Improved road signalling system

Abstract

A road signalling system is herein disclosed, which has a container element, a plurality of signalling movable elements housed in the container element and comprising respective moving means, said signalling movable elements being configured to be moved from a first configuration, in which they are arranged inside the container element, to a second configuration, in which they are arranged at respective different positions on a road section and are spaced apart from said container element, each of said signalling movable elements comprising signalling means, and control means. The control means are configured to control the moving means and to cause the movement thereof from the first configuration to the second configuration, wherein, under the control of the control means, the signalling movable elements move on the road section according to a respective path and are arranged on the road section at the respective positions of the second configuration.

Description

[0001] Title: Improved road signalling system

[0002] DESCRIPTION

[0003] Application field

[0004] The present invention relates to a road signalling system, particularly to a system for signalling a danger and / or obstruction and, if necessary, for channelling the traffic onto a road section in the event of danger and / or obstruction of the carriageway, such as, but not limited to, in the event of a road accident or obstacle on the road, or any other event. The following description refers to this application field with the sole purpose of exemplifying the exposition thereof.

[0005] Prior art

[0006] As is well known, warning of danger on a road section, for instance following an accident, and diverting the traffic in a safe direction are traditionally carried out by means of wind torches made of a wax material. These torches are turned on by designated operators, such as traffic police officers, traffic wardens or other operators, and arranged in sequence at a certain distance from each other on the road surface in order to delimit the danger area and also channel the traffic in a chosen direction in safe conditions.

[0007] However, this system has several drawbacks, including the use of open flames to light up (and consequently signal) the affected road section area. This is unsafe for the operators who turn on and place the torches, and moreover these wind torches also damage the asphalt on which they are placed during use, thus compromising its useful life. Furthermore, as these wind torches are mainly made of fibrous materials and wax, which allow them to be used for a long time, often longer than necessary, it is impractical to extinguish them and recover the remains.

[0008] Mainly due to the aforementioned drawbacks, it is preferable to limit the use of these wind-powered torches.

[0009] There are also other known solutions that involve the use of non-remote controlled signalling elements (such as LEDs) arranged on cables that are unwound as needed, but these solutions lack the desired ease of use. In this case, there is also the dangerous exposure and risk for the operator being hit by a vehicle when these elements are placed on the road surface, as it is necessary to walk along a section of the carriageway to signal an obstacle and put a diversion in place.

[0010] Further, there is also a need to inform users that the road section has been demarcated (and more generally to inform users about dangerous situation), which in the known solution is done through messages on special motorway panels, which however is often not entirely efficient, as they do not cover the entire road network.

[0011] The technical problem of the present invention is to provide a road signalling system having structural and functional features such as to overcome the limitations and drawbacks complained about in connection with the prior art, particularly allowing an effective signalling of obstacles / dangers and / or traffic channelling in complete safety for operators, and in general an effective signalling.

[0012] Summary of the invention

[0013] The solution idea underlying the present invention is to provide a system in which a certain number of signalling movable elements (particularly Rover-type electric vehicles provided with signalling LEDs) is moved to be arranged on a road section and is remotely controllable to suitably signal a danger / obstacle. The signalling movable elements are initially arranged in a container element that is easily transportable, from which they are released by remote control activation and, following said activation, move in a controlled manner along a specific path to position themselves on the road section in their respective desired positions.

[0014] The movement mode (and more generally the operating mode) of the signalling movable elements can be selected by the operator (for instance through the aforementioned remote control) from a plurality of possible movement modes; there is also the chance of adjustment for the operator as required, still through the remote control. Furthermore, there is still the chance of manual adjustment, if desired.

[0015] It is also possible to devise a solution wherein, once the signalling movable elements have been positioned on the road section (regardless the way they are controlled), the system is configured to communicate with road navigation platforms so that said positioning operation is appropriately reported to users, indicating on the various navigation apps the presence of said signalling movable elements, their position on the map, and any danger / warning messages.

[0016] Based on said solution idea, the above technical problem is solved by a road signalling system comprising a container element, a plurality of signalling movable elements adapted to be housed in the container element and comprising respective moving means, said signalling movable elements being configured to be moved, by activating the moving means, from a first configuration or rest configuration, in which they are arranged inside the container element, to a second configuration or operating configuration, in which they are arranged at respective different positions on a road section that are spaced apart from said container element, and vice versa, each of said signalling movable elements comprising signalling means to signal a danger and / or obstacle, and control means adapted to control the system, wherein the control means are configured to control the moving means of the signalling movable elements and to consequently cause the movement thereof from the first configuration to the second configuration, and vice versa, and wherein, under the control of the control means, the signalling movable elements move, preferably together, on the road section according to a respective path and, at the end of said respective path, they are arranged on the road section in the respective different positions of the second configuration. As will be specified hereinafter, the moving means may be activated by the control means (for instance through a remote control that communicates with the various local units), so that the signalling movable elements follow a path with a predefined direction and orientation (by executing stored software instructions) and by a distance that is for instance definable by the operator, but it is also possible for the operator to control said moving means (still for instance through a remote control that communicates with the various local units), in order to impart the desired movement (particularly direction and orientation) for each signalling movable element.

[0017] More particularly, the invention comprises the following additional and optional features, taken singularly or in combination if needed. Said additional and optional features are illustrated for instance in the dependent claims.

[0018] According to an aspect of the present invention, the control means (for instance a remote control usable by the operator adapted to communicate with units of the signalling movable elements) may be configured to define the respective path of the signalling movable elements, so that said respective path comprises a substantially rectilinear section away from the container element, wherein the control means are configured to allow selecting the movement orientation of the signalling movable elements along said substantially rectilinear section (namely, in the travel orientation of the traffic flow or against the travel orientation of the traffic flow).

[0019] According to an aspect of the present invention, the control means (for instance a remote control usable by the operator and adapted to communicate with units of the signalling movable elements) may be configured to define the respective path of the signalling movable elements, so that said respective path comprises a first section according to a first direction away from the container element and a second section according to a second direction different from the first direction. For instance, the first section may be a substantially rectilinear section and the second section may be a section that is substantially orthogonal to said substantially rectilinear section.

[0020] In this case, at the end of said respective path, the control means may be configured to define a diagonal line between the container element and the signalling movable element furthest from it with reference to an axis of the road section, wherein the control means are programmed to control the movement of the other signalling movable elements, so that, in the second configuration, they are arranged along said diagonal line.

[0021] According to an aspect of the present invention, the control means may be configured to automatically adjust (for instance after pressing a button of the remote control by the operator) the respective path of the signalling movable elements and the final position in the second configuration of each of said signalling movable elements.

[0022] According to an aspect of the present invention, the control means may be configured to also allow an adjustment by an operator.

[0023] According to an aspect of the present invention, each signalling movable element may comprise one or more sensors which, under the control of the control means, are configured to detect its position relative to the operator (who carries with him part of the control means, and more generally relative to a reference) and to the container element, as well as its position relative to the other signalling movable elements, thus defining said relative position for instance by means of a triangulation procedure and consequently defining its most suitable movement.

[0024] According to an aspect of the present invention, the signalling movable elements may be moved together in sequence to each other.

[0025] According to an aspect of the present invention, the control means may be configured to control the moving means, so that said signalling movable elements are equally spaced from each other and are also configured to proportionally adjust the relative distance between said signalling movable elements based on the distance travelled by them.

