KR102624990B1 - Road signs improving the lifetime of light sources by back-up control - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a road sign configured to improve visibility of a display unit displaying road information by turning on a light source unit, wherein the light source unit is a main light source including a plurality of light source elements grouped into a plurality of main light source blocks. A backup light source module including a module and a plurality of light source elements provided in correspondence with each of the plurality of main light source blocks and grouped into a plurality of backup light source blocks, wherein the backup light source module is configured to operate when a failure occurs in the main light source module. A road sign that improves the lifespan of the light source through backup control, characterized in that the backup light source block corresponding to the main light source block in which the failure occurred among a plurality of main light source blocks is backed up and controlled to light in place of the main light source block in which the failure occurred. It's about.

Description

Road signs improving the lifetime of light sources by back-up control}

The present invention relates to a road sign with improved lifespan of a light source through backup control, and more specifically, by dividing a plurality of light source elements installed for the purpose of improving the visibility of a road sign into several blocks and installing them to enable backup, This relates to a road sign that improves the lifespan of the light source through backup control, which extends the lifespan of the light source and allows it to be used for a long time without maintenance even if problems occur due to malfunction, burnout, or defect of the light source element.

Generally, roads and sidewalks include road signs that guide drivers and pedestrians with road information such as destinations, and traffic signs for safe driving (hereinafter, road signs and traffic signs will be collectively referred to as 'road signs'). This is installed.

Conventional road signs were mostly made of aluminum, etc., by attaching retroreflective reflectors to reflect light from car lights and provide information to drivers. However, this method provides information to drivers in the event of rain or fog. There was a problem that the sign's original function could not be conveyed to the driver due to its significantly poor reflection performance, increasing the risk of an accident.

To improve this visibility problem, road signs using LED elements have been developed, but when the converter supplying the LED elements or some LED elements fail, traffic congestion and high replacement costs are generated to replace the broken LED elements and converters. There was a problem with Shiki.

In order to further improve this, there has been an attempt to prepare for a failure of the main LED light source by providing an additional LED light source that can replace the main LED light source, but the number of times to respond to a failure of the main LED light source is limited to one time. There were still limits to reducing maintenance costs.

Registered Patent Publication No. 10-2148458 (announced on August 26, 2020)

Therefore, the present invention was developed to solve the problems of the prior art. By dividing a plurality of light source elements installed for the purpose of improving the visibility of road signs into several blocks and installing them to enable backup, the lifespan of the light source is extended and the light source element is installed. The purpose is to provide road signs with improved lifespan of the light source through backup control that can be used for a long time without maintenance even if problems occur due to breakdown, burnout, or defect of the light source.

The technical problems to be achieved by the present invention are not limited to the technical problems mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below. You will be able to.

In order to achieve the above object, a road sign that improves the life of the light source by backup control according to the present invention includes a case having a rear panel and a side panel to form a storage space therein, and a front part of the case. It is configured to include a sign panel disposed in and having a display portion formed to display road information, and a light source portion provided in the storage space to control lighting of a plurality of light source elements, wherein the road information is provided by lighting of the light source portion. In the road sign configured to improve the visibility of the display unit, the light source unit includes: a main light source module including a plurality of light source elements grouped into a plurality of main light source blocks including one or more light source elements connected in series; and a backup light source module including a plurality of light source elements, each of which is provided to correspond to each of the plurality of main light source blocks and grouped into a plurality of backup light source blocks including one or more light source elements connected in series, the backup light source The module is characterized in that, when a failure occurs in the main light source module, the backup light source block corresponding to the main light source block in which the failure occurred among the plurality of main light source blocks is backed up to light in place of the main light source block in which the failure occurred. do.

The backup light source module includes a plurality of bypass switches that electrically connect the corresponding main light source block and the backup light source block in parallel, and each of the plurality of bypass switches is configured to operate when the corresponding main light source block fails. When a fault occurs, the light source driving current flowing in the main light source block in which the fault occurs may be controlled to bypass the corresponding backup light source block.

The road sign according to the present invention further includes a converter unit that converts input power to provide a converter output voltage for driving the main light source module to the output terminal, and the plurality of main light source blocks are electrically connected to the output terminal of the converter unit. It may be configured to be connected in parallel with each other.

The main light source module may further include a plurality of current setting units connected in series to each of the plurality of main light source blocks and configured to set a light source driving current flowing in each of the plurality of main light source blocks to a predetermined value.

The bypass switch may be controlled to electrically connect the corresponding main light source block and the backup light source block in parallel by detecting a decrease in the light source driving current flowing through the corresponding main light source block.

The converter unit may be configured as a voltage source that operates to output the converter output voltage at a constant value regardless of the operation of the bypass switch.

The road sign according to the present invention further includes a converter unit that converts input power to provide a converter output voltage for driving the main light source module to the output terminal, and the plurality of main light source blocks are electrically connected to the output terminal of the converter unit. It may be configured to be connected in series with each other.

