GB2456768A

GB2456768A - Remotely operated warning and safety sign

Info

Publication number: GB2456768A
Application number: GB0801105A
Authority: GB
Inventors: John H Lederer
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2008-01-22
Filing date: 2008-01-22
Publication date: 2009-07-29
Also published as: GB0801105D0

Abstract

A remotely operated warning and safety system improves the safety and safe exit of vehicles exiting from concealed entrances and exits. The system includes a sign 2 for displaying a warning for a predetermined time to warn approaching drivers of a hazard at a concealed entrance or exit, the sign being remotely activated form an activation unit 1 by a driver causing the hazard. The sign 2 may permanently show a concealed entrance notice but also incorporates an illuminated display C, which upon being activated illuminates a safety message for a predetermined time, giving an extra highly visual warning.

Description

REMOTELY OPERATED WARNING AND SAFETY SYSTEM

For CONCEALED ENTRANCES/ENTRANCES

DESCRIPTION

Whilst travelling around the UK over many years, it has become apparent and evident of the hidden and dangerous hazards of concealed entrances/exits to many properties.

Although mirrors & signs of different shapes & sizes are used at locations, these can be of limited use due to weather conditions and other factors and only useful to persons leaving their premises.

They are of no use whatsoever to drivers approaching at great speed along a public highway.

Many drivers fail to notice a concealed entrance/exit sign.

On occasions a person may usher and assist a vehicle driver onto the public highway. This is of help but still causes anxiety to all concerned.

When a lone driver leaves a concealed exit, extreme caution must be taken and it is with great trepidation that the departing driver ventures forth.

Many accidents and hazardous situations have occurred as vehicles have entered a public highway from their premises and another vehicle has approached, sometimes at high speed.

The use of reflective backboards and lettering for concealed entrance / exit signs helps slightly to raise the awareness of an approaching driver to a concealed entrance (especially at night). This relies on headlight illumination from passing vehicles. But many drivers still fail, to notice a concealed entrance/exit sign, This situation is extremely worrying. If an approaching vehicle driver could be for-warned by his/her attention being heightened (by some type of device), this extremely hazardous situation could be significantly reduced.

PROBLEM SOLVING

What is required is the ability to provide a highly visible advanced warning to approaching drivers, to let them know that a vehicle is leaving a concealed entrance/ exit.

Currently there are no signs or notices which give a warning that a vehicle is leaving a concealed entrance / exit, at the precise time a vehicle is actually leaving.

What is required, is a remotely operated device, able to provide a highly illuminated visual advanced warning to an approaching driver, but only giving that extra visual warning at the time an exiting vehicle is departing a dangerous junction.

Produced by either (See Drawings Figure 2-5) * 1/. Incorporating a highly illuminated visual section (D) to a concealed exit/entrance sign (E), which is activated remotely at the appropriate time by the departing vehicle driver, so that an extra and highly visual warning can be introduced into a normal concealed entrance notice.

This design, of Visual Display Unit (Unit 2) would always display a concealed entrance/exit style of notice plus have additional features.

* 2/. Using an Illuminating Device (C) as the actual combined Concealed entrance/ Exit Sign & Warning Notice (E +D). Which is activated remotely. At the appropriate time by the departing vehicle driver.

This design, of Visual Display Unit (Unit 2) would not display any style of message until activated by the command signal from the Activation Device. (Unit 1) Upon activation the warning and safety message would be visible.

This highlighting of a concealed entrance notice would provide that additional extra visual element that is so often missed by drivers travelling along country lanes or roads that wind and turn. The problems associated with slow moving vehicles entering a road with faster moving traffic proceeding along it can be reduced significantly and the chances of serious accidents occurring minimised.

REQUIREMENTS & SUMMARY

* A remotely sited, self-contained, highly illuminating and visual concealed entrance sign.

* Positioned in advance of a concealed entrance/exit, so as to give adequate advance warning to approaching drivers.

* Have the ability to be sited remotely from a concealed entrance/exit, but be activated by a person located at that same concealed entrance.

* Have the ability to be switched on remotely (and automatically off) at the time a departing vehicle is leaving a concealed entrance/exit.

* Have the ability to provide a highly illuminated message when required without external (mains electrical) power supply. Power requirements being self contained and sufficient for operational designs.