[0026] According to an aspect of the present invention, the signalling movable elements may be adapted to be remotely controlled. In particular, in this way, it is possible to impart their movement remotely.

[0027] According to an aspect of the present invention, the control means may comprise one or more local electronic control units for each signalling movable element, to control the movement of said signalling movable element and allow the management thereof. In particular, the local electronic control unit may comprise a memory unit where the operating instructions are stored which, when executed, control the movement of said signalling movable element and allow the management thereof.

[0028] According to an aspect of the present invention, the system may comprise a remote control (or radio control), particularly provided with buttons, and configured to communicate with the local electronic control units of the signalling movable elements for controlling them. The control buttons may also be touch buttons that appear on the display of the remote control or radio control.

[0029] According to an aspect of the present invention, through the remote control, the control means may be configured to select an operating mode of the signalling movable elements between a plurality of possible operating modes, thus defining the respective path and / or the position of said signalling movable elements.

[0030] According to an aspect of the present invention, the remote control may be configured to allow activating the movement of the signalling movable elements, by sending signals toward the local electronic control units.

[0031] According to an aspect of the present invention, after pressing one or more buttons of said remote control, the local electronic control units may be adapted to activate the movement of said signalling movable elements that consequently move according to predefined settings. According to an aspect of the present invention, the remote control may be equipped with at least one confirmation button to confirm and fix the position of said signalling movable elements by the operator in the second configuration.

[0032] According to an aspect of the present invention, by pressing one or more buttons of the remote control, the respective path and / or the position of the signalling movable elements in the second configuration may be adjustable by the operator.

[0033] According to an aspect of the present invention, each signalling movable element may be adjustable independently of the other signalling movable elements.

[0034] According to an aspect of the present invention, the moving means of each of the signalling movable elements may comprise at least four electric motors.

[0035] According to an aspect of the present invention, each of the signalling movable elements may comprise wheels of the Mecanum type configured to allow the movement thereof in any direction.

[0036] According to an aspect of the present invention, the signalling movable elements may comprise stabilisation means configured to keep said signalling movable elements stable in the second configuration.

[0037] According to an aspect of the present invention, the control means may be configured to activate and deactivate said stabilisation means, for instance after pressing a button of the remote control.

[0038] According to an aspect of the present invention, the signalling movable elements may comprise light signalling elements, such as LEDs, configured to signal their presence through light emission.

[0039] According to an aspect of the present invention, the signalling movable elements may have two opposite sides of greater extension and two opposite sides of smaller extension.

[0040] According to an aspect of the present invention, the light signalling elements may comprise at least one first plurality of LEDs of a first colour arranged on the two opposite sides of smaller extension and on one of the two opposite sides of greater extension, and a second plurality of LEDs of a second colour that is different from the first colour arranged on the other of the two opposite sides of greater extension.

[0041] According to an aspect of the present invention, the control means may be configured to orient the signalling movable elements in the second configuration on the road section, so that the LEDs of the first plurality of LEDs on the side of greater extension face toward the vehicular flow with a substantially 90° angle between said side of greater extension and the road axis.

[0042] According to an aspect of the present invention, the control means may be configured to communicate with one or more road navigation platforms. According to an aspect of the present invention, when the signalling movable elements are arranged in the second configuration, said control means may be adapted to transmit to said road navigation platforms information comprising data about the positioning of said signalling movable elements. This aspect and the following ones may be independent of some technical features disclosed above, such as the presence of the container element or the way the signalling movable elements are moved / controlled and arranged on the road.

[0043] According to an aspect of the present invention, the signalling movable elements may comprise positioning means adapted to provide the position thereof, for example they may comprise receivers adapted to receive GPS data, said positioning means being in communication with the control means.

[0044] According to an aspect of the present invention, the control means may be configured to generate said information such that it is registered by the road navigation platforms in the form of messages to be shown to the users of said road navigation platforms.

[0045] According to an aspect of the present invention, the control means may comprise a memory unit in which a plurality of information to be sent to the road navigation platforms are stored.

[0046] According to an aspect of the present invention, the system may comprise selection means adapted to allow selecting, from said plurality of information, the information to be sent to said road navigation platforms.

[0047] According to an aspect of the present invention, the control means may be configured to allow the composition, by the operator, of a dedicated message to be transmitted to the road navigation platforms.

[0048] According to an aspect of the present invention, the control means may be configured to allow sending a general danger message.

[0049] According to an aspect of the present invention, the information may comprise at least one of:

[0050] - a signalling of an obstacle in one or more specific lanes; and / or

[0051] - a signalling of a construction site in one or more specific lanes; and / or

[0052] - a signalling of an accident in one or more specific lanes.

[0053] The features and advantages of the road signalling system according to the invention will be apparent from the description, made hereinafter, of embodiments thereof, given by way of indicative and non-limiting example, with reference to the appended drawings.

[0054] Brief description of the drawings

[0055] In these drawings:

[0056] - figure 1 is an exemplifying view of a road signalling system according to embodiments of the present invention; - figure 2 is a schematic view of a container element of the road signalling system according to embodiments of the present invention;

[0057] - figure 3 is another schematic view of the container element of the road signalling system according to embodiments of the present invention;

[0058] - figure 4 is another view of the road signalling system according to embodiments of the present invention, in which signalling movable elements are housed in the container element;

[0059] - figure 5 is a schematic view of a signalling movable element according to embodiments of the present invention;

[0060] - figure 6 is another schematic view of the signalling movable element according to embodiments of the present invention;

[0061] - figure 7 is a top view of the signalling movable element according to embodiments of the present invention;

[0062] - figure 8 shows a signalling movable element of the road signalling system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0063] - figure 9 schematically shows an operating mode of the system of the present invention;

[0064] - figures 10 and 11 show operating steps of the operating mode of figure 9;

[0065] - figure 12 schematically shows another operating mode of the system of the present invention;

[0066] - figures 13 and 14 show operating steps of the operating mode of figure 12;

[0067] - figure 15 schematically shows another operating mode of the system of the present invention;

[0068] - figure 16 is a schematic top view of the road signalling system of the present invention with the signalling movable elements arranged on the road section;

[0069] - figures 17 and 18 show operating steps of the operating mode of figure 15;

[0070] - figures 19-21 schematically show further operating modes of the system according to embodiments of the present invention;

[0071] - figures 22A and 22B show a signalling movable element with different orientations with respect to the road axis; and

[0072] - figure 23 shows a signalling movable element according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0073] Detailed description

[0074] With reference to these figures, reference number 10 globally and schematically indicates a road signalling system according to the present invention.

[0075] It should be noted that the figures represent schematic views and are not drawn to scale, but instead they are drawn so as to enhance the important features of the invention. Furthermore, in the figures, the different elements are represented schematically, since their shape may vary depending on the desired application. It should also be noted that, in the figures, identical reference numbers refer to elements that are identical in shape or function. Finally, particular features described in relation to an embodiment illustrated in a figure can also be used for the other embodiments illustrated in the other figures.

[0076] Clearly, some technical details of the invention may be replaced by other technically equivalent details without departing from the scope of the claimed invention, as it is well known by a person skilled in the art.

[0077] In the following description, relative terms such as “on”, “under”, “upwards”, “downwards”, “upper”, “lower” will be used referring to the illustrations of the solutions given in the figures just to simplify the exposure thereof.

