Warning Device With Adjustable Message Plates

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing warning devices, such as warning triangles, are difficult for oncoming drivers to see and read, especially at high speeds, and are cumbersome to change, leading to safety concerns during roadside stops.

Innovation Solution

A warning device with a support system that holds a warning triangle upright and features adjustable, securely attached message plates at a high position, allowing for easy visibility and quick message changes, including programmable electronic displays for enhanced visibility and customization.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Illumination intensity

If message plates are positioned at the bottom of the warning triangle, then the device structure is simple, but the visibility of warning messages to oncoming drivers is poor

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevisibility of warning messagesVSAvoidmessage plate support structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The message plate is repositioned from the bottom to the upper portion of the warning triangle, utilizing the vertical dimension more effectively. This dimensional repositioning places the message in the driver's natural line of sight, dramatically improving visibility without adding horizontal complexity to the device structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The support structure is designed with localized features: clips or holders are positioned at specific locations on the upper portion of the triangle to secure the message plate. This localized support approach provides necessary structural complexity only where needed for message visibility, rather than redesigning the entire device structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Reliability

If message plates are securely fastened to the warning triangle, then the message plates remain stable during use, but the ease of changing messages is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestability of message platesVSAvoidease of changing messages
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The message plate attachment system uses removable clips or holders that can be quickly opened and closed. This dynamic attachment mechanism allows the message plate to be securely held during use while enabling rapid replacement when needed, balancing stability with ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The attachment system is divided into separate components: the message plate and the clips/holders that attach it to the triangle. This segmentation allows the message plate to be independently removed and replaced without affecting the structural integrity of the warning triangle itself, facilitating easy message changes while maintaining stability during use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Stability of the object's composition

If a support rod or beam is used to hold the warning triangle upright, then the triangle remains stable, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveupright stability of warning triangleVSAvoidsupport structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The base is designed as a cross-shaped structure where the arms themselves provide the support function. By merging the base structure with the support function, the warning triangle is held upright without requiring a separate support rod or beam, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The cross-shaped base performs multiple functions: it provides the foundation for the warning triangle, acts as the support structure to hold it upright, and its arms extend to provide lateral stability. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for additional dedicated support components, reducing device complexity while ensuring stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS10399491B2Warning device for roadside stops
Publication Date: 2019.09.03 MURRAY SIMON JOHN
  • US10399491B2 patent drawing
  • US10399491B2 patent drawing
  • US10399491B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A warning device or apparatus for use during roadside stops, with means to display one or more warning messages on the front of the warning device or apparatus at a height to be easily and quickly seen by oncoming drivers. The warning device may be a warning triangle, although other shapes may be used as appropriate according to the customs or laws for particular regions or areas. One or more message plates can be mounted on the warning device, with various messages selected according to the circumstances. An electronic message board may be similarly mounted.