GB2607855A

GB2607855A - A smart frame for roadworks signage

Info

Publication number: GB2607855A
Application number: GB2101842.9A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Jarrett James; Poeth Roger
Original assignee: Highway Resource Solutions Ltd
Current assignee: Highway Resource Solutions Ltd
Priority date: 2021-02-10
Filing date: 2021-02-10
Publication date: 2022-12-21
Anticipated expiration: 2041-02-10
Also published as: GB2607855B; WO2022172005A1; GB202101842D0

Abstract

The present invention relates to apparatus, systems and methods for providing a visual warning of roadworks to oncoming traffic. A road sign frame apparatus 10 for providing a visual warning of upcoming roadworks. The display apparatus 10 comprises: a display region 17 for displaying a warning sign 32; a stand for supporting the display region 17 so that it can be seen by oncoming traffic; a location determination device (110,fig.2) for determining the location of the road sign frame apparatus 10; a transmitter (44,fig.2) for transmitting the location to a remote server (5,fig.3); and a controller (40,fig.2), wherein the controller (40,fig.2) is arranged to operate in a first mode in which periodically the controller (40,fig.2) obtains location data from the location determination device (110,fig.2) and uses the transmitter (44,fig.2) to transmit the location data to a remote server (5,fig.3). The apparatus may further comprise one or more sensors (112,114,116,120,122,fig.2). The sensors may be used to detect if the apparatus is deployed or not, whether the apparatus has fallen over, sensing orientation of the apparatus relative to and/or about the vertical direction, sensing use of a handle, detecting movement, and sensing attachment of a sign.

Description

A Smart Frame for Roadworks Signage The present invention relates to apparatus, systems and methods for providing a visual warning of roadworks to oncoming traffic. The apparatus, systems and methods described below can enable automatic monitoring of the locations of deployment of such signage. In particular, but not exclusively, the following describes apparatus, systems and methods that automatically determine an appropriate operating mode.

Currently, signage for indicating the presence of roadworks is very low tech. Signs are simply temporary visual displays on frames. They are cheap, robust items, intended to be left unattended outdoors for prolonged periods of time. There is no recognition in the field for the need for additional functionality.

Signs may be deployed by untrained individuals without due care. They may unintentionally display the wrong message, or be placed in the wrong place. Frames supporting the signs may be blown over by strong winds, knocked over by traffic, stolen, or inadvertently moved.

The inventors have recognised that it would be beneficial to be able to automatically and remotely maintain an inventory of deployed frames and signs.

According to the invention, there is provided a road sign frame apparatus for providing a visual warning of upcoming roadworks, the display apparatus comprising: a display region for displaying a warning sign; a stand for supporting the display region so that it can be seen by oncoming traffic; a location determination device for determining the location of the road sign frame apparatus; a transmitter for transmitting the location to a remote server; and a controller, wherein: the controller is arranged to operate in a first mode in which periodically the controller obtains location data from the location determination device and uses the transmitter to transmit the location data to a remote server.

The road sign frame apparatus preferably comprises one or more sensors, wherein the controller is further arranged to: use the one or more sensors to determine whether the road sign frame apparatus is deployed or not deployed; and implement the first mode when the road sign frame apparatus is deployed.

Preferably, the controller is further arranged to: use the one or more sensors to determine whether the road sign frame apparatus has fallen over; and use the transmitter to transmit an alarm to the remote server.

Preferably, the controller is further arranged to: implement a second mode when the road sign frame apparatus is not deployed, wherein, in the second mode the controller obtains location data from the location determination device and uses the transmitter to transmit the location data to a remote server; and the controller is arranged to transmit location data more frequently in the first mode than in the second mode.

The sensors may comprise an orientation sensor for sensing the orientation of the road sign frame apparatus relative to the vertical direction, and the controller uses the orientation sensor to determine whether the road sign frame apparatus is deployed or not deployed.

The sensors may comprise an orientation sensor for sensing the orientation of the road sign frame apparatus about the vertical direction, and the transmitter is arranged to transmit data representing the orientation to a remote server.

Preferably, the transmitter is arranged to transmit data representing one or more of two-dimensional or three-dimensional location; orientation about the vertical direction; orientation relative to the vertical direction; an alarm flag for indicating an alarm when the road sign frame apparatus has fallen over; the ambient temperature of the environment; and the charge stored in a power supply of the road sign frame apparatus.

