connector 325: Sealing component 33: Circuit Module 33A: Power Management Module 33B: Control Module 33C: Drive Module 331: Current monitoring circuit 332: Charging circuit 333:Protective circuit 334: Controller 335: Wireless communication circuit 336: Drive unit 34: Battery 40, 40': Mounting member 41: Fixed Unit 42: Fastening member 42A: Weight block 421: Interior space 43: Joint 431: Arc-shaped concave chip 432: Extension Arm 433: Locking groove 44: Bolt 45: Nut 46: Connecting member 461: Intermediate part 462: Side part 463: Locking part 464: Rotating shaft hole 465: Arc-shaped groove 466: Adjustment hole 47: Angle adjustment member 471:Connection part 472: Fixed part 473: Rotating shaft hole 474: Adjustment hole 475: Rotation axis 476: Nut 477: Fastening component 478: Nut 479: Arc-shaped groove 50: Moving object 51: ITO Wireless Vehicle Diagnostic Device
Claims
1. Equipped with vertical columns, warning panels, radar equipment, control devices, wireless communication equipment and moving objects, The aforementioned vertical posts are erected in the ground. The warning panel is installed on the vertical column, The radar device is installed on the vertical column and positioned below the warning panel to detect objects within a predetermined range. The control device is installed on the vertical column and electrically connected to the warning panel and the radar device, thereby controlling the warning panel based on the detection results of the radar device. The wireless communication device is electrically connected to the control device. The traffic automatic warning system is characterized in that the moving object is equipped with an ITO wireless vehicle diagnostic device, thereby forming a communication network with the wireless communication device within the effective communication range.
2. The radar device has a firing surface, The traffic automatic warning system according to claim 1, characterized in that the predetermined range detected by the radar device consists of a horizontal visible range and a vertical visible range diverging from the emission surface, the horizontal visible range is parallel to the ground, and the vertical visible range is perpendicular to the ground.
3. The control device comprises a power management module, a control module, and a battery, the power management module is electrically connected to the battery and has a charging circuit, the control module and the power management module are electrically connected to the battery and have a controller, the controller is electrically connected to the warning panel and drives the warning panel, The traffic automatic warning system according to claim 1, characterized in that the battery supplies electricity to the warning panel.
4. The traffic automatic warning system according to claim 3, characterized in that the controller of the control device controls the warning panel by determining the movement of the limbs of a living organism based on a Doppler signal corresponding to the detection result of the radar device.
5. The traffic automatic warning system according to claim 3, wherein the control device has a metal housing and two waterproof boxes within the metal housing, the power management module and the control module are separately arranged in the two waterproof boxes, each waterproof box has one or more waterproof connectors on the outside, and the power management module, the control module and the battery are electrically connected to each other via one or more waterproof connectors.
6. Furthermore, it is equipped with a power generation device, The traffic automatic warning system according to claim 3, characterized in that the power generation device is installed above the vertical column and the warning panel and is electrically connected to the power management module of the control device.
7. The traffic automatic warning system according to claim 1, wherein the control device comprises a metal housing, a plurality of waterproof boxes within the metal housing, and a plurality of circuit modules within the plurality of waterproof boxes, each of the waterproof boxes having one or more waterproof connectors on the outside, and the plurality of circuit modules being electrically connected to each other via one or more waterproof connectors.
8. The traffic automatic warning system according to claim 1, characterized in that the wireless communication device transmits the detection results of the radar device to another traffic automatic warning system.
9. The traffic automatic warning system according to claim 8, characterized in that the wireless communication device transmits the detection results of the radar device by broadcasting technology, and causes one or more of the moving objects within the effective transmission range of the broadcasting technology to receive the detection results.
10. The radar device is mounted on the vertical column by a mounting member, the mounting member having a fixing unit and an angle adjustment member, the fixing unit being fixed to the vertical column, and the angle adjustment member being connected to the fixing unit so as to be angle adjustable. The traffic automatic warning system according to claim 1, characterized in that the radar device is fixed to the angle adjustment member.
11. The aforementioned fixing unit has a weight block and a connecting member, the weight block is positioned on the vertical column, and the connecting member is fixed to the weight block. The traffic automatic warning system according to claim 10, characterized in that the angle adjustment member is connected to the connecting member in a manner that allows for angle adjustment.
12. The traffic automatic warning system according to claim 1, characterized in that the radar device is installed on a vertical column by a mounting member, the mounting member has a weight block, and the weight block is fixed to the vertical column.
13. The traffic automatic warning system according to claim 1, characterized in that the radar device comprises a housing and a radar unit within the housing, the radar unit has a firing surface, and the housing has a drainage shield located above the firing surface.