Elastomeric Traffic Sign Base With Impact Absorption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing traffic markers, particularly those used in parking lots, face challenges in withstanding low-speed impacts from vehicles, which can damage the signs and reduce their lifespan.
Innovation Solution
A display sign structure comprising a base made of elastomeric material with a secure post and display member, designed to absorb impact, featuring a metallic covering for longevity, and attachment options to various substrates using apertures and mechanical fasteners.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a rigid post is used to support the display sign, then the structural integrity and stability of the sign is improved, but the ability to withstand impact from vehicles deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The base is constructed as a composite structure with an inner core made of impact-resistant material (such as polyethylene or polypropylene) and an outer shell made of rigid material (such as metal or hard plastic). This composite design combines the impact absorption capabilities of the inner core with the structural strength and durability of the outer shell, allowing the display sign to withstand both vehicle impacts and maintain structural integrity for supporting rigid posts and display members.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a flexible post is used to withstand impact, then the impact resistance is improved, but the structural integrity and stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The base combines flexible impact-absorbing inner core material with a rigid outer shell, creating a structure that is both impact-resistant and structurally sound. The rigid outer shell provides the necessary strength to securely hold a rigid post and display member, while the inner core absorbs impact forces.
Solution Approach 2:
Different parts of the base have different properties optimized for their specific functions: the inner core is made of soft, flexible, impact-absorbing material, while the outer shell is made of hard, rigid material for structural support and durability. This local differentiation of material properties allows the base to simultaneously achieve impact resistance and structural integrity.
3Strength
If the base is made of rigid material for structural support, then the ability to hold the post securely is improved, but the ability to absorb impact deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The base uses a composite construction with an inner core of flexible impact-absorbing material (polyethylene or polypropylene) and an outer shell of rigid material (metal or hard plastic). The rigid outer shell provides secure support for the post and display member, while the inner core absorbs impact energy from vehicle contacts.
Solution Approach 2:
The base employs different materials in different regions: the inner core uses soft, flexible material optimized for impact absorption, while the outer shell uses hard, rigid material optimized for structural support and post securing. This spatial differentiation of material properties enables simultaneous achievement of support capability and impact absorption.
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 structure effectively withstands low-speed impacts, ensuring the durability and longevity of the signs by using an elastomeric base and a rigid post with reflective materials, while providing secure attachment to different substrates.
Implementation Method 1
The base is formed of an elastomeric material... designed to withstand low speed impact
Data Source
AI summary
A traffic display sign having a base of an elastomeric material with an upper and a lower portion, the upper portion having a front surface which is rectilinear, a post mounted in said upper portion, and a display member mounted on said post.