Wind Guard Diverter for Bus Sign Stabilization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing wind diverters are inadequate in effectively shielding both horizontal and vertical wind discharge, particularly for objects like school bus stop signs, leading to vibration and instability, which can pose hazards.

Innovation Solution

A geometrically configured wind guard or diverter that attaches to the vehicle side wall, creating an annular discharge space while shielding the object from wind, with adjustable mounting brackets to accommodate different wind speeds and provide universal application, made from durable materials like polycarbonate.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Object-affected harmful factors

If wind is discharged from a wall or support to protect an object, then wind damage to the object is reduced, but the discharged wind forces objects to vibrate and waver, adding pressure on mounting mechanisms

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewind damage to protected objectVSAvoidobject stability against vibration and waver
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

A second shield or wind guard is introduced as an intermediary element positioned between the discharged wind and the first shield/object. This second shield intercepts the discharged wind and redirects it, preventing the wind from directly forcing the first shield to vibrate and wave, while still protecting the object behind it

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The solution adds a spatial dimension by positioning a second shield at a different location relative to the first shield. The second shield is positioned further from the wall than the first shield, creating a multi-layered protection system that addresses wind discharge from a different spatial perspective

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

2Reliability

If a wind diverter is designed for specific OEM installation, then it provides effective wind shielding, but it lacks universal application for retrofit devices and different object shapes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveeffective wind shieldingVSAvoiduniversal application for different objects
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The wind guard system is designed with adjustable mounting brackets and positioning mechanisms that allow the same diverter design to be adapted to different object shapes, sizes, and installation scenarios. This enables both OEM installation and retrofit applications across various object types including school bus stop signs

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

3Adaptability or versatility

If mounting brackets are added to provide adjustable movement for universal application, then adaptability to different wind speeds and objects is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustable movement for different conditionsVSAvoidmounting bracket structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting brackets incorporate adjustable and movable elements that allow the wind guard to be dynamically positioned at different angles and distances from the wall. This dynamic capability enables adaptation to various wind speeds and object configurations without requiring completely different diverter designs for each application

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 significantly reduces wind collection behind the object, stabilizes it against rocking, and extends its useful life, enhancing safety by preventing potential hazards during transportation.

Implementation Method 1

The diverter surrounds an object, such as a school bus stop sign, a predetermined distance spaced from the diverter so as to provide an annular discharge space through which wind may flow while shielding the sign from contact by wind

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectWind flow redirection: Fluid Spray

Data Source

PatentUS11332202B2Pedestrian safety device wind diverter (PSDWD-10)
Publication Date: 2022.05.17 NELSON LERRLYN
  • US11332202B2 patent drawing
  • US11332202B2 patent drawing
  • US11332202B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention provides a wind guard or shield or diverter which attaches to a vehicle side wall of greater dimension than that of the diverter and which surrounds an object, such as a school bus stop sign, a predetermined distance spaced from the diverter so as to provide an annular discharge space through which wind may flow while shielding the sign from contact by wind.