* To substantially enhance the sign visibility and awareness of a concealed entrance to approaching vehicle drivers, even in poor visibility.

* Generally increase the effectiveness of a concealed entrance/exit notice/sign by heightening awareness and readability.

* Be reliable With the implementation of the Remotely Operated Warning and Safety System for Concealed Entrances, additional highly visual early warning can be given of activity at a concealed entrance/exit, (to approaching drivers).

But only at the time a vehicle is exiting a concealed entrance/exit.

Thereby having the ability to alert an approaching vehicle driver, give him/her time to react and reduce considerably the chances of accident and injury and possibly save lives.

What the REMOTELY OPERATED WARNING & SAFETY SYSTEM Does.

Fhe Remotely Operated Warning and Safety System indicates and provides a Highly Illuminated, Visual Advanced Warning Display to an approaching driver, (when activated), that a vehicle is leaving a dangerous or concealed entrance! exit.

(See Schematic. Figure 1) When a driver wishes to leave a dangerous concealed entrance/exit. He /she presses a key fob style Activation Device. (UNIT 1) This device (Unit 1) sends a signal to the Visual Display Unit. (UNIT 2) The Visual Display Unit (Unit 2) incorporates all the components necessary to operate independently.

Receiver (A), receives the signal and activates a Timer (B) with controlling circuits, which switches on an Illumination Device (C) l'he Illumination Device (C) backlights or illuminates an extra Warning Display (D). (Or gives the actual Warning Display (D)) which is in addition to the normal Concealed Entrance Notice (E) During this timed period this Highly Illuminated Warning Display (D) of the Visual Display Unit (Unit 2), highlights the fact (that a vehicle is leaving a concealed exit) and alerts any approaching vehicle driver.

Thereby enabling the approaching vehicle driver to proceed with extra caution due to his/her attention being forewarned and heightened of the potential danger.

At the end of the set period, the timer resets and switches off the Illumination Device (C) and/or Display (D) The Warning Display (D), (which cannot normally be read unless lit) is no longer noticeable.

This sequence (which is powered by the Solar cell (F) and Rechargeable Battery (G)) can be repeated as required.

Sufficient power is produced during daylight hours to allow safe exit for vehicles during any 24-hour period.

This device compliments traditional signs and mirrors and is an additional safety feature.

KEY FEATURES -of the tEMOTELY OPERATED WARNING AND SAFETY SYSTEM The Remotely Operated Warning & Safety System brings together existing technologies to provide a device not currently available. It is designed to work totally independently of external power supplies.

Key features incorporated in the unit are ACTIVATION DEVICE (Unit 1) Key Fob style Activation switch -Radio, code hopping Which transmits a signal to a remotely sited ILLUMINATED DISPLAY UNIT (Unit 2) (The "Concealed Entrance/Exit" Sign) Which incorporates * Receiver (A) * Timer (B) Adjustable. Pcb * Illumination Device (C) -Light Emitting Diodes * Warning Display (D) "Warning", "In Use" * Warning Notice (E) - "Concealed Exit", "Entrance" Powered by * Charging device (F) -Photoelectric Solar Panel * Rechargeable Battery (G) -Lead acid

REMAINING FEATURES

Various means of operation, illumination, power and visual signs can be used. Size, colour, shape and means of mounting are adaptable to suit local conditions or language requirements.

ACTIVATiON DEVICE (Unit 1) Various means of activation or means of sending the start operation signal can be used -Ultrasonic, Microwave, Radio. Digital /Analogue Mobile, via a key fob style device. Or static, bell push, style of transmitter.

VISUAL DISPLAY UNIT (UNIT 2) RECEIVER (A) may receive signals and be activated by a number of Activation Devices (Unit 1) digitally coded to work with that particular unit.

This is used where there are more than one concealed entrances in close proximity to each other and it is impractical to use more than one Display Units. (Unit 2) TIMER (B) is adjustable (or set) to give a safe exit time interval onto the public highway. Normally between 1 minute and 3 minutes. Therefore able to be set for the optimum time for the exiting vehicle to depart, but not too long for approaching drivers to be alerted long after the exiting vehicle has gone.

ILLUMINATION DEVICE (C) can use various types of illumination source, which can be incorporated to illuminate the Warning Display (D).

