EP3577275B1

EP3577275B1 - System comprising a smart electroluminescent marker

Info

Publication number: EP3577275B1
Application number: EP18709473.5A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Dirk Berend Teunissen
Original assignee: Yess Lightning BV
Current assignee: Yess Lightning BV
Priority date: 2017-02-02
Filing date: 2018-02-02
Publication date: 2021-04-07
Anticipated expiration: 2038-02-02
Also published as: WO2018141893A2; EP3577275A2; WO2018141893A3

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to a system comprising a marker comprising a container encompassing an electroluminescent light-emitting element which controllable luminesces. The invention also relates to the use of a system comprising the marker interactively for guiding and controlling movement of objects and subjects.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Current markers such as road markers are of the conventional retro-reflective type or of the emissive type using light-emitting diodes (LEDs).
Retro-reflective type markers require illumination with an external source of light, such as the light provided by conventional road-side streetlights. Such streetlights consume a relatively high amount of energy. Since such streetlights are positioned far above the marker, light transfer to the retro-reflective material of the marker is not efficient. Moreover, net energy consumption by the streetlights is further negatively influenced by the fact that such lights are switched on night-time long, at minimum.
Markers using LEDs have the disadvantage that such LEDs degrade over time and lose power efficiency. LEDs suffer from a change in the wavelength of the emitted light, resulting in a migration in the color spectrum towards a different color. Moreover, high energy consumption by a marker using LEDs is of concern.
Use of both types of conventional markers, such as road markers, results in the disadvantageously pollution of the surrounding of the markers by continuously emitted light. Either by the streetlights required to illuminate the passive markers, or by the continuously emitting LEDs based markers.
Such conventional markers have the further disadvantage that the guidance provided by the markers is not specifically directed in any way towards the needs of the vehicle or subject in need of such guidance. In fact, a vehicle or subject approaching a conventional marker and being in need of any guidance to be provided by the marker, is confronted by a marker not only illuminated at and near the actual position of the subject or vehicle, but in contrast by a marker illuminated over a wide area or distance. This way, receiving the required local guidance by the marker is hampered.
In US application US 2007/0223996 a road side marker is described, which marker is provided with e.g. an automated emergency services notification or a traffic alert system. The road side marker has electroluminescent properties and includes an electronic control system. The road side marker is equipped with an electronic circuit to transmit signals to, and receive signals from devices at remote locations. The emitted color is tunable and the marker is actuable. The road side marker of US 2007/0223996 takes the form and shape of a rectangle or cone to be adhered to an individual, moveable object such as a pavement marker, a safety cone, a barrel, a roadside marker pole, a warning sign and the like, all having limited dimensions in the order of lengths of between a few centimeters up to a few tens of centimeters, at most. Indeed, in order to span a significant length of e.g. a road, with the road side marker of US 2007/0223996 , such a series of road side markers is placed at an interval of about a few cars length apart along the side of the road. Herewith, the distance of the road between two subsequent road side markers is deprived of any object capable of providing any guidance by luminescing. Since a road track requires numerous separately spaced road side markers, all these individual markers have to be integrated separately in the control system. Furthermore, the road side markers are unsuitable for, for example, heavy duty use if such markers were integrated in e.g. road linings on or in the surface of e.g. highways and the like, at the position where vehicles move across the markers, since they lack measures required to resist the accompanied wear.
A further roadside marker system according to the preamble of claim 1 is disclosed in US 2016/108591 A1 .
Thus, in view of the above, a need exists for a marker system having dimensions comprising a nearly infinite length, i.e. spanning a distance of centimeters to meters to kilometers, and an improved range of encompassed widths, to be covered by a single marker. Also a need exists for a marker system that combines such near unlimited range of dimensions covered, with an improved energy consumption, when compared to e.g. LEDs based markers. Besides, these needs are completed by the need for such improved marker system of being capable of receiving signals, such as signals received from connected sensors, which are then controllably or autonomously translated and transformed in adjustments of the luminescent light.
Thus, in view of the above, a need exists for a marker system having dimensions comprising a nearly infinite length, i.e. spanning a distance of centimeters to meters to kilometers, and an improved range of encompassed widths, to be covered by a single marker. Also a need exists for a marker system that combines such near unlimited range of dimensions covered, with an improved energy consumption, when compared to e.g. LEDs based markers. Besides, these needs are completed by the need for such improved marker system of being capable of receiving signals, such as signals received from connected sensors, which are then controllably or autonomously translated and transformed in adjustments of the luminescent light.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A first aspect of the present invention relates to a system comprising a marker comprising a container, as defined in claim 1
In an embodiment of the invention, the integrated electric circuit of the marker is further provided with a dimmer and/or a momentary switch to dim and/or to actuate the luminescing of the electroluminescent light-emitting element.
The marker according to the invention is further characterized by the integrated electric circuit being provided with means for receiving a signal, preferably wireless means, said signal provided by preferably at least one sensor, an antenna and/or a reflector, more preferably at least one sensor, such that the activation of the momentary switch and/or the activation of the dimmer is controlled by the intensity of the received signal.
The marker of the invention has a length of between about 1 cm and about 100 km, and a width of between about 1 cm and about 100 m.
The marker of the invention takes virtually any form and is for example provided as an extended body, e.g. a tube several kilometers in length, or a strip several meters in length and several centimeters in width.
It is part of the invention that a marker according to the invention has a sensor which is one or more of a sensor for sensing light intensity, number of passing objects such as vehicles, velocity of passing objects, moisture at or surrounding the marker, fog, type and/or intensity of precipitation, temperature, smoke, motion of an object in the surrounding of the marker, motion of the marker, flue, fire, wear of the marker, day light intensity, an object.
An embodiment of the current invention is the marker according to the invention, wherein the luminescence of the electroluminescent light-emitting element is remotely controllable. This way, functioning of the marker with regard to luminescent light emission is adjustable to the circumstances in an interactive manner.
Furthermore, the invention provides a marker according to the invention, wherein the integrated electric circuit comprises a microprocessor such that the luminescence of the electroluminescent light-emitting element is programmable.
A second aspect of the current invention is the use of a system comprising a marker according to claims 25-28.
It is part of the aspects that the marker of the invention is for heavy duty use, such as use in or on the surface of roads such as highways. The wear resistance is accomplished by application of wear-resistant material for the container comprised by the marker, which container protects the encompassed electroluminescent light-emitting element.
A third non-claimed aspect relates to a terminal block for connecting a marker, comprising a receptacle configured to receive an end portion of an electroluminescent marker; fixation means for fixing the end portion of the marker inside the receptacle; electric means for providing electricity to the marker to cause the electroluminescent marker to generate light; a communication unit to exchange data and commands with another device; and a control unit configured to control the provision of the electricity to the electroluminescent element in dependence on the received commands.
In one embodiment, the terminal block comprises the communication unit, wherein said communication unit is configured to transmit and/or receive a signal through a communication media of the marker.
Preferred is the terminal block further comprising a further receptacle for receiving a further end portion of a further marker; power means for receiving power from a wire within the marker and providing at least part of the power to a wire within the further marker and providing at least part of the power to an electric component of the terminal block.
In one embodiment, the terminal block further comprises an electrically conductive displacement blade positioned corresponding to a position of an electric wire in the marker, wherein the displacement blade is configured to cut an insulation portion of the marker and contact the electric wire corresponding to the displacement blade to form an electric connection between the displacement blade and the corresponding electric wire, when the marker is inserted into the receptacle.
Preferred is the terminal block, wherein the displacement blade is oriented in a transverse direction with respect to the marker.
According to the invention, the terminal block of the invention comprises an optical transmitter or an optical receiver to transmit or receive an optical signal through container material of the marker or through an optic fiber inside the marker.
In one embodiment, the terminal comprises an inductive coil to transmit or receive an electric signal into or from the marker.
In one embodiment, the terminal block further comprises a sensor, wherein the control unit is configured to: transmit a signal to a remote device in dependence on a signal received from the sensor or control a luminescence of the marker in dependence on the signal received from the sensor.
Preferred is a marker comprising an electrically conductive wire extending in a longitudinal direction of the marker from a first end of the marker to a second end of the marker, wherein the conductive wire preferably has substantially the same axial position throughout the marker.
In one embodiment, the marker comprises an electrical connection between the conductive wire and the anode layer or the cathode layer.
In one embodiment, the marker comprises an electrical connection between the conductive wire and the anode layer or the cathode layer, and comprises a plurality of the inner-components distributed longitudinally in the marker, each anode layer or cathode layer of the plurality of inner-components having an electrical connection to the conductive wire.
A fourth non-claimed aspect relates to an area node comprising a power supply configured to provide power to at least one terminal block, a communication unit configured to exchange communication signals with the at least one terminal block and with a control center; and a control unit to control operations of the area node based on received signals.
A fifth aspect relates to a control center comprising a storage media storing a digital representation of a plurality of interconnected area nodes, terminal blocks, and markers, wherein each marker is physically attached to at least one terminal block, each terminal block is physically attached to at least one marker and has a data connection to at least one area node, and each area node has a data connection to at least one terminal block and to the control center; said digital representation comprising information of connections and physical attachments between the area nodes, the terminal blocks, and the markers, luminescence status information of the markers, or information of sensor signals collected by sensors of the terminal blocks.
A sixth aspect relates to a method of controlling a plurality of electroluminescent markers, comprising inserting at least one end of each marker into a terminal block of a plurality of terminal blocks, and connecting at least one of the terminal blocks to an area node of a plurality of area nodes, and connecting the area nodes to a command center, and sending a command from the command center, via the area node, to a terminal block of the plurality of terminal blocks, to cause a specific one of the electroluminescent markers to generate luminescence.
The invention relates to a smart marking system. Reference is made to Figure 11 and the Examples outlined below in the Examples section, providing a detailed description of the smart marking system of the invention.