The road sign frame apparatus may further comprise: a handle; and a handle sensor for sensing the use of the handle, wherein the controller uses the handle sensor to determine when the road sign frame apparatus is deployed or not deployed.

Preferably, the stand comprises a leg that is movable from a compact state for improved storage of the display apparatus to an extended state for supporting the road sign frame apparatus in a particular orientation; and the road sign frame apparatus further comprises a leg sensor for sensing whether the leg is in the compact state or extended state, wherein the controller uses the leg sensor to determine when the road sign frame apparatus is deployed or not deployed; and the controller uses the leg sensor to determine when the road sign frame apparatus has fallen over.

The road sign frame apparatus may further comprise: a handle; and a handle sensor for sensing the use of the handle, wherein: the stand comprises at least one movable leg that is movable from a compact state for storage of the display apparatus to an extended state for supporting the road sign frame apparatus in a particular orientation; the road sign frame apparatus further comprises a leg sensor for sensing whether the leg is in the compact state or extended state; and the controller uses the leg sensor and the handle sensor to determine when the road sign frame apparatus is deployed or not deployed.

The road sign frame apparatus preferably further comprises: a movement sensor for sensing movement of the road sign frame apparatus, wherein the controller uses the movement sensor to determine when the road sign frame apparatus is deployed or not deployed.

The road sign frame apparatus may further comprise a digital display panel in the display region.

The road sign frame apparatus may further comprise a sensor for sensing the attachment of a sign to the display region.

The road sign frame apparatus may further comprise a memory reading device for reading a memory of a device attached to the display region.

The road sign frame apparatus may be part of a system comprising: a sign comprising a readable memory, wherein the sign is attached to the display region.

The road sign frame apparatus may comprise a digital display panel in the display region, and the sign includes an aperture through which the digital display can be seen.

The system may comprise: a plurality of the above-described road sign frame apparatus; and a server for communicating with the road sign frame apparatus and storing location data representing the locations of the road sign frame apparatus, wherein the server includes an interface by which remote devices may access the stored location data.

The system may comprise a plurality of autonomous vehicles, wherein the server includes an interface by which the autonomous vehicles are arranged to access the stored location data.

In accordance with the invention, a method of monitoring the deployment of a plurality of road sign frame apparatus, comprises the steps of: determining the location of each road sign frame apparatus using a respective location determination device on each road sign frame apparatus; and periodically transmitting the determined locations from each road sign frame apparatus to a server.

The method may further comprise the step of accessing the server using a device remote therefrom to obtain the locations of the road sign frame apparatus.

The method may further comprise the steps of: deploying the plurality of road sign frame apparatus at one or more locations; and sensing the deployment of each road sign frame apparatus using one or more sensors on each respective road sign frame apparatus.

The method may further comprise the steps of: deriving information about the road sign frame apparatus and/or its environment using one or more sensors; and periodically transmitting the derived information to a server.

The method may further comprise the steps of: monitoring the state the plurality of road sign frame apparatus using one or more sensors; and changing a mode of operation of each of the plurality of road sign apparatus based on the monitored state.

Changing a mode of operation may involve changing the frequency of the periodic transmission.

For a better understanding of the invention and to show how the same may be put into effect, reference is now made, by way of example only, to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 shows a diagram of a road sign frame apparatus in the form of a frame supporting a road sign; Figure 2 shows a schematic representation of the road sign frame apparatus of Figure 1; Figure 3 shows a road sign inventory system comprising a plurality of the road sign frame apparatus of Figures 1 and 2; Figure 4 shows a flow chart indicating the process followed by the road sign frame apparatus in the idle mode; Figure 5a to Sc shows a flow chart indicating the process followed by the road sign frame apparatus in the job mode.

As can be seen in Figure 1, a first embodiment of a road sign frame apparatus 10 in accordance with the invention comprises a housing 15, a handle 20, and one or more legs 22. The housing 15 may or may not be integrally formed with one or both of the handle 20 or legs 22.

The housing 15 comprises a display region 17 for displaying a sign plate 32. One or more attachment devices 30 may be located at the periphery of the display region 17 for attachment of the sign plate 32. The sign plate 32 may include an indicia such as text or a picture for indicating a warning to oncoming traffic. For example, the attachment devices 30 may be arranged in a configuration matching the arrangement of corresponding holes 34 forming part of a sign plate 32 arranged to cover the display region 17. The attachment devices 30 may be a quick release fixing, such as an anti-luce fastener.