The road sign according to the present invention may further include a current sensing unit connected in series between the output terminal of the converter unit and the light source unit to detect the light source driving current flowing in the main light source module or the backup light source module.

The bypass switch may be controlled to electrically connect the corresponding main light source block and the backup light source block in parallel by detecting a change in voltage applied to the corresponding main light source block.

The bypass switch may include a diode element that is turned on so that the light source driving current flows to the corresponding backup light source block when the voltage applied to the corresponding main light source block increases above a preset threshold.

The converter unit may be configured as a current source that operates to output the light source driving current at a constant value regardless of the operation of the bypass switch.

The road sign according to the present invention further includes a light guide plate disposed on the back of the sign panel and configured to emit light incident on the side part to the front part, and the light source element of the main light source module and the light source of the backup light source module The element may be disposed along a side surface of the light guide plate.

The light source element is an LED element, and accordingly, the main light source block, backup light source block, main light source module, backup light source module, and light source unit are respectively a main LED block, backup LED block, main LED module, backup LED module, and LED unit. You can.

The input power may include at least one of commercial AC power or solar power from a solar power generation device.

According to the present invention, the road sign with improved lifespan of the light source through backup control extends the lifespan of the light source by dividing a plurality of light source elements installed for the purpose of improving the visibility of the road sign into several blocks and installing them to enable backup. It has an effect.

In addition, the road sign of the present invention divides a plurality of light source elements into several blocks and performs backup control, thereby responding to multiple failures of light source elements, which has the effect of significantly increasing the maintenance or replacement cycle.

In addition, the road sign of the present invention has the effect of being able to be used for a long time without visiting the site for repair or replacement even if a problem occurs due to a malfunction, burnout, or defect of the light source element.

1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of a road sign according to the present invention.
Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of a road sign according to the invention taken along the line AA in Figure 1.
Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the circuit wiring of a road sign according to the present invention.
Figure 4 is a circuit diagram showing a configuration in which main light source blocks are connected in parallel according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an operation of backup control by a backup light source block in a configuration in which the main light source block of FIG. 4 is connected in parallel.
Figure 6 is a circuit diagram showing a configuration in which main light source blocks are connected in series according to another embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating backup control operation by a backup light source block in a configuration in which the main light source block of FIG. 6 is connected in series.
Figure 8 is a graph showing changes in converter output voltage and light source driving current when backup is controlled in another embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 9 is a diagram showing the combination of a light source unit and a light guide plate for applying edge lighting according to another embodiment of the present invention.

A preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with the accompanying drawings as follows. The detailed description below is merely illustrative and merely illustrates preferred embodiments of the present invention.

Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of a road sign according to the present invention, and Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line A-A of Figure 1.

Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the road sign according to the present invention is fixed to the ground through a support 30 and has a rear panel 12 and a side panel 11 to provide a storage space 13 therein. It includes an enclosure 10 and a sign panel 20 arranged to cover the front part of the enclosure 10 and having a display unit 21 formed thereon to display road information or traffic information, and a storage space inside the enclosure 10. (13) includes a light source unit 40 including a plurality of light source elements 41 whose lighting is controlled, and a light source unit 40 for converting the input power 52 and 53 to drive the light source elements 41 of the light source unit 40. A converter unit 51 that provides power is provided to improve visibility of the display unit 21 at night or in bad weather by turning on the light source unit 40.

The sign panel 20 may be constructed by stacking a transmission plate 22, a diffusion sheet 23, a light blocking sheet 24, and a reflection sheet 25. However, the stacking order is not necessarily limited to the above order, but for convenience of explanation, the above stacking order will be used as an example.

A display portion 21 may be formed in the light blocking sheet 24 and the reflective sheet 25 in the form of an opening (not shown) that displays road or traffic information in the form of letters, symbols, and figures. At least a portion of the light emitted from the light source unit 40 may pass through the display unit 21 to display road information.

The transmission plate 22 may be made of a synthetic resin such as acrylic, a transparent or translucent material through which light from the light source unit 40 is transmitted.

The diffusion sheet 23 is a component that evenly diffuses and disperses the light passing through the transmission plate 22, and has the effect of further improving the visibility of the display unit 21.

The light blocking sheet 24 is a component that blocks light passing through the transmission plate 22 and can serve to improve visibility by maximizing the contrast ratio in the display portion 21 area and other areas.

The reflective sheet 25 can function to further improve visibility by reflecting external light, such as sunlight or vehicle lights, that irradiates the front of a road sign.

As discussed above, the road sign of the present invention illuminates the display unit 21 with light from the light source unit 40 of the internal storage space 13, so that the display unit 21 is displayed not only during the day but also at night and in bad weather. The visibility of road information is greatly improved.

However, as described above, road signs using the light source elements 41 have an advantage in visibility, but in case a problem occurs in some of the light source elements 41, it is necessary to replace the problematic light source elements 41. There were problems with replacement costs and traffic congestion.

