Traffic Sign Mounting Post with Interfering Protrusions

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing traffic signs for temporary use lack a secure and efficient method to be mounted on traffic cones, leading to instability and potential dislodging under various environmental conditions.

Innovation Solution

A sign system with a mounting post featuring protrusions or a tapered plug that securely engages with the top end of a traffic cone, providing a stable and interfering fit to maintain the sign in place, utilizing molded plastic materials like low-density polyethylene for durability and cold weather resistance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a simple mounting method is used, then ease of operation is improved, but stability and reliability deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of assemblyVSAvoidmounting stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting post is segmented into multiple functional zones: an upper engagement section with protrusions or teeth for interlocking with the cone, a middle section for positioning, and a lower insertion section. This segmentation allows the single component to provide both easy insertion and secure stabilization simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting post employs asymmetric geometric features including non-circular protrusions, angled surfaces, and irregularly spaced teeth that create a directional fit with the traffic cone. This asymmetric design prevents rotational movement and ensures stable mounting while maintaining straightforward installation through a single insertion motion.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

2Stability of the object's composition

If a secure interfering fit is created, then stability is improved, but device complexity worsens

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting stabilityVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting post is segmented into multiple functional zones: an upper engagement section with protrusions or teeth for interlocking with the cone, a middle section for positioning, and a lower insertion section. This segmentation allows the single component to provide both easy insertion and secure stabilization simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting post utilizes geometric parameter variations including different diameters along its length, angled surfaces, and varying tooth configurations to create interference fit. These parameter changes enable stable mounting through the geometry of the fit itself, eliminating the need for additional fastening mechanisms or complex assembly procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If molded plastic material is used, then durability and resistance to environmental factors are improved, but manufacturing precision requirements worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovedurabilityVSAvoidmolding precision
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting post utilizes geometric parameter variations including different diameters along its length, angled surfaces, and varying tooth configurations to create interference fit. These parameter changes enable stable mounting through the geometry of the fit itself, eliminating the need for additional fastening mechanisms or complex assembly procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

Different sections of the mounting post have locally optimized geometries: the upper section features protrusions or teeth for engagement, the middle section provides positioning surfaces, and the lower section facilitates insertion. This local quality approach ensures that each zone performs its specific function optimally while maintaining overall manufacturing feasibility through standard molding processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS11401669B2Traffic sign mountable on a traffic cone
Publication Date: 2022.08.02 TRAFFIX DEVICES INC
  • US11401669B2 patent drawing
  • US11401669B2 patent drawing
  • US11401669B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A sign system snaps for displaying informational or warning information to passing motorists or pedestrians is designed to be snapped on and interferingly engaged with the top end of a traffic marker or cone.