The legs 22 may form a stand, for supporting the road sign frame apparatus 10 in an upright position, for example, such that the display region 17 can be seen by oncoming traffic. One or more legs 22 may include a movable leg 22a, movable between a compact state and an extended state. In the compact state, the movable leg 22a is retracted or folded for improved storage of the road sign frame apparatus 10. In the extended state, the movable leg 22a is extended for supporting the road sign frame apparatus 10 in the upright orientation.

The upright orientation may be defined as the orientation in which the road sign frame apparatus 10 is supported by the legs 22, with the display region 17 visible.

The one or more legs 22 may include a fixed leg 22b. In an example, the legs 22 of the road sign frame apparatus 10 may be configured such that, in the compact state, the movable leg 22a is positioned in parallel with the fixed leg 22b, whereas in the extended state, the movable leg 22a may be splayed from the fixed leg 22b. For example, the distance between the distal ends of the movable legs 22a and the fixed legs 22b in the compact state may be smaller than in the extended state.

Most preferably, and as shown in Figure 1, the movable leg(s) 22a are pivotable from a compact state in which they are in line with the fixed leg(s) 22b to an extended state when they are splayed from the fixed leg(s) 22b. In this arrangement, it is preferable that the movable leg(s) 22a are not locked in the extended state. By ensuring that the movable leg(s) 22a are free to move into the compact state, such that they collapse into the compact state if the road sign frame apparatus 10 is not in an upright position (for example, if it is knocked over), the leg(s) 22a can give an indication that the road sign frame apparatus 10 is not correctly standing (this may be sensed by a leg extension sensor 122 discussed below).

More generally, in these or in other embodiments, the one or more movable leg 22a is preferably arranged such that when the road sign frame apparatus 10 is not in the upright orientation the leg is biased into the compact state.

The road sign frame apparatus 10 comprises a handle 20.

As can be seen in Figure 2, the road sign frame apparatus 10 comprises a power supply 48 and electronic components including: a controller 40; a memory 42; a transmitter 44, and an interface 46. Preferably, these electronic components are provided within the housing 15. Optionally, the power supply is also provided within the housing 15.

The controller 40 is arranged to read data from and/or write data to the memory 42.

The controller 40 is arranged to transmit data via the transmitter 44 to a remote server 5 (shown in Figure 3).

The controller 40 is arranged to be programmed via interface 46. In some embodiments, interface 46 and transmitter 44 may collectively be a bi-directional wireless communications device.

The power supply 48 may comprise a battery and/or capacitor. The electronic components of the road sign frame apparatus 10 are powered by the power supply 48.

The controller 40 is arranged in communication with a number of sensors, which are preferably housed in the housing 15.

The road sign frame apparatus 10 may comprise one or more sensors. The functionality of the sensors is only inter-related where described, and the functionality linked with each sensor can be provided independently of the presence of the other sensors unless described as essential.

The road sign frame apparatus 10 may further comprise a location determination device 110 for identifying the location of the road sign frame apparatus 10. For example, the location determination device 110 may be a GPS sensor, or some other form of location sensor.

Preferably, the location is determined in at least two dimensions (for example, latitude and longitude), but three-dimensional location is also considered (for example, height may also be determined).

Preferably, the location determination means 110 is accurate to within 4m and, preferably within lm (for example, if it is to be used to inform self-driving vehicles of its location).

The road sign frame apparatus 10 may further comprise a state of charge sensor 148 for measuring the state of charge of the power supply 48. This might simply provide an output signal representing the voltage provided by a battery or capacitor.

The road sign frame apparatus 10 may further comprise a temperature sensor 116 for measuring the ambient temperature.

The road sign frame apparatus 10 may further comprise an orientation sensor 114 for measuring the orientation of the road sign frame apparatus 10. Preferably, the orientation sensor 114 is rigidly attached to the housing 15.

The orientation sensor 114 may sense orientation in one or more degrees of freedom. For example, the orientation sensor 114 may include an electronic compass and/or an inclination sensor, for sensing inclination relative to the vertical direction.

The orientation sensor 114 may be arranged to provide an output indicative of where the road sign frame apparatus 10 is facing about the vertical direction (e.g. relative to North). This can establish whether the road sign frame apparatus 10 is presenting any indicia, such as sign plate 32 or display SO, in the correct direction relative to the road.

