WO1997003250A1 - Road marker - Google Patents
Road marker Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- WO1997003250A1 WO1997003250A1 PCT/US1996/011550 US9611550W WO9703250A1 WO 1997003250 A1 WO1997003250 A1 WO 1997003250A1 US 9611550 W US9611550 W US 9611550W WO 9703250 A1 WO9703250 A1 WO 9703250A1
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- WO
- WIPO (PCT)
- Prior art keywords
- road marker
- battery
- housing
- road
- light
- Prior art date
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Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E01—CONSTRUCTION OF ROADS, RAILWAYS, OR BRIDGES
- E01F—ADDITIONAL WORK, SUCH AS EQUIPPING ROADS OR THE CONSTRUCTION OF PLATFORMS, HELICOPTER LANDING STAGES, SIGNS, SNOW FENCES, OR THE LIKE
- E01F9/00—Arrangement of road signs or traffic signals; Arrangements for enforcing caution
- E01F9/50—Road surface markings; Kerbs or road edgings, specially adapted for alerting road users
- E01F9/553—Low discrete bodies, e.g. marking blocks, studs or flexible vehicle-striking members
- E01F9/559—Low discrete bodies, e.g. marking blocks, studs or flexible vehicle-striking members illuminated
Definitions
- the road marker is a subterranean road marker designed to be placed into a paved surface of a highway or roadway, but at an elevation coincident with or below the grade of the road and to locate below grade a light emitting region which might be either light retro-reflective, or a light source, or a combination of both.
- a popular embodiment of this class of above grade retro-reflective lens road markers is one manufactured by the STIMSONITE CORPORATION of Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A.
- Another type of road marker, which is embedded into the road and surmounts the surface plane of the road is a refractive delineator such as one disclosed by KONE in U.S.A. Patent No. 3,393,506 issued 20 December, 1966 for a ROAD MARKER. It is spring loaded, carrying retro-reflective surfaces, biasingly held at an elevation above road grade, so that when traffic or snowplows go over the same, the retro-reflective elements of the marker depress into the marker housing, to below grade and out of harm's way, to pop up again after depression.
- ROBERTS in U.S. Patent No. 4,668,120 issued 26 May, 1987 discloses a SOLAR-POWERED ILLUMINATED REFLECTOR which contains a self-contained-powered illuminating reflector to provide visibility at a distance as a traffic safety aid. It is mounted in an elevated housing, which surmounts the road surface; and, therefore, has the same disadvantages as the prior art road markers, referred to above.
- the surface of the delineator is profiled to provide a central depression or floor with inclined end walls and preferably, vertical side walls outwardly flaring near the top which encourages debris removal from the effective upper surface of the floor.
- At least one inclined end wall carries a light dispersing media and that in the preferred embodiment, also includes light emitting elements.
- the floor of the depression carries a light absorbing surface or solar collector for charging a rechargeable battery within the delineator while end slopes from the floor to opposite upper ends of the marker housing provide angular positioning of light sources which may be powered by the battery, or be a light retro-reflective material.
- the novel road marker illuminates itself, via a light source utilizing an energy source supplied to the light source that is enclosed within the unit itself and includes a rechargeable battery, a solar collector (photovoltaic cell or solar generator) , and electronic control circuits to recharge the battery during ambient light conditions, either from direct or indirect sunlight and to energize the light source during threshold non-ambient light conditions.
- a light source utilizing an energy source supplied to the light source that is enclosed within the unit itself and includes a rechargeable battery, a solar collector (photovoltaic cell or solar generator) , and electronic control circuits to recharge the battery during ambient light conditions, either from direct or indirect sunlight and to energize the light source during threshold non-ambient light conditions.
- the road marker is void of the energy source and the means by which it is recharged, including the light emitting devices, but provides light retro-reflective elements that return light toward the source of oncoming light, which is emitted from the headlights of an oncoming vehicle, the reflective light being returned back toward the vehicle and hence, through the windscreen or windshield, to the driver of that vehicle thus demarking, "by light", the road.
- a road marker is adapted for insertion into a road surface to an elevation below that of the road surface, the marker comprising a housing having longitudinal side walls with upper margins, and housing ends, and an upper surface that defines a central recess with a floor, and at one floor end, a recess end wall that carries upwards into an adjacent housing end, and light dispensing means disposed in a plenum formed in at least one end of the marker.
