Variable Speed Limit Sign System for Synchronized Traffic Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current traffic control systems are inefficient, leading to excessive energy waste, increased pollution, and frustration for drivers due to random operation of traffic lights, which results in frequent stops and accidents.
Innovation Solution
A variable speed limit sign system that uses pre-programmed, synchronized traffic light schedules and autonomous signs to guide drivers to arrive at intersections just after the light turns green and depart before it turns red, eliminating the need for stops and reducing congestion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If pre-programmed synchronized traffic light schedules are implemented, then traffic flow efficiency is improved and stops are reduced, but system complexity and implementation cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-programming traffic light schedules before operation. The central control computer creates predetermined timing sequences for traffic lights along specific routes, allowing vehicles to be instructed in advance of the speed necessary to reach the next intersection during a green light period, eliminating the need for real-time complex communication.
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments traffic control into independent, synchronized components. Each traffic light operates according to its predetermined schedule in the sequence green-yellow-red-green, and variable speed limit signs provide independent speed instructions to drivers. This segmentation allows the system to function without complex real-time interaction between components.
2Loss of energy
If variable speed limit signs are deployed to guide drivers, then energy consumption is reduced and pollution decreases, but implementation cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The variable speed limit signs operate autonomously using pre-programmed data stored in their memory devices. They synchronize with traffic light schedules through predetermined algorithms without requiring real-time communication with central control or other signs. This self-service capability eliminates the need for expensive wireless communication infrastructure while maintaining energy-efficient speed guidance.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses simplified copies of traffic information displayed on variable speed limit signs rather than complex real-time data transmission. The signs display predetermined speed values that represent the optimal speed to reach the next green light, creating a simple informational copy that guides drivers without requiring sophisticated communication systems.
3Loss of information
If real-time communication systems are used between traffic controllers, then traffic information can be exchanged, but system cost and reliability problems arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the communication function from the traffic control system entirely. Instead of using real-time communication between traffic controllers and variable speed limit signs, the system uses pre-programmed data stored in each device's memory. The central control computer creates the schedules in advance, and each component operates independently according to its stored program, eliminating communication infrastructure requirements and associated reliability issues.
4Ease of operation
If drivers are given precise speed instructions to make green lights, then driver satisfaction and safety improve, but system simplicity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the speed parameter dynamically based on predetermined traffic light schedules and vehicle position. Variable speed limit signs display different speed values at different locations and times to optimize the probability of reaching the next intersection during a green light period. This parameter adjustment provides drivers with precise, context-appropriate speed instructions while maintaining relatively simple system architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
A variable speed limit sign including a controller and a display operatively coupled to the controller is provided. A traffic control system including a variable speed limit sign and methods of use thereof are also provided.