The orientation sensor 114 may be arranged to provide an output indicative of whether the road sign frame apparatus 10 is standing in a substantially upright position such that the display region 17 can be seen by oncoming traffic, or in a substantially horizontal orientation (for example) indicating that it is being stored or transported or simply not being used as a road sign).

The road sign frame apparatus 10 may further comprise a movement sensor 112 for sensing movement of the road sign frame apparatus 10. The movement sensor 112 may be any form of movement sensor from a simple switch to an accelerometer.

The movement sensor 112 is arranged to provide an output indicative of movement of the road sign frame apparatus 10. Alternatively, or in addition, the movement sensor 112 may provide an output indicative of the movement of the road sign frame apparatus 10 exceeding a movement threshold. The output can therefore indicate when the road sign frame apparatus 10 is stationary (such an output would be expected to be maintained when the road sign is in use), or when the road sign frame apparatus 10 is moving (such as when carried by a workman deploying or removing the road sign frame apparatus 10, when being transported in a vehicle, or when hit by a vehicle).

The road sign frame apparatus 10 may further comprise a leg extension sensor 122 for sensing whether the movable leg 22a is in the compact state or the extended state. The leg extension sensor 122 may be a simple switch outputting a binary indication of the position of the movable leg 22a. Alternatively, the leg extension sensor 122 may provide a continuous output indicating the position of the movable leg 22a (for example, an angle of rotation relative to a fixed leg 22b, or a telescopic extension, if applicable, etc.).

The leg extension sensor 122 is arranged to provide an output indicative of whether the road sign frame apparatus 10 is in a configuration intended to be self-supporting in an upright position, or in a collapsed configuration, indicating that it is being stored or transported or simply not being used as a road sign.

The road sign frame apparatus 10 may further comprise a handle sensor 120 for sensing whether the handle 20 is in use. The handle sensor 120 preferably is arranged to provide an output that changes when the handle is under load (i.e., the load of the road sign frame apparatus 10). For example, the handle sensor 120 may be a simple switch that is connected to a beam/bar forming at least part of the handle 20 such that the switch is triggered when the bar is pulled. Alternatively, the handle sensor 120 may be a strain gauge that senses deformation of the handle 20 under load.

The handle sensor 120 is arranged to provide an output indicative of whether the road sign frame apparatus 10 is being carried.

The road sign frame apparatus 10 may further comprise a reader 132, located on or in the housing 15, for sensing whether a sign plate 32 has been attached to the attachment devices 30. For example, the reader 132 may be an indicia reader (for example, a two-dimensional bar-code reader), an NFC (near-field communication) reader, an RFID (radio frequency identification) reader, or a similar technology that enables a sign plate 32 to be identified. Signs 32 provided for use with the road sign frame apparatus 10 may be provided with tags 36, wherein tags 36 are suitable to be read by the reader 132 (an indicia/two-dimensional bar-code, an NFC tag, an RFID tag, etc.). Preferably, the reader 132 is located in or on the housing 15 at a location that is aligned with the tag 36 on the sign plate 32 when the sign plate 32 is attached to the attachment devices 30.

The reader 132 is arranged to provide an output indicating whether a sign plate 32 has been attached to the road sign frame apparatus 10 (preferably, in the display region 17). In the case that a sign plate 32 has been attached to the road sign frame apparatus 10, the reader 132 may provide an output based on the data represented by tag 36 (either data represented by an indicia such as a two-dimensional barcode, or data stored on a memory forming part of the tag 36 readable by NFC or RFID) etc.). The tag 36 may encode the type of sign plate 32 and any particular information displayed thereon Furthermore, the reader 132 may read information (from the sign plate 32) or from other devices) that enables the operation of the road sign frame apparatus to be modified. For example, the reader 132 may read from an external device a value to use for the first, second, or third predetermined periods of time discussed below. Preferably, the reader 132 may read from an external device a value to use for at least the third predetermined period of time.

As a further example, the reader 132 may read from an external device data that determines what information should be included in the data packets 225, 255, 425, 445, 455, 475, 485 discussed below.

For example, a non-exhaustive list of types of sign plate 32 includes: road closed, advance warning, diversion route, permit board. Such signs may include a graphic and/or text information.

The road sign frame apparatus 10 also comprises a display 50 in communication with the controller 40. The display 50 may be mounted on the housing 15, or behind a window in the housing 15, or in some other way be visible externally of the housing 15.

