Autonomous Traffic Control Platform for Safer Work Zone Setup
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional traffic control devices are inefficient in managing traffic flow, pose safety risks to workers, require extensive labor and resources, and have environmental impacts due to fixed event zones and reliance on manual setup and teardown, leading to increased costs and ergonomic challenges.
Innovation Solution
A modular traffic controlling system comprising a platform with a locomotion system and sensor, which can automatically position and reposition traffic controllers and indicators, reducing the need for manual labor and allowing for flexible, safe, and efficient traffic management by automating the placement and retrieval of signage and lights.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional traffic control devices are used with manual setup and teardown, then traffic control functionality is provided, but worker safety is compromised and labor costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The traffic control device is equipped with a locomotion system that enables it to move autonomously to predetermined positions without requiring manual setup or teardown by workers. The device can self-navigate to event zones and self-return to storage, eliminating the need for workers to physically handle and position the equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical system of workers physically moving and positioning traffic control devices with an automated locomotion system that uses sensors, processors, and motorized components to autonomously navigate and position the device at event zones.
2Productivity
If fixed event zones are used with traditional traffic control devices, then traffic control is provided, but labor intensity and costs increase due to repeated setup and teardown
Solution Approach 1:
The automated traffic control device can autonomously relocate to different event zones along the roadway without requiring manual intervention. The device receives location data from sensors, processes this information to determine optimal positions, and automatically navigates to these positions, eliminating the need for workers to repeatedly set up and tear down equipment at different locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The traffic control device transitions from a static, fixed position system to a dynamic system that can automatically relocate along the roadway. The locomotion system enables the device to adapt its position dynamically based on event zone locations, traffic conditions, and work progress, optimizing traffic control efficiency without manual labor.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional traffic control devices are used, then basic traffic control is provided, but adaptability to different traffic conditions and messaging needs is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The traffic control device incorporates multiple communication mechanisms including LED displays, electronic message boards, and various signal lights that can convey different types of messages and traffic control instructions. This multi-functional capability allows the single device to adapt to diverse traffic conditions and communicate various warnings, directions, and control messages without requiring multiple specialized devices.
4Reliability
If workers manually manage traffic control devices, then traffic control is provided, but ergonomic risks and health impacts increase
Solution Approach 1:
The automated traffic control device performs all positioning, relocation, and setup operations autonomously without requiring worker intervention. The locomotion system handles all physical movement, and the control system manages all operational decisions, completely eliminating ergonomic risks associated with manual handling, lifting, and positioning of traffic control equipment.
Data Source
AI summary
A traffic controlling system is provided that can include a platform, a sensor, and a control unit. The platform can have a top side, a locomotion system, and a receiving area. The locomotion system can be configured to move the platform into a preselected position. The receiving area configured to receive a traffic indicator module. The sensor, which can include a camera, can be configured to generate location data of the platform. The camera can capture or record surrounding data for navigational purposes or for other highway traffic control and monitoring purposes. The control unit can be configured to receive the location data. The control unit can also be configured to determine if the platform is in the preselected position. The control unit can be further configured to execute instructions including the pathway that the platform needs to travel to be positioned in the preselected position.