Accordingly, the road sign of the present invention, for an illuminated road sign using a plurality of light source elements 41, is provided with a backup light source to prepare for problems with the main light source, but the backup light source can be backed up multiple times instead of once. The purpose is to dramatically increase the replacement and maintenance cycle by increasing the circuit.

Here, the problem that occurs in the light source element 41 may be a concept that includes the light source element 41 not lighting up due to failure, burnout, element defect, or manufacturing defect of the light source element 41.

Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the circuit wiring of a road sign according to the present invention.

Referring to Figure 3, the road sign according to the present invention includes a light source unit 40 including a plurality of light source elements 41 whose lighting is controlled in the storage space 13 inside the enclosure 10, and the light source unit ( 40) includes a main light source module 100 including a plurality of light source elements 41 grouped into a plurality of main light source blocks 110 including one or more light source elements 41 connected in series, each of which has a plurality of main light source blocks 110. A backup light source module 200 including a plurality of light source elements 41 provided corresponding to each of the light source blocks 110 and grouped into a plurality of backup light source blocks 210 including one or more light source elements 41 connected in series. ) may be configured to include.

At this time, in the backup light source module 200, if a failure occurs in the main light source module 100, the backup light source block 210 corresponding to the main light source block 110 in which the failure occurred among the plurality of main light source blocks 110 fails. It is characterized by back-up control so that it lights up on behalf of the main light source block 110 where this occurred.

To this end, the backup light source module 200 may be configured to include a plurality of bypass switches 211 that electrically connect the corresponding main light source block 110 and the backup light source block 210 in parallel. Accordingly, each of the plurality of bypass switches 211 switches the light source driving current (Idc) flowing in the failed main light source block 110 to a corresponding backup light source block when a failure occurs in the corresponding main light source block 110. It can be controlled to bypass to (210).

In addition, the road sign according to the present invention includes a converter unit 51 that converts the input power 52 and 53 and provides a converter output voltage (Vdc) for driving the main light source module 100 to the output terminal. do. Here, the input power may be commercial AC power 52, solar power 53 input through a solar power generation device, or may include both AC power 52 and solar power 53. In addition, the output converter output voltage (Vdc) may be a direct current voltage depending on the light source element 41 installed in the load, but the case of being an alternating current voltage is not excluded.

The light source element 41 constituting the light source unit 40 of the present invention may generally include any device capable of receiving electrical energy and emitting light, and may be, for example, an LED, an incandescent lamp, a fluorescent lamp, a discharge tube, a light-emitting element, an EL sheet, etc. there is.

However, hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, the light source element 41 is an LED element 41, and accordingly, the main light source block 110, the backup light source block 210, the main light source module 100, and the backup light source module ( For example, the light source unit 200 and the light source unit 40 are named as the main LED block 110, backup LED block 210, main LED module 100, backup LED module 200, and LED unit 40, respectively. Let me explain.

Additionally, since the light source element 41 is an LED element 41, it is assumed that the converter output voltage (Vdc) output from the converter unit 51 is a direct current voltage.

The road sign according to the present invention is controlled by turning on the LED element 41 at night or depending on weather conditions, and when the converter unit 51 generates the converter output voltage (Vdc), the main LED module 100 It may be configured to be turned on with priority over the backup LED module 200.

These operating conditions are maintained until a problem occurs in at least one LED element 41 of the main LED module 100. If a problem occurs in any one of the plurality of main LED blocks 110, the problem occurs. The bypass switch 211 corresponding to the main LED block 110 is turned on to allow the LED driving current (Idc) to bypass and flow to the corresponding backup LED block 210, thereby replacing the main LED block 110 in question. Thus, the corresponding backup LED block 210 can be controlled to light up instead.

Furthermore, the road sign according to the present invention is configured to turn on the main LED module 100 in priority over the backup LED module 200 when the LED element 41 is controlled to turn on at night or depending on weather conditions. However, it is also possible to configure the roles to change depending on the need or to have each turn-on controlled independently.

Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 3, the road sign according to the present invention uses the converter output voltage (Vdc) to control the turn-on of the backup LED module 200 regardless of whether the main LED module 100 is broken. It may further include a main switch 300 whose switching is controlled to be provided to the backup LED module 200.

Through this configuration, the road sign of the present invention further improves visibility in situations where visibility is difficult, such as bad weather or fog, by further lighting the backup LED module 200 when necessary after lighting the main LED module 100. You can get the effect.

In addition, although not shown in the drawing, the road sign according to the present invention uses a converter output to exclude the operation priority of the main LED module 100 and the backup LED module 200 and control the turn-on independently of each other. In addition to the main switch 300, a switch (not shown) whose switching is controlled to provide voltage (Vdc) to the main LED module 100 may be further included.

In addition, although not shown in the drawings, the road sign according to the present invention includes a communication module (not shown) that communicates with a remote management server (not shown) that monitors or controls the status and operation of a plurality of road signs. It is equipped with a remote management server that can be configured to control and manage the operation, installation location, installation year, operating status, failure history, and replacement time of the road sign through a communication module.