DEFINITIONS

The term "conductive layer" as used herein has its conventional meaning and refers to a layer of material, said material capable of conducting electricity.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Figure 1. A cross sectional view of a marker constructed according to an embodiment of the invention.
Figure 2. A schematic drawing of a marker constructed according to a second embodiment of the invention.
Figure 3. A schematic cross-sectional view of a marker constructed according to a third embodiment of the invention.
Figure 4. A schematic representation of a marker constructed according to a fourth embodiment of the invention.
Figure 5. A schematic representation of a marker constructed according to a fifth embodiment of the invention.
Figure 6. A cross-sectional view of a marker according to a sixth embodiment of the invention.
Figure 7. A cross-sectional view of a marker according to a seventh embodiment of the invention.
Figure 8A. A cross sectional view of an example of a terminal block with a marker.
Figure 8B. A longitudinal view of the terminal block with the marker.
Figure 9A. A cross sectional view of another example of a terminal block with a marker.
Figure 9B. A longitudinal view of the other example of the terminal block with the marker.
Figure 10. A cross sectional view of a marker in a street surface.
Figure 11. A exemplified smart marking system according to the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention will be described with respect to particular embodiments but the invention is not limited thereto but only by the claims.
Furthermore, the terms first, second, third and the like in the description and in the claims, are used for distinguishing between similar elements and not necessarily for describing a sequential or chronological order. The terms are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances and the embodiments of the invention can operate in other sequences than described or illustrated herein.
Moreover, the terms top, bottom, over, under and the like in the description and the claims are used for descriptive purposes and not necessarily for describing relative positions. The terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances and the embodiments of the invention described herein can operate in other orientations than described or illustrated herein.
The embodiments of the invention described herein can operate in combination and cooperation, unless specified otherwise.
Furthermore, the various embodiments, although referred to as "preferred" or "e.g." or "for example" or "in particular" are to be construed as exemplary manners in which the invention may be implemented rather than as limiting the scope of the invention.
The term "comprising", used in the claims, should not be interpreted as being restricted to the elements or steps listed thereafter; it does not exclude other elements or steps. It needs to be interpreted as specifying the presence of the stated features, integers, steps or components as referred to, but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps or components, or groups thereof. Thus, the scope of the expression "a marker comprising A and B" should not be limited to a marker consisting only of components A and B, rather with respect to the present invention, the only enumerated components of the marker are A and B, and further the claim should be interpreted as including equivalents of those components.
A first aspect relates to a marker comprising a container, said container comprising at least a top surface part and a bottom surface part, the container encompassing an inner-component, said inner-component comprising at least two conducting layers, an integrated electric circuit electrically connected thereto, and an electroluminescent light-emitting element comprising at least one electroluminescent pigment, wherein said electroluminescent light-emitting element is embedded between a conducting anode layer and a conducting cathode layer for driving said electroluminescent light-emitting element and wherein at least the conducting layer located near the top surface part of the container and at least said top surface part of the container are made of optically transparent material or optically opaque material, and wherein the container is provided with means arranged for supplying electrical power to said conducting layers.
An advantage of the current invention is the application of a marker comprising a container, said container fully embracing, amongst other components, the electroluminescent light-emitting element and the two electrodes sandwiching said electroluminescent light-emitting element. Herewith, application of any moisture repellent measures has become superfluous, since the container of the marker of the invention provides for such moisture protection. Furthermore, the container of the marker of the invention provides strength to the marker and support to the electroluminescent light-emitting element. By applying a container having at least the upper part made of essentially transparent material or opaque material, light emitted by the electroluminescent light-emitting element is emitted virtually unhindered and unfiltered through the transparent or opaque upper side part of the container wall. Thus, the invention provides for a more robust marker consisting of a minimal number of components and an improved measure for securing the EL against exposure to moisture. Furthermore, by applying a container as the outer surface exposed to the exterior of the marker, the types of applicable material or combinations of materials suitable to be selected for the container wall is expanded. Furthermore, with the marker of the invention, the robustness and wear resistance is improved by selecting first at least one certain type of strong and wear-resistant material for constructing the container, and second by applying the one or more materials at a desired container wall thickness, thereby strongly influencing the strength and wear resistance of the marker.
An embodiment of the invention is the marker system wherein the integrated electric circuit is further provided with a dimmer and/or a momentary switch to dim and/or to actuate the luminescing of the electroluminescent light-emitting element.
Incorporating a dimmer and/or a momentary switch in the marker provides the possibility to control and adjust the luminescence of the electroluminescent light-emitting element, e.g. in time and/or in intensity, e.g. ultimately by switching the EL on or off for a predetermined length of time. Herewith, the luminescence by the marker of the invention is adjustable to the demands imposed by the circumstances, i.e. by a need to provide guidance to approaching vehicles and/or subjects, when the marker is for example provided at the road surface or at the side or floor or ceiling of a (public transport) vehicle, a train platform, a building (indoor, outdoor), etc. Furthermore, the momentary switch provides the beneficial opportunity to switch off, and herewith thus safe energy, the EL during e.g. day time, or during periods in time in which the immediate surrounding of the marker is idle, that is to say, when no e.g. vehicles or subjects needing guidance, information or direction to be provided by the marker, are in close proximate of the marker. The dimmer provides the beneficial opportunity to (manually or autonomously) adapt the intensity of the luminescence emitted by the electroluminescent light-emitting element, such that for example during the period of twilight, or during foggy weather conditions, the light intensity is adjustable to the actual needs in order to provide for e.g. clearly visible and sufficiently intense luminescent light. Of course, to the extreme, during daytime the dimmer is to be used to provide luminescence at minimal intensity as requested by the circumstances, whereas during periods of darkness, either outdoor or indoor, intensity of the emitted luminescent light is adjusted to increased levels, ultimately up to its maximum intensity.
An embodiment of the marker is disclosed, wherein the whole surface of the container is made of optically transparent material or optically opaque material. Of course, the container is also provided with a combination of optically transparent material and optically opaque material, if beneficial to the marker's purpose and application.
One benefit of the container completely constructed of transparent material and/or opaque material is the absence of constraints with regard to the positioning of the marker related to the desired direction and path available for the emitted luminescent light. No matter how the marker is e.g. adhered or placed on a surface, the container is able to let the light emitted by the electroluminescent light-emitting element freely pass in all directions. Of course, it is beneficial for the purpose of maximizing light intensity in a selected direction, to position the marker in such orientation that the surface area of the transparent electrode layer is pointing in the (main) direction intended for the emitted luminescent light.
An embodiment of the marker is disclosed, wherein the optically transparent or optically opaque container is made of a material selected from: glass made of acrylate resin, two-component epoxy resin, two-component polyurethane resin, one-component polyurethane resin, polyester resin, silicone, polycarbonate plastic, polyvinyl chloride, plastisol, polypropylene, polyethylene and thermoplastic, preferably glass made of acrylate resin, polyester resin, a polyurethane resin, a polyurethane acrylate resin and silicone.
Many more materials or combinations of materials are known in the art and suitable for the purpose of providing a fully or partially transparent or optically opaque container of the marker. The constrains to such materials are reduced to the ability to essentially provide unhindered passing of the light emitted by the electroluminescent light-emitting element, whereas at the same time a container construction is provided that for example has the capacity to resist the strengths of e.g. vehicles or subjects driving or passing over the marker for prolonged period of time and in accumulating and large numbers. Particularly preferred is a container made of a polyurethane acrylate resin. Equally preferred is a container made of epoxy resin.
An embodiment of the marker is disclosed, wherein the anode layer and the cathode layer are selected from: indium, carbon, nanotubes comprising conducting coating, film comprising graphene, silver nanowire covered with graphene, intrinsically conducting polymer or conducting polymer such as polyaniline and poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate, and inorganic conducting materials comprising aluminum, gallium, and indium, and doped zinc oxide such as zinc oxide doped with aluminum, gallium or indium, wherein the anode layer and the cathode layer preferably are the same.
The preferred conductive materials to be used for the electrode layer, i.e. the conductive layer, are for example metals, conductive carbon and semiconductors. More specifically, preferred conductive layers according to the invention are electrode layers comprising at least one material selected from: copper, silver, gold (Au), zinc, cadmium, aluminum (Al), indium, carbon (C), silicon, germanium, tin, lead, antimony, bismuth, selenium, tellurium, titanium, zirconium, niobium, tantalum (Ta), molybdenum, tungsten (W), manganese, rhodium, palladium (Pd), platinum, thorium, alloys of these metals, conductive carbon, conductive nitrides such as titanium nitride, and semiconductors such as zinc arsenide, cadmium arsenide, zinc antimonide, cadmium antimonide, silver sulfide, copper sulfide, aluminum antimonide, gallium arsenide, gallium phosphide, gallium antimonide, indium phosphide, indium arsenide, indium antimonide, indium oxide (In₂O₃), tin oxide (SnO₂), titanium monoxide (TiO), zinc oxide, bismuth oxide, manganese dioxide, tungsten oxide, zinc selenide, zinc telluride, cadmium sulfide, cadmium selenide, cadmium telluride, copper iodide, silver iodide, lead sulfide, lead selenide, lead telluride, mercury telluride, tin sulfide and tin telluride. Among them, C, W, Au, Pd, Ta, Al, TiO, In₂O₃ and SnO₂ are more preferred.
An embodiment of the marker is disclosed, wherein the length and the width of the electroluminescent light-emitting element and the length and the width of the two conducting layers essentially coincide with the length and the width of the container, and wherein the length of the integrated electric circuit essentially coincides with the length of the container. A further embodiment of the marker is disclosed, wherein the length of the electroluminescent light-emitting element and the length of the two conducting layers and the length of the integrated electric circuit essentially coincide with the length of the container, whereas the width of the electroluminescent light-emitting element and the width of the two conducting layers is considerably smaller than the width of the container.
An embodiment of the marker is disclosed, wherein the inner-component has a thickness of between about 200 micrometer and about 2 millimeter, preferably about 500 micrometer, or about 1 mm.
A particularly preferred marker is a marker having an inner-component with a thickness of between about 35 micrometer and about 950 micrometer, preferably about 85 micrometer.
Since the assembly of electrodes, integrated electric circuit and electroluminescent light-emitting element has a layered structure with a thickness of less than about 2 millimeter, e.g. about 500 micrometer or about 1 mm or about 85 micrometer, the surface area of a cross section of the container is be chosen starting from relatively small dimensions, e.g. a container with an essential tubular shape having an inner diameter of less than 5 cm, for example about 3 cm. Of course, also containers having larger dimensions in any cross sectional direction are applicable in the container of the marker of the invention, though for many applications the width and thickness of the container, or the diameter of the container are selected as small as possible in order to e.g. save material and improve the convenience of processing the marker.
An embodiment of the marker is disclosed, wherein the anode layer has a thickness of between about 10 micrometer and about 250 micrometer, preferably about 25 micrometer, the cathode layer has a thickness of between about 10 micrometer and about 250 micrometer, preferably about 25 micrometer, and the electroluminescent light-emitting element has a thickness of between about 15 micrometer and about 450 micrometer, preferably about 35 micrometer.
An embodiment of the marker is disclosed, wherein the anode layer has a thickness of about 25 micrometer, the cathode layer has a thickness of about 25 micrometer, and the electroluminescent light-emitting element has a thickness of about 35 micrometer.
The dimensions of the two electrodes and the electroluminescent light-emitting element are selected to be as minimal as possible. Not only to save material, though also for the purpose of limiting the size of the marker containing the electrodes and the electroluminescent light-emitting element inside the container, thereby improving the ease of handling and enlarging the number of possible applications, according to the invention. Of course, size limitations of the electrodes and the electroluminescent light-emitting element are mainly determined by the intensity of the emitted luminescent radiation required for the purpose at hand. For example, application of the marker of the invention in an office building indoor emerging routing plan requires smaller maximal dimensions of the electrodes and electroluminescent light-emitting element than for example application of the marker in an outdoor signaling and tracking system on an airport landing ground, for the purpose of directing incoming air vessels to the proper landing ground and the selected platform to be taxied to after landing, according to the invention. Typically, the overall thickness of the two electrodes and the electroluminescent light-emitting element is between about 200 micrometer and 1 mm, preferably about 500 micrometer, preferably less.
An embodiment of the marker is disclosed, wherein the container is an extended container, such as a tube, a ribbon, a strip, a beam, preferably a tube or a strip.