[0078] Furthermore, indications of particular geometries (circular, rectangular) or of the arrangement of the elements (parallel, orthogonal, contiguous), as well as the term “substantially”, are always to be intended in connection to physical elements and not as geometrically abstract elements, therefore they must always take into consideration the tolerances introduced by the transition from a pure mathematical / geometric world to the real world.

[0079] It should also be noted that, when sequences of process steps are illustrated, not necessarily do they follow the indicated sequence, since said steps can also be reversed in some cases, unless expressly stated otherwise.

[0080] As will be detailed hereinafter, the road signalling system 10 of the present invention (hereinafter indicated for the sake of simplicity as “system 10”) is able to signal dangers / obstacles and possibly to channel the vehicle traffic in complete safety, as well as to efficiently communicate the signalling to users, for instance in the event of a road accident. In any case, many other applications are possible.

[0081] The above premised, the instruments of the present invention will be illustrated herein below.

[0082] Instrumentation of the invention

[0083] With reference to figure 1, the system 10 comprises a container element (hereinafter also called “trolley” and indicated with reference number 11), which is equipped with a containment body 11’ for instance in a rectangular cross-section parallelepiped shape, even though the present invention is in no way limited by the shape of said container element 11.

[0084] The container element 11, which is illustrated in figures 2 and 3 in a closed configuration, is internally hollow and is able to house a certain number of signalling movable elements (which will be widely described in detail hereinafter) therein. It is structured as a small trolley equipped with wheels l lr, a handle and telescopic poles for the transport thereof on road surfaces. In said container element 11 two additional handles may also be provided at its shorter sides to extract it from the service vehicle and facilitate its transport and / or movement.

[0085] The container element 11 is equipped with a panel l ip, which is backlit on both sides and can carry a certain message and / or a certain signal that may vary depending on the situation. In an embodiment, the panel l ip may be raised and thus may pass from a first position or reclined position (for instance during the transport) to a second position or raised position in which it is possible to display the message / signal, and vice versa; figures 1 to 3 show the panel l ip in the reclined position, whereas figure 4 shows said panel 1 lp in the raised position. The message of the panel l ip is variable through LED backlighting, for instance to show messages of the “SLOW DOWN”, “HALT POLICE” type, as well as to show directional arrows to indicate the direction to be followed to the vehicular traffic and the like.

[0086] Furthermore, the container element 11 comprises rods and motors for the electromechanical movement of the panel l ip, which, in an embodiment, is equipped with an autonomous power supply battery. In particular, the container element 11 is equipped with stabilising rods l ib which, once extended, allow the panel 1 lp located on the upper part and carrying the variable message to be raised safely.

[0087] Suitably, the container element 11 is easily transportable and thus may be easily loaded onto a service vehicle (herein indicated with reference number 20), unloaded from said service vehicle 20 and transported to the road section to carry out the appropriate signalling.

[0088] As above mentioned, the system 10 comprises a plurality of devices or signalling movable elements (reference number 30) housed in the container element 11, said signalling movable elements 30 being the components that actually signal the danger / obstacle on the carriageway and appropriately divert the vehicular flow.

[0089] It is noted that the present invention is not limited by the number of signalling movable elements 30; the examples herein discussed about show the system 10 with four signalling movable elements 30, but any smaller or larger number may be used depending on the requirements and / or circumstances.

[0090] Each signalling movable element 30 comprises its own moving means, which are not limited by a specific type. For instance, in a preferred embodiment, each signalling movable element 30 comprises four electric motors. In an embodiment, the above electric motors may be powered at 12V and equipped with encoders.

[0091] As illustrated in the figures and as discussed hereinafter, the signalling movable elements 30 may be electric vehicles of the Rover type.

[0092] Suitably, the signalling movable elements 30 are configured to be moved, by actuating the respective moving means, from a first configuration or rest configuration, in which they are arranged inside the container element 11, and a second configuration or operating configuration, in which they are arranged at respective different positions on the road section and are spaced apart from said container element 11 and spaced apart from each other.

[0093] Each of the signalling movable elements 30 comprises signalling means to signal a danger and / or an obstacle to oncoming vehicles. In particular, the signalling movable elements 30 comprise light signalling elements 35, such as suitable LEDs configured to signal their presence through light emission. The LED system will be detailed hereinafter in the present description.

[0094] Recharging the electric motors of the signalling movable elements 30 is ensured by the container element 11, which comprises appropriate automation and suitable electronics for power supplying / recharging said signalling movable elements 30, as well as the panel l ip. Furthermore, the container element 11 comprises one or more input / output panels (reference number l lpp), still powered by the above electronics, which are movable to allow the exit and return of the signalling movable elements 30 (figure 4 shows the container element 11 with the input / output panels l lpp in an open configuration). The container element 11 may also be provided with LEDs 111 to facilitate the signalling thereof, even though this is not necessary and other configurations may be provided.

[0095] Figures 5 to 7 show different views of a signalling movable element 30 of the present invention.

[0096] In an embodiment, each of the signalling movable elements 30 comprises wheels of the Mecanum type (particularly four wheels, indicated with reference number 30r) configured to allow the movement thereof in any direction. Merely by way of example, the wheels 30r may be made of high- hardness plastic with a diameter of 60 mm, however, without being limited to this specific example. Thanks to the above wheels 30r, the signalling movable elements 30 move simultaneously in the direction selected by the operator (which may be for instance a police officer), respecting the same angle, and this for any possible desired direction. It is noted that, in the context of the present invention, the wheels 30r are part of the moving means of the signalling movable elements 30.

[0097] The signalling movable elements 30 have two opposite sides of greater extension 30” and two opposite sides of smaller extension 30’, all of them bearing LEDs, as will be detailed hereinafter.

[0098] The system 10 further comprises control means arranged for the management and control thereof.

[0099] In the context of the present invention, the term “control means” (or control unit) may generally refer to any electronic unit appropriately programmed to perform the operations herein disclosed. It may be a single unit or may comprise a plurality of local and / or remote units. There may be a central portion / unit (for example remote) of the control means and various local units on the various signalling movable elements 30, as well as the central portion / unit may in turn include a local unit (for example integrated into the container 11 and / or comprising other local instrumentation), and a remote unit (for example a server unit in operational communication with the local unit). In any case, the present invention is in no way limited by the architecture used for the control means C.

[0100] Among the various functions, the control means are configured to control the moving means of the signalling movable elements 30 and to consequently cause the movement thereof from the rest configuration to the operating configuration, and vice versa. Under the control of said control means, the signalling movable elements 30 move on the road section according to a respective path and, at the end of said respective path, they are arranged on the road section in the respective different final positions of the operating configuration.

[0101] In an embodiment, as mentioned above, the control means C of the system 10 are provided with local electronic control units (herein generically indicated with reference Ci), particularly the presence of a local electronic control unit for each signalling movable element 30 is provided, which is integrated (associated) therein. Each local electronic control unit Ci comprises a memory unit where operating instruction are stored which, when executed, control the movement of the signalling movable elements 30 and allow the most appropriate management thereof.

[0102] It is noted that the present invention is in no way limited by the architecture of the control means (and thus of the local electronic control units Ci), which may provide any type and number of electronic units (for instance one or more printed circuit boards containing a microprocessor or CPU) which are programmable to execute the desired operations. There may also be both local and remote units in communication with them. In a non-limiting application example, the local electronic control unit Ci may comprise a printed circuit board (PCB) which carries components for the integration of dedicated software for executing various movement functions and to define various lighting scenarios of the signalling movable elements 30. In an embodiment, the software is the same for each signalling movable element 30, whose code allows the integration with each other as described hereinafter.