- the light dispensing means may be either a light source, or light retro-reflective media. When the light dispensing means is a light source, central solar collector occupies the central recess which preferably is over covered by a light translucent sheet sealing the solar collector from the elements.
- Beneath the solar collector in plenums within the casting is a rechargeable battery, light source in the end walls of the casting for light emitting diodes which may be gallium arsenide.
- the battery is charged by a solar collector and during night time hours, the light emitting diode is illuminated.
- This is controlled by a central processing unit and an ambient light sensor and the necessary logic.
- this embodiment includes a light transmissive member sealingly over covering the solar collector from the elements and the housing defining a plenum accommodating the battery, the light source, and the means for recharging the battery, wherein the means for recharging the battery includes a charge controller in series with the solar collector, the charge controller and solar collector being parallel with the battery.
- the upper surface of the light transmissive member is at an elevation below the flaring side walls.
- the upper margins of the housing sidewalls are at an elevation above an upper surface of the transparent sheet or member, to thereby provide mechanical protection for the solar collector.
- the oscillating blade of a snowplow is precluded from striking the central recess area of the road marker by way of the relative positioning of the upper margins of the housing sidewalls and the central recess.
- a road marker including a shock-resistant structure including a shock-resistant structure.
- a layer of light transmissive silicone is disposed upon and substantially overlays the solar collector, the transparent sheet overlaying the layer of silicone.
- the solar collector, the layer of silicone, and the transparent sheet define a shock-resistant sandwich, which improves the durability of the road marker.
- a road marker in yet another aspect of this invention, includes the ability for preventing overcharging of its rechargeable battery.
- the solar-powered road marker includes means coupled to the battery for determining when the battery is in an over healthy state (i.e., when the battery output voltage exceeds an upper predetermined limit) , and, generating a charge inhibit signal in response thereto.
- Such a road marker further includes means responsive to the charge inhibit signal for inhibiting further charging of the battery. This feature prevents overcharging and possible outgassing, which extend the life of the battery.
- a solar-powered road marker which includes the feature of full cycle discharging and recharging of the rechargeable battery system to minimize any potential memory effect, to thereby ensure the full rated life of the battery.
- the road marker includes means for providing full discharge and recharge of the battery through a software procedure that inhibits charge while the battery is discharged over a period of time, but which, permits charging after the battery has fallen below a predetermined lower voltage limit.
- a solar- powered road marker that inhibits discharge of the battery (e.g., by halting the central processor) when the battery reaches a predetermined lower, safe output voltage.
- a road marker in accordance with this aspect, includes means for determining when the battery has fallen below the predetermined, lower output voltage, and generating a discharge inhibit signal.
- the marker further includes means for inhibiting discharge, but permitting charge of, the battery until the battery output voltage again reaches a safe level.
- a method of preparing for and activating a solar-powered road marker is provided.
- a protective, peelable label for blocking light is placed over the road marker light detector during, or immediately after, manufacture but prior to field deployment. After field deployment, the label is removed, which permits the light detector to sense light and generate an internal signal to initiate activation of the unit. This initialization is confirmed to the installer of the unit through a power-up sequence of the LED lamps.
- This non-contact technique is superior to conventional, mechanical switch techniques, which suffer from reliability problems.
- a networkable road marker connectable to a networking media is provided.
- This solar-powered type of road marker includes means connectable to the networking media for detecting a unique, predetermined address broadcast over the media, and responding thereto by executing a command associated with the broadcast address. This feature permits each marker to be uniquely identifiable and that can be controlled
- a solar-powered road marker that includes the ability to distinguish between artificial and natural light, thus enabling its use in areas that receive commercially powered night lighting, such as airports, major highways, municipal roadways, and parking lots.
- Conventional road markers with active illumination are unable to so distinguish such different kinds of lights; accordingly, they remain off under artificial light when they should be on.
- Such a marker includes, in addition to a housing, light emitting means, a battery, and a solar collector, means for measuring the electrical current output by the solar collector, and means for determining when such current exceeds a predetermined level.
- a natural light indicative signal is generated when the current is greater than the trip point.
- An artificial light indicative signal is generated when the measured current falls below the predetermined level.