In some embodiments, the display 50 is located within display region 17. In this way, when a sign plate 32 is attached to the display region 17 of the road sign frame apparatus 10, it spans the display 50. For some sign plates 32 to be used, the sign plate 32 will include an aperture through which the display 50 is visible. For other sign plates 32, there will be no window, and the display 50 will be covered.

The display 50 may be any form of digital display, such as an LED display or LCD display, but is preferably a low power display, for example a display without a back-light. The low power display may be an e-ink display.

The display 50 can be used to show predetermined information stored in the memory 42. In particular, this may include a permit number for the placement of the road sign frame apparatus 10 and/or the start and end date for the period for which the road sign frame apparatus 10 has a permit to be deployed.

The display 50 may, in some embodiments, be used to display the actual road sign (in which cases the attachment devices 30 are not needed). However, preferred embodiments are envisaged in which both a sign plate 32 and a display 50 are provided. In such embodiments, the display 50 may display information stored in memory 42 (or information sent from servers) for being read by a user inspecting the road sign frame apparatus 10, while the sign plate 32 provides a visual indicia for being read from a significant distance away by oncoming road traffic.

As can be seen in Figure 3, a plurality of road sign frame apparatus 10 of the type described above form part of a larger system 1 that includes a servers that stores data received from the road sign frame apparatus 10.

One or more computer(s) 6 remote from the server 5 may access the data stored therein, preferably in real time. For example, a computer 6 may be arranged to access the data stored in server 5 regarding the locations of a plurality road sign frame apparatus 10, and thereby display those locations, for example, overlaid on a map. Depending on the presence of preferred features discussed below, computer 6 may display data obtained from one or more of the sensors (for example a compass) on those road sign frame apparatus 10.

The system 1 of Figure 3, may optionally comprise: a plurality of autonomous vehicles. The server 5 therefore may include an interface by which the autonomous vehicles are arranged to access the stored location data. The autonomous vehicles may be self-driving cars. Whereas such vehicles would normally be expected to use built-in vision systems to avoid obstacles such as road signs in their path, the inventors have recognised that server 5 storing the inventory of road sign frame apparatus 10, can provide useful information to autonomous vehicles. It is therefore preferred that the location determination means 110 has an accuracy of less than lm.

The road sign frame apparatus 10 is configured to work in one or more of the following modes: an idle mode 200; and a job mode 400. The idle mode 200 is for use when the road sign frame apparatus 10 is being stored, transported, or otherwise not in use as a road sign. The job mode 400 is for use when the road sign frame apparatus 10 is in use as a road sign.

The mode in which the road sign frame apparatus 10 operates may be set by a user interface (for example, a simple switch for selecting the mode). Alternatively, the road sign frame apparatus 10 may switch between modes based on inputs from the sensors, in particular, from the handle sensor 120 and the leg sensor 122.

As can be seen from Figure 4, the road sign frame apparatus 10 follows a particular process in the idle mode 200.

In the idle mode 200, the controller 40 of the road sign frame apparatus 10 is configured to carry out an idle loop having two steps, an idle wait step 210 and an idle transmit step 220.

In the idle wait step 210 the road sign frame apparatus 10 waits for a first predetermined period of time. For example, as shown, the road sign frame apparatus 10 waits for 24 hours. In the idle transmit step 220, the road sign frame apparatus 10 transmits a first idle data packet 225 to the server 5. The controller 40 than repeats this idle loop.

The first idle packet 225 includes data representing the following: the location of the road sign frame apparatus 10, as determined by the location determination device 110 (either two-dimensional or three-dimensional location); the orientation of the road sign frame apparatus 10 (either as an orientation about the vertical direction, and/or as an angle relative to the vertical direction); the ambient temperature of the environment around the road sign frame apparatus 10, as determined by the temperature sensor 116; and/or the charge stored in the power supply 48 of the road sign frame apparatus 10, as determined by the state of charge sensor 148.

The idle loop may be interrupted by the leg sensor 122 detecting in step 240 that the movable leg 22a of the road sign frame apparatus 10 has been extended. Preferably, the leg sensor 122 indicates that the movable leg 22a has been extended for more than a second predetermined period of time, such as five seconds.

When the idle loop is interrupted in step 240 by movement of the movable leg 22a for more than a second predetermined period of time, the road sign frame apparatus 10 switches to the job mode and transmits a second idle data packet 255 to the server 5.