[0103] With reference to figures 5 to 7, each signalling movable element 30 comprises a lower shell or cap 30s 1, which acts as a chassis and is useful as support for the internal power supply battery and for the electric motors for the movement, and an upper shell or cap 30s2. The upper shell 30s2 houses the local electronic control unit Ci and may be in the shape of a transparent or semi-transparent casing, whose colour varies based on the backlighting used; in this regard, the signalling movable elements 30 also comprise a printed circuit board and LEDs powered by the latter (for instance arranged directly on said board) for the backlighting of the upper shell 30s2, said printed circuit board for instance being substantially similar in shape to the upper shell 30s2. Furthermore, the upper shell 30s2 houses and supports the light signalling elements 35, as will be also detailed further on.

[0104] In an embodiment, the upper shell 30s2 is transparent or at least partially transparent (for instance orange in colour) and the LEDs for the backlighting thereof are configured to create a flame effect (more generally flame-effect bulbs may be used); in this way a flame effect is created by illuminating the shell. In an implementation example, the flame-effect lights remain turned on at all times during the movement of the signalling movable elements 30.

[0105] In other words, in an embodiment, the upper shell 30s2 is semitransparent and the signalling movable devices 30 comprise lightemitting elements configured to emit flame effect light and to back-light said upper shell 30s2, which preferably remain turned on during the movement and in the second configuration. Now with reference to figure 8, the signalling movable elements 30 comprise stabilisation means 40 configured to keep them still and stable when they are in the second configuration. The control means are configured to activate and deactivate said stabilisation means 40 under the operator’s control, as will be described later in some examples. In an embodiment, in order to stabilise the signalling movable elements 30 in the most suitable way, there are two (or four, or any appropriate number) rods / brackets guiding the stabilisation means which, upon activation, are extracted and contact the ground.

[0106] The system 10 is also provided with a remote control 50 equipped with buttons (in generale indicated with reference number 50p), which may also be of the touch type, and configured to communicate with the local electronic control units Ci of the signalling movable elements 30 for the control thereof. The remote control 50 is also equipped with a display and with acoustic signalling elements in order to deliver messages to the operator (such as to signal anomalies of one or more of the signalling movable elements 30). The remote control 50 is thus part, along with the above local electronic control units Ci, of the general control means of the system 10 for the management and control thereof by the operator.

[0107] Advantageously according to the present invention, depending on requirements, it is possible to move the signalling movable elements 30 based on the various operating modes (or, in other terms, based on various programmes), as illustrated in the following figures. There is also the option of manual movement, if desired.

[0108] As already mentioned, it is noted that, in the context of the present invention, not necessarily the control means are such as to guide the devices 30 still along a pre-set path: on the one hand, there may be operating modes that provide for the movement according to predefined specifications (for instance according to a linear or linear-orthogonal path for a section whose length is established by the operator), but also operating modes in which everything (including the direction and orientation of all devices 30) is defined by the operator through the remote control 50.

[0109] In particular, the remote control 50 is configured, by sending control signals to the local electronic control units Ci, to allow the activation of the movement of the signalling movable elements 30, for instance after pressing one or more of the buttons thereof. As will be shown hereinafter in some non-limiting examples, by pressing suitable buttons of the remote control 50, the local electronic control units Ci are adapted to activate the movement of said signalling movable elements 30 according to predefined settings; they are therefore programmed to actuate the moving means in order to activate the desired movements, wherein a certain movement / operating mode of the signalling movable elements 30 (said movement being both predefined, for instance linear / linear- orthogonal, and also entirely defined by the operator) is associated with a specific command given through the buttons 50p of the remote control 50.

[0110] In other words, through the remote control 50 that communicates with the local electronic control units Ci, the control means are configured to select an operating mode of the signalling movable elements 30 between a plurality of possible operating modes (including the one that provides for adjustment by the operator), in this way defining the respective path and / or position of said signalling movable elements 30, which preferably move together.

[0111] It is noted that, in the context of the present invention, the term “path” also indicates the way in which the signalling movable elements 30 move, and not only necessarily the distance travelled and the specific direction taken.

[0112] Furthermore, the remote control 50 is equipped with at least one button to confirm and fix the position of said signalling movable elements 30 by the operator when they have reached the second configuration, and thus once the desired position has been reached. Various operating modes that may be implemented by the system 10 described above will now be illustrated.

[0113] Various modes of using the road signalling system of the present invention

[0114] With reference to figures 9 to 14, in an embodiment the local electronic control units Ci are programmed to define, by controlling the moving means, a rectilinear path (indicated with arrow LI) of the signalling movable elements 30 away from the container element 11, with the chance to choose the movement direction along said rectilinear tract. In general, whatever the travel direction imposed to the signalling movable elements 30, they are moved in sequence with each other, particularly following the operator’s path, who always keeps an eye on the approaching vehicular flow.

[0115] Still generally speaking, very suitably, during the movement the control means are configured to control the moving means (particularly the electric motors), so that the signalling movable elements 30 are equally spaced from each other and to adjust their relative distance proportionally based on the distance travelled by them.

[0116] Still generally, whatever the travel direction imposed to the signalling movable elements 30, as a first step the container element 11 is removed from the service vehicle 20 and placed onto the road surface by the operator. Further to positioning the container element 11, there are the extraction of the stabiliser rods l ib and the activation of the system as a whole, for instance by pressing an on / off button present on said container element 11 or on the remote control 50. Afterwards the panel l ip carrying the variable message is raised; particularly, upon activation of the system 10, one of the pre-set messages that may be displayed through the panel l ip may be selected, including the directional arrows. Moreover, upon opening the input / output panels 1 lpp for outputting the signalling movable elements 30, the interior of the container element 11 is lit up to allow the operator to constantly keep the various devices housed therein under control.

[0117] Figure 9 shows a diagram of a first operating mode, in which the signalling movable elements 30 move in sequence following the operator in a direction opposite the one of the vehicular flow (indicated with arrow F). In this first operating mode (indicated as “MIRROR”), by keeping pressed a dedicated button on the remote control 50 (such as the button “MIRROR” in the example illustrated in figure 10), the operator moves the signalling movable elements 30 and, moving onto the carriageway, is followed by them, signalling movable elements 30 which, proportionally to the distance travelled, maintain the same distance from each other.

[0118] As above mentioned, in this first operating mode, the signalling movable elements 30 follow the operator against the travel direction. This first operating mode may be activated for instance to signal an obstacle (object, car or broken-down industrial vehicle, etc.) in the emergency lane, without having to close one or more traffic lanes. From an operational point of view, the operator travels along the emergency lane, against the travel direction, performing the usual manual signals with the chance to keep an eye on the approaching traffic, in maximum safety, and at the same time the signalling movable elements 30 follow him with the light signalling elements 35 turned on. The operator, having reached the desired point, is then able to stop the advancement of the signalling movable elements 30 and to fix their position by pressing a confirmation button of the remote control 50 (see figure 11 , in which the confirmation button is indicated with reference number 50c) and at the same time the stabilisation means 40 are activated. In this way, the activation of the stabilisation means 40 occurs after confirmation by the operator.

