Dynamic Aircraft Sign Using LED Sequencing for Emergency Visibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current aircraft indicator signs are static, failing to meet evolving airline needs and regulatory requirements for dynamic and attention-catching signage, particularly in emergency situations.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising multiple light sources, timers, delay circuits, and selector elements that transition between dynamic and static modes, using LED lights to create animated messages and arrows, ensuring compliance with Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs) for contrast and brightness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If static backlighting is used in sign boards, then the instructions are continuously visible to passengers, but the signs fail to meet evolving airline needs and regulatory requirements for dynamic and attention-catching signage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by enabling the sign board to switch between static and dynamic modes. The system uses multiple light sources (LEDs) that can be independently controlled to create animated sequences, moving images, and variable text displays. This allows the sign to adapt to different operational requirements while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic action through animated sequences where light sources are activated in repeating patterns. The control system enables periodic illumination of different light sources to create dynamic visual effects such as blinking, scrolling, and rotating displays, which capture passenger attention more effectively than static signs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple light sources are used to create dynamic images, then attention-catching capability is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic action to reduce energy consumption by activating light sources in sequences rather than continuously. The control system illuminates individual LED groups in alternating patterns, creating dynamic visual effects while ensuring that at any given moment, only a subset of light sources is active, thereby reducing overall power draw.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by dividing the sign board into multiple independently controllable light source groups. Each group can be activated selectively based on the desired display pattern, allowing energy-efficient operation where only the necessary portions of the sign are illuminated at any time rather than the entire sign.
3Reliability
If static illumination is used, then energy consumption is low, but the signs fail to provide enhanced attention and direction during emergencies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action with alternating illumination patterns specifically designed for emergency situations. The system can activate specific light source groups in sequences to create highly visible animated warnings and directional indicators that capture passenger attention during emergencies while consuming less energy than continuous full-illumination static signs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses dynamics to enhance emergency indication effectiveness by enabling the sign board to display moving images, blinking patterns, and variable text. The control system can switch to dynamic modes during emergencies, providing more effective visual warnings and directional guidance compared to static illumination, while maintaining energy efficiency through selective activation of light sources.
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
The solution provides a dynamic and attention-catching aircraft sign that meets regulatory standards, enhancing passenger safety by clearly directing movement during emergencies and power failures, while maintaining static functionality after a preset time.
Implementation Method 1
The sign 204 includes a plurality of light sources (e.g., LEDs or other light emitting devices)
Data Source
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AI summary
A device for forming a dynamic image on an aircraft sign includes a plurality of light sources, an input power line, a first timer and a second timer both connected to an enable input and a plurality of delay circuits each connected to a different one of the light sources. The system also includes a counter having a plurality of counter outputs, the counter receiving a counting pulse from the first timer in a dynamic mode of operation and disable signal from the second timer after expiration of a preset time, the expiration of the preset time causing the device to transfer from the dynamic mode to a static mode where each of the plurality of light sources are simultaneously illuminated.