The road sign of the present invention can be constructed by connecting the main LED block 110 of the main LED module 100 to the output terminal of the converter unit 51 in series or parallel, and an appropriate configuration is selected according to the strengths and weaknesses of each. You can use it.

FIG. 4 is a circuit diagram showing a configuration in which the main LED blocks 110, 120, and 130 are connected in parallel according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 5 is a circuit diagram showing a configuration in which the main LED blocks 110, 120, and 130 of FIG. 4 are connected in parallel. This is a diagram showing the backup-controlled operation by the backup LED blocks 210, 220, and 230 in the configuration.

4 and 5, the LED unit 40 of a road sign according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of main LED blocks 110, 120, and 130 including one or more LED elements 41 connected in series. A main LED module 100 including a plurality of LED elements 41 grouped in ), each provided in correspondence with a plurality of main LED blocks 110, 120, and 130, and one or more LED elements connected in series ( It may be configured to include a backup LED module 200 including a plurality of LED elements 41 grouped into a plurality of backup LED blocks 210, 220, and 230 including 41).

In addition, the road sign according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a converter unit 51 that converts the input power 52 and 53 and provides a converter output voltage (Vdc) for driving the main LED module 100 to the output terminal. It includes, and the plurality of main LED blocks 110, 120, and 130 may be electrically connected to the output terminal of the converter unit 51 in parallel.

The backup LED module 200 includes a plurality of bypass switches 211 that electrically connect the corresponding main LED blocks 110, 120, and 130 and the backup LED blocks 210, 220, and 230 in parallel. You can. Accordingly, each of the plurality of bypass switches 211 switches on the LED driving current ( Idc) can be controlled to be bypassed to the corresponding backup LED blocks 210, 220, and 230.

At this time, the converter unit 51 may be configured as a voltage source that operates to output the converter output voltage (Vdc) at a constant value regardless of the operation of the bypass switch 211.

Since the amount of light of a typical light source device 41 (particularly, an LED device) is determined by the driving current, as in an embodiment of the present invention in FIGS. 4 and 5, the main LED blocks 110, 120, and 130 are arranged in parallel. In a structure in which the same converter output voltage (Vdc) is applied by being connected, the main LED module 100 is connected in series to each of a plurality of main LED blocks 110, 120, and 130 to form a plurality of main LED blocks 110, 120, 130) It may include a plurality of current setting units 111 configured to set the LED driving current (Idc) flowing through each LED to a predetermined value or to the same value. Here, the current setting unit 111 may be implemented as a resistor element that determines or limits the current with respect to a predetermined voltage.

The bypass switch 211 is a component that can be implemented with one or more semiconductor switches, relay elements, or a combination thereof, and reduces the LED driving current (Idc) flowing through the corresponding main LED blocks (110, 120, 130). This can be detected and controlled to electrically connect the corresponding main LED blocks (110, 120, 130) and backup LED blocks (210, 220, 230) in parallel.

That is, when a problem occurs in any one of the LED elements 41 of the main LED blocks 110, 120, and 130 and the LED driving current (Idc) does not flow, the bypass switch 211 switches on the LED driving current (Idc). The voltage of the flowing current setting unit 111 may be detected and turned on so that the LED driving current (Idc) can be bypassed and flow to the corresponding backup LED blocks (210, 220, 230).

Furthermore, when the road sign according to an embodiment of the present invention is controlled by turning on the LED element 41 at night or depending on weather conditions, the main LED module 100 takes precedence over the backup LED module 200. It may be configured to turn on, but it is also possible to change roles as needed or to control turn-on independently.

Accordingly, the road sign according to an embodiment of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 4, uses the converter output voltage to control the turn-on of the backup LED module 200 regardless of whether the main LED module 100 is broken. It may further include a main switch 300 whose switching is controlled to provide (Vdc) to the backup LED module 200.

Through this configuration, the road sign of the present invention further improves visibility in situations where visibility is difficult, such as bad weather or fog, by further lighting the backup LED module 200 when necessary after lighting the main LED module 100. You can get the effect.

In addition, the road sign according to an embodiment of the present invention, although not shown in the drawing, can control the turn-on of the main LED module 100 and the backup LED module 200 independently of each other, excluding the operation priorities. In order to do this, a separate switch (not shown) whose switching is controlled to provide the converter output voltage (Vdc) to the main LED module 100 may be further included in addition to the main switch 300.

In the present invention, the main LED module 100 and the backup LED module 200 are grouped into a plurality of main LED blocks 110, 120, 130 and backup LED blocks 210, 220, 230, respectively, and their number is limited. However, hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, the main LED module 100 is composed of first to third main LED blocks 110, 120, and 130, and the backup LED module 200 is composed of first to third backup LEDs. The backup control operation will be explained by taking the case consisting of blocks 210, 220, and 230 as an example.

Figure 5(a) shows the normal operating state of the main LED module 100.