[0119] In a second operating mode (indicated as “FOLLOW ME” mode and schematically represented in figure 12) the operator, by keeping pressed a dedicated button on the remote control (such as the button “FOLLOW ME” in the examples of figures 13 and 14), is followed by the signalling movable elements 30 in the same direction as the travel direction of the vehicular flow, still indicated with arrow F. As previously seen, the signalling movable elements 30, proportionally to the travelled distance, keep the same distance from each other.

[0120] As mentioned, in this second operating mode, the signalling movable elements 30 follow the operator in the travel direction (in this case the rectilinear tract is still indicated with LI). This second operating mode is suitable if one wishes to close one or more lanes and to channel the vehicle flow into different lanes, for instance if one wishes to close the right-hand lane and the central lane. In this case, once the container element 11 has been extracted from the service vehicle 20 and safely transferred in front of said vehicle by using the space between it and the edge of the carriageway, it is positioned in the most suitable point in the carriageway, particularly transversally to the road axis on the solid line of the emergency lane with the longest side facing the direction of travel.

[0121] In an embodiment, the above mode selected through the remote control 50 is then confirmed through the confirmation button 50c of said remote control 50. For instance, after the confirmation, the panel l ip may rise, carrying the indications selected by the user according to the circumstances and afterward input / output panels l lpp open and the interior of the container element 11 lights up. Furthermore, after said confirmation, a first signalling movable element exits from the container element 11 by a distance that is substantially equal to its own length; more particularly, after the container element 11 of the first signalling movable element has come out, its light signalling elements 35 are turned on and it moves following the operator (particularly following the remote control 50 which it communicates with). The other signalling movable elements 30 then move to the position of the first one (namely the first that comes out and that is further away from the container element 11) and follow the movement thereof at a safe distance, particularly by proportionally keeping an equal distance to each other, harmonised with the overall distance between the operator (particularly between the remote control 50) and the container element 11. The remaining signalling movable elements, coming out of the container element 11 , activate their own light signalling elements 35, whereas the operator moves while keeping a view of the vehicular traffic.

[0122] It is noted that this operating aspect is applicable, mutatis mutandi, even to the preceding operating mode “MIRROR” of figure 9: in both cases, once the container element 11 has been positioned, the system 10 is activated through the on / off button and at this point the operator, through the remote control 50, indicates in which direction the signalling movable elements 30 move. In fact, as mentioned above, depending on the signalling requirement, the positioning of the container element 11 changes: if one needs to move the devices 30 metres toward the obstacle to be signalled, the container element 11 is positioned with the input / output panel 1 lpp in the travel direction, whereas it is positioned in the opposite position, namely with the input / output panel l lpp against the travel direction, if one wishes to place the devices 30 in front of said container element 11, but the movement mode of the devices is substantially the same.

[0123] Now with reference to figure 15, the signalling movable elements 30 may also travel (in addition to the rectilinear section away from the container element 11, particularly in the vehicular flow direction, as just described) an orthogonal section (indicated with L2) with respect to the rectilinear section LI, with a definition of a diagonal line LD between the container element 11 and the signalling movable element furthest from it (namely the first movable element) with reference to the axis of the road section. Suitably, the other signalling movable elements 30, after the operator’s command, preferably move together with the first one and are automatically arranged along said diagonal line LD, as schematically illustrated in figure 16, and thus their movement in the orthogonal direction is suitably adjusted based on their positioning relative to the other, so as to define the above diagonal line LD. This third operating mode, which may also be seen as a subsequent step to the previous second operating mode discussed in connection to figure 12, is suitable when one wishes to close one or more lanes and to channel the vehicular traffic in a specific road section, for instance when in a three-lane carriageway for driving and overtaking plus one lane for emergencies one wishes to close the right and central lanes following an accident, as in the example of the figures.

[0124] In this case, the system setting is similar to the one described in the previous points, namely once the container element has been arranged appropriately, the operator enables the preset programme and then confirms it through the confirmation button 50c of the remote control 50.

[0125] More particularly, by keeping pressed a dedicated button on the remote control (such as the “FOLLOW ME” button previously seen in figures 13 and 14), the signalling movable elements 30 come out of the container element 11, with activation of the backlighting of their upper shell 30s 1 and of the light signalling elements 35 (as will be seen hereinafter, only the yellow / orange LEDs light up, whereas the white ones remain off), lining up on the solid line of the emergency lane (following the road axis) . All signalling movable elements 30 come out of the container element 11 and follow the operator with the yellow / orange lights on. In an embodiment, when a certain amount of time has elapsed since the last signalling movable element was released, the input / output panel 1 lpp of the container element 11 is lowered to increase its stability and its interior lights are turned off.

[0126] Once the desired distance has been reached, particularly once the point where, perpendicularly to the road axis, one wishes to position the first signalling movable element, has been reached, by actuating a directional button (such as one of the directional buttons 50d indicated in the example of figure 17), all signalling movable elements 30 are moved together following a respective straight line L2, up to the desired point, finally arranging along the aforementioned diagonal line LD. By keeping pressed one of the directional buttons 50d on the remote control 50, the signalling movable elements 30 move toward the position corresponding to said directional button, for instance deviating to the right or left. As discussed above, the local electronic control units Ci are programmed so that, while pressing the directional button 50d, the signalling movable elements 30 arrange in the most suitable position on the road section, thus defining the diagonal line LD between the container element 11 and the first signalling movable element (corresponding to the last lane closure point). In any case, if desired, by releasing the directional button 50d or pressing its opposite one, the operator is able to stop or change the movement of the signalling movable elements 30.

[0127] Suitably, in order to obtain the above results, the position of the container element 11 is recorded by the various local electronic control units Ci, which in this way are configured to triangulate the position of the respective signalling movable elements 30 that, based on the pre-set programs, may reach and position on the above diagonal line LD.

[0128] In general, each signalling movable element 30 comprises suitable sensors which, under the control of the control means, allow knowing and updating its position relative to the remote control 50 and to the container element 11 , as well as relative to the other signalling movable elements 30, so as to identify which movable elements are involved (namely, the first, second, third, etc.), as well as always knowing their relative position (for instance, by triangulation), so as to define their path in the most appropriate and precise manner based on the mode selected by the operator.

[0129] Suitably, this type of control allows knowing the state of efficiency of the signalling movable elements 30 (for instance, operating anomalies, battery status, LED efficiency, etc.), sending the signalling on the remote control 50 for constantly monitoring the system 10.

[0130] In other words, the local electronic control units Ci are configured to send signals to the remote control 50 in connection to a state of the signalling movable elements 30, said signals for instance may take up the form of warnings displayed on the display of said remote control 50. Once the final position in the second configuration through the directional button 50d has been defined, the operator may confirm this position by means of the confirmation button 50c of the remote control 50, as schematically depicted in figure 18. In this way the final position of all signalling movable elements 30 is fixed, which, as previously seen, are positioned diagonally and arranged proportionally at equal distances. Upon confirmation, the signalling movable elements 30 are arranged on the road section with the suitable orientation (which will be detail hereinafter) and, once the specified angle has been reached, the stabilisation means 40 are activated to keep the indicated position stably.

[0131] From the above, it is thus clear that, advantageously according to the present invention, the control means of the system 10 are configured to automatically adjust the respective path of the signalling movable elements 30 and their final position in the second configuration, with also the chance of adjustment by the operator, particularly, by pressing one or more buttons of the remote control 50 (for instance the directional buttons 50d), so as to adjust the respective path and / or final position of the signalling movable elements 30.

