Modular Lighting Chassis for Traffic Control Vehicles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle attachment systems for traffic control and pilot vehicles are cumbersome, inefficient, and lack secure, accessible storage for equipment, leading to difficulties in lane closure and piloting operations, with high theft risk and worker safety concerns.
Innovation Solution
A modular rack system comprising a lighting chassis, equipment storage rack, and pivoting flashing arrow board, designed for dual-purpose vehicles, featuring aluminum construction, secure compartments, and remote control operation, which reduces weight, wind resistance, and allows for versatile use as both lane control and pilot vehicles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional vehicle attachment systems are used for traffic control, then equipment can be mounted on vehicles, but the systems are cumbersome and lack secure storage, leading to high theft risk and worker safety concerns
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is divided into separate functional modules: a rack system with multiple compartments for equipment storage, a lighting chassis for mounting traffic control devices, and a flashing arrow board assembly. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while providing secure, organized storage that reduces theft risk and improves safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements nested storage compartments within the rack system, where smaller equipment can be stored within larger compartments. The lighting chassis integrates multiple mounting positions and storage spaces, creating a compact, space-efficient configuration that secures equipment while maintaining accessibility.
2Reliability
If heavy-duty attachment systems are used to ensure stability, then equipment security is improved, but fuel consumption increases and aerodynamic performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The rack system and lighting chassis are constructed using composite material structures that provide high strength-to-weight ratios. This allows the attachment system to maintain equipment stability and security while minimizing added weight, thereby reducing fuel consumption and improving aerodynamic performance compared to traditional heavy-duty steel constructions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple traffic control devices are mounted on a single vehicle, then operational versatility is improved, but device complexity and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting chassis is designed as a universal mounting platform that can accommodate multiple types of traffic control devices including flashing arrow boards, pilot car signs, and other signage. The standardized interface and modular design allow a single vehicle to perform multiple service functions, reducing the need for specialized equipment on different vehicles while maintaining ease of maintenance through modular components.
4Quantity of substance
If large storage compartments are provided for equipment, then equipment capacity is improved, but wind resistance increases and aerodynamic performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The rack system utilizes vertical space and three-dimensional configuration to maximize storage capacity within a compact footprint. By organizing equipment compartments vertically and utilizing the vehicle's height rather than extending horizontally, the system provides ample storage capacity while maintaining a streamlined profile that minimizes wind resistance and preserves aerodynamic performance.
Data Source
AI summary
A lighting chassis and equipment rack apparatus for use with a dual purpose lane control vehicle and pilot vehicle. The lighting chassis provides an apparatus for positioning and supporting a flashing arrow board and traffic control signage above the cab of a vehicle, and provides a system of racks for stowage and access for traffic control equipment. The apparatus is adaptable for use on a wide variety of vehicles.