Nested LED Arrow Traffic Signals for Height Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current traffic control signal systems are not effectively recognizable by color blind drivers and pedestrians, and they are prone to damage from tall trucks and extended height trailer loads, with high maintenance and replacement costs due to their weight and non-modular design.
Innovation Solution
A modular, energy-efficient LED traffic signal system with nested arrow signals of different shapes and colors, where each arrow signal is made of a plurality of LEDs, allowing for easier recognition and reduced damage from tall vehicles, lower maintenance costs, and longer lifespan, while being adaptable to various installation conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If traditional 8-inch or 12-inch, 3-head conventional signal systems are used, then the signal is visible to drivers, but the system is taller and more prone to damage from tall trucks and extended height trailer loads
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements nested arrow signals where one arrow signal is positioned inside another, with the red arrow outermost, yellow arrow in the middle, and green arrow innermost. This nesting arrangement allows multiple signal functions to be provided within a compact vertical footprint, reducing the overall height of the signal system while maintaining visibility and functionality.
2Ease of operation
If traditional heavy signal systems are used, then the structure is robust, but the weight makes handling by repair technicians difficult and increases maintenance costs
Solution Approach 1:
The signal system is divided into separate modular components including individual arrow signal assemblies (red, yellow, green arrows), housing units, and mounting structures. Each arrow signal can be independently installed, removed, and replaced, significantly reducing the weight that repair technicians must handle during maintenance operations while maintaining structural robustness through proper mounting.
3Ease of repair
If non-modular signal systems are used, then the structure is simple, but maintenance and replacement costs are high due to inability to replace individual components
Solution Approach 1:
The signal system employs modular arrow signal assemblies that can be independently replaced. Each arrow (red, yellow, green) is a separate replaceable unit within its housing, allowing maintenance personnel to replace only the defective arrow or housing rather than the entire signal system, thereby reducing maintenance and replacement costs despite increased structural complexity.
4Loss of information
If traditional circular LED arrangements are used, then the signal provides color information, but color blind drivers and pedestrians cannot effectively recognize the signals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional circular LED arrangements with asymmetric arrow-shaped signal configurations. Each arrow points in a specific direction (left, right, or straight) and uses color coding (red, yellow, green) to indicate traffic control instructions. The asymmetric arrow shapes provide both directional and color information, making the signals more distinguishable for color blind individuals who can perceive shape and orientation differences.
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 system enhances visibility for color blind individuals, minimizes damage from tall vehicles, reduces maintenance and replacement costs, and extends the lifespan of signal units, making it more efficient and cost-effective.
Implementation Method 1
The use of Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) in traffic lights is known
Data Source
AI summary
A traffic signal system has a main housing unit that encloses three nested arrow signals pointed towards the top, namely, a red arrow signal, a yellow arrow signal nested within the red arrow signal, and a green arrow signal nested within the yellow arrow signal. Each arrow signal is made with a plurality of LEDs. A smaller satellite housing unit, preferably one-third to two-thirds the height, is attachable to the main housing unit to provide a left or right turn signal also comprised of three nested arrow signals. Arrow signals are preferably removably installed. A removable cover provides access to the back of the three arrow signals. Both housing units are preferably waterproof and have hinged closures. An electrical terminal block provides for electrical connections. Removable visors shade the light from the LEDs. Water drain knockouts to the visor and housing units facilitate water removal.