[0132] With respect to the predefined path, the signalling movable elements 30 may be moved together simultaneously, but, as will be seen hereinafter, embodiments are possible in which, if desired, they may also be moved independently of each other.

[0133] Furthermore, other operating modes of the system 10 are also possible, in addition to the ones illustrated above.

[0134] For instance, with reference to figure 19, further to pressing a certain button of the remote control 50, an operating mode in which the operator may position the signalling movable elements 30 in points of his choice on the road section (this mode is indicated as “1-2-3-4” mode) may be activated. In other words, this mode allows a localisation controlled by the operator of the signalling movable elements 30 by pressing buttons of the remote control 50, for instance the directional buttons 50d; in this case, the signalling movable elements 30 may be managed by the operator without a particular type of pre-set movement, since it is the operator himself who imparts the desired movement through the buttons of the remote control 50 (particularly, once the container element 11 has been arranged, the operator moves away from the road surface and manages the movement of the signalling movable elements 30 remotely through the remote control 50 according to the need of the case) .

[0135] In this case, as above mentioned, each signalling movable element 30 may thus be adjusted independently of the other signalling movable elements.

[0136] With reference to figure 20, after pressing a certain button of the remote control 50, another operating mode is activated, which allows manually positioning the signalling movable elements 30 in positions different from the road surface, with deactivation of the various movement mechanisms (this mode is indicated as “FREE” mode).

[0137] Furthermore, after pressing a certain button of the remote control 50 it is possible to command the automatic return of the signalling movable elements 30 into the container element 11, as schematically illustrated in figure 21 (this function is called “My House / Return”).

[0138] Further functionality of the system

[0139] Referring again to Figure 1, in an advantageous embodiment, among the various functions provided by the programming of the control means C, there is also the possibility of the system 10 to communicate effectively with road navigation platforms (indicated by the reference P), which manage navigation apps installed on user devices (reference 80), such as Waze or Google Maps, to name just a few non-limiting examples.

[0140] In particular, very conveniently, the control means C is configured to communicate with one or more road navigation platforms P such that, when the signalling movable elements 30 are arranged in the second configuration (for example, to delimit a road section following an accident or to signal an obstacle), the control means C transmits to the road navigation platforms P information (indicated by the reference I) useful for users, in particular information about the positioning of the mobile signaling elements 30, such information being for example displayed directly on the user devices 80 in real time (for example when such devices run the above apps).

[0141] In the context of the present invention, the "platform" is a digital platform that can indicate a set of components in a broad sense and includes software elements and possibly hardware supports for its operation; the platforms P can be web platforms (web applications) accessible, for example, via apps. The platforms P therefore include the various respective navigation applications running on user devices 80 and, in certain non-limiting interpretations, can also be identified with such apps.

[0142] In this way, it's possible to send danger and warning messages to users that use digital platforms for their journey. The control means C, on the one hand, allows the operator to manage the signaling movable elements 30 and, on the other hand, through the aforementioned additional functionality, allows to publish on digital platforms the positioning of the signaling movable elements 30 (for example to inform that the positioning has occurred and where the signaling movable elements 30 are positioned).

[0143] The information varies depending on the situation.

[0144] In the context of the present invention, the indication of the positioning of the signaling movable elements 30 (i.e., the indication that the positioning has occurred and where / how they are positioned) is itself an information to be sent, but there may be many other, for instance more detailed, information, as described below (i.e., the data contained in the information may be various).

[0145] For example, in addition to reporting the positioning of the signaling movable elements 30 on the digital map, specific messages can be selected by the operator, for example according to the following types, alone or in combination:

[0146] - Obstacle in right lane;

[0147] - Obstacle in left lane;

[0148] - Obstacle in right and center lanes;

[0149] - Obstacle in left and center lanes;

[0150] - Obstacle in all lanes;

[0151] - Construction site in right lane;

[0152] - Construction site in left lane;

[0153] - Construction site in right and center lanes;

[0154] - Construction site in left and center lanes;

[0155] - Construction site in all lanes;

[0156] - Accident in right lane;

[0157] - Accident in left lane;

[0158] - Accident in right and center lanes;

[0159] - Accident in left and center lanes;

[0160] - Accident in all lanes;

[0161] In general, the information I may therefore include at least one of:

[0162] - reporting of an obstacle in a specific lane; and / or

[0163] - reporting of construction site in a specific lane; and / or - reporting of an accident in a specific lane.

[0164] Additionally or alternatively, there is also the option of sending only a generic message of danger on the road.

[0165] Obviously, other types of messages can be composed / selected, and this invention is in no way limited by this particular aspect.

[0166] This type of information is then recorded by the road navigation platforms P and then is made available to users. The radio centers are usually already aware of the event that has been signaled, so it is not necessary to send the information to their systems as well, although this possibility is not excluded.

[0167] In other words, the control means C is configured to generate the information I so that it can be recorded by the road navigation platforms P in the form of messages to be displayed to users of said road navigation platforms P.

[0168] The control means C therefore comprises a memory unit in which the plurality of information to be sent to the road navigation platforms P (for example, the aforementioned messages) is stored, said system 10 comprising selection means configured to allow the selection, among said plurality of information, of the most appropriate information to be sent to said road navigation platforms P. The selection means may be, for example, the buttons of the remote control 50, and in general it may be instrumentation that can be considered part of the control means C.

[0169] Furthermore, the control means C is configured to allow the operator to compose a dedicated message to be transmitted to the road navigation platforms P, as well as it can be configured to allow sending of a generic danger message. This may, for example, occur through the same selection means described above.

[0170] In one embodiment, each signaling movable elements 30 comprises its own positioning means adapted to provide the position thereof, for example, receivers adapted to receive GPS data, said positioning means being in operative communication with the control means C to perform the aforementioned operations.

[0171] From a system architecture perspective, figure 1 shows the control means C integrated into the container 11, although, as anticipated above, the present invention is not limited to this aspect and any suitable configuration can be adopted. There may therefore be a local unit and / or an external unit, such as a central server that receives commands from the local unit and centrally manages the operations of the system 10 and is adapted to communicate with the servers of the road navigation platforms P, although nothing prevents this from occurring locally, i.e., directly from the local units.

[0172] The communication with the road navigation platforms P can occur in any suitable manner and is not a limiting aspect of the present invention. For example, a suitable program can be developed (and executed by the control means C), the program including routines that cause specific navigation apps to run (e.g., by integrating Waze or Google Maps or specific codes with the purpose to run those apps that communicate directly with their servers), or specific equivalent routines can be provided, without limitation of the scope of the present invention.

[0173] It is also observed that this functionality is independent of other technical features of the system 10, for example the presence of the container element 11 and / or the way the signaling movable elements 30 are moved / arranged on the road section.

[0174] Other aspects of the road signalling system of the present invention

[0175] Still with reference to figures 5 and 7, in an embodiment of the present invention, the light signalling elements 35 comprise a first plurality of LEDs (reference 35a) of a first colour (for instance yellow / orange) arranged on the two sides of smaller extension 30’ and on one of the two opposite sides of greater extension 30”, as well as they comprise a second plurality of LEDs (reference 35b) of a second colour that is different from the first colour (for instance white) arranged on the other side of greater extension 30”. In an embodiment, the LEDs of the signalling movable elements 30 have depth projection and emit diffused light, with a protection degree IP65.

