Modular Transit Destination Sign Frame Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional destination signs for mass transit vehicles require numerous unique parts and complex manufacturing processes due to varying sizes, leading to increased costs and inefficiencies in production and installation.
Innovation Solution
A modular destination sign system utilizing interchangeable extruded aluminum or plastic frame rails and end caps, with integrated electronic display modules and a louver panel, allowing for easy configuration and assembly with minimal standardized parts, reducing manufacturing and installation complexities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional sheet metal frames are used for each different size destination sign, then the frame can be custom-fitted to specific size requirements, but the manufacturing complexity and number of unique parts increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a standardized frame assembly that can accommodate multiple destination sign sizes through interchangeable components. The frame includes a common structure with adjustable mounting mechanisms that allow the same basic frame to fit different LCD, LED, or flip-dot display modules of varying dimensions, eliminating the need for completely different frames for each size.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame assembly is segmented into modular components including the main frame structure, mounting brackets, fastening mechanisms, and cover panels. This segmentation allows individual components to be standardized while enabling customization through different combinations and configurations to accommodate various destination sign sizes without redesigning the entire frame.
2Manufacturing precision
If conventional sheet metal frames with multiple unique parts are used, then each size can be precisely fitted, but the manufacturing time and assembly processes become time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The frame assembly uses pre-configured standardized components with predetermined mounting positions and pre-drilled alignment holes. The modular design allows components to be pre-assembled and pre-positioned, eliminating the need for time-consuming measurements and alignments during final assembly, thus maintaining precision while improving manufacturing efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The standardized frame components serve multiple functions and can be reused across different destination sign sizes. The universal mounting brackets and fastening mechanisms can accommodate various display module dimensions without requiring custom fabrication, significantly reducing manufacturing time while maintaining fit and finish quality.
3Adaptability or versatility
If completely different sheet metal stampings and foldings are created for each size sign, then the frame can be custom-designed, but the number of unique parts and measurements that must be aligned increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universality by creating a core set of standardized frame components that can be used across multiple destination sign sizes. The frame includes universal mounting brackets, standard fasteners, and interchangeable panels that work together to accommodate different display module dimensions, dramatically reducing the total number of unique parts required in the system.
Solution Approach 2:
The design merges multiple size-specific frame requirements into a single standardized frame assembly platform. By combining universal mounting mechanisms with adjustable components, the system consolidates what would otherwise require multiple different frame designs into one versatile assembly that can be configured for various sizes using the same core parts.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a displayed device having a top and bottom elongate rail and a display module for displaying alpha numeric information to passengers on a mass transit vehicle. The display modules may be mounted along a top and bottom edge directly to the top and bottom elongate rails. End caps are mounted to the ends of the elongate rail forming a structurally sound frame about the display module.