Deployable Vehicle Indicator Arm With Selective Extension Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing indicator arm apparatuses for vehicles lack the ability to selectively deploy indicators at different distances, which can lead to damage in obstructed areas and insufficient visibility in varied conditions.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus comprises a mount unit with a first and second pivotal arm assembly, each with an indicator, and a drive unit to move the indicators between retracted and deployed positions. A control unit allows for selective deployment of indicators in both proximal and distal spaces, and the apparatus includes a coupling unit to link both arm assemblies with a single drive unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If an extended stop arm is deployed to increase visibility and awareness, then motorists are more likely to notice the indicator, but the apparatus is more likely to strike obstructions and suffer damage in obstructed areas
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into two separate pivotal arm assemblies: a first pivotal arm assembly with a first indicator that deploys to a first distance, and a second pivotal arm assembly with a second indicator that deploys to a second (extended) distance. This segmentation allows selective deployment of only the extended arm when needed, avoiding damage in obstructed areas while maintaining visibility when the area is clear.
2Illumination intensity
If a single extended indicator arm is used to maximize visibility, then the indicator can be seen from farther distances, but it cannot be deployed in tight spaces with obstructions
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts its configuration by allowing selective deployment of either the first pivotal arm assembly (shorter distance) or the second pivotal arm assembly (extended distance) based on environmental conditions. The control system determines which arm to deploy based on detected obstructions, traffic conditions, or user input, making the system versatile for both tight spaces and open areas.
3Illumination intensity
If standard lighting assemblies are added to existing signage, then some visibility is improved, but the lights are dim or only cover various portions, making the sign's purpose unclear in all circumstances
Solution Approach 1:
Lighting assemblies are integrated specifically onto the second pivotal arm assembly (extended arm) and/or the indicators themselves, providing targeted illumination where it is most needed for maximum visibility. The lighting is positioned to illuminate the indicator from multiple angles and with sufficient intensity to be clearly visible from distance, ensuring the sign's purpose is unmistakable in all lighting conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
An indicator apparatus includes a mount unit configured to be secured to a vehicle, a first pivotal arm assembly having a first indicator assembly with a first indicator bordered by a frame unit and first hinge unit configured to move the first indicator from a retracted position to a deployed position, a first drive unit operably linked the first pivotal arm assembly to move the first indicator between respective positions, and a lighting assembly having serially aligned light elements disposed along a peripheral portion of at least one of the first indicator assembly and the first hinge unit and a control unit in operable communication with the flight elements. The hinge unit includes an arm to which the first indicator is affixed and along which a portion of the light elements are disposed.