Dynamic Road Segment Reconfiguration via V2X

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current traffic lane configurations are static and inefficient, requiring costly and complex reconfiguration methods that are often inflexible and unable to respond to short-term changes in traffic needs, particularly affecting autonomous vehicles and road resource utilization.

Innovation Solution

An intelligent transportation system (ITS) that allows vehicles to request and dynamically reconfigure road segments through V2X communications, using a computing device to determine and implement lane changes based on traffic demand and vehicle priorities, enabling efficient and adaptive lane management.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If static lane configurations are used, then infrastructure cost is reduced, but traffic efficiency and adaptability deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetraffic efficiencyVSAvoidinfrastructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces physical mechanical reconfiguration systems (movable barriers, physical lane markers) with a virtual information-based system using V2X communications and digital signage. The computing device transmits lane configuration data to vehicles and displays, eliminating the need for complex mechanical infrastructure while enabling dynamic lane adjustments based on real-time traffic conditions.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses digital representations and information copies to convey lane configuration data. Instead of physically reconfiguring lanes, the system creates and transmits digital copies of lane assignment information to vehicles through V2X communications and displays them on digital signage, allowing rapid reconfiguration without physical infrastructure changes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

2Adaptability or versatility

If dynamic reconfiguration systems are deployed, then traffic adaptability is improved, but system cost and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelane configuration adaptabilityVSAvoidreconfiguration system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex mechanical reconfiguration systems with an information-based communication system. The computing device uses V2X communications to transmit lane assignment instructions to vehicles and digital signage to display lane configurations, eliminating movable barriers, complex lighting systems, and other expensive mechanical infrastructure while achieving the same adaptability.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a computing device as an intermediary that manages lane reconfiguration centrally. This mediator receives traffic demand information, determines optimal lane configurations, and communicates assignments to vehicles and displays, simplifying the overall system architecture compared to distributed mechanical reconfiguration systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Speed

If centralized control systems are used, then long-term traffic patterns are optimized, but short-term responsiveness deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresponse speedVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic lane reconfiguration system where the computing device can adjust lane assignments in real-time based on current traffic conditions. Vehicles receive updated lane configuration instructions through V2X communications as they approach reconfigurable segments, and digital signage updates lane assignments dynamically, enabling rapid response to both long-term patterns and short-term traffic changes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent notifies vehicles of upcoming lane reconfigurations in advance through V2X communications and digital signage before vehicles reach the reconfigurable segment. This preliminary notification allows vehicles to prepare for lane changes smoothly while enabling the system to respond quickly to changing traffic conditions without causing disruption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS11776393B2Method and system for reversing the direction of a road segment
Publication Date: 2023.10.03 BLACKBERRY LTD
  • US11776393B2 patent drawing
  • US11776393B2 patent drawing
  • US11776393B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method at a computing device in an intelligent transportation system for reconfiguring a road segment, the method including receiving a request from a second computing device associated with a vehicle to change a configuration for the road segment; determining a road segment configuration; and reconfiguring the road segment based on the determined road segment configuration.