The second idle packet 225 includes data representing the following: the location of the road sign frame apparatus 10, as determined by the location determination device 110 (either two-dimensional or three-dimensional location); the orientation of the road sign frame apparatus 10 (either as an orientation about the vertical direction, and/or as an angle relative to the vertical direction); the ambient temperature of the environment around the road sign frame apparatus 10, as determined by the temperature sensor 116; the presence or absence of a tag 36 as measured by the reader 132, and (optionally) data read therefrom; and/or the charge stored in the power supply 48 of the road sign frame apparatus 10, as determined by the state of charge sensor 148.

The road sign frame apparatus 10 switches to the idle mode 200 from the job mode 400 in response to the disconnection of the computer and/or the switch/button if present.

As can be seen in Figures 5a to 5c the road sign frame apparatus 10 follows a particular process in the job mode 400. In the job mode, the road sign frame apparatus 10 periodically transmits a packet of data to the server 5.

The job mode 400 is intended to be used while the road sign frame apparatus 10 is in place near roadworks and configured to display a visual indication to oncoming traffic that there is a hazard (such as road works).

In the job mode 400, the controller 40 of the road sign frame apparatus 10 is configured to carry out a job loop having two steps, a job wait step 410 and a job transmit step 420.

In the job wait step 410 the road sign frame apparatus 10 waits for a third predetermined period of time. The third predetermined period of time is less than the first period of time. In other words, the transmission of data occurs more frequently in the job mode than in the idle mode. For example, in step 410, as shown, the road sign frame apparatus 10 waits for 25 minutes. In job transmit step 420, the road sign frame apparatus 10 transmits a job data packet 425 to the server 5. The controller 40 than repeats this job loop.

The job packet 425 may include data representing the following: the location of the road sign frame apparatus 10, as determined by the location determination device 110 (either two-dimensional or three-dimensional location); the orientation of the road sign frame apparatus 10 (either as an orientation about the vertical direction, and/or as an angle relative to the vertical direction); the ambient temperature of the environment around the road sign frame apparatus 10, as determined by the temperature sensor 116; and/or the charge stored in the power supply 48 of the road sign frame apparatus 10, as determined by the state of charge sensor 148.

The job loop may be interrupted by movement detected by the movement sensor 112. Such movement may, for example, result from: a workman intentionally repositioning the road sign frame apparatus 10; a workman moving the road sign frame apparatus 10 from a position where it has been in use to a storage or transportation location; the road sign frame apparatus 10 being accidentally knocked over, for example by a car or strong breeze.

The controller 40 of the road sign frame apparatus 10 is arranged to distinguish between these scenarios by reference to the sensors.

The job loop may be interrupted by motion detected by the movement sensor 112 detecting motion. For example, when the movement sensor 112 is an accelerometer, the acceleration of the road sign frame apparatus 10 may exceed a first threshold.

When a handle sensor 120 is not provided, or when a handle sensor 120 is provided indicates that the handle 20 is not in use, movement exceeding the first threshold will cause the controller 40 to implement step 440a. In this scenario, the movement is probably unplanned movement (the road sign frame apparatus 10 has been unintentionally or undesirably moved, for example by a collision).

In step 440a, the controller 40 establishes whether the movable leg(s) 22a are in the extended or compact position using the leg sensor 122. When the movable leg(s) 22a are in the extended state, in step 442, the procedure returns to the job loop.

In step 440a, the controller 40 establishes whether the movable leg(s) 22a are in the extended or compact position using the leg sensor 122. When the movable leg(s) 22a are in the compact state, in step 444, the controller 40 transmits an alarm data packet 445 via the transmitter 44.

The alarm data packet 445 may include data representing the following: the location of the road sign frame apparatus 10, as determined by the location determination device 110 (either two-dimensional or three-dimensional location); the orientation of the road sign frame apparatus 10 (either as an orientation about the vertical direction, and/or as an angle relative to the vertical direction); an alarm flag set to indicate an alarm; the ambient temperature of the environment around the road sign frame apparatus 10, as determined by the temperature sensor 116; and/or the charge stored in the power supply 48 of the road sign frame apparatus 10, as determined by the state of charge sensor 148.

The controller 40 may continue to periodically transmit an alarm data packet 445 via the transmitter 44 until the road sign frame apparatus 10 is reset in step 452. For example, the road sign frame apparatus 10 may be reset in step 452 by extending the moveable leg(s) 22a (in embodiments that include a switch/button as a user interface, this may be used for resetting the road sign frame apparatus 10 in step 452. Once reset, the controller 40 may return to the job loop.