LED lighting, Halogen bulbs, Tungsten, Mercury, etc. Single or multi Illumination Devices (C) may be used.

With means ofadjustment via the controlling circuit to give a constant, pulsing, strobe or a flashing illuminated Warning Display (D).

WARNING DISPLAY (D), being Transparent/Translucent can be illuminated or backlit on operation of the Visual Display Unit (Unit 2), as required, subject to design. The backlit or illuminated notice, displaying a warning is integral to the system.

WARNING DISPLAY (D), wording, can be altered. To read for example -SLOW, to CAUTION, or CAR EMERGING, IN USE etc. Wording created via normal techniques of silkscreen, digital plotter to display vinyl etc, front or back lit.

Font style, size, colour and language may be changed to suit local conditions.

The permanent WARNING NOTICE (E) normally reads, "Concealed Exit". This wording can be changed to read for example "Danger", "Exit", as required.

Font style, size, colour and language may be changed to suit local conditions.

ILLUMINATION DEVICE (C) can provide a dual function of Warning Notice (E) & Warning Display (D). Only upon activation would both functions be highly visible.

POWER SUPPLY

Photoelectric cell (F) -Either mounted on the VISUAL DISPLAY UNIT (Unit 2) or mounted separately to obtain the best charging position from the Sun (i.e. South facing) Voltage output subject to battery requirements.

Alternative means of power production may be used-as in Wind turbine style alternator etc. Rechargeable Battery (G) -Normally 12 volt, but can be varied in power output, to suit requirements. Mounted internally.

Incorporating reverse power, overcharge protection features as required.

CONSTRUCTION

Standard construction materials and methods are used in the manufacture of The Remotely Operated Warning & Safety System, being light metals & plastics, vinyl's and composite materials, externally and internally. Plus printed circuit boards, fittings etc. sealed or enclosed.

SIZE

Designed to be a balance between optimum size for ease of visual awareness & sight Guide measurements 36cm Height, 26cm wide. 12cm Deep.

Measurements may vary with design specifications.

MULTI FUNCTIONAL VIEWING

Manufacture can be adjusted to give a Warning Notice & Warning Display when viewed from both directions of an exit, i.e. two sided or more.

COLOUR

arious colours, reflective and non-reflective are used for components, dependent on operational requirements.

POSITIONING & MOUNTING The VISUAL DISPLAY UNIT (UNIT 2) is designed to be mounted to a solid object such as a wall or be spigot mounted. This can be adapted to suit local condition & located in a position to be highly visible to an approaching driver.

Secondary Applications Many secondary applications of this device maybe be used.

A secondary use of the Remotely Operated Warning and Safety System could be for example, at a Guest House or Bed and Breakfast. If this type of style of establishment was positioned away from a main road and it was unrealistic to run mains power to light an entrance notice, then the Remotely Operated Warning and Safety System could be used with different wording to mark an entrance.

The timer circuit adapted so that on remote activation the display would be permanently on until reset by further activation of the Activation Device (Unit 1) or the timer resets.

Claims

REMOTELY OPERATED WARNING AND SAFETY SIGN Claim of correspondent: THE EMBODIMENT OF THE [NVENTION IN WHICH EXCLUSIVE PROPERTY OR PRIVILEDGE iS CLAIMED IS AS FOLLOWS: CLAIM

1. A Remotely Operated Warning and Safety System combining the features of a Key Fob style, remote control Activation Device (Unit 1), sending a digital signal on activation to a Visual Display Unit (Unit 2) which comprises a Receiver (A), Timer & control circuits (B), Illumination Device (C), Highlighted Warning Display (D), Concealed Entrance Notice (E), Power Supply (F) and Rechargeable Battery (G), which on being activated only when required, provides an additional highly illuminated message for a closely controlled period of time, to approaching vehicle drivers.

2. The product of claim I whereby the component parts of the Visual Display Unit (Unit 2) are contained within or part of the body of said device.

3. The product of claim 1 whereby the remote control Activation Device (Unit I) is a digitally coded device primarily key fob style but not limited to that style of device.