- a road marker is provided that includes the ability for remote, non-contact reprogramming of the central processor to allow maintenance personnel to reprogram and/or upgrade existing installed units to incorporate new or desired improvements or features.
- the road marker to implement this feature, includes means for receiving a preselected data pattern indicative of a programming mode, and further, the central processor itself includes means responsive to the received data pattern for reprogramming the memory with an updated operating strategy received by the receiving means to thereby change the operation of the road marker.
- the reprogramming mode of the road marker may be password protected.
- a solar- powered road marker in still yet another aspect of this invention, includes an integrated lens body/LED assembly.
- the lens body is substantially solid. It includes a top surface, a front sloping surface, a rear sloping surface, and an elongated channel for receiving the light emitting diode and extends from the rear sloping surface relatively inwardly towards the front sloping surface.
- the channel includes a terminal surface substantially parallel to the front sloping surface.
- the parallel surfaces realign light rays emitted from the LED whereby light rays emerging from the lens appear to originate from just below the top surface.
- a retro ⁇ reflective material is disposed on the rear sloping surface.
- Figure 1 is a perspective view of a roadway delineated with road markers,*
- Figure 2 is a perspective view of the delineator, according to the invention.
- Figure 3 is a top plan view of a delineator of the present invention.
- Figure 4A is a section along lines IV-IV of Figure 3 illustrating a light dispersing region, particularly a source light illuminating member at one end;
- Figure 4B is a similar section to that of Figure 4A but with illuminating members at both ends;
- Figure 4C is the same section but with passive light retro-reflective media at opposite ends;
- Figure 4D is a longitudinal section of an alternative embodiment of a passive retro-reflective subterranean road marker, according to the invention, the same being very shallow in depth;
- Figure 4E is a longitudinal section of yet another embodiment wherein one end has a light source.
- Figure 4F is a partial, simplified, enlarged section view of a lens/light emitting diode assembly used in an embodiment of the present invention.
- Figure 4G is a simplified, enlarged, partial rear view of another embodiment of a lens/light emitting diode assembly in accordance with the present invention.
- Figure 4H is a simplified, partial, enlarged, section view taken substantially along lines 4H-4H of Figure 4G showing the two-shot structure of the lens, and the embedded retro-reflective material;
- Figure 41 is a partial, simplified, enlarged cross-section view taken substantially along lines 41-41 of Figure 4G, showing the two-shot structure of the lens, and particularly showing the channel for receiving the light emitting diode;
- FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing light path emission from the light source of the invention,*
- Figure 6A is a diagrammatic section along lines similar to that of VIII-VIII, showing the various elevational features of the invention.
- Figure 6B is a simplified, partial perspective view of the inventive road marker, showing means, such as a plurality of tabs, for installing the road marker slightly below the surface of the roadway;
- Figure 6C is a partial, simplified, enlarged, perspective view of one of the tabs shown in Figure 6B;
- Figure 6D is a simplified, partial, enlarged, broken-away side view of the inventive road marker, as installed, using the tabs shown in Figure 6C, particularly illustrating how the road marker is installed slightly below the grade of the road;
- Figure 6E is a simplified, enlarged, cross-sectional view, corresponding to Figure 4A, showing particularly the relative elevations of several mechanical features of the inventive road marker, and, further illustrating in greater detail a shock-resistant multi-layer structure employed to protect the solar collector;
- Figure 7 is an explanatory light path diagram
- Figure 8A is a transverse sectional view, along lines VIII- VIII of Figure 3 with an automobile tire traveling over the same;
- Figure 8B is an explanatory diagram showing a snowplow shoe traversing over part of the novel delineator, according to the invention.
- Figure 8C is a side elevational view of Figure 8A showing debris removal by the vehicle tire transit over the delineator, according to the invention.
- Figure 9 is an explanatory diagram showing light reflected and absorbed at various surface interfaces of the light source illumination; solar collecting storage delineator, according to the preferred embodiment of the invention,*
- Figure 10 represents a non-limiting example of a circuit flow chart for realizing the light source embodiment of the invention.
- Figure 11 is a non-limiting example of a logic diagram of how the invention may be achieved for a light emitting delineator having light source lamps to be turned on and off between night-time and day-time conditions while also allowing battery recharging during daylight, all according to the invention.