One of the many advantages of the system comprising a marker is the freedom to apply an electroluminescent light-emitting element and matching electrodes having a major surface area which has a relatively extended length in one dimension. Actually, it is now due to the system of markers wherein the markers are made in virtually any shape and accompanying size, as desirable by the circumstances. An "extended" length as used herein refers to the marker comprising a container having a length that is multiple times larger than the accompanying width and/or thickness of the container of the marker of the invention, and when the container has the shape of a tube or the like (e.g. a shape with an essentially circular or ellipsoidal cross section, etc.), multiple times larger than the accompanying (largest) diameter of the tube or the like. "Multiple times larger" has to be understood as at least about once, twice, thrice, etc., up to about ten times or hundred times longer than the dimension of the width or the diameter of the container. In fact, a container with any (extended) shape or any form applicable for accommodating the inner-component of the marker is suitable for application in the system comprising a marker of the invention. That is to say, for example a container with an extended form with a triangular cross section is used in the marker of the invention, or a container with an ellipsoidal or squaric cross section are used, although a strip or a tube are preferred for many applications of the marker.
The marker has a container which can adopt virtually any desired shape as long as, amongst other components, the two electrodes and the electroluminescent light-emitting element are properly encompassed by the container. In addition to the shapes such as a rod, a tube, a strip, a ribbon, etc., the container also has shapes such as an arrow, a circle, a number, a letter, text, a form such as a bicycle, any (traffic) sign, a square, a triangle, an ellipse, etc.
An embodiment of the marker is disclosed, wherein the extended container has a length of between about 1 cm and about 100 km, preferably between about 50 cm and about 30 km, more preferably between about 100 cm and about 10 km, most preferably between about 10 m and about 1 km.
A marker comprising a container with such an extended length of between one or a few centimeters up to dozens of kilometers, is particularly suitable for applications such as emergency lining, road side marking, middle of the road marking, driving lanes marking, train platform lining, (indoor, outdoor) exiting route lining, helicopter platform marking, marking of the grounds of an airport, etc. For example, for marking the lanes and the side of e.g. a highway, it is particularly beneficial to apply the marker of the invention encompassing a container having a length of one to several dozens of kilometers. Such an extended marker is controllable, for example remotely controllable, or functioning autonomously, all at once, through e.g. a single remote controller coupled to the integrated electric circuit. Herewith, improved supervision and improved control over the marker extended over a considerable large track of e.g. a highway, is established, contributing to improved guidance to the vehicles and drivers moving along the marker, and in need of adaptable signaling as to for example related to oncoming traffic jam, closed lane, junction. That is to say, the marker is used for example to inform the drivers driving alongside the marker of the invention implemented on or in the surface of e.g. a highway, by switching the marker on or off, or by changing the luminescence from one marker to another one, for example to direct traffic to a different lane, etc.
An embodiment of the marker is disclosed, wherein the extended container has a width of between about 1 cm and about 100 m, preferably between about 2 cm and about 30 m, more preferably between about 5 cm and about 10 m, most preferably between about 10 cm and about 1 m.
The marker is provided with a width suitable for a plethora of purposes. For example, a marker comprises a container with a width of between 2 cm and 12 cm, for example about 10 cm, which is particularly suitable for application in linings and as signs, text, etc., such as for emergency exit routing inside buildings, underground parking lots, cellars, and the like, and such as road side markings, lines, signs, text and stripes at or partially in the surface of pavements, roads, highways, cycle paths, sidewalks, train platforms, etc. The length of such markers is for most applications at least an order of magnitude larger than the width of the container comprised by the marker. In particular, a marker has a width encompassing for example completely or partly the width of a driver lane, a road, a race circuit, one or several or even all lanes of a road such as a highway, for example the one or more highway driver lanes approaching the gate of a toll booth. For example, a marker is used as a dynamic stop sign in a lane of a road, e.g. when a lane is (temporarily) blocked due to a red traffic light, an open bridge, a crossing train, an accident, traffic congestion, etc. Such marker is then for example switched off using a momentary switch that is remotely controllable, and switched on when required, e.g. emitting red-colored luminescent radiation.
An embodiment of the marker is disclosed, wherein at least one voltage converter is electrically connected to the integrated electric circuit, for electrically connecting the power supply to the marker.
It is part of the marker functionalities that the marker is provided with electrodes functioning with a voltage of between about 1 Volt and about 1000 Volt, preferably between about 1 Volt and 24 Volt, more preferably about 6 Volt, for a direct current application (DC), or that the marker is provided with electrodes functioning with a voltage of between 1 Volt and 1000 Volt, preferably about 120 Volt or about 240 Volt, for an alternating current application (AC), said voltages provided for by one or more voltage converter(s). In particular, markers comprise electrodes driving the electroluminescent light-emitting element at a voltage of for example about 6 V, about 12 V or about 24 V. For example, a marker comprises as the converter an AC/DC adapter receiving an input voltage of between 100 V and 240 V, providing a voltage to the anode of the inner-component of 24 V, resulting in a current of about 3A. In yet another example, a marker comprises an AC/DC adapter receiving an input voltage of between 100 V and 240 V, providing a voltage to the electrode of the anode of the inner-component of 12 V. It is part of the disclosure that the marker is construed in such a manner that the input voltage varies over a relatively wide range of voltages, e.g. between about 0.2 V and 240 V, or between 240 V and 20.000 V, or at about any of 240 V, 120 V, 110 V, 30 V, 12 V, 6 V. Typically, the electroluminescent light-emitting element in the marker consumes between about 0.3 Watt and 2 Watt per square meter, for example about 1 Watt per square meter. Typically, the electroluminescent light-emitting element in the marker provides for a lumen output of on average between about 70 candela and 120 candela. Such combinations of energy consumption and lumen output make the marker superior with regard to energy consumption when e.g. compared to application of conventional LEDs in e.g. road marking. In particular, the electroluminescent light sources in the marker consume down to about a half percent of the energy consumed by LEDs to be applied to be able to arrive at the similar lighted surface area to a similar light intensity. Furthermore, application of the marker makes the use of many if not all streetlights such as streetlights alongside highways, superfluous. Next to the enormous reduction in the energy consumption when switching from conventional streetlights to the marker, the marker further more comes with a reduced risk for health problems since the marker does not release metal vapor, which release of metal vapor does occur when using conventional streetlights comprising gas discharge lamps. A further advantage of the use of the marker, when compared to conventional passive markers illuminated from above using streetlights, is the more robust emission of luminescent light under influence of external circumstances, such as heavy rainfall and the like. That is to say, coverage of the marker of the disclosure does not hamper the performance of the electroluminescent light-emitting element with regard to the intensity of the emitted light under influence of a layer of for example rain water on top of the marker. In contrast, performance of conventional markers which have to be illuminated with streetlights, is severely hampered as a result of any precipitation on top of the marker.
An embodiment of the marker is disclosed, wherein two or more voltage converters are electrically connected to the integrated electric circuit at interval distances of between about 2 cm and 2000 m along the length of the container, preferably at interval distances of between about 1 m and about 150 m, more preferably at an interval distance of between about 35 m and about 70 m.
An important advantage of the marker is its extended length, compared to its width and thickness. By application of the electroluminescent light-emitting element in the marker, use of the marker for, for example, the road marking of highways and the like, is possible while applying a single marker for covering e.g. several kilometers of highway track. For such markers having a container with a length of over a couple of dozens of meters, application of a voltage converter at set interval distances along the length of the marker is part of the invention. For example, a series of voltage converters is electrically connected to the integrated electric circuit at interval distances of about 35 m or about 70 m, or even at longer interval distances. This way, a marker is provided with a beneficial extended length compared to conventional markers, accompanied with a virtually monotonous light output with regard to the intensity, alongside the whole length of the marker.
An embodiment of the marker is disclosed, wherein the electroluminescent light-emitting element comprises at least two electroluminescent pigments that luminesce at different wavelengths, wherein the at least two electroluminescent pigments are spatially separated, such that the marker can luminesce at least two colors.
The marker is provided with an electroluminescent light-emitting element comprising an electroluminescent pigment of a single type, or comprising two or more pigments of different types. With the markers comprising a single type of electroluminescent pigment, a single color is emitted, such as white, yellow-green, red, magenta, blue, dark blue. One of the many benefits of the invention, however, is now the marker may comprise multiple electroluminescent pigments of a different kind. This way, it is now possible to provide a marker capable of emitting a wide range of different colors, either simultaneously, or one after another. For example, a marker comprises an electroluminescent light-emitting element comprising spatially separated lanes of two, three or four, or even more, for example up to eight, different electroluminescent pigments. For example, a marker comprises an electroluminescent light-emitting element comprising spatially separated lanes of four different electroluminescent pigments, capable of separately emitting red light, green light, blue light and white light, according to the invention.
The marker of the invention being is capable to emit light of different colors opens the way to new applications, according to the disclosure. With the marker, it is for example now possible to switch the color of the emitted light by the marker, when desired by the circumstances. Turning the marker from green emitting light marker to red emitting light marker is beneficial in guiding and directing movement of e.g. vehicles, pedestrians, airplanes, etc.
An embodiment of the marker is disclosed, wherein the bottom surface part of the container is provided with means to adhere the marker to a surface material, such as an adhesive layer for adhering the marker to a surface material.
The marker of the disclosure has numerous beneficial applications. For example, the marker is applied as an electroluminescent lining or marking such as for a pedestrian crossing, on highways, at parking lots, in a parking garage, e.g. for directing an entering vehicle to a free parking lot or for directing an exiting car to the exit, on railway platforms, bus terminals, railway stations, airports, roads with toll gates, in public transport vehicles such as metro, train, bus, aircraft, ferry, vessel, ship, etc., in warehouses, for example at the ground surface or at the ceiling or for marking stored goods, in stockrooms, in stadiums such as soccer stadiums, in offices, universities, schools, in public space such as in and outside public buildings, hospitals, in museums, theatres, movie theatres, conference halls, department stores, malls such as shopping malls, and many more outdoor or indoor locations. The marker takes the form of an extended lining, or takes the form of any alternative shape applicable to its intended purpose of guiding, informing and directing subjects such as subjects driving vehicles, according to the disclosure. For many of the intended applications of the marker, the marker is beneficially supplied with any means suitable for adhering the marker to a surface, being it either temporary adherence or permanent adherence, i.e. a horizontal surface such as a road, floor, a ceiling, etc., or a vertical surface, such as for example a wall inside or outside a building, or the side of a vehicle such as used in any form of public transport, or a surface tilted to any degree between horizontal and vertical.
An embodiment of the marker is disclosed, wherein the surface material is made of any one or more selected from: concrete, asphalt, steel, wood, plastic, glass, fabric, glass made of any of acrylate resin, epoxy resin, two-component polyurethane resin, one-component polyurethane resin, polyester resin, acrylic resin, halogen resin, alkyd resin, epoxy resin, and polyvinylchloride, polypropylene, polycarbonate and polystyrene.
According to the disclosure, numerous applications for the marker are suitable. Such applications come with the need for temporarily or permanently adhering the marker to an equally broad array of possible surface materials. Therefore, it is part of the disclosure that the container comprised by the marker is supplied with means suitable for temporarily or permanently adhering to any type of surface material or any combination thereof, for example selected from the non-limiting list encompassing concrete, asphalt, steel, wood, plastic, glass, fabric, glass made of any of acrylate resin, epoxy resin, two-component polyurethane resin, one-component polyurethane resin, polyester resin, acrylic resin, halogen resin, alkyd resin, epoxy resin, and polyvinylchloride, polypropylene, polycarbonate and polystyrene.
An embodiment of the marker is disclosed, wherein the at least one electroluminescent pigment is selected from: zinc oxide, aluminum oxide and a mixture of zinc oxide and aluminum oxide, said pigment comprising one or more selected from: SrAl₂O₄: Eu, Dy, and Sr₄Al₁₄O₂₅:Eu²⁺Dy₃, and Sr₂MgSi₂O₇;Eu²⁺, and CaAl₁₂O₄:Eu²⁺, Nd³⁺, and Y₂Al₂O₄: Eu²⁺, Nd³⁺, and CaAl₂O₄; Eu²⁺, Nd³⁺, and Y₂Al₂O₄:Eu²⁺, Nd³⁺, and Al₂O₃ and ZnO, or selected from ZnS such as ZnS:Cu, YAG and ZnS;Cu, Mn, and ZnS:Cu, Dy, and ZnS:Cu, Al, and (Zn, Cd) S:Cu (Zn Cd) S:Cu, and ZnS:Cu, Mn, and ZnS:Cu, Mn, and (Zn, Cd)(S,Se):Cu, preferably the electroluminescent pigment is ZnS: Cu, Al.
As said before, it is now due to the configuration of the marker, that the marker equally beneficially comprises an electroluminescent light-emitting element comprising an electroluminescent pigment of a single type, or comprises an electroluminescent light-emitting element comprising more than one electroluminescent pigment of a plurality of types. Such pigments are known in the art, and the above mentioned series of pigments suitable for incorporation in the marker is therefore non-limiting. For example, in a marker of the disclosure, aluminum oxide is applied said aluminum oxide comprising Y₂Al₂O₄: Eu²⁺, Nd³⁺. Particularly beneficial is the use of the pigment ZnS: Cu, Al in the electroluminescent light-emitting element applied in the marker.
An embodiment of the marker is disclosed, wherein the extended container is a tube with an outer-diameter of between about 0.5 cm and about 5 cm, preferably about 3.5 cm, and with an inner diameter of about 0.4 cm and 4.9 cm, preferably about 3.0 cm, wherein the tube is made of polyurethane acrylate resin, wherein the electroluminescent pigment is ZnS: Cu, Al.
