Traffic Light Bulb with Processor for Phase Duration Display
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traffic lights do not provide sufficient information to drivers and pedestrians regarding the duration of traffic light phases, leading to uncertainty and potential safety issues, especially in complex and dynamic traffic environments.
Innovation Solution
A traffic light enhancement device that replaces existing light bulbs with a processor-enabled bulb capable of measuring and displaying the remaining duration of traffic light phases, using indicators such as rotating bars and countdowns to provide clear and timely information to users.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If traditional traffic lights are used, then the system is simple and reliable, but insufficient information is provided to drivers about remaining phase duration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent embeds a processor and display elements within the existing traffic light bulb structure. The enhancement device is nested inside the bulb housing, with the processor mounted on the bulb holder and the display integrated into the bulb assembly. This nesting approach adds information display capabilities while minimizing external structural changes to the traffic light system.
Solution Approach 2:
The traffic light bulb is designed to perform multiple functions: it maintains its traditional signal emission function while simultaneously incorporating a processor that measures phase duration and a display that shows remaining time to drivers. This multi-functionality allows a single component to provide both traditional traffic control and enhanced information display without requiring separate dedicated devices.
2Reliability
If traffic light information is enhanced, then driver decision-making is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The display elements are activated periodically based on the traffic light phase duration measurements. The processor monitors the phase timing and controls the display to show information during appropriate intervals, rather than continuously operating all display components. This periodic activation reduces energy consumption while still providing necessary information to drivers during critical decision-making periods.
Data Source
AI summary
A traffic light enhancement device for a traffic light comprises a light bulb having a color which is present in the traffic light for installation at the traffic light to replace an existing lightbulb of corresponding color in the traffic light. A processor is provided and associated with the lightbulb for measuring the duration for which the color is illuminated in the normal operation of the traffic light. A lightbulb display is provided in the light bulb for displaying the color based on processor measurements in changing configurations according to remaining duration for which the color is illuminated.