Traffic Sign Panel with Embedded Particles for Light Diffusion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current traffic sign illumination technologies are inadequate for smaller signs, as traditional lighting methods waste resources and are ineffective in remote or low-light conditions, and existing reflective signs can be harsh and glare-inducing.
Innovation Solution
A traffic sign assembly with an integrated light gathering and diffusing panel that absorbs, gathers, and redirects light from a coupled light source, providing controlled and diffused illumination, and includes a gasket to house a light array and prevent light leakage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If traditional lighting equipment is used to illuminate smaller traffic signs, then the signs become visible, but excessive light is wasted and resources are consumed inefficiently
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using a light guide panel with embedded particles that redirect light locally to specific areas of the traffic sign. Instead of illuminating the entire sign uniformly with traditional lighting equipment, the system concentrates light precisely where needed on smaller signs, reducing overall light waste while maintaining visibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameters of light distribution by using a light guide panel with particles that alter light direction and intensity. This transforms the light delivery mechanism from direct broad illumination to controlled localized illumination, optimizing energy efficiency for smaller traffic signs.
2Illumination intensity
If headlights of oncoming vehicles are used to illuminate smaller traffic signs, then the signs become visible, but the reflected light is harsh, glaring, and too intense for drivers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a light guide panel as an intermediary between the light source and the traffic sign. This intermediary component diffuses and redirects light uniformly across the sign surface, eliminating the harsh glare and intense reflections that occur when headlights directly illuminate signs. The light guide panel acts as a mediator that transforms direct intense light into soft, evenly distributed illumination.
3Illumination intensity
If traditional lighting methods are used for remote traffic signs, then the signs become visible, but it is difficult to supply adequate power to traditional lighting sources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical lighting systems with a light guide panel-based illumination system. This substitution eliminates the need for complex traditional lighting equipment and power supply infrastructure in remote locations, as the light guide panel can be integrated with various power sources including solar panels, requiring minimal power while maintaining sign visibility.
4Illumination intensity
If reflective traffic signs are used, then drivers can view the signs, but the reflected light is harsh and glaring
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a light guide panel with embedded particles as an intermediary layer between the light source and the reflective traffic sign surface. This intermediary diffuses the light before it reaches the sign, preventing harsh reflections and glare while maintaining adequate visibility. The particles within the light guide panel scatter light uniformly, eliminating the concentrated glare produced by traditional reflective signs.
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 solution effectively reduces light waste, minimizes glare and eye strain, and allows for controlled light properties, such as intensity and color, to be programmed, enhancing visibility and safety of smaller traffic signs.
Implementation Method 1
the panel absorbs, gathers, and/or accepts light from a light source integrated or coupled to the traffic sign assembly
Implementation Method 2
A plurality of particles dispersed within the fourth panel may refract and/or reflect the light in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the face of the fourth panel
Implementation Method 3
aspects of the present technology include a gasket to house a light array and prevent light leakage
Data Source
AI summary
A traffic sign assembly includes a plurality of panels. At least one interior panel includes at least one light array configured to project light towards a middle portion of the interior panel and a plurality of particles within the interior panel body. Other panels may include filter panels, transparent panels, heat or moisture shielding panels, reflecting panels, and heat foil panels. The particles in the interior panel directs light from the light array such that the light shines outwardly from toward the front of the traffic sign assembly.