[0176] As previously mentioned, once activated, the signalling movable elements 30 turn their own LEDs on, particularly the first plurality of LEDs 35a, which in an example is kept turned on during their movement (and which is used to create the signalling sequence), whereas the second plurality of LEDs 35b remains turned off. Once the final desired position has been reached, further to the operator’s confirmation through the confirmation button 50c, the control means orient the signalling movable elements 30 to the second configuration on the road section, so that the LEDs of the first plurality of LEDs 35a on the side of greater extension 30” face toward the vehicular flow. In other words, upon conformation by the operator, the signalling movable elements 30 are arranged with the longer side 30” carrying the yellow LEDs 35a toward the vehicular flow, indicatively at 90° with respect to the road axis (in this case refer once again to figure 16, in which the positioning of the signalling movable elements 30 at 90° with respect to the road axis can be seen) . In this embodiment, the longer side 30” carrying the first plurality of LEDs 35a is then arranged opposite the forward direction of the vehicular flow.

[0177] This aspect is shown in detail in figures 22A and 22B. In particular, figure 22A reports a signalling movable element 30 in the final position but before the operator’s confirmation, respectively. It is noted that, in the figures, the drawn lines refer on the one hand to the diagonal between the container element 11 and the first device 30 and on the other hand to the perpendicular between container element 11 and operator, figure 22A showing the orientation that is indicative of the device when it reaches the final position further to the movement with the wheels 30r, in which the angle of the diagonal varies according to the movement of the movable element 30 from the starting point. Figure 22B instead shows the orientation of the signalling movable element 30 after the confirmation (with positioning at 90° of the side of greater extension 30” relative to the road axis - and therefore with the optical axis of the LEDs 35a parallel to the road axis - and appropriate lighting).

[0178] Obviously, the examples shown and the angles are exemplifying and may vary depending on the requirements and / or circumstances.

[0179] Furthermore, if necessary, the operator may also activate the LEDs of the second plurality of LEDs 35b, which, through deep and diffused light, may light up the obstacle causing the diversion and simultaneously highlight the reflective strips on the operators’ PPE, making them more visible to approaching vehicle drivers.

[0180] Finally, it is noted that, as previously mentioned, the present invention is in no way limited by the shape of the signalling movable elements 30, particularly of their shells, which may have any suitable shape. For instance, figure 23 shows a signalling movable element 30 in an embodiment providing a slightly different configuration. Moreover, it is noted that the shape shown for the wheels 30r may be also applied to the embodiments shown in the other figures, with no limitation of the scope of the present invention. Obviously, the technical aspects described in connection to the other embodiments, both relating to the components and to the control, may also be applied to the embodiment of figure 23.

[0181] Summary considerations, advantages of the invention and conclusions

[0182] In conclusion, the present invention allows brilliantly overcoming the technical problem, by providing the above road signalling system and solving the prior art drawbacks.

[0183] Advantageously according to the present invention, the result is an efficient and safe system, in which signalling is carried out by means of movable signalling elements, which are automatic and electrically powered, offering significant advantages. The signalling movable elements are, for instance, Rovers equipped with wheels that allow them to be easily moved in any direction.

[0184] The control means of the system allows optimally controlling the various signalling movable elements, a particular function performed by the software integrated in each of said devices being associated each button of the remote control.

[0185] Among the various features of the present invention, the possibility of communicating with the road navigation platforms is very advantageous, so that the users are always updated in real time whenever the signalling movable elements are positioned to signal an obstacle / accident.

[0186] Furthermore, there is also constant monitoring of said signalling movable elements, with notification to the operator of any anomalies. Indeed, all devices are constantly monitored through the local electronic control units, which incorporate dedicated software that reports any anomalies or movements relative to the axis indicated by the operators. Moreover, the operator, through the remote control, may monitor battery status and other functions. Furthermore, in the event of anomalies, faults or accidental breakage of one or more of the signalling movable elements, a message on the display of the remote control is displayed with a simultaneous acoustic alarm.

[0187] As seen above, the movement of the signalling movable elements occurs automatically further to pressing suitable buttons on the remote control, but the operator, through the directional buttons of the remote control, always has the chance to correct / deviate the advancement of said signalling movable elements, prior to the final confirmation of their position, as well as the chance to decide himself the entire movement thereof.

[0188] The signalling movable elements are thus suitably controlled by the control unit during their movement, for instance with the execution of a triangulation procedure for their correct positioning and with a check of the distance between each other and the distance from the radio control, so as to position themselves, during the run, at a proportionally equal distance from each other, in a semi-automatic mode that facilitates the operators’ work.

[0189] Suitably, said signalling movable elements are remotely controllable in a very precise manner and thus the operator can remain at the side of the road without having to cross the carriageway to position them.

[0190] Suitably, the signalling movable elements can move in all directions thanks to special wheels that allow them to turn without taking the turning radius into account, said signalling movable elements being further equipped with high-efficiency LEDs (for instance yellow / orange and white) visible both at depth and in short-distance diffusion.

[0191] Furthermore, the container element, which is easily transportable, in addition to containing the signalling movable elements, also acts as additional signalling element for signalling the start of the road section one wishes to create, with the option of displaying messages.

[0192] Summing up,, to conclude, ass discussed before, there are several embodiments possible, alone or in combination with each other.

[0193] In a first aspect, a road signalling system is disclosed, the system comprising:

[0194] - a container element;

[0195] - a plurality of signalling movable elements adapted to be housed in the container element and comprising respective moving means, said signalling movable elements being configured to be moved, by means of the moving means, from a first configuration or rest configuration, in which they are arranged inside the container element, to a second configuration or operating configuration, in which they are arranged at respective different positions on a road section and are spaced apart from said container element, each of said signalling movable elements comprising signalling means for signalling a danger and / or obstacle; and - control means adapted to control the system, wherein the control means are configured to control the moving means of the signalling movable elements (30) and to cause the movement thereof from the first configuration to the second configuration, and wherein, under the control of the control means, the signalling movable elements (30) move on the road section according to a respective path and, at the end of said respective path, they are arranged on the road section at the respective different positions of the second configuration.

[0196] In another second aspect, in addition or as an alternative to the first aspect, a road signalling system is disclosed, the system comprising:

[0197] - a plurality of signalling movable elements comprising respective moving means, said signalling movable elements being configured to be moved, by the moving means, from a first configuration or rest configuration, to a second configuration or operating configuration in which they are arranged at respective different positions on a road section and are spaced apart from each other, each of said signalling movable elements comprising signalling means for signalling a danger and / or obstacle; and

[0198] - control means (or control unit) adapted to control the system, wherein the control means is configured to communicate with one or more road navigation platforms, and wherein, when the signalling movable elements are arranged in the second configuration, said control unit means is adapted to transmit to said road navigation platforms information comprising data about the positioning of said signalling movable elements.

[0199] In this case, the signalling movable elements may comprise positioning means adapted to provide the position thereof, for example they may comprise receivers adapted to receive GPS data, said positioning means being in communication with the control means.

[0200] The control means may be configured to generate said information such that it is registered by the road navigation platforms in the form of messages to be shown to the users of said road navigation platforms.

[0201] The control means may comprise a memory unit in which a plurality of information to be sent to the road navigation platforms are stored.