Such a marker comprising said tube and with the electroluminescent light-emitting element comprising ZnS: Cu, Al, is particularly suitable for application in e.g. a slit milled in the surface of e.g. a road or a railway platform. Equally applicable is the use of said marker on e.g. the inside walls of a public transport vehicle or on the walls or ceiling of e.g. an office building, for the purpose of providing emergency exit routing and the like. Preferably, the container forming the tube is made of a polyurethane acrylate resin. Preferably, the electroluminescent light-emitting element comprises for example four different electroluminescent pigments capable of emitting white, blue, red and green light. Preferably, the inner diameter of the tubular container is about 3 cm. Typically and preferably, the thickness of the two electrodes and the electroluminescent light-emitting element is about 150 micrometer to about 1 mm, such as about 200 micrometer or about 500 micrometer, according to the invention.
An embodiment of the marker is disclosed, wherein the extended container is a strip with a length of between about 1 cm and about 100 m, a width of between about 10 cm and 100 m, a thickness of between about 0.5 cm and about 5 cm, preferably the length is between about 25 cm and about 10 m, preferably the width is between about 50 cm and about 50 m, preferably the thickness is between about 1 cm and 2 cm, wherein the strip is made of epoxy resin, wherein the electroluminescent pigment is ZnS: Cu, Al.
Such a marker comprising a container shaped as a strip, or a line, is particularly suitable for application as markings alongside railway platforms, on airport grounds, landing tracks for planes, linings on roads such as highways and the like. As an example, the marker comprises a container shaped as an extended line made of for example epoxy resin optionally supplied with a layer of glass such as for example Lumiglass frits, having a yellow-green color and a thickness of about 3 to 5 mm, located at the top surface side of the container, the container encompassing an inner-component, said inner-component comprising an electroluminescent light-emitting element comprising a white light emitting electroluminescent pigment and said electroluminescent light-emitting element together with the anode and the cathode having a thickness of about 1 mm and said three components each having a width of about 10 cm. The applied electroluminescent pigment in such a line marker is preferably ZnS: Cu, Al.
An embodiment of the marker is disclosed, wherein the integrated electric circuit is provided with means for receiving a signal, preferably wireless means, said signal provided by preferably at least one sensor, an antenna and/or a reflector, more preferably at least one sensor, such that the activation of the momentary switch and/or the activation of the dimmer is controlled by the intensity of the received signal.
An embodiment of the marker is disclosed, wherein the sensor is one or more of a sensor for sensing light intensity, number of passing objects such as vehicles, velocity of passing objects, moisture at or surrounding the marker, fog, type and/or intensity of precipitation, temperature, smoke, gas, motion of an object in the surrounding of the marker, motion of the marker, flue, fire, wear of the marker, day light intensity, an object.
An embodiment of the marker is disclosed, wherein the luminescence of the electroluminescent light-emitting element is remotely controllable.
An embodiment of the marker is disclosed, wherein the integrated electric circuit comprises a microprocessor such that the luminescence of the electroluminescent light-emitting element is programmable.
Providing the marker with a microprocessor allows for controlling the luminescence of the marker, such as remotely controlling, according to the disclosure. In addition, providing the marker with a microprocessor allows for autonomous operation of the marker, according to the disclosure. For example, a signal provided by e.g. a remote sensor or system of sensors to the marker, is autonomously processed by an integrated electronic circuit comprising the microprocessor, comprised by the marker, and subsequently, the integrated electronic circuit autonomously provides the integrated electric circuit with a predetermined signal resulting in adaptation of the luminescence to current circumstances, according to the disclosure. For example, the marker autonomously shifts from off to on when a sensor senses a threshold intensity decrease of the daylight, whereupon the integrated electronic circuit of the marker receives a predetermined signal, resulting in operation of the momentary switch and/or dimmer, according to the disclosure.
An embodiment of the marker is disclosed, suitable for use at the surface of a road and/or for use when at least partly embedded or integrated in the surface of a road.
It is appreciated by the skilled person that the material selected for the container of the marker, is selectable related to its strength and wear resistance, when the marker is e.g. implemented in the top layer of a road surface, such as in a preformed slit in the asphalt, according to the disclosure. Of course, wear resistance is of concern when the marker is applied under circumstances where objects such as vehicles and/or subjects cross the marker, and therefore, for such applications of the marker, the container is made of the suitable material with regard to (partial) transparency, together with a suitable strength and wear resistance, as the circumstances may require, according to the disclosure.
According to the disclosure, the marker is suitably provided with power from various power supplies, known in the art. The marker is for example provided with at least one voltage converter, such that the marker is suitably connected to a grid, according to the disclosure. Alternatively, such marker is provided with a battery electrically connected to the converter and further electrically connected to for example a photovoltaic cell, any means which converts wind energy in electrical energy, such as means involving one or more wind mills, any means which converts hydropower in electrical energy, any means which converts tidal flow in electrical energy, etc., etc., according to the disclosure. Of course, equally applicable is the marker provided with means to receive power from a conventional generator or battery, the battery to be replaced when empty, according to the disclosure.
A second aspect of the invention is the use of a system comprising a marker according to any of the aforementioned embodiments, for guiding the movement of at least one object such as a vehicle, and/or of at least one subject, by providing with the marker a predetermined intensity and/or at least one color of the luminescence of the electroluminescent light-emitting element, and/or by providing with the marker a predetermined alternation of the intensity and/or at least one color of the luminescence of the electroluminescent light-emitting element, such that the movement of the object and/or the subject is within a predetermined range of velocity and/or in a predetermined direction.
As said before, it is one of the many benefits of the system of the current invention that the marker is provided with an electroluminescent light-emitting element comprising one, two, three, four, five, etc., electroluminescent pigments, of which luminescence is simultaneously adjustable and controllable separately from each other. Thus, markers comprising multiple luminescent pigments, being able to luminesce an array of different colors one after another or simultaneously, are suitable for the abovementioned use according to the invention, as well as one or multiple markers comprising a single type of luminescent pigment, according to the disclosure. For example, a marker comprising multiple pigments capable of providing multiple discrete colors, is applied for the purpose of being able to provide vehicles or subjects with a change in color of the emitted light by the marker, whereby each color contains a separate message or discrete information, according to the disclosure. For example, a marker comprises a pigment for red luminescence and a further pigment for green luminescence, providing the marker with the capability to provide a red or green sign, suitable for example to provide the public with the information whether entrance of e.g. a platform or use of a driver lane is allowed or not, etc. This is just one example of the plethora of possibilities for use of the single-colored marker of the invention or the multi-colored marker, as is appreciated by the skilled person.
A third aspect, non-claimed, relates to a terminal block for connecting a marker, comprising a receptacle configured to receive an end portion of an electroluminescent marker; fixation means for fixing the end portion of the marker inside the receptacle; electric means for providing electricity to the marker to cause the electroluminescent marker to generate light; a communication unit to exchange data and commands with another device; and a control unit configured to control the provision of the electricity to the electroluminescent element in dependence on the received commands.
In one embodiment, the terminal block comprises the communication unit, wherein said communication unit is configured to transmit and/or receive a signal through a communication media of the marker.
Preferred is the terminal block, further comprising a further receptacle for receiving a further end portion of a further marker; power means for receiving power from a wire within the marker and providing at least part of the power to a wire within the further marker and providing at least part of the power to an electric component of the terminal block.
In one embodiment, the terminal block further comprises an electrically conductive displacement blade positioned corresponding to a position of an electric wire in the marker, wherein the displacement blade is configured to cut an insulation portion of the marker and contact the electric wire corresponding to the displacement blade to form an electric connection between the displacement blade and the corresponding electric wire, when the marker is inserted into the receptacle.
Preferred is the terminal block, wherein the displacement blade is oriented in a transverse direction with respect to the marker.
According to the invention, the terminal block comprises an optical transmitter or an optical receiver to transmit or receive an optical signal through container material of the marker or through an optic fiber inside the marker.
In one embodiment, the terminal block comprises an inductive coil to transmit or receive an electric signal into or from the marker.
In one embodiment, the terminal block further comprises a sensor, wherein the control unit is configured to: transmit a signal to a remote device in dependence on a signal received from the sensor or control a luminescence of the marker in dependence on the signal received from the sensor.
Preferred is a marker, comprising an electrically conductive wire extending in a longitudinal direction of the marker from a first end of the marker to a second end of the marker, wherein the conductive wire preferably has substantially the same axial position throughout the marker.
In one embodiment, the marker comprises an electrical connection between the conductive wire and the anode layer or the cathode layer.
In one embodiment, the marker comprises an electrical connection between the conductive wire and the anode layer or the cathode layer, and comprises a plurality of the inner-components distributed longitudinally in the marker, each anode layer or cathode layer of the plurality of inner-components having an electrical connection to the conductive wire.
A fourth aspect, non-claimed, relates to an area node comprising a power supply configured to provide power to at least one terminal block, a communication unit configured to exchange communication signals with the at least one terminal block and with a control center; and a control unit to control operations of the area node based on received signals.
A fifth aspect, non-claimed, relates to a control center comprising a storage media storing a digital representation of a plurality of interconnected area nodes, terminal blocks, and markers, wherein each marker is physically attached to at least one terminal block, each terminal block is physically attached to at least one marker and has a data connection to at least one area node, and each area node has a data connection to at least one terminal block and to the control center; said digital representation comprising information of connections and physical attachments between the area nodes, the terminal blocks, and the markers, luminescence status information of the markers, or information of sensor signals collected by sensors of the terminal blocks.
A sixth aspect, non-claimed, relates to a method of controlling a plurality of electroluminescent markers, comprising inserting at least one end of each marker into a terminal block of a plurality of terminal blocks, and connecting at least one of the terminal blocks to an area node of a plurality of area nodes, and connecting the area nodes to a command center, and sending a command from the command center, via the area node, to a terminal block of the plurality of terminal blocks, to cause a specific one of the electroluminescent markers to generate luminescence.
When an autonomously driving car encounters a human subject, the method provides the necessary guidance to said human subject with regard to the proper act to be performed relating to the actual movement of said car along a plurality of electroluminescent markers.
Conventionally, car drivers who meet at a crossroads in an ambiguous situation communicate with hands and feet in these situations. Car drivers use body language to communicate with each other to negotiate complex traffic situations. If an autonomously driving vehicle such as a car for human transport is added in such a situation, the situation becomes difficult or even troublesome because the conventional body language is no longer available as a measure for controlling the movement of one or more autonomously driving cars for example also relating to the presence and perhaps even concomitant movement of one or more subjects such as human subjects, e.g. pedestrians, cyclists, etc. The method and means of the current disclosure now offers a solution for this situation wherein autonomously moving vehicles such as cars encounter human subjects such as human subjects driving a conventional car or cyclists or pedestrians, etc. The current inventors now established the method providing for a standard that allows autonomous vehicles to control the road markings of the current disclosure to represent the decisions of the computer comprised by the autonomously moving vehicle and communicating with the command center of the disclosure, according to the method of the disclosure. When an autonomous vehicle has decided to drive, e.g. start driving from an idle situation, e.g. when parked along side a street or at a crossing of streets, the corresponding road sections are blocked by geometry using light. That is to say, preferably the colour red is used for closures of a section of a road, when applying the marker of the disclosure in the method according to the disclosure. If an autonomous vehicle releases a road section, i.e. passed a given section of a road, the passageway is also indicated, for example, by a green light and for example a zebra crossing sign in the road surface or continuous green stripes of light. The colour blue is known to wake up and increase concentration for a human subject. In for example heavily trafficked sections of the track of a road used by e.g. a combination of autonomously driving vehicles, (crossing) pedestrians, cyclists, cars driven, i.e. conventionally controlled, by a human subject, the blue colour can be used to illuminate sections of the marker by applying the method of the disclosure, and enable the driver to e.g. concentrate, keep track, etc. Digital Beacons implemented in the marker allow a vehicle such as an autonomously driving car to recognize if it is still on the road and for example if it is still following a predetermined route towards a selected destination.
The invention relates to a smart marking system. Reference is made to Figure 11 and the Examples outlined below in the Examples section, providing a detailed description of the smart marking system of the invention.
While the invention has been described in terms of several embodiments, it is contemplated that alternatives, modifications, permutations and equivalents thereof will become apparent to one having ordinary skill in the art upon reading the specification and upon study of the drawings. The invention is not limited in any way to the illustrated embodiments. Changes can be made without departing from the scope which is defined by the appended claims.
The present invention will be illustrated further by means of the following nonlimiting Examples.