According to FIG. 5(a), the first to third main LED blocks 110, 120, and 130 constituting the main LED module 100 all operate normally, so that the LED driving current (Idc) is equal to the first to third main LED blocks 110, 120, and 130. It flows only to the main LED blocks 110, 120, and 130, and the first to third main LED blocks 110, 120, and 130 are turned on.

At this time, the bypass switch 211 configured to connect the first to third main LED blocks 110, 120, 130 and the first to third backup LED blocks 210, 220, 230 is not turned on. The first to third backup LED blocks 210, 220, and 230 are not illuminated.

Figure 5(b) shows a backup operation state in which a problem occurs in one of the main LED modules 100.

According to FIG. 5(b), if a problem occurs in the second main LED block 120 among the first to third main LED blocks 110, 120, and 130 constituting the main LED module 100, the second backup The LED block 220 backs it up so that the first and third main LED blocks 110 and 130 and the second backup LED block 220 are turned on.

At this time, the bypass switch 211 between the second main LED block 120 and the second backup LED block 220 is connected to the second main LED block 120 from the current setting unit 111 connected to the second main LED block 120. By detecting a problem in the block 120, the LED driving current (Idc) flowing to the second main LED block 120 may be turned on and controlled to be bypassed to the second backup LED block 220.

Figure 5(c) shows a backup operation state in which a problem occurs in two of the main LED modules 100.

According to FIG. 5(c), a problem occurs in the second and third main LED blocks 120 and 130 among the first to third main LED blocks 110, 120, and 130 constituting the main LED module 100. When this happens, the corresponding second and third backup LED blocks 220 and 230 back it up, so that the first main LED block 110 and the second and third backup LED blocks 220 and 230 are turned on.

At this time, the bypass switches 211 between the second and third main LED blocks 120 and 130 and the second and third backup LED blocks 220 and 230 are connected to the second and third main LED blocks 120. , 130) detects a problem in the second and third main LED blocks (120, 130) from the current setting unit (111), respectively, and drives the LEDs flowing to the second and third main LED blocks (120, 130). The turn-on control may be such that the current Idc is bypassed to the second and third backup LED blocks 220 and 230, respectively.

Additionally, even if a problem occurs in all of the first to third main LED blocks (110, 120, and 130), it is possible to operate by replacing them with the first to third backup LED blocks (210, 220, and 230), so Figures 4 and As in the example of FIG. 5, when the main LED module 100 is grouped into three blocks, a total of three backups are possible for a total of three failures. Furthermore, if the main LED module 100 is grouped into n blocks, a total of n failures can theoretically be backed up, which has the advantage of significantly increasing the replacement or repair cycle due to failure of the LED element 41. there is.

As such, the road sign according to an embodiment of the present invention has a structure in which the converter output voltage (Vdc) is applied in parallel to a plurality of main LED blocks 110, 120, and 130, and each main LED block 110, There is a disadvantage in that the current setting unit 111 must be configured so that the LED driving currents (Idc) of the LEDs 120 and 130 are the same, and the configuration of the bypass switch 211 becomes relatively complicated. However, the main LED blocks 110 and 120 , 130), the converter output voltage (Vdc) and the LED driving current (Idc) of the converter unit 51 need to be output consistently, so separate control is not required, and the main LED module 100 and the backup LED There is an advantage in that wiring is simple when increasing or decreasing each block in the module 200.

FIG. 6 is a circuit diagram showing a configuration in which the main LED blocks 110, 120, and 130 are connected in series according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 7 is a circuit diagram showing a configuration in which the main LED blocks 110, 120, and 130 of FIG. 6 are connected in series. It is a diagram showing the backup-controlled operation by the backup LED blocks 210, 220, and 230 in the configuration, and FIG. 8 shows the converter output voltage (Vdc) and LED driving current (Idc) when backup controlled in another embodiment of the present invention. This is a graph showing the change.

6 and 7, the LED unit 40 of a road sign according to another embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of main LED blocks 110, 120, and 130 including one or more LED elements 41 connected in series. A main LED module 100 including a plurality of LED elements 41 grouped in ), each provided in correspondence with a plurality of main LED blocks 110, 120, and 130, and one or more LED elements connected in series ( It may be configured to include a backup LED module 200 including a plurality of LED elements 41 grouped into a plurality of backup LED blocks 210, 220, and 230 including 41).

In addition, the road sign according to another embodiment of the present invention includes a converter unit 51 that converts the input power 52 and 53 and provides a converter output voltage (Vdc) for driving the main LED module 100 to the output terminal. It includes, and the plurality of main LED blocks 110, 120, and 130 may be electrically connected to the output terminal of the converter unit 51 in series.

The backup LED module 200 includes a plurality of bypass switches 211 that electrically connect the corresponding main LED blocks 110, 120, and 130 and the backup LED blocks 210, 220, and 230 in parallel. You can. Accordingly, each of the plurality of bypass switches 211 switches on the LED driving current ( Idc) can be controlled to be bypassed to the corresponding backup LED blocks 210, 220, and 230.

