Remote Controlled Mobile Traffic Platform for Work Zone Safety
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing traffic control methods in construction zones and moving work zones rely on human flag persons, which are hazardous and inefficient, as they require physical presence in oncoming traffic and cannot easily be moved or repositioned without disrupting operations.
Innovation Solution
A remote-controlled mobile traffic control platform with a locomotion system, traffic control indicator, and wireless control module that allows operators to safely manage traffic indications and move the platform within a work zone without disassembly, using a wireless remote control to change indications and move the platform along the road surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If human flag persons are used to control traffic in construction zones, then traffic control indications can be provided directly to vehicles, but the safety of the flag persons is compromised as they must stand in fast-moving or erratic traffic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a remote-controlled mobile traffic control platform that replicates the functions of a human flag person through automated means. The platform includes traffic control indicators (lights, signs) that copy the visual signals a flag person would display, allowing traffic control to be performed without human presence in the hazardous traffic area.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the mechanical system of a human flag person physically present in traffic with an automated remote-controlled platform. The platform uses wireless communication receivers and control signals to substitute for human decision-making and signal-display actions, eliminating the need for human exposure to traffic hazards.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If temporary road signage is placed to protect flag person safety in moving work zones, then human safety is improved, but the signage must be continuously moved along the road as the work zone moves, requiring additional resources and time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a mobile platform with locomotion capabilities that can dynamically reposition itself along the road as the work zone moves. This dynamic mobility allows the traffic control platform to maintain its protective function while automatically adapting to changing work zone locations without requiring manual intervention or additional signage resources.
Solution Approach 2:
The remote-controlled mobile traffic control platform is capable of self-repositioning through its integrated locomotion system. The platform can autonomously or remotely move itself to new positions along the road, eliminating the need for external resources to physically relocate signage and reducing the time and effort required to maintain traffic control in moving work zones.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a stationary remote controlled traffic control platform is used, then human safety is improved by removing the flag person from traffic, but the platform cannot be easily moved to new locations without disassembly and reassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the stationary traffic control platform into a mobile one by integrating a locomotion system with powered wheels and steering capabilities. This allows the platform to dynamically move to different locations along the road while maintaining its remote-controlled traffic control functions, combining the safety benefits of remote operation with the flexibility of mobility.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile traffic control platform serves multiple functions: it provides traffic control indications, navigates to different positions along the road, and adapts to various work zone configurations. The integrated design combines traffic control indicators, wireless communication systems, and locomotion capabilities into a single universal platform that can operate in diverse traffic control scenarios.
4Illumination intensity
If traffic control signs are positioned far from the work zone to improve visibility for approaching traffic, then visibility is improved, but the signs become less effective at controlling traffic close to the work area
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile traffic control platform can dynamically adjust its position along the road, moving closer to the work zone when needed to effectively control traffic in the immediate area, and positioning itself optimally to maximize visibility for approaching traffic. This dynamic positioning capability allows the platform to adapt to varying traffic conditions and work zone configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The remote-controlled platform enables operators to observe traffic conditions and work zone status in real-time, allowing them to adjust the platform's position and traffic control signals based on feedback from the environment. This feedback mechanism ensures the platform maintains optimal positioning for both visibility and traffic control effectiveness.
Data Source
AI summary
A remote controlled mobile traffic control system which can be used in the place of a human flag person. A mobile platform with an adjustable traffic control indicator thereon is controlled by a remote control. The operator can move the platform and change the indication of the traffic control apparatus from a safe distance. The apparatus permits “flagging” of traffic in a moving traffic control zone arrangement, and operational safety is maximized. A traffic barrier arm is movable between deployed and retracted positions obstructing the path of oncoming traffic, for example by a remote controlled actuator or by remote controlled turning of the platform. A remote alarm unit accompanies to the work crew to alarm them of traffic entering the work zone without authorization or at unsafe speed. The apparatus can travel with a moving or changing work zone, either by human remote control or autonomous “follow me” functionality.