EXAMPLES

Examples 1-5: Markers according to different embodiments of the invention

Figure 1 shows the cross sectional view of a marker. The marker 10 comprises a container 11 having the extended shape of a tube (circular cross-section), upper surface part 12, lower surface part 13.
Figure 2 shows a schematic drawing of a marker . The marker 10' comprises a container 11' having the extended shape of a tube (circular cross-section), a dimmer 14, a momentary switch 15, electrically connected to an integrated electric circuit 16. The container further encompasses an inner-component 17, said inner-component comprising an anode 18 and a cathode 19, and an electroluminescent light-emitting element 20. The integrated electric circuit is electrically connected with a power supply 21.
Figure 3 schematically shows a cross-sectional view of a marker. The marker 100 comprises a container shaped as an elongated strip 110. The upper surface part 120 and lower surface part 130 of the container are indicated.
Figure 4 schematically represents a marker 200. The marker is provided with a rod shaped container 201. The integrated electric circuit 202 is wirelessly connected to remote sensors 203, remote controller 204, and is provided with a converter 205 electrically connected with a grid 206.
Figure 5 is a schematic representation of a marker 300. The marker functions autonomously, receives input signals from wirelessly connected remote sensors 301, which input signals are processed by a microprocessor 302, autonomously resulting in the marker emitting electroluminescent radiation to a certain extent and of a selected color. The marker 300 is electrically connected to a battery 303, which in turn is electrically connected with a photovoltaic cell 304.
Figure 6 shows a cross sectional view of a marker
The marker is provided with a container 2 shaped as a line encompassing an inner-component, said inner-component comprising an anode layer and a cathode layer, an integrated electric circuit electrically connected thereto, and an electroluminescent light-emitting element comprising one electroluminescent pigment emitting white light. The container 2 is made of epoxy resin and is provided with a top layer 3 at the top surface part of the container 2, said top layer made of Lumiglass frits with a thickness of about 3 to 5 mm and having a yellow-green color. The layers of the two electrodes and the electroluminescent light-emitting element are provided as an electroluminescent ribbon 1 having a width of about 10 cm and a thickness of about 1 mm. The marker is further comprising an AC/DC adapter receiving an input voltage of 100 V to 240 V and providing an output voltage to the electrodes of 12 V. The marker further comprises a momentary switch as a controller for switching the integrated electric circuit on and off, thereby activating or deactivating the electroluminescent light-emitting element.
Figure 7 shows a cross sectional view of a marker
The marker is provided with a container 6' shaped as a tube with an approximate inner diameter of 3 cm and encompassing an inner-component, said inner-component comprising an anode layer and a cathode layer, an integrated electric circuit electrically connected thereto, and an electroluminescent light-emitting element, altogether together forming the indicated assembly 5', wherein the electroluminescent light-emitting element comprises four lanes with each lane made of a different electroluminescent pigment 1'-4' emitting red light, green light, blue light and white light, respectively. The container 6' is made of polyurethane acrylate resin. The marker is further comprising as a power source an AC/DC adapter receiving an input voltage of 100 V to 240 V and providing an output voltage to the electrodes of 24 V, herewith facilitating a current of 3 A. The marker further comprises a switch as a controller for switching the integrated electric circuit on and off, thereby activating or deactivating the electroluminescent light-emitting element, and further for selecting the emission of luminescent light provided by any of the four different lanes comprising the four different electroluminescent pigments 1'-4'.