- Figure 12 is a partial, simplified, schematic and block diagram view of another embodiment of a logic diagram used for controlling the operation of the inventive road marker;
- Figure 13 is a simplified, block diagram view of a plurality of road markers being networked by way of a networking media in accordance with the present invention
- Figure 14 is a simplified, flow-chart diagram showing a charging scheme established by the control of the road marker in accordance with the present invention.
- Figure 15 is a simplified, flow-chart diagram illustrating a discharge scheme established by the control of the road marker in accordance with the present invention.
- a roadway (R) has a plurality of delineators (D) that are placed along the boundaries of adjacent travelling lanes or, along the marginal edges of the highway so as to delineate the same.
- delineators (D) there are two types of delineators (D) indicated, a subterranean retro-reflective delineator, designated (D r ) and a subterranean light illuminating (light source) delineator, indicated by (D ) , the light retro-reflective delineators (D r ) being interspaced between light illuminating delineators (D ) so as to reduce the effective cost of delineating the roadway since the retro-reflective delineators (Dr) are cheaper by a factor of approximately three to those of illuminating delineators (D r ) , according to the invention.
- a road delineator or marker is illustrated generally as (10) and consists of an elongated zinc or an aluminum zinc alloy cast housing
- the bottom of the solar collector (14) rests within a rectangular recess or floor (16) of the cast housing (11) and is more clearly seen in the cross-section Figures 4A through 4C.
- a central aperture (AS) for allowing electrical connector wires (Sl) from a light sensor (S) to pass therethrough
- intermediate apertures (AC) allowing solar collector (14) electrical wires (14 1 ) to pass therethrough and, as may be required, end apertures (AV) to allow light emitting diode conductors (26) to pass therethrough, all this will be explained hereafter.
- the recess (13) has a floor (16) that, at opposite ends, steps upward into a step or inclined end walls (17) with recessed vertical side walls (12) that outwardly flare as side wall portion (12 1 ) .
- the end walls (17) extend, thence, laterally (the right side of Figure 4A) either as a transitional inclined bend (18) sloping upward and endward to the end (20) thereby to step downward as a housing end tag (2l'); or, (left side of Figure 4A) , as a straight lateral piece (19) and thence, into an inclined lens holding tag (19') of the recess to define, between the tag (19 * ) and the housing end tag (22 * ) , a space or plenum into which sits a light emitting module (25) .
- the light transparent sheet or LEXAN * (15) is sealed to the side walls (12) and the end walls (17) by an epoxy (not clearly shown) or other sealant to seal the solar collector (14) from the elements.
- FIG. 6E particularly the right-hand portion of Figure 6E, an improved shock-resistant structure is illustrated.
- solar collector (14) is rigidly back mounted to floor (16) of housing (11) with epoxy, indicated generally at E p .
- a layer of resilient light transmissive material, such as silicone (38) is disposed on and substantially overlays solar collector (14) .
- Transparent sheet (15) overlays silicone layer (38) and provides mechanical protection for solar cell (14) , while permitting light rays to pass therethrough.
- Housing 11 (particularly floor (16) ) , solar collector (14) (as rigidly back mounted with Epoxy) , silicone layer (38) , and transparent sheet (15) define a shock-resistant structure or sandwich.
- the improved shock-resistant sandwich provides superior durability characteristics for the road marker, to the extent that transparent sheet (15) is contacted by automobile tires, or the like.
- the circuitry (50) is mounted on an etched board and using epoxy or resin which is waterproof as well, the circuitry (50) is cemented and potted into cavity (C) so as to obtain a water-tight seal for the electrical components.
- the sensor (S) has its electrical wire (Sl) passing through the central floor aperture (AS) to the circuit (50) ,* and, similarly, the collector (14) has its electrical wires (14') passing through the floor apertures (AC) to the electric circuit (50) .
- the same cast (11) may be used for, in Figure 4A, a light emitting module (25) , which contains a light source only at one end; Figure 4B with light source emitting modules (25) at both ends; and in Figure 4C with no light emitting modules in either end but rather light retro-reflective lenses or modules (225) being high quality reflective arrangements like those of STIMSONITE lenses or, as otherwise commonly found in the prior art; or, utilizing a light retro-reflective adhesive tape known as 3M Diamond Grade, available from the 3M company of Minneapolis, Minnesota, U.S.A. or, at London, Canada.
