Networked Traffic Cone Illumination Through Translucent Walls
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing traffic cones and channelizing devices lack effective internal illumination systems to enhance visibility and safety, especially in low-light conditions, and do not utilize advanced communication and sensing technologies to optimize their functionality.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating illumination devices with emitters and rechargeable power sources into traffic cones and channelizing devices, enabling internal illumination through translucent walls, and integrating radiofrequency communication and electronic circuitry for controlled light emission and network connectivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If traffic cones and channelizing devices are equipped with internal illumination systems, then visibility and safety are enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination device is nested within the hollow interior space of the traffic cone or channelizing device. The base member fits inside the hollow space, with emitters positioned to illuminate the inner surface of the translucent wall, creating a compact integrated structure that enhances visibility without adding external complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The illumination device merges multiple functions into a single integrated unit: the base member provides structural support, the emitters provide illumination, the rechargeable power source provides energy, and the radiofrequency apparatus provides communication. This consolidation reduces overall system complexity compared to separate components
2Adaptability or versatility
If rechargeable power sources and electronic circuitry are integrated into traffic cones, then networked operation and real-time monitoring are enabled, but ease of manufacture decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic circuitry is designed to provide multiple functions: powering the emitters, enabling radiofrequency communication for networked operation, and supporting real-time monitoring capabilities. This multi-functional design allows a single electronic system to handle diverse operations, though it does increase manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The radiofrequency transmitting and receiving apparatus acts as an intermediary that enables networked operation and real-time monitoring without requiring direct physical connections between devices. This wireless communication capability allows multiple traffic cones to operate in coordinated networks, enhancing adaptability while maintaining relative manufacturing simplicity
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
Enhances visibility and safety by providing internal illumination, allows for networked operation, and offers real-time monitoring and communication capabilities to improve traffic management and safety protocols.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of emitters positioned on the base so as to cast light and/or other energy onto an inner surface of the fully or partially translucent wall
Data Source
AI summary
Devices, systems and methods for causing light (visible or invisible) or other forms of energy to be emitted from traffic cones or other traffic channelizing or marking devices such as barrels, tubes, some buoys, some types of signs, etc.