Further examples

Fig. 8 shows an example of a terminal block 810. Fig. 8A shows a cross sectional view of the terminal block 810, whereas Fig. 8B shows a longitudinal view of the terminal block 810. A terminal block 810 is an optional construction configured to hold an end portion of a light tube or e.g. an elongated electroluminescent marker 807. In the example shown in Fig. 8B, the terminal block 810 holds two markers 807, 812, thereby providing a form of connection between the two markers 807, 812. The terminal block 810 can alternatively be configured to hold only one marker, or more than two markers (not illustrated). The terminal block 810 may facilitate the provision of markers in a construction, such as a road or a building. Moreover, the terminal block may facilitate the operation and control of a marker after installation.
The terminal block 810 may comprise walls defining a receptacle for at least one marker 807. An upper wall (or any of the other walls) of the receptacle may be transparent to allow any luminescence generated by the end portion of the marker to be visible. In addition or alternatively, the terminal block 810 may comprise one or more clamps to clamp an end portion of a marker 807. Yet alternatively, the marker 807 may be fixed to the terminal block 810 using any suitable fixation means, such as a screw or nail. A seal may be provided around the marker 807, in between the walls of the terminal block 810 and the marker 807, so that an opening between the walls of the terminal block 810 and the marker 807 is closed, so that an inside of the terminal block 810 may be made water tight.
The example terminal block 810 shown in the drawing has means to easily attach an end portion of a marker 807, and at the same time provide electrical connectivity to the electrically conductive elements inside the marker 807.
The marker 807 may comprise or form a container. The container may be made at least partially of a transparent material. The material of the container may be an electric insulator, such as a resin. The marker 807 may contain an inner-component with electroluminescent material 803, as described in greater detail elsewhere in this document. Moreover, a cathode layer and an anode layer may be provided on opposite sides of the layer of electroluminescent material 803, as shown for example in Fig. 2, 4 and 5. The anode and cathode may be electrically shielded.
The marker may further comprise at least one power line 804 which extends in longitudinal direction within the marker, wherein the at least one power line is electrically isolated from the cathode and anode of the electroluminescent material 803. This electrical isolation may be realized by means of the container material, which may be present in between the power line 804 and the electroluminescent material 803 for example. An electrically conductive wire 808 may electrically connect the cathode to the power line 804. Another electrically conductive wire may connect the anode to another power line 808'.
At number 809 it is illustrated how consecutive segments of electroluminescent material may be electrically separated from each other. Such optional electrical separation of segments of electroluminescent material may be provided at regular intervals within the marker 807. Each segment may be connected to the power line, as shown in Fig. 8B, by means of wires 808. The marker may be cut at any place, and electricity may be provided from the terminal block 810 to the electroluminescent materials through the power line 4 and the wires 808.
The marker 807 may further comprise at least one data bus 805. The data bus 805 may comprise at least one electrically conductive wire extending in longitudinal direction through the marker 807. Through the data bus, terminal blocks arranged at opposite ends of a marker may communicate, for example. The axial positions of the power line 804 and data bus 805 shown in the drawing are merely examples. They may be arranged at different positions.
The terminal block 810 may comprise at least one electric terminal configured to cooperate with the marker 807, so that the electric terminal cuts through the container material and touches a corresponding power wire 804 or bus 805, when the marker 807 is inserted into the terminal block 810. For example, insulation displacement blade 801 is configured to have dimensions and a position in the terminal block 810 corresponding to the position of the power line 804 in the marker 807, and the insulation displacement blade 801 cuts through the side of the container material (e.g. resin) of the marker 810 and touches the power line 804 when the marker 807 is inserted into the terminal block 801 by exerting pressure on the marker 807 in a downward direction 813. As another example, the comb blades 802 are configured to cut through the bottom of the marker 810 and touch the data bus 805 when the marker 810 is inserted in a downward direction into the terminal block 810. To insert the marker 807 from above, a top surface of the terminal block 810 may be removable. Alternative configurations of the insulation displacement blades 801 or comb blades 802, for example oriented in different directions, are conceivable.
Inside the terminal block 810, the blades may be electrically connected to an electric circuit. This electric circuit may be implemented at least in part using a printed circuit board (PCB) 806. For example, an amplifier may be built into the terminal block 810 to amplify electric signals transmitted to the cathode and anode. Also, the electricity and signals received from a first marker 807 may be forwarded to corresponding wires of a second marker 812. The terminal block 810 may further comprise a control unit, which may be mounted on the PCB 806, for example. The control unit may comprise a computer processor or FPGA, for example. This way intelligent control functions and data processing functions can be implemented.
The wires extending in longitudinal direction through the marker may have the same axial position throughout the marker, to facilitate the connections in respect of the blades, or other transmission components, of the terminal block.
Fig. 9 shows an alternative example of a terminal block. Similar elements are indicated with the same reference numerals as used in Fig. 8, and do not need to be described in detail again.
Fig. 9 illustrates two alternative transmission technologies in conjunction with the marker 807 and the terminal block 910. Either of these two transmission technologies may be used, alone or in combination, to replace one or more of the blades 801, 802 of Fig. 8.
The transmission technology according to the invention is based on optical communication. The terminal block 910 comprises an optical sender 902 and an optical receiver 905. The optical sender 902 is configured to transmit an optical signal through the marker 807 to an optical receiver located at another end of the marker 807 (not shown). The optical receiver is configured to detect a light signal arriving through the marker 807 at the terminal block 910. For example, the material of the container of the marker 807 may be used as a light guide. For example, this material may comprise a transparent resin. Alternatively, the marker 807 may comprise an optic fiber cable extending in longitudinal direction of the marker 807 in a position corresponding to the position of the optical sender 902 or optical receiver 905. The optical sender 902 couples light signals into the optic fiber cable and the optical receiver 905 detects light signals received through the optic fiber cable. The optical sender 902 and optical receiver 905 may operate under control of the control unit. Similar optical sender and optical receiver may be provided for the second marker 812. The control unit may be configured to forward the signals received from the first marker 807 to the second marker 812. The control unit may also be configured to switch the electroluminescent function of the marker on or off in dependence on the received signals. Moreover, the optical sender 902 and the optical receiver 905 may be mounted on the PCB directly and optically coupled to the marker 807, 812 or optical fiber.
The second, alternative transmission technology is based on induction. A coil 901 may be provided with a dimension corresponding to a dimension of the marker 807. The marker 807 may be inserted into the coil 901, so that the coil at least substantially surrounds a cross section of the marker 807. The coil 901 may be electrically connected to the circuit on the PCB. Electric signals and/or electric power may be conveyed from the terminal block 910 to the marker 807 by means of the coil 901. Likewise, electric signals inside the marker 807 may be detected by means of the coil 901. Moreover, in view of the fact that the pigment of the electroluminescent material needs a certain frequency to glow, an inductive transmission of the needed conductive field may be realized. Other configurations of the coil are also possible.
It will be understood that the transmission techniques disclosed in Fig. 8 and 9 may be combined in any desirable way. An electric wire, the container material, or an optic fiber are all examples of communication media allowing the terminal block to transmit and receive a signal through the marker.
Fig. 10 shows a part of a street 1001, which comprises two markers 1003 and three terminal blocks 1002, and an area node and power supply 1004. It will be understood that this example may be extended to any number of markers 1003, terminal blocks 1002, and area nodes and power supplies 1004. The drawing shows that the markers 1003 and/or the terminal blocks 1002 may be fitted in a recess in the street surface. Moreover, an optional control cabinet 1005 is shown that may be a housing for an area node and/or power supply 1004. The area node and power supply 1004 may, alternatively, be implemented without cabinet. The area node contains hardware comprising electronics configured to control operation of a number of connected terminal blocks 1002 and markers 1003. Besides the control function, also power may be supplied from the control cabinet 1005 to the terminal blocks 1002.
As shown in Fig. 10, the area node and power supply 1004 may be directly connected to one or more of the terminal blocks 1007. The power and control signals provided by the area node and power supply 1004 may be forwarded from the directly connected terminal block 1007, through its marker 1003, to another terminal block 1006 at the opposite end of the marker 1003. Techniques for transmitting and receiving power and signals through the marker 1003 have been described with reference to Fig. 8 and Fig. 9. The terminal block 1006 may be configured to receive the signals and power from the first marker 1003 connected to it, and forward the power and/or signals to the second marker 1008 connected to the terminal block 1006. These signals and power may subsequently be received by the terminal block 1002 on the opposite end of the marker 1008. The control unit of each terminal block 1002, 1006, 1007 may be configured to perform certain actions in response to the received signals. For example, the terminal blocks may be programmed by means of the control signals to activate each marker 1008, 1003 separately and individually.
For example, the area node 1004 may comprise a communications unit to connect the area node 1004 to a wide area network (WAN), such as the Internet or a wireless cellular network. Through that WAN, the area node 1004 may connect to a remote control center (not shown), which allows the area node, for example, to receive commands from the remote control center and/or send information to the remote control center. Commands from the control center may include commands to switch certain markers on or off. Such commands may optionally include a time when to switch, or a condition for switching the marker on or off. Further, the commands may include information about a color of light to be generated by a marker (in case of a marker that can generate light in multiple colors). Information to be sent to the control center may include a confirmation of the received command, or sensed information. The area node may be connected to one or more sensors; collected information from the sensors may be sent to the control center. These sensors may be included in the terminal nodes. Examples of sensors are air quality sensors, proximity sensors to detect presence of an object such as a vehicle above the terminal node, and the like. Finally, error conditions may be transmitted from the area node 1004 to the control center. Error conditions may occur, for example, if one or more of the terminal nodes or markers is broken. For example, if no signal is received from a certain terminal node for a certain amount of time, a corresponding failure message may be transmitted to the control center.
Typically and preferred, a system of the invention comprising at least one marker, one or more area node(s), a power supply, one or more communication unit(s) and terminal node(s) and optionally a control cabinet according the invention and here above outlined, encompasses Multi Master Protocols or Profibus, preferably Multi Master Protocols for the outlined internal communication. According to the invention, the system of the invention is using a wide area networking standard such as TCP/IP, LTE or the like, for wide area networking.
The control center may provide a user interface to an end user. For example, this may be provided by means of a display, keyboard, mouse, and/or touch screen. Alternatively, the control center may be configured to communicate with at least one mobile device. Information about the markers, such as status information, and/or information collected by the sensors, may be transmitted to the mobile device. This transmission may be performed automatically by the control center, for example at regular intervals or when a predetermined event occurs. The transmission of information to the mobile device may also be performed by the control center in response to a request from the mobile device. The mobile device may be configured to display the information on a display of the mobile device. The mobile device may further be configured to receive an input from a user, for example via a touch screen of the mobile device, and to send a command to the control center in response to the input. This way, the markers can be controlled remotely using the mobile device, and alarm messages may be delivered to the mobile device. The mobile device may be, for example, a smartphone or tablet. The mobile device may be configured by means of an application that is loaded to run on the mobile device under control of an operating system, such as Android, iOS, or Windows.
Terminal nodes may also comprise communication subsystems for wireless communication with vehicles, to detect and/or guide vehicles and communicate therewith. Markers may be switched on and off in dependence on the sensed vehicles and in dependence on the messages exchanged with vehicles.
Furthermore, Terminal Blocks may be "invisible" markers, which are detectable by computers. Each terminal block can be customized by sensors, beacons or navigation information. Terminal Blocks may be configured to act both as a connectors for easy installation of the system and to provide a marker that is visible to computers, such as, such as computers of vehicles. The Area Nodes (or 'wide area nodes') may be configured to maintain a connection to a wide area network so that the markers may be controlled from remote locations. Area Nodes may be configured to store a programmed model, so that the system can operate autonomously without a central computer system. This can make the markers reactive to local events. For example, lights can turn on and off automatically depending on the model.
The markers, terminal blocks, and control center may communicate by means of a custom protocol using reliable industry grade line codes for safe communication. Each node may be accessed by using encryption. Every node may be represented by an abstract data set, which is self-similar to the node itself in that it contains a software representation of relevant hardware and functional features of the node.
A setup kit can be prepared to allow the construction efficiently. All components may be designed in a way so that road workers can keep an efficient workflow. The markers (for example Cathode Light Tubes) can be delivered on a cable reel so that existing trucks and well-known infrastructure can be used. Periodically, for example every 70 meters up to 1 km, a Terminal Block can be used to segment the markers. The marker reels contain marker tubes that can have cutting marks to indicate where they can be divided. However, depending on the marker used, the marker can be cut at any point. Terminal Blocks can connect two markers with each other. Moreover, Area Nodes can connect strings of markers with each other. As a result an Area Node can act as a model for the subsequent configuration of Terminal Blocks and markers.
The control center may comprise computer hardware and a computer program. The control center can provide a display with graphical user interface to show what actually happens within the attached system of markers. The back-end of the software can be used to define the behavior of the markers. After the system has been installed, all nodes can report themselves to the control center and deliver diagnostic information. The user of the system can use the user interface of the control center to configure the markers. Once the behavior is defined, it can be safely stored. Copies of (relevant parts of) the configuration can be saved inside the control center and inside each area node and/or terminal block. Each node can be part of the software and contain exactly the same information. This structure makes it possible that each node may operate autonomously by reacting to sensors and taking action autonomously. The user interface can provide different kinds of indications to a user. First, actions which need attention, such as warnings, updates or the status of the system can be indicated. This might be a malfunction or a report of unwanted events like i.e. a car on fire which could be detected by a sensor or other events in the environment. Second, a view and all nodes of the installed system can be displayed. The nodes can be browsed and relevant information can be shown. Reports and statistics may be generated and output to the user. Third, the model may be shown. The model comprises information collected as part of the teach-in process. A visual representation of the collection of nodes can be generated.
Terminal blocks may maintain the connectivity of the system. Power from solar-, wind- or other independent power sources or the mains can provide power to the system. The system may operate at any voltage. For example, a low voltage such as 24 Volts may be used, but this is not a limitation. Each terminal block may contain a custom electronics which may contain a control unit, such as a microprocessor or microcomputer, to maintain communication, measure sensor values, and control the markers. Different types of sensors can be included in the terminal blocks. Terminal blocks may also be connected to the main power supply where it is needed. Terminal Blocks may connect two cathode light tubes with each other, both for system setup or repair purposes. For example, if a marker is broken at some point, the broken ends may be connected through a terminal block. Terminal blocks may be used to create chains of cathode light tube segments to form strings of markers. In a particular implementation, a string of markers and terminal blocks connected to an area node may be visible to the control center as one node. This makes control easier or more efficient. Area nodes may form an access point to a wider network like the internet or other wide range communication. Area nodes may provide connectivity for computers, can be connected with each other to build a network, and may have a connection for strings of cathode light tubes.
Terminal blocks may have a geometry which fits exactly to the markers (light tubes). Markers may be held in place and become water tight by sealing any gap between the marker tube and the terminal block. Inside the terminal block, there may be room for connecting the light tubes by classic connectors or insulation displacement connectors (IDC).
Some aspects of the invention may be suitable for being implemented in form of software, in particular a computer program product. The computer program product may comprise a computer program stored on a non-transitory computer-readable media. Also, the computer program may be represented by a signal, such as an optic signal or an electro-magnetic signal, carried by a transmission medium such as an optic fiber cable or the air. The computer program may partly or entirely have the form of source code, object code, or pseudo code, suitable for being executed by a computer system. For example, the code may be executable by one or more processors.
The examples and embodiments described herein serve to illustrate rather than limit the invention. The person skilled in the art will be able to design alternative embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. Reference signs placed in parentheses in the claims shall not be interpreted to limit the scope of the claims. Items described as separate entities in the claims or the description may be implemented as a single hardware or software item combining the features of the items described.

