Electronic Signpost with Solar-Powered Rider Spools
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional real estate signage systems are costly and inefficient due to the need for physical replacement of riders, limited space for multiple riders, and inefficient illumination methods that can cause night blindness.
Innovation Solution
A foldable electronic signpost system with integrated customizable rider spools and solar-powered components, allowing remote control and natural backlighting, enabling multiple riders and efficient illumination without physical site visits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional rider plaques are used on folding posts, then the signage can be displayed, but only one rider can be displayed at a time and physical replacement is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses electronic displays (LED matrices or e-paper) that can replicate multiple rider plaque designs digitally. Instead of physically replacing different rider plaques, the system stores multiple digital representations and displays them on demand, allowing unlimited rider variations without physical replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of physically attaching and detaching rider plaques with an electronic display system controlled by a controller. The controller receives commands and updates the display accordingly, eliminating the need for manual physical replacement operations.
2Illumination intensity
If LED illumination is used for rider plaques, then visibility is improved, but night blindness can occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the illumination parameters by using natural backlighting instead of intense LED illumination. The e-paper display with natural backlighting provides sufficient visibility during daytime without the excessive brightness that causes night blindness, effectively adjusting the illumination characteristics to eliminate harmful effects.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses cost-effective e-paper display technology with simple backlighting instead of expensive LED matrices with complex illumination control. This approach provides adequate visibility for the intended application while avoiding the harmful intense light output of LED systems.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple rider plaques are stored on-site for replacement, then rider variety is increased, but storage space and replacement time are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent stores multiple rider designs as digital data rather than physical objects. The controller can instantly switch between different rider displays by loading digital content, eliminating the need to physically store and transport multiple rider plaque sets to the installation location.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic display system serves multiple functions: it can display any rider design from a digital library, store multiple designs simultaneously, and switch between them instantly. This single universal system replaces the need for multiple physical rider plaques and their associated storage and replacement operations.
4Volume of moving object
If folding post structure is used, then storage footprint is reduced, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a folding post mechanism that transitions between extended (operational) and collapsed (storage) configurations. The post includes hinge joints and positioning mechanisms that allow it to be extended to full height for display operation and folded down to a compact form for storage, adapting its structure based on operational needs.
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
Enables remote management of signage content and illumination, reducing costs and time associated with physical replacements, while providing a smaller footprint for storage and efficient use of space.
Implementation Method 1
A first housing is slidably mounted to the arm and is configured to protect the first plurality of components. The first housing can include a solar array disposed on a first surface
Implementation Method 2
one or more illuminative elements disposed on other surfaces of the first casing
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic signpost with customizable elements is provided. The arm portion can include a plurality of components installed therein such as a controller, a communications circuit, a battery, a motor and a customized spool with a plurality of indicia. The arm portion can be slidably covered by a casing having a solar array, a viewing window, and a plurality of fasteners thereon. The post portion can include a plurality of components installed therein such as a controller, a battery, a motor, a stabilizer, and a customized spool with a plurality of indicia. The post portion can be slidably covered by a casing having a solar array, and a viewing window. In operation, a user can select, from a client device, one or more customizations which can be transmitted to the signpost via a network. Actuation of elements of the signpost can cause the one or more customizations to be performed.