At this time, referring to FIG. 8, the converter unit 51 may be configured as a current source that operates to output the LED driving current (Idc) at a constant value regardless of the operation of the bypass switch 211, and thus the As the number of backup controls increases by the pass switch 211, the converter output voltage (Vdc) can be controlled to increase.

A typical light source device 41 (particularly an LED device) determines the amount of light by the driving current. Like other embodiments of the present invention in FIGS. 6 and 7, the main LED blocks 110, 120, and 130 are connected in series. In the connected structure, the same LED driving current (Idc) flows through all the main LED blocks (110, 120, 130), so all the main LED blocks (110, 120, 130) and the backup LED blocks (210, 220, The amount of light 230) can also be controlled in the same way as shown in FIG. 8.

Accordingly, the road sign according to the present invention is connected in series between the output terminal of the converter unit 51 and the LED unit 40 to provide an LED driving current (Idc) flowing through the main LED module 100 or the backup LED module 200. It may be configured to include a current sensing unit 140 that detects. Here, the current sensing unit 140 may be implemented as a resistance element that outputs a predetermined voltage with respect to the LED driving current (Idc).

Accordingly, the converter unit 51 of the present invention controls the converter output voltage (Vdc) according to the sensing result of the current sensing unit 140 to maintain a constant LED driving current (Idc) regardless of the operation of the bypass switch 211. It can be configured to operate as a current source that outputs a value.

The bypass switch 211 is a component that can be implemented as one or more semiconductor switches, relay elements, or a combination thereof, and detects changes in the voltage applied to the corresponding main LED blocks 110, 120, and 130 and switches on the corresponding main LED blocks. The LED blocks (110, 120, 130) and the backup LED blocks (210, 220, 230) can be controlled to be electrically connected in parallel.

That is, the bypass switch 211 switches the LED elements 41 of the corresponding main LED blocks 110, 120, and 130 when the voltage applied to the corresponding main LED blocks 110, 120, and 130 increases beyond a preset threshold. ) may be determined to be burned out or have a malfunction or defect such as disconnection, so it may be turned on at this time and controlled so that the LED driving current (Idc) is bypassed to the backup LED blocks (210, 220, 230).

In particular, referring to FIG. 6, the bypass switch 211 is configured to operate when a problem occurs in the main LED blocks 110, 120, and 130, so that the applied voltage increases beyond a preset threshold and the LED driving current (Idc) is blocked. It may be configured to include a diode element that is automatically turned on so that the LED driving current (Idc) flows to the corresponding backup LED blocks (210, 220, 230).

Accordingly, the converter unit 51 according to another embodiment of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 8, when a failure occurs in the main LED blocks 110, 120, and 130, the backup LED blocks 210, 220, and 230 ), the converter output voltage (Vdc) increases as the number of backups increases, but the LED driving current (Idc) flowing through the main LED module 100 and the backup LED module 200 can be controlled to remain constant. .

In the present invention, the main LED module 100 and the backup LED module 200 are grouped into a plurality of main LED blocks 110, 120, 130 and backup LED blocks 210, 220, 230, respectively, and their number is limited. However, hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, the main LED module 100 is composed of first to third main LED blocks 110, 120, and 130, and the backup LED module 200 is composed of first to third backup LEDs. The backup control operation will be explained by taking the case consisting of blocks 210, 220, and 230 as an example.

Figure 7(a) shows the normal operating state of the main LED module 100.

According to FIG. 7(a), the first to third main LED blocks 110, 120, and 130 constituting the main LED module 100 all operate normally, so that the LED driving current (Idc) is equal to the first to third main LED blocks 110, 120, and 130. It flows only to the main LED blocks 110, 120, and 130, and the first to third main LED blocks 110, 120, and 130 are turned on.

At this time, the bypass switch 211 configured to connect the first to third main LED blocks 110, 120, 130 and the first to third backup LED blocks 210, 220, 230 is not turned on. The first to third backup LED blocks 210, 220, and 230 are not illuminated.

Figure 7(b) shows a backup operation state in which a problem occurs in one of the main LED modules 100.

According to FIG. 7(b), if a problem occurs in the second main LED block 120 among the first to third main LED blocks 110, 120, and 130 constituting the main LED module 100, the second backup The LED block 220 backs it up so that the first and third main LED blocks 110 and 130 and the second backup LED block 220 are turned on.

At this time, the bypass switch 211 between the second main LED block 120 and the second backup LED block 220 switches the second main LED block 120 when the voltage applied to the second main LED block 120 increases above the threshold. By detecting that a problem has occurred in the main LED block 120, the turn-on control may be performed so that the LED driving current (Idc) flowing to the second main LED block 120 is bypassed to the second backup LED block 220.

Figure 7(c) shows a backup operation state in which a problem occurs in two of the main LED modules 100.