Example: smart marking system of the invention

Figure 11 outlines a exemplifying smart marking system 51 of the invention, suitable for, for example, road marking, etc. With reference to the Figure 11, the smart marking system 51 in this example comprises:

Two or more Terminal blocks 40;
One or more Cathode light tubes 41, optionally and preferably containing one or more sensors, the cathode light tubes 41 preceded and followed at both ends by a terminal block 40;
At least one of the terminal blocks 40 comprising a guard 42 such as for example a guard 42 optionally comprising a sensor module;
The terminal block 40 depicted at the lower left of the Figure 11 connected with a first area node 43 such as a wide area node, such as connected via a wire 44, or for example optically connected or wirelessly connected;
The first area node 43 such as a wide area node connected to a second area node 43 such as a wide area node, either wired with wire 45 or optically or wirelessly;
The second area node 43 such as a wide area node connected to a control surface 48 through wire 47 or by optical communication means or wirelessly connected;
The smart marking system 51 further optionally comprising two or more cathode light tubes 41 provided and connected at their both ends with terminal blocks 40, the two or more cathode light tubes 41 positioned essentially parallel to each other, and the two or more cathode light tubes 41 positioned essentially parallel to each other being connected to each other by wire 50 or by optical means or otherwise wirelessly connected, and at least one of the cathode light tubes 41 oriented parallel with yet at least one further cathode light tube connected to a third area node 43 such as a wide area node 43 by either wire 49, or by applying optical means, or by applying otherwise wireless communication means, the third area node 43 such as a wide area node 43 being connected with wire 46 or by applying optical means, or by applying otherwise wireless communication means, with said second area node 43 such as a wide area node, therewith connecting said third area node with the control surface 48.

The smart marking system 51 of the invention is for example applied as a wide area street lighting application which then consists of three elementary components: Cathode Light Tubes 41, Terminal Blocks 40 and (Wide) Area Nodes 43. The system comprises three layers: The Light Tubes 41 and their corresponding node-hardware for connectivity purposes. A "Teach-In Toolkit" which is used during manufacturing i.e. to install the system to imprint each node with environment information so that the system is subsequently capable of adjusting itself. The third layer is the control surface 48 for the user and controller of the system 51. The control surface 48 maintains access to all information comprised by the system 51. The control surface 48 is for example used to configure the behavior of the system. Furthermore the control surface 48 and its adjacent components is for example used to program the behavior and the actions of the system 51. This control surface 48 is for example capable of turning on and off the lightbulbs in a lighting system for a highway or e.g. in a guidance system including feedback of sensors.
Road markings define the lanes. At smaller streets labels define the allowed directions for the road user. Communication in one way or the other is required for proper flow of traffic on a road: What is allowed? Who is allowed to use the road (pedestrian, car, bike, bus)? Who owns the higher priority? Means for navigation of users of a road are for example arrows which direct cars into the right, i.e. desired or safe direction. For example so-called Turbo Roundabouts are in need of markers to indicate where the chosen lane leads to. Bike symbols or other pictograms may direct the road user to a selected and desired, safe lane. With regard to safe traffic, road markings of the invention define the middle line of streets and divide directions of the traffic. Labels and Signs markers of the invention indicate that for example sharp and/or dangerous curves are ahead, allowing timely adaption of speed, etc.
In one embodiment, the smart marking system of the invention is provided as a modular kit comprising the one or more Cathode Light Tubes 41, Terminal Blocks 40 and Area Nodes 43. The Cathode Light Tubes 41 are the active visible part which is visible to the human eye. The light tubes 41 are for example applied to mark roads, or provide ambient light in dark places. The Cathode Light Tubes 41 are for example segmented by attaching the cathode light tubes 41 at both ends to Terminal Blocks 40 . Terminal Blocks 40 provide power to the light tubes 41 and act as a logical node for the digital communication. Furthermore, Terminal Blocks 40 are the "invisible" markers for computers. Each terminal block 40 is customizable by for example sensors, beacons or navigation information, or combinations thereof.
Thus, the Terminal Blocks 40 acts both as a connectors for easy installation of the system 51 and as invisible part which is visible to computers.
The third component of the smart marking system of the invention 51 is the (Wide) Area Node 43. Wide Area Nodes 43 maintain a connection to global networks so that the user of the smart marking system 51 of the invention is capable of controlling the Smart Markings over extended distances. Area Nodes 43 also are configured to store the programmed model so that the system 51 is capable of operating autonomously without a central computer system. This provides the smart marking system 51 of the invention with the capability to act reactively to local events, and for example it is programmable that lights are turned on and off automatically depending on the model installed.
The three components of the smart marking system 51 of the invention, i.e. the cathode light tube(s) 41, the terminal blocks 40 and the (wide) are node(s) 43, contain a custom protocol using reliable industry grade line codes for safe communication, according to the invention. Each node 43 is preferably accessible by using encryption technology known in the art. Every node 43 in the system 51 is represented by an abstract data set which is self-similar to the node 43 itself. Thus. This meaning that the content of the data represents the very same information as the information contained by the real object in the tangible world as its property. This duality makes it now possible with the system 51 of the invention to provide the very same quality of information to both human subjects and computers (or, in the near future, to cars), according to the invention.
A System 51 Setup Kit of the invention is a toolset for allowing installation of a system 51 of the invention quick and easy. All components in the kit are designed in a way allowing manufacturers of the system 51 to maintain their workflow unencumbered. The Cathode Light Tubes (CLT) 41 are provided in the kit for example on a cable reel so that already existing trucks and well known infrastructure is applicable for manufacturing of a system 51 of the invention. Every 70 meters up to 1 km a Terminal Block 40 has to be used to segment the CLTs 41. The CLT-Reels containing the Tubes 41 have preferably cutting marks to indicate where said tubes can be divided. Terminal Blocks 40 connect two CLTs 41 with each other. In addition, Area Nodes 43 connect strings of Cathode Light Tubes 41 with each other. As a result each Area Node 43 acts as a model for the subsequent configuration of Terminal Blocks 40 and Cathode Light Tubes 41.