Optionally, upon reset, the road sign frame apparatus 10 may transmit a reset data packet 455. The reset data packet 445 may include data representing the following: the location of the road sign frame apparatus 10, as determined by the location determination device 110 (either two-dimensional or three-dimensional location); the orientation of the road sign frame apparatus 10 (either as an orientation about the vertical direction, and/or as an angle relative to the vertical direction); an alarm flag set to indicate no alarm; the ambient temperature of the environment around the road sign frame apparatus 10, as determined by the temperature sensor 116; and/or the charge stored in the power supply 48 of the road sign frame apparatus 10, as determined by the state of charge sensor 148.

When a handle sensor 120 is provided and indicates that the handle 20 is in use, movement exceeding the first threshold will cause the controller 40 to implement step 440b. In this scenario, the movement is probably intentional movement. In step 440b, the controller 40 waits until the handle 200 is no longer in use.

Once the handle 200 is no longer in use, the controller 40 determines whether the movable legs(2) 22a are in the extended or compact state, using the leg sensor 122.

If, in step 462, the leg sensor indicates that the movable legs(s) 22a are in the extended state, in step 464, the controller 40 issues a job data packet and returns to the job loop. In this scenario, the movement is probably planned movement and the road sign frame apparatus 10 has been intentionally repositioned.

If, in step 470, the leg sensor indicates that the movable legs(s) 22a are in the compact state, in step 472, the controller 40 issues a shutting-down data packet 475 and switches to the idle mode 200. In this scenario, the movement is probably planned movement and the road sign frame apparatus 10 is being removed for storage or transportation.

Whereas, above, the movement sensor 112 is used to interrupt the job loop, in fact, this is not necessary. In some embodiments, the movement sensor 112 is not used. Instead, the job loop can be interrupted by: the leg sensor 122, sensing that the movable leg(s) 22a have been moved, in step 440a; or the handle sensor 120, sensing that the handle has been used, in step 440b.

As a further alternative or additional option, in embodiments in which the orientation sensor 114 can output an indication of the angle of the road sign frame apparatus 10 relative to the vertical direction (i.e., its tilt), the job loop may be interrupted by sensing with the orientation sensor 114 that the road sign apparatus 10 is in a particular orientation or range of orientations. Such an orientation or range may, for example, represent the road sign frame apparatus 10 being in a non-standing configuration (for example, with the display region 17 in a horizontal plane, or with the legs 22 horizontal). In such an embodiment, if the orientation sensor 112 indicates that the non-standing configuration, the controller 40 issues a shutting-down data packet 475 and switches to the idle mode 200.

With reference to Figure 5b, in preferred, optional, embodiments, step 440a is only implemented when movement exceeds the first threshold for less than a predetermined amount of time (for example) 5 seconds). In this scenario, the movement is probably unplanned movement. In contrast, prolonged movement may indicate that the road sign frame apparatus 10 is being transported. Accordingly, when a handle sensor 120 is not provided, or when a handle sensor 120 is provided indicates that the handle 20 is not in use, movement exceeding the first threshold for more than the predetermined amount of time will implement 440c and cause the controller 40 issue a shutting-down data packet 485 and switch to the idle mode 200.

