Road Surface AR Projection for Dynamic Traffic Guidance

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing traffic warning systems are passive, providing fixed information that may confuse drivers and lead to accidents, especially in dynamic situations like road construction or traffic accidents.

Innovation Solution

The development of systems and methods using pixel matrix lighting modules to project dynamic images and animations onto surfaces, adjusting in real-time based on sensor data and user inputs to provide clear traffic advisories.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of information

If passive reflective signs and dot matrix displays are used to warn drivers, then drivers can be alerted of traffic conditions, but the information provided is fixed and may not clearly indicate which road segments are impacted or what actions drivers should take

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveclarity of traffic informationVSAvoidadaptability to dynamic traffic situations
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from static passive signs to dynamic active projection systems. The projector module can display changing images, animations, and messages that adapt to real-time traffic conditions, clearly indicating which road segments are impacted and what actions drivers should take based on current situations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the parameter of information delivery from fixed text to dynamic visual projections. By varying the projected images, colors, and messages based on sensor data and traffic conditions, the system provides clear, context-specific guidance that adapts to changing situations rather than displaying static information.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If painted road markings or reflective signs are deployed after an event occurs, then drivers can be warned of the situation, but delays in installation and use may cause further accidents

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetimeliness of traffic warningVSAvoidinstallation and deployment time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary action by being pre-positioned at traffic locations and ready for immediate activation. Rather than deploying physical signs after an incident, the projector module is already in place and can immediately project warning messages and directional guidance when sensors detect a traffic event, eliminating installation delays.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical deployment system (physical sign installation) with an electronic projection system. The projector module and sensor system can be activated instantly through electronic signals, substituting the time-consuming mechanical process of erecting and configuring physical warning signs with rapid electronic system activation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Loss of information

If multiple passive warning technologies are deployed to guide traffic around closed lanes, then drivers can be alerted of lane closures, but motorists may be confused about the particular path to take, causing the flow of traffic to slow

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveclarity of directional guidanceVSAvoidtraffic flow efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system merges multiple warning functions into a single integrated projection system. Instead of deploying separate barriers, signs, and dot matrix displays that can confuse drivers, the projector module consolidates all directional guidance and warning information into unified visual projections that clearly indicate the path around closed lanes, improving driver understanding and maintaining traffic flow.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements feedback by using sensors to detect traffic conditions and driver responses, then adjusting the projected messages and directional guidance accordingly. This closed-loop approach ensures that the information provided remains clear and relevant to current traffic situations, preventing driver confusion and maintaining efficient traffic flow around closures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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

This active augmented reality solution reduces motorist confusion, improves traffic flow, and enhances safety by providing clear, dynamic, and relevant traffic information.

Implementation Method 1

a projector module, the projector module having a matrix of lighting devices

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight Emitting Diode: Light Emitting Diode

Data Source

PatentUS20250157158A1Augmented reality traffic advisor system and method
Publication Date: 2025.05.15 WHELEN ENGINEERING COMPANY
  • US20250157158A1 patent drawing
  • US20250157158A1 patent drawing
  • US20250157158A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Systems and methods for displaying projected image onto a surface to create an active augmented reality environment may include a lighting device and a controller. The controller may receive information, such as a user input or sensor information, and determine one or more projection properties for the lighting device. The lighting device may receive a control signal from the controller and adjust one or more parameters in order to project the image onto the surface in accordance with a desired user input and the sensor information.