Claims

A System comprising
• a marker comprising a container, said container comprising at least a top surface part and a bottom surface part,
- the container encompassing an inner-component,

- said inner- component comprising
• at least two conducting layers forming a conducting anode layer and a conducting cathode layer,

• an integrated electric circuit electrically connected thereto, and

• an electroluminescent light-emitting element comprising at least one electroluminescent pigment,

• wherein said electroluminescent light-emitting element is embedded between the conducting anode layer and the conducting cathode layer for driving said electroluminescent light-emitting element and

• wherein at least the conducting layer located near the top surface part of the container consists of optically transparent material or optically opaque material,

- wherein at least said top surface part of the container consists of
optically transparent material or optically opaque material, and

- wherein the container is provided with means arranged for supplying electrical power to said conducting layers.
characterized in the system further comprising a terminal block for connecting said marker, said terminal block comprising
- a receptacle configured to receive an end portion of an electroluminescent marker;

- fixation means for fixing the end portion of the marker inside the receptacle; electric means for providing electricity to the marker to cause the electroluminescent marker to generate light;

- a communication unit to exchange data and commands with another device

- an optical transmitter or an optical receiver to transmit or receive an optical signal through container material of the marker or through an optic fiber inside the marker and/or an inductive coil to transmit or receive an electric signal into or from the marker; and

- a control unit configured to control the provision of the electricity to the electroluminescent element in dependence on the received commands

• wherein said marker further comprises a communication media allowing the terminal block to transmit or receive a signal through the marker.
System according to claim 1, wherein the integrated electric circuit is further provided with a dimmer and/or a momentary switch to dim and/or to actuate the luminescing of the electroluminescent light-emitting element.
System according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the optically transparent or optically opaque container is made of a material selected from: glass made of acrylate resin, two-component epoxy resin, two-component polyurethane resin, one-component polyurethane resin, polyester resin, silicone, polycarbonate plastic, polyvinyl chloride, plastisol, polypropylene, polyethylene and thermoplastic, preferably glass made of acrylate resin, polyester resin, a polyurethane resin, a polyurethane acrylate resin and silicone.
System according to any of the claims 1 to 3, wherein the anode layer and the cathode layer are selected from: indium, carbon, nanotubes comprising conducting coating, film comprising graphene, silver nanowire covered with graphene, intrinsically conducting polymer or conducting polymer such as polyaniline and poly(3,4- ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate, and inorganic conducting materials comprising aluminum, gallium, and indium, and doped zinc oxide such as zinc oxide doped with aluminum, gallium or indium, wherein the anode layer and the cathode layer preferably are the same.
System according to any of the claims 1 to 4, wherein the container is an extended container, such as a tube, a ribbon, a strip, a beam, preferably a tube or a strip.
System according to any of the claims 1 to 5, wherein the extended container has a length of between about 1 cm and about 100 km, preferably between about 50 cm and about 30 km, more preferably between about 100 cm and about 10 km, most preferably between about 10 m and about 1 km.
System according to any of the claims 1 to 6, wherein the electroluminescent light-emitting element comprises at least two electroluminescent pigments that luminesce at different wavelengths, wherein the at least two electroluminescent pigments are spatially separated, such that the marker can luminesce at least two colors.
System according to any of the claims 1 to 7, wherein the at least one electroluminescent pigment is selected from: zinc oxide, aluminum oxide and a mixture of zinc oxide and aluminum oxide, said pigment comprising one or more selected from: SrAl₂O₄: Eu, Dy, and Sr₄Al₁₄O₂₅:Eu ²⁺Dy₃, and Sr₂MgSi₂O₇;Eu²⁺, and CaAl₁₂O₄:Eu²⁺, Nd³⁺, and Y₂Al₂O₄: Eu²⁺, Nd³⁺, and CaAl₂O₄, Eu²⁺, Nd³⁺, and Y₂Al₂O₄:Eu2+, Nd³⁺, and Al₂O₃ and ZnO, or selected from ZnS such as ZnS:Cu, YAG and ZnS:Cu, Mn, and ZnS:Cu, Dy, and ZnS:Cu, Al, and (Zn, Cd) S:Cu (Zn Cd) S:Cu, and ZnS:Cu, Mn, and ZnS:Cu, Mn, and (Zn, Cd)(S,Se):Cu, preferably the electroluminescent pigment is ZnS: Cu, Al.
System according to any of the claims 1 to 8, wherein the extended container is a tube with an outer-diameter of between about 0.5 cm and about 5 cm, preferably about 3.5 cm, and with an inner diameter of about 0.4 cm and 4.9 cm, preferably about 3.0 cm, wherein the tube is made of polyurethane acrylate resin, wherein the electroluminescent pigment is ZnS: Cu, Al.
System according to any of the claims 1 to 8, wherein the extended container is a strip with a length of between about 1 cm and about 100 m, a width of between about 10 cm and 100 m, a thickness of between about 0.5 cm and about 5 cm, preferably the length is between about 25 cm and about 10 m, preferably the width is between about 50 cm and about 50 m, preferably the thickness is between about 1 cm and 2 cm, wherein the strip is made of epoxy resin, wherein the electroluminescent pigment is ZnS: Cu, Al.
System according to any of the claims 1 to 10, wherein the integrated electric circuit is provided with means for receiving a signal, preferably wireless means, said signal provided by preferably at least one sensor, an antenna and/or a reflector, more preferably at least one sensor, such that the activation of the momentary switch and/or the activation of the dimmer is controlled by the received signal, for example the intensity of the received signal.
System according to claim 11, wherein the sensor is one or more of a sensor for sensing light intensity, number of passing objects such as vehicles, velocity of passing objects, moisture at or surrounding the marker, fog, type and/or intensity of precipitation, temperature, smoke, gas, motion of an object in the surrounding of the marker, motion of the marker, flue, fire, wear of the marker, day light intensity, an object.
System according to any of the claims 1 to 12, wherein the luminescence of the electroluminescent light-emitting element is remotely controllable.
System according to any of the claims 1 to 13, wherein the integrated electric circuit comprises a microprocessor such that the luminescence of the electroluminescent light-emitting element is programmable.
The System of any of claims 1 to 14, wherein the communication unit is configured to transmit and/or receive a signal through a communication media of the marker.
The System of any of claims 1 to 15, the terminal block further comprising
• a further receptacle for receiving a further end portion of a further marker;

• power means for receiving power from a wire within the marker and providing at least part of the power to a wire within the further marker and providing at least part of the power to an electric component of the terminal block.
The System of any of claims 1 to 16, the terminal block further comprising an electrically conductive displacement blade positioned corresponding to a position of an electric wire in the marker, wherein the displacement blade is configured to cut an insulation portion of the marker and contact the electric wire corresponding to the displacement blade to form an electric connection between the displacement blade and the corresponding electric wire, when the marker is inserted into the receptacle.
The System of claim 17, wherein the displacement blade of the terminal block is oriented in a transverse direction with respect to the marker.
The System of any of claims 1 to 18, the terminal block further comprising a sensor, wherein the control unit is configured to:
• transmit a signal to a remote device in dependence on a signal received from the sensor or

• control a luminescence of the marker in dependence on the signal received from the sensor.
The System according to any one of claims 1 to 19, the marker comprising an electrically conductive wire extending in a longitudinal direction of the marker from a first end of the marker to a second end of the marker, wherein the conductive wire preferably has substantially the same axial position throughout the marker.
The system according claim 20, the marker comprising an electrical connection between the conductive wire and the anode layer or the cathode layer.
The system according to claim 21, wherein the marker comprises a plurality of the inner-components distributed longitudinally in the marker, each anode layer or cathode layer of the plurality of inner-components having an electrical connection to the conductive wire.
The System according to one of claims 1 to 22, further comprising an area node, the area node comprising
- a power supply configured to provide power to at least one terminal block,

- a communication unit configured to exchange communication signals with the at least one terminal block and with a control center; and

- a control unit to control operations of the area node based on received signals.
The System according to one of claims 1 to 23, further comprising a control center, the control center comprising
- a storage media storing a digital representation of a plurality of interconnected area nodes, terminal blocks, and markers,

- wherein each marker is physically attached to at least one terminal block,

- each terminal block is physically attached to at least one marker and has a data connection to at least one area node, and

- each area node has a data connection to at least one terminal block and to the control center;

- said digital representation comprising information of connections and physical attachments between the area nodes, the terminal blocks, and the markers, luminescence status information of the markers, or information of sensor signals collected by sensors of the terminal blocks.
Use of a system according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 24 for indoor use.
Use of a system according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 24 for outdoor use.
Use of a system according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 24 for guiding.
Use as in claim 27, for guiding the movement of at least one object such as a vehicle, and/or of at least one subject, by providing with the marker a predetermined intensity and/or at least one color of the luminescence of the electroluminescent light-emitting element, and/or by providing with the marker a predetermined alternation of the intensity and/or at least one color of the luminescence of the electroluminescent light-emitting element, such that the movement of the object and/or the subject is within a predetermined range of velocity and/or in a predetermined direction.