[0202] The system may comprise selection means adapted to allow selecting, from said plurality of information, the information to be sent to said road navigation platforms.

[0203] The control means may be configured to allow the composition, by the operator, of a dedicated message to be transmitted to the road navigation platforms.

[0204] The control means may be configured to allow sending a general danger message.

[0205] The information may comprise at least one of:

[0206] - a signalling of an obstacle in one or more specific lanes; and / or

[0207] - a signalling of a construction site in one or more specific lanes; and / or

[0208] - a signalling of an accident in one or more specific lanes.

[0209] Obviously, a person skilled in the art, in order to satisfy contingent and specific requirements, may make to the road signalling system above described numerous modifications and variations, all included in the scope of protection of the invention as defined by the following claims.

Claims

1. CLAIMS1. A road signalling system (10) comprising:- a container element (11);- a plurality of signalling movable elements (30) adapted to be housed in the container element (11) and comprising respective moving means, said signalling movable elements (30) being configured to be moved, by means of the moving means, from a first configuration or rest configuration, in which they are arranged inside the container element (11), to a second configuration or operating configuration, in which they are arranged at respective different positions on a road section and are spaced apart from said container element (11), each of said signalling movable elements (30) comprising signalling means (30) for signalling a danger and / or obstacle; and- control means adapted to control the system (10), wherein the control means are configured to control the moving means of the signalling movable elements (30) and to cause the movement thereof from the first configuration to the second configuration, and wherein, under the control of the control means, the signalling movable elements (30) move on the road section according to a respective path and, at the end of said respective path, they are arranged on the road section at the respective different positions of the second configuration.

2. The system (10) according to claim 1, wherein the control means are configured to define the respective path of the signalling movable elements (30) in such a way that said respective path comprises a substantially rectilinear section (LI) away from the container element (11), and wherein the control means are configured to allow selecting the movement direction of the signalling movable elements (30) along said substantially rectilinear section (LI).

3. The system (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control meansare configured to define the respective path of the signalling movable elements (30) in such a way that said respective path comprises a first section according to a first direction away from the container element (11) and a second section according to a second direction (L2) different from the first direction.

4. The system (10) according to claim 3, wherein the first section is a substantially rectilinear section and the second section is a section that is substantially orthogonal to said substantially rectilinear section, with definition of a diagonal line (LD) between the container element (11) and the signalling movable element that is the furthest therefrom with reference to an axis of the road section, and wherein the control means are programmed to control the movement of the signalling movable elements (30) in such a way that they are arranged along said diagonal line (LD) in the second configuration.

5. The system (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control means are configured to automatically adjust the respective path of the signalling movable elements (30) and the final position in the second configuration of each of said signalling movable elements (30), and / or wherein the control means are configured to also allow an adjustment by an operator.

6. The system (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each signalling movable element (30) comprises one or more sensors which, under the control of the control means, are configured to detect its position relative to an operator and to the container element (1 1), as well as its position relative to the other signalling movable elements (30), thus defining its most suitable movement.

7. The system (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the signalling movable elements (30) are moved in sequence, and wherein the control means are configured to control the moving means so that said signalling movable elements (30) are equally spaced apart from each other, and said control means are configured to adjust the relativedistance between said signalling movable elements (30) proportionally based on the distance travelled by them.

8. The system (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control means comprise one or more local electronic control units (Ci) for each signalling movable element (30) for controlling the movement of said signalling movable element (30) and allow the management thereof.

9. The system (10) according to claim 8, comprising a remote control (50) configured to communicate with the local electronic control units (Ci) of the signalling movable elements (30) for controlling them.

10. The system (10) according to claim 9, wherein, through the remote control (50), the control means are configured to select an operating mode of the signalling movable elements (30) between a plurality of possible operating modes, thus defining the respective path and / or position of said signalling movable elements (30).

11. The system (10) according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the remote control (50) is configured to allow activating the movement of the signalling movable elements (30) by sending signals towards the local electronic control units (Ci), wherein, following pressing one or more buttons on said remote control (50), said local electronic control units (Ci) are adapted to activate the movement of said signalling movable elements (30) which thus move according to predefined settings, and / or wherein said remote control (50) is equipped with at least one confirmation button (50c) to confirm and fix the position of said signalling movable elements (30) by the operator in the second configuration.

12. The system (10) according to any one of claims 9 to 1 1, wherein, by pressing one or more buttons (50p, 50d) of the remote control (50), the respective path and / or position of the signalling movable elements (30) in the second configuration is adjustable by the operator.

13. The system (10) according to claim 12, wherein each signalling movable element (30) is adjustable independently of the other signallingmovable elements.

14. The system (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the moving means of each of the signalling movable elements (30) comprise at least four electric motors.

15. The system (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the signalling movable elements (30) comprises wheels (30r) of the Mecanum type, which are configured to allow the movement thereof in any direction.

16. The system (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the signalling movable elements (30) comprise stabilisation means (40) configured to keep said signalling movable elements (30) stable in the second configuration, and wherein the control means are configured to activate and deactivate said stabilisation means (40).

17. The system (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the signalling movable elements (30) comprise light signalling elements (35) configured to signal their presence through light emission.

18. The system (10) according to claim 17, wherein the signalling movable elements (30) have two opposite sides of greater extension (30”) and two opposite sides of smaller extension (30’), and wherein the light signalling elements (35) comprise at least:- a first plurality of LEDs (35a) of a first colour arranged on the two opposite sides of smaller extension (30’) and on one of the two opposite sides of greater extension (30”); and- a second plurality of LEDs (35b) of a second colour that is different from the first colour, which are arranged on the other of the two opposite sides of greater extension (30”), wherein the control means are configured to orient the signalling movable elements (30) in the second configuration on the road section so that theLEDs of the first plurality of LEDs (35a) on the side of greater extension (30”) faces the vehicular flow with a substantially 90° angle between said side of greater extension (30”) and the road axis.

19. The system (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control means (C) is configured to communicate with one or more road navigation platforms (P), and wherein, when the signalling movable elements (30) are arranged in the second configuration, said control means (C) is adapted to transmit to said road navigation platforms (P) information (I) comprising data about the positioning of said signalling movable elements (30).

20. The system (10) according to claim 19, wherein the signalling movable elements (30) comprise positioning means adapted to provide the position thereof, for example they comprise receivers adapted to receive GPS data, said positioning means being in communication with the control means (C).

21. The system (10) according to claim 19 or 20, wherein the control means (C) is configured to generate said information (I) such that it is registered by the road navigation platforms (P) in the form of messages to be shown to the users of said road navigation platforms (P).

22. The system (10) according to any one of the claims 19 to 21, wherein the control means (C) comprises a memory unit in which a plurality of information to be sent to the road navigation platforms (P) are stored, said system (10) comprising selection means adapted to allow selecting, from said plurality of information, the information to be sent to said road navigation platforms (P).

23. The system (10) according to any one of the claims 19 to 22, wherein the control means (C) is configured to allow the composition, by the operator, of a dedicated message to be transmitted to the road navigation platforms (P), or wherein the control means (C) is configured to allow sending a general danger message.

24. The system (10) according to any one of the claims 19 to 23, wherein said information (I) comprises at least one of:- a signalling of an obstacle in one or more specific lanes; and / or- a signalling of a construction site in one or more specific lanes; and / or - a signalling of an accident in one or more specific lanes.

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