According to FIG. 7(c), a problem occurs in the second and third main LED blocks 120 and 130 among the first to third main LED blocks 110, 120, and 130 constituting the main LED module 100. When this happens, the corresponding second and third backup LED blocks 220 and 230 back it up, so that the first main LED block 110 and the second and third backup LED blocks 220 and 230 are turned on.

At this time, the bypass switches 211 between the second and third main LED blocks 120 and 130 and the second and third backup LED blocks 220 and 230 are connected to the second and third main LED blocks 120. , 130), a problem in the second and third main LED blocks (120, 130) is detected when the voltage applied to each increases above the threshold value, and the LED flowing to the second and third main LED blocks (120, 130) is detected. The turn-on control may be performed so that the driving current (Idc) is bypassed to the second and third backup LED blocks 220 and 230, respectively.

In addition, even if a problem occurs in all of the first to third main LED blocks 110, 120, and 130, it is possible to replace them with the first to third backup LED blocks 210, 220, and 230 to operate, so FIG. 6 And, as in the example of FIG. 7, when the main LED module 100 is grouped into three blocks, a total of three backups are possible for a total of three failures. Furthermore, if the main LED module 100 is grouped into n blocks, a total of n failures can theoretically be backed up, which has the advantage of significantly increasing the replacement or repair cycle due to failure of the LED element 41. there is.

As such, the road sign according to another embodiment of the present invention has a structure in which a plurality of main LED blocks 110, 120, and 130 are applied in series to the converter output terminal, and failure of the main LED blocks 110, 120, and 130 There is a disadvantage in that the converter output voltage (Vdc) of the converter unit 51 changes depending on the presence and wiring is relatively complicated when adding or removing each block of the main LED module 100 and the backup LED module 200. Regardless of whether the LED blocks (110, 120, 130) are broken, the LED driving current (Idc) flowing to each of the main LED blocks (110, 120, 130) and the backup LED blocks (210, 220, 230) is always the same. There is an advantage that the amount of light can be controlled consistently and the configuration and control of the bypass switch 211 can be relatively simple.

From the above, in the road sign according to one embodiment and another embodiment of the present invention, it is preferable that the light source element 41 of the light source unit 40 is disposed at a position corresponding to the display unit 21 formed on the sign panel 20. However, the structure of the light source unit 40 according to the present invention is not necessarily limited to this, and may be configured in various forms if the purpose is to illuminate the display unit 21 of the sign panel 20.

For example, as another embodiment of the present invention, the display unit 21 of a road sign may not be illuminated directly by the light source element 41, but indirectly by the light guide plate 400.

Figure 9 is a combined diagram of the light source unit 40 and the light guide plate 400 for applying edge lighting according to another embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 9, a road sign according to another embodiment of the present invention is disposed on the rear of the sign panel 20 and further includes a light guide plate 400 configured to emit light incident on the side portion to the front portion. It can be configured as follows. Here, the light source element 41 of the main light source module 100 and the light source element 41 of the backup light source module 200 are disposed along the side surface of the light guide plate 400 and are directed to the side surface of the light guide plate 400 when turned on. Light is incident and the light incident on the light guide plate 400 is characterized in that it is emitted to the front side of the road sign.

The light guide plate 400 is a component that generally converts light incident from a light source such as a cold cathode ray lamp (CCFL) or LED into a surface light source, and may be made of a plate-shaped translucent plastic or acrylic resin material. At this time, a light reflection portion (not shown) may be formed on the back of the light guide plate 400 to prevent light from an incident light source from leaking to the back.

The light guide plate 400 is plate-shaped and is illustrated as a square in the drawing, but its shape is not limited to this and may be formed in various planar shapes such as polygons including rectangles, circles, and ovals.

The light source element 41 of the main light source module 100 and the light source element 41 of the backup light source module 200 may be disposed along the side surface of the light guide plate 400.

In detail, in order to minimize brightness fluctuations during backup control, the light source elements 41 of the main light source module 100 and the light source elements 41 of the backup light source module 200 are arranged alternately with each other, or are arranged in a plurality of light source elements 41 of the main light source module 100. The main light source block 110 and the backup light source block 210 may be arranged alternately.

In addition, the light source element 41 of the main light source module 100 and the backup light source module 200 may be disposed in positions facing each other with the light guide plate 400 interposed therebetween. In this case, the plurality of main light source blocks 110 ) and the backup light source block 210 may be arranged so that corresponding blocks face each other.

In addition, each of the plurality of light source elements 41 of the main light source module 100 and the backup light source module 200 may be arranged to surround the light guide plate 400 as shown in FIG. 9, but A configuration in which it is disposed only partially along the side portion is also possible.

In addition, Figure 9 shows a configuration in which the light source elements 41 are arranged in a row along the side of the light guide plate 400. However, considering the width of the light source elements 41 and the thickness of the light guide plate 400, the light source elements 41 ) is also possible to arrange in multiple columns. For example, a plurality of light source elements 41 of the main light source module 100 and the backup light source module 200 can be arranged side by side in two rows, and in this case, the corresponding main light source block 110 and backup light source block 210 are It is also possible to arrange them in two rows side by side. Through this, there is an advantage in that brightness uniformity can be improved when the corresponding backup light source block 210 is turned on instead of the main light source block 110 that has a problem during backup control.

