Barrier-Mounted Sign Support for Rapid Deployment and Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current road sign support systems are limited by the need for permanent concrete footings, restrict sign size, and cannot accommodate varying median barriers or road elevations, failing to provide rapid deployment and protection against high winds and impacts, while also not being compliant with crash test standards.
Innovation Solution
A modular support system that includes length-adjustable base supports and vertical braces, allowing for secure attachment to various types of barriers, accommodating different elevations and sizes, and featuring tethering and bracing to mitigate rotational forces and impacts, with optional solar power and communication systems, ensuring compliance with crash test standards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If permanent concrete footings are used for road signs, then the signs are stable and secure, but the deployment time increases and relocation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The support system is divided into separate modular components: a base support that attaches to the barrier, vertical supports, and the sign structure itself. This segmentation allows each component to be independently installed and adjusted, enabling rapid deployment without permanent footings while maintaining stability through the distributed modular structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The base support incorporates adjustable length mechanisms and articulation points that allow the system to adapt dynamically to different barrier types, heights, and road elevations. This dynamic adjustability enables the same modular system to be rapidly deployed across varying conditions without requiring permanent installation structures.
2Productivity
If portable trailer mounted signs are used, then rapid deployment is possible, but the sign size is restricted and protection from traffic is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The base support is designed as a universal platform that can attach to multiple types of barriers (concrete, steel, temporary) and accommodate signs of various sizes. The modular vertical supports and adjustable mechanisms allow the same base system to support different sign configurations, eliminating the size restrictions of trailer-mounted systems while maintaining rapid deployability.
3Productivity
If traditional temporary road signs are used, then rapid deployment is achieved, but they cannot accommodate roadways separated by barriers of different elevations
Solution Approach 1:
The base support incorporates adjustable length mechanisms and articulation points that allow the system to adapt dynamically to different barrier types, heights, and road elevations. This dynamic adjustability enables the same modular system to be rapidly deployed across varying conditions without requiring permanent installation structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows for parameter changes in the base support length, vertical support height, and articulation angles to accommodate different elevation differences between roadways. By adjusting these parameters, the sign can be properly positioned and leveled regardless of the underlying barrier configuration or road elevation variations.
4Reliability
If signs are mounted on permanent median barriers, then stability is improved, but the system cannot be used with temporary barriers or shoulders
Solution Approach 1:
The base support is designed as a universal platform that can attach to multiple types of barriers (concrete, steel, temporary) and accommodate signs of various sizes. The modular vertical supports and adjustable mechanisms allow the same base system to support different sign configurations, eliminating the size restrictions of trailer-mounted systems while maintaining rapid deployability.
Data Source
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Figure 2
Figure 2A~2B
AI summary
A support system for a sign mountable on at least two spaced apart foundation members, the system comprising: i) a base, preferably a length adjustable base, having a first end and a second end; ii) a vertical sign support having a first end and a second end wherein the second end is connected to the base; iii) a first foundation member bracket for connection to a first foundation member, the first foundation member bracket proximate the first end of the base; and iv) a second foundation member bracket for connection to a second foundation member distant the first foundation member, the second foundation member bracket proximate the second end of the base.