AR Traffic Projection Using Real-Time Road Surface Guidance

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing traffic warning systems are passive, leading to confusion among drivers and increased accident risks due to fixed or slow-to-update information, especially in dynamic situations like road construction or accidents.

Innovation Solution

The development of systems and methods using pixel matrix lighting modules with sensors and processors to project dynamic images and animations onto surfaces, adjusting based on real-time data from sensors and user inputs, creating an active augmented reality environment to guide traffic.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of information

If passive reflective signs and dot matrix displays are used, then traffic warning information can be provided, but the information is fixed or slow to update causing driver confusion and traffic delays

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetraffic warning information update speedVSAvoidtraffic flow efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from static passive signs to dynamic active projection systems. The projector module can display changing images, animations, and messages that update in real-time based on traffic conditions, construction status, and accident information, eliminating the fixed nature of traditional signs and enabling rapid information updates to maintain traffic flow efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses projection technology to create virtual copies of traffic warning information directly onto the road surface or surrounding surfaces. Instead of physical signs that require installation and updating, the system projects digital representations of warnings, arrows, and messages that can be changed instantly, providing up-to-date information without physical intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

2Reliability

If passive warning technologies are deployed after an event occurs, then warning information can be provided, but delays in installation and use may cause further accidents

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetraffic safetyVSAvoiddeployment time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables preliminary action by allowing traffic warning information to be projected immediately without requiring physical sign installation. The projector module can be rapidly deployed and activated to provide warning information before accidents occur or immediately after events are detected by sensors, eliminating the time-consuming installation process of traditional passive signs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical deployment system of physical signs with an electronic projection system. Instead of manually installing and configuring physical warning signs, the system uses digital projection that can be activated instantly through electronic control, significantly reducing deployment time while maintaining or improving safety reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Ease of operation

If dot matrix displays are used to indicate lane directions, then drivers can be guided, but the displays are fixed in location and slow to update causing confusion

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedriver guidance clarityVSAvoidsystem adaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The projector module serves multiple functions beyond simple lane direction indication. It can display various types of information including warning messages, speed advisories, construction notifications, and dynamic lane guidance. The system can adapt to different traffic scenarios and locations, providing versatile guidance that improves ease of operation while managing complexity through integrated control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates sensors that detect traffic conditions, vehicle positions, and environmental factors, providing feedback to the control system. This feedback enables the projector to dynamically adjust its displays based on real-time conditions, improving guidance clarity by showing relevant information when and where drivers need it most, while the automated control reduces operational complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This solution reduces motorist confusion and enhances safety by providing real-time, location-specific traffic advisories, improving traffic flow and reducing accidents.

Implementation Method 1

a projector module, the projector module having a matrix of lighting devices

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight Emitting Diode: Light Emitting Diode

Data Source

PatentUS12182948B2Augmented reality traffic advisor system and method
Publication Date: 2024.12.31 WHELEN ENGINEERING COMPANY
  • US12182948B2 patent drawing
  • US12182948B2 patent drawing
  • US12182948B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Systems and methods for displaying projected image onto a surface to create an active augmented reality environment may include a lighting device and a controller. The controller may receive information, such as a user input or sensor information, and determine one or more projection properties for the lighting device. The lighting device may receive a control signal from the controller and adjust one or more parameters in order to project the image onto the surface in accordance with a desired user input and the sensor information.