Traffic Display Light Array for Opposing Flow Status
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional traffic control systems fail to adequately convey the status of opposing traffic flows, leading to potential accidents, especially in bi-directional traffic scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A display system featuring a light array with programmable illumination sequences, including red, amber, and green lights, that provides visual information on traffic flow status and can be easily integrated with existing traffic light systems, allowing for informed decision-making by drivers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If conventional traffic light displays are used, then the system is simple and easy to operate, but the display does not adequately convey the status of opposing traffic flows
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds a second light array positioned perpendicular to the first array, creating a multi-dimensional display configuration. This second array shows opposing traffic flow status from a different spatial dimension, allowing drivers to simultaneously view both their own traffic light status and opposing flow status without increasing the complexity of individual light units.
Solution Approach 2:
The second light array acts as an intermediary that translates opposing traffic flow status into visible light signals. This intermediary display element bridges the information gap between the central control system and drivers, conveying critical opposing flow information that would otherwise be invisible to approaching drivers.
2Reliability
If additional light arrays are added to show opposing traffic flow status, then driver awareness is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the additional information display function with the existing traffic light infrastructure by positioning the second light array in close proximity to the first array. This combining approach allows the system to provide enhanced safety information while utilizing the same mounting structures and spatial footprint as conventional traffic lights.
Solution Approach 2:
The dual-array display system serves multiple functions simultaneously: the first array controls the driver's own traffic flow while the second array provides information about opposing flows. This multi-functionality increases reliability by providing comprehensive traffic status information without requiring separate dedicated systems for each function.
3Ease of manufacture
If the display is designed for easy retrofitting to existing traffic lights, then installation ease is improved, but the integration with existing control systems may be limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the traffic light system into independent light arrays that can be installed separately. The first and second light arrays are designed as distinct modules that can be retrofitted to existing traffic light poles without requiring complete system replacement. This segmentation enables easy manufacture and installation while maintaining adaptability through modular configuration.
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The present invention provides a display for traffic control within a region of traffic flow, comprising an array of lights (14a,....14e) arranged for illumination to indicate to traffic seeking to negotiate the region in accordance with a first path of travel the likely movement of traffic seeking to negotiate the region in accordance with a second path of travel different from the first, and thus whether said traffic seeking to negotiate the region in accordance with said second path of travel has a right of way over traffic seeking to negotiate the region in accordance with said first path of travel.