In addition, the display portion 21 of the sign panel 20 according to another embodiment of the present invention may be formed in an opening shape according to the display content as described above, but does not emit light incident on the side to the front. The light guide pattern (not shown) may be formed on the front or back side of the light guide plate 400. At this time, the light guide pattern may be formed or printed directly on the light guide plate 400 with luminescent ink containing an adhesive, or may be provided in the form of a light guide sheet (not shown) printed on a separate film and attached to the light guide plate 400.

Through the above-described configuration, the road sign, which improves the life of the light source through backup control according to the present invention, divides a plurality of light source elements installed for the purpose of improving the visibility of the road sign into several blocks and installs them to enable backup. , it extends the life of the light source and can respond to multiple failures of the light source element, significantly increasing the maintenance or replacement cycle. Even if a problem occurs due to a malfunction, burnout, or defect of the light source element, there is no need to visit the site for repair or replacement. It has the effect of being able to be used for a long time.

In the above, the present invention has been described and illustrated based on preferred embodiments for illustrating the principles of the present invention, but the present invention is not limited to the configuration and operation as shown and described. The embodiments described above should be understood in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the patent claims described below, and all changes or modified forms derived from the meaning and scope of the claims and their equivalent concepts should be construed as being included in the scope of the present invention.

10: enclosure 11: side plate
12: Rear panel 13: Storage space
20: cover panel 21: display unit
22: Transmission plate 23: Diffusion sheet
24: Light blocking sheet 25: Reflective sheet
30: Support 40: Light source (LED) part
41: Light source (LED) element 51: Converter unit
52: AC power 53: Solar power
100: main light source (LED) module 110, 120, 130: main light source (LED) block
111: current setting unit 140: current sensing unit
200: Backup light source (LED) module 210, 220, 230: Backup light source (LED) block
211: bypass switch 300: main switch
400: light guide plate
Vdc: Converter output voltage Idc: Light source (LED) driving current

Claims (14)

An enclosure having a rear panel and a side panel to form a storage space inside, a sign panel disposed on the front of the enclosure and having a display part to display road information, and a plurality of light source elements provided in the storage space to illuminate. In the road sign, which includes a controlled light source unit and a converter unit that provides a converter output voltage for driving the light source unit, and is configured to improve visibility of the display unit that provides the road information by turning on the light source unit,
The light source unit,
A plurality of light source elements grouped into a plurality of main light source blocks including one or more light source elements connected in series, and a light source driving current flowing in each of the plurality of main light source blocks connected in series to each of the plurality of main light source blocks is set to a predetermined value. a main light source module including a plurality of current setting units configured to set; and
A plurality of light source elements, each of which is provided to correspond to each of the plurality of main light source blocks and grouped into a plurality of backup light source blocks including one or more light source elements connected in series, and the corresponding main light source block and the backup light source block A backup light source module including a plurality of bypass switches electrically connected in parallel,
The backup light source module is backup-controlled so that, when a failure occurs in the main light source module, a backup light source block corresponding to the main light source block in which the failure occurred among the plurality of main light source blocks lights up in place of the main light source block in which the failure occurred. ,
Each of the plurality of bypass switches is controlled to bypass the light source driving current flowing in the failed main light source block to the corresponding backup light source block when a failure occurs in the corresponding main light source block,
The converter unit electrically connects the plurality of main light source blocks in parallel to each other at an output terminal, converts input power and provides the converter output voltage for driving the plurality of main light source modules to the output terminal, and the bypass switch. A road sign that improves the lifespan of the light source through backup control, characterized in that it consists of a voltage source that operates to output the converter output voltage at a constant value regardless of the operation of the converter.
delete delete delete According to paragraph 1,
The bypass switch is controlled to electrically connect the corresponding main light source block and the backup light source block in parallel by detecting a decrease in the light source driving current flowing through the corresponding main light source block, thereby reducing the life of the light source by backup control. Improved road signs.
delete delete delete delete delete delete According to paragraph 1,
It further includes a light guide plate disposed on the back of the sign panel and configured to emit light incident on the side portion to the front portion,
A road sign with improved lifespan of the light source through backup control, wherein the light source element of the main light source module and the light source element of the backup light source module are disposed along a side portion of the light guide plate.
According to paragraph 1,
The light source element is an LED element,
Accordingly, the main light source block, the backup light source block, the main light source module, the backup light source module, and the light source unit are each a main LED block, a backup LED block, a main LED module, a backup LED module, and an LED unit by backup control. Road signs with improved lifespan of light sources.
According to paragraph 1,
A road sign with improved lifespan of the light source through backup control, wherein the input power includes at least one of commercial AC power or solar power from a solar power generation device.