4. The product of claim 1 whereby the remote control Activation (Unit 1) is not limited to one device, (but may be made by multiple devices) to activate Visual Display Unit. (Unit 2)

5. The design of Visual Display Unit (Unit 2) of claim I,to contain electronic/digital, Receiver (A), Timer & printed circuit board, control circuits (B), Illumination Device (C), Highlighted Warning Display (D), Power Supply (F) and Rechargeable Battery (0) components.

6. The product of claim I, whereby the Timer (B) is adjustable to give adequate length of visual display, highlighted by the Illumination Device.

7. The product & design of claim 1, whereby the Concealed Entrance Notice (E) wording may be vertical or horizontal.

8. The product of claim I, whereby the said Illumination Device (C) is light emitting diodes with controlling electronic circuits, printed circuit boards.

9. The product of claim I whereby the illumination Device (C) may give the Highlighted Warning Display (D) and the Concealed Entrance Notice (E).

10. The product of claim I whereby wording components of the Highlighted Warning Display (D) may be backlit, with transparent, translucent or other display materials.

11. The product of claim I whereby the Warning Display (D) may be given, other than by backlighting.

12. The product of claim I whereby Power Supply components (F, G) are independent of mains supply.

13. The product of claim I whereby Solar Cells (F) are used to çrovide power source requirements.

14. The product of claim 1, Solar Cell (F) mounting to be externally mounted on the Visual Display Unit (UNIT 2).

15. The product of claim I whereby the power storage requirements are met by a Rechargeable Battery (0) and appropriate circuits.

Dependent Claim I. The product of claim 3 whereby the remote control activation is not limited to digital but can be adapted to other means such as infra red, ultrasonic etc. 2. The product of claim 3 whereby the remote control activation is not limited to key fob style but may be adapted to local requirements, static, sensor or other means of signal activation.

3. The product of claim 3 whereby the remote control activation is a digitally coded device primarily key fob style but not limited to that style of device. Subject to design

specifications.

4. The product of claim 2 whereby the body of the Visual Display Unit contains a section primarily for the purpose of a Highlighted Warning Display.

5. The product of claim 2 whereby the body of the Visual Display Unit contains a section primarily for the purpose of a Concealed Entrance Notice.

6. The product of claim 4, Timer (B) being digital, but not limited to digital, and is subject to design requirements.

7. The product of claim 5, Receiver (A) internal but not limited to internal but adaptable for external positioning and signal type subject to local requirements.

8. The product of claim 5 whereby Timer (B) operation may be non-adjustable & set constant to meet requirements for remote activation on & off.

9. The product of claim 7 whereby wording may be adjusted in font size, colour, shape and positioning, reflective luminous or set for design requirements.

10. The product of claim 1, 10,11, whereby wording components of the Highlighted Warning Display (D) and Concealed Entrance Notice (E) may be given by symbols.

I I. The product of claim 7,10, whereby the background to wording may be changed in colour, shape and positioning, reflective luminous or set for design requirements.

12. The product & design of claim 8 is not limited to said devices but can be designed to use other means such as halogen, tungsten strobe lighting etc. 13. The product of claim 10,11, whereby the Highlighted Warning Display wording may be produced using various techniques, vinyl lettering cut out! silk -screen, laser cut mask etc. 14. The product of claim 10 whereby features or wording may be adapted to suit manufacturing materials or colours.

15. The product of claim 10 whereby features or wording may be changeable to give warning or different notice as required.

16. The product of claim 11 whereby the Highlighted Warning Display may be externally lit or use other external means of illumination to give word or symbol shapes, such as neon or L.E.D so as to negate internal illumination devices.

1 6. The use of Solar Cells or other devices, claim 13, 14 is not limited to mounting on the Visual Display Unit (Unit 2) but adaptable for use in a detached but local position which is a more appropriate position for receiving sun light or other means, so as to give best power produc

17. The product of claim 13 whereby other means of power supply may be used, subject to power requirements, local conditions and not limited to solar cells.

18. The product of claim 15 whereby Rechargeable battery (G) requirements are not limited in size, voltage or power output but adaptable to suit requirements of the Visual Display Unit (Unit 2).

19. The claims and descriptions enclosed should not be taken as to the limit to the design or scope of the invention, but as a guide to the aim and requirements, shape, size, colour, materials and construction, internally and externally may be changed to meet operating & construction factors and requirements.