Claims

CLAIMS: 1. A road sign frame apparatus for providing a visual warning of upcoming roadworks, the display apparatus comprising: a display region for displaying a warning sign; a stand for supporting the display region so that it can be seen by oncoming traffic; a location determination device for determining the location of the road sign frame apparatus; a transmitter for transmitting the location to a remote server; and a controller, wherein: the controller is arranged to operate in a first mode in which periodically the controller obtains location data from the location determination device and uses the transmitter to transmit the location data to a remote server.
2. The road sign frame apparatus of claim 1, further comprising one or more sensors, wherein the controller is further arranged to: use the one or more sensors to determine whether the road sign frame apparatus is deployed or not deployed; and implement the first mode when the road sign frame apparatus is deployed.
3. The road sign frame apparatus of claim 2, wherein the controller is further arranged to: use the one or more sensors to determine whether the road sign frame apparatus has fallen over; and use the transmitter to transmit an alarm to the remote server.
4. The road sign frame apparatus of claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the controller is further arranged to: implement a second mode when the road sign frame apparatus is not deployed, wherein, in the second mode the controller obtains location data from the location determination device and uses the transmitter to transmit the location data to a remote server; and the controller is arranged to transmit location data more frequently in the first mode than in the second mode.
5. The road sign frame apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the sensors comprise an orientation sensor for sensing the orientation of the road sign frame apparatus relative to the vertical direction, and the controller uses the orientation sensor to determine whether the road sign frame apparatus is deployed or not deployed.
6. The road sign frame apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the sensors comprise an orientation sensor for sensing the orientation of the road sign frame apparatus about the vertical direction, and the transmitter is arranged to transmit data representing the orientation to a remote server.
7. The road sign frame apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the transmitter is arranged to transmit data representing one or more of two-dimensional or three-dimensional location; orientation about the vertical direction; orientation relative to the vertical direction; an alarm flag for indicating an alarm when the road sign frame apparatus has fallen over; the ambient temperature of the environment; and the charge stored in a power supply of the road sign frame apparatus.
8. The road sign frame apparatus of any preceding claim, further comprising: a handle; and a handle sensor for sensing the use of the handle, wherein the controller uses the handle sensor to determine when the road sign frame apparatus is deployed or not deployed.
9. The road sign frame apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein: the stand comprises a leg that is movable from a compact state for improved storage of the display apparatus to an extended state for supporting the road sign frame apparatus in a particular orientation; and the road sign frame apparatus further comprises a leg sensor for sensing whether the leg is in the compact state or extended state, wherein the controller uses the leg sensor to determine when the road sign frame apparatus is deployed or not deployed; and the controller uses the leg sensor to determine when the road sign frame apparatus has fallen over.
10. The road sign frame apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising: a handle; and a handle sensor for sensing the use of the handle, wherein: the stand comprises at least one movable leg that is movable from a compact state for storage of the display apparatus to an extended state for supporting the road sign frame apparatus in a particular orientation; the road sign frame apparatus further comprises a leg sensor for sensing whether the leg is in the compact state or extended state; and the controller uses the leg sensor and the handle sensor to determine when the road sign frame apparatus is deployed or not deployed.
11. The road sign frame apparatus of any preceding claim, further comprising: a movement sensor for sensing movement of the road sign frame apparatus, wherein the controller uses the movement sensor to determine when the road sign frame apparatus is deployed or not deployed.
12. The road sign frame apparatus of any preceding claim, further comprising a digital display panel in the display region.
13. The road sign frame apparatus of any preceding claim, further comprising a sensor for sensing the attachment of a sign to the display region.
14. The road sign frame apparatus of any preceding claim, further comprising a memory reading device for reading a memory of a device attached to the display region.
15. A system comprising: the road sign frame apparatus of claim 12; and a sign comprising a readable memory, wherein the sign is attached to the display region.
16. The system of claim 15, wherein the road sign frame apparatus comprises a digital display panel in the display region, and the sign includes an aperture through which the digital display can be seen.
17. A system comprising: a plurality of road sign frame apparatus in accordance with any preceding claim; and a server for communicating with the road sign frame apparatus and storing location data representing the locations of the road sign frame apparatus, wherein the server includes an interface by which remote devices may access the stored location data.
18. The system of claim 17, comprising: a plurality of autonomous vehicles, wherein the server includes an interface by which the autonomous vehicles are arranged to access the stored location data.
19. A method of monitoring the deployment of a plurality of road sign frame apparatus, comprising the steps of: determining the location of each road sign frame apparatus using a respective location determination device on each road sign frame apparatus; and periodically transmitting the determined locations from each road sign frame apparatus to a server.
20. The method of claim 19, further comprising the step of accessing the server using a device remote therefrom to obtain the locations of the road sign frame apparatus.
21. The method of claim 19 or 20, further comprising the steps of: deploying the plurality of road sign frame apparatus at one or more locations; and sensing the deployment of each road sign frame apparatus using one or more sensors on each respective road sign frame apparatus.
22. The method of any one of claims 19 to 21, further comprising the steps of: deriving information about the road sign frame apparatus and/or its environment using one or more sensors; and periodically transmitting the derived information to a server.
23. The method of any one of claims 19 to 22, further comprising the steps of: monitoring the state the plurality of road sign frame apparatus using one or more sensors; and changing a mode of operation of each of the plurality of road sign apparatus based on the monitored state.
24. The method of any one of claim 23, wherein changing a mode of operation involves changing the frequency of the periodic transmission.