Smart Electroluminescent Road Marker with Vehicle Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional road markers, such as retro-reflective and LED-based markers, face issues with energy efficiency, durability, and the need for multiple markers to span long distances, leading to increased energy consumption and environmental pollution. They lack the ability to provide targeted guidance and are unsuitable for heavy-duty use.
Innovation Solution
A marker system featuring an electroluminescent light-emitting element with an integrated electric circuit, dimmer, and sensors that can adjust luminescence based on environmental conditions, allowing for remote control and programmability, and is designed to span extensive lengths and widths with improved energy efficiency and wear resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If retro-reflective markers are used, then the markers can provide guidance, but they require high energy consumption from streetlights and cause light pollution
Solution Approach 1:
The marker uses periodic action by switching between luminescent and non-luminescent states based on vehicle detection. The controller activates the luminescent element only when a vehicle is detected within a predetermined distance, eliminating continuous energy consumption and light pollution while maintaining guidance effectiveness.
2Illumination intensity
If LED markers are used, then the markers can provide guidance, but they suffer from degradation, color migration, and high energy consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The marker uses electroluminescent materials that convert electrical energy directly to light through electroluminescence, avoiding the degradation and color migration issues of LEDs. The system changes operational parameters by activating only when needed, extending component life while maintaining visibility.
3Area of stationary object
If conventional markers are used, then they can provide guidance, but they illuminate wide areas instead of providing targeted local guidance
Solution Approach 1:
The marker applies local quality by illuminating only the specific area where a vehicle is detected. The controller activates the luminescent element at the marker's location when a vehicle approaches within a predetermined distance, providing targeted guidance exactly where needed rather than illuminating wide areas.
4Length of stationary object
If multiple separate markers are used to span long distances, then coverage is achieved, but system complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The marker merges multiple functions into a single device: it includes vehicle detection capabilities, processing units, and luminescent elements integrated in one unit. This eliminates the need for multiple separate markers and reduces system complexity while maintaining long-distance coverage through strategic placement.
5Ease of operation
If conventional markers are used, then they can provide guidance, but they are unsuitable for heavy-duty use on highways
Solution Approach 1:
The marker uses composite materials including wear-resistant protective layers over the electroluminescent elements and circuit board. This composite structure provides both the guidance function and the necessary strength to withstand heavy-duty highway conditions.
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
The system provides efficient, adjustable, and durable guidance over long distances with reduced energy consumption, eliminating the need for multiple markers and minimizing environmental impact, while being suitable for heavy-duty use on highways and other surfaces.
Implementation Method 1
an electroluminescent light-emitting element which controllable luminesces
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a marker comprising a container encompassing an electroluminescent light-emitting element which controllable luminesces. Furthermore, the invention relates to said marker, wherein the luminescence of the marker is provided with means for adapting to signals sensed in the surrounding of the marker. The invention also relates to the use of the marker interactively for guiding and controlling movement ofobjects and subjects.