Packer-Free Valve Mechanism for Complex Traffic Marking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current apparatuses for applying viscous masses to surfaces, such as roadways, are inadequate for creating complex patterns, symbols, or signs, and often suffer from clogged flapper openings with no effective remedy, requiring manual application by personnel at risk of accidents.
Innovation Solution
A traffic printer system comprising multiple applicators with packer-free valves and a computer-controlled mechanism for precise control of viscous mass deposition, allowing for the creation of complex patterns and symbols by adjusting valve opening and closing with low friction, and incorporating a cleaning mechanism to prevent clogging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If flapper valve elements are used for viscous mass discharge, then simple longitudinal stripes can be applied, but complex patterns and symbols cannot be created
Solution Approach 1:
The valve member is divided into multiple independently controllable valve elements (first, second, third valve elements) arranged in rows. Each valve element can be opened or closed separately by corresponding actuators, enabling complex patterns to be created by selective activation of individual elements rather than requiring a single complex valve mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve elements are designed to be dynamically controllable through computer-controlled actuators that can open and close each element independently at different times. This dynamic control allows the same physical valve structure to create various complex patterns and symbols by varying the activation sequence and timing of individual elements.
2Reliability
If flapper valve elements are used for viscous mass discharge, then valve operation is simple, but flapper openings tend to get clogged with no effective remedy
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates automatic cleaning mechanisms where excess viscous mass is periodically removed from the valve elements and surrounding areas. The cleaning means automatically clear clogged material from valve openings without requiring manual intervention, enabling the system to maintain reliable operation over extended periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The computer control system monitors valve element operation and can detect when openings become clogged. Upon detection, the system automatically activates cleaning mechanisms or adjusts operation to prevent complete blockage, providing feedback-based maintenance that maintains reliability without manual intervention.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual application of markings is used, then complex patterns can be created, but personnel work at risk of accidents close to traffic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical application of markings with an automated vehicular system. The applicator mounted on the vehicle automatically deposits viscous mass in complex patterns and symbols through computer-controlled valve elements, eliminating the need for personnel to work close to traffic while maintaining the ability to create sophisticated markings.
Solution Approach 2:
The viscous mass itself serves as an intermediary that carries the pattern information from the controlled valve system to the road surface. The computer control system acts as an intermediary between the desired pattern design and the physical application process, translating digital patterns into precise valve activation sequences that deposit material in the required complex configurations.
4Manufacturing precision
If traditional applicators are used for viscous mass, then simple stripes can be applied, but controlled application of marker coatings with improved reflection function cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies different properties to different locations by selectively controlling which valve elements are activated. Specific valve elements can be opened to deposit viscous mass with enhanced reflection properties at predetermined locations while leaving other areas untreated or treated differently, enabling localized improvement of marker coating characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The computer control system precisely adjusts operational parameters such as valve opening timing, duration, and sequence to achieve controlled application of marker coatings. By varying these parameters, the system can deposit viscous mass with improved reflection function at specific locations and control the thickness and distribution of the coating to optimize performance.
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 the automatic and safe creation of complex patterns and symbols on roadways and other surfaces, reducing manual labor risks and improving operational efficiency by using packer-free valves for consistent and precise mass application.
Implementation Method 1
masses which needs heating
Implementation Method 2
any mass which are flowable at a convenient elevated temperature and which has a viscosity which prevents it from flowing significantly when applied to a surface typically at ambient temperature
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
Figure 2~3
Figure 4A~4B
AI summary
Applicator (11) for application of a viscous mass (31) to a surface (33) comprising a heated chamber (32) in communication with openings (12) controlled by valves (14) allowing dropwise discharge of the viscous mass to the surface. The valves (14) are non-packed and comprise an outer sleeve (15) having at least one through opening (16) in its sleeve wall and valve plug (17) adapted to the internal surface of the sleeve (15). The valve plug (17) is arranged to be moved by means of a valve lifter (18) from a closed position in which the valve plug completely seals the at least one through opening (16) in the sleeve wall, to an open position in which the valve plug (17) is elevated so that at least the lowermost part of the at least one through opening (16) is uncovered and allows viscous mass (31) to pass from the outside of the sleeve (15) to the inside thereof. The invention also comprises a traffic printer comprising a number of applicators as described above, and a method for cleaning same.