- 3M Diamond Grade available from the 3M company of Minneapolis, Minnesota, U.S.A. or, at London, Canada.
- That lower cavity bounded by the lower end wall (17L 1 ), recessed vertical end wall (17) , lateral straight segment (19) and tag (19 1 ), as well as the underside of the light emitting module (25) is filled in with an insulating electrical epoxy that is waterproof to not only hold the module (25) in place but to seal the same electrically, from the elements.
- the total underside for all cavities of the housing (12) may be filled with a grouting material, generally indicated as (G) , which is extremely cheap, relative to the use of epoxy.
- sheet (15) which is shown in phantom in this figure, need not be used if costs are to be reduced.
- the recess (13) has a depth of approximately 3/8 of an inch and will tend to accumulate water or debris like sand which is not to be preferred; thus, for this embodiment it is preferred that sheet (15) , shown in phantom, should be used to reduce the effective depth of recess (13) .
- the floor is an elevated floor (16') and the lower cavities of the housing are eliminated, thus, eliminating the need for housing grout material (G) , thus reducing not only the casting costs but the epoxy cost.
- the floor is shown as (16') and a visual comparison between that and the other Figures 4A through 4C, inclusive, show the floor (16) of the recess (13) is much deeper (Df) than that (Df) of the floor (16') of Figure 4D.
- the depth of the recess (13) is compared in Figure 6. Comparing, internally, Figures 4C, 4D, and Figure 6A together for a moment, with Figures 4B and 4A, the difference between Figure 4C and those of Figures 4A, 4B, is that the depth of the recess (13) is identical in all of Figures 4A through 4C inclusive and shallower in Figure 4D; but in Figure 4C, not only is the sensor (S) and the solar collector (14) eliminated but so is transparent sheet (15) . This tends to make the depth of the recess of Figure 4C inordinately deeper and water pooling occurs, as well as debris collection that cannot be efficiently cleansed out by tire action, as will be described hereafter. It is thus preferred that transparent sheet (15) , shown in phantom in Figure 4C, be left in and sealed.
- the floor (16 1 ) is the dimension (DF) and (Df) and is shown in Figure 6 and corresponds to the floor of Figure 4C when sheet (15) is not used but corresponds to the upper surface of sheet (15) in Figures 4A and 4B being the plenum bottom (Df) of the recess (13) , also sometimes referred to as the upper surface of the floor but throughout, is given the dimension (Df) vis-a-vis the physical bottom of the floor (DF) .
- the dimension (D v ) should not exceed l/8th of an inch; thus, as shown in Figure 4D, that the recess floor is elevated to the position of (16 ') so that in either case, the dimension (Df) , from road grade to either the top of sheet (15) or the elevated floor (16 * ), and as noted in Figure 6, should not exceed 3/8th of an inch. With these dimensions, very little, if any debris or water pooling will occur. Thus, with reference to Figure 4D, the dimension (D v ) should not exceed l/8th of an inch; thus, as shown in Figure 4D, that the recess floor is elevated to the position of (16 ') so that in either case, the dimension (Df) , from road grade to either the top of sheet (15) or the elevated floor (16 * ), and as noted in Figure 6, should not exceed 3/8th of an inch. With these dimensions, very little, if any debris or water pooling will occur. Thus, with reference to Figure 4D, the dimension
- the delineator (10) could have a retro- reflective sloped end (325) which could have been covered as well by
- 3M Diamond Grade light retro-reflective tape with a light emitting module (25) at the opposite end.
- the plenum below the retro-reflective tape (325) defines a lower end plenum (217) in which the NiCad battery pack (BAT) , or other suitable packs such as lithium ion, is located, with the balance of the electrical circuitry (50) in a lower plenum
- the upper margins provide mechanical protection for the light module (25) and for the central recess, which is particularly important in those embodiments with a solar collector. Hence, an oscillating snowplow blade will hit the upper margins, NOT the transparent sheet (15) under which solar collector (14) is disposed. This feature significantly improves the durability of marker (10) .
- Figure 4F shows an enlarged light emitting lens assembly (25) , which includes a lens body (25B) , and a light emitting diode (26) .
- the lens is substantially solid, and includes a top surface (28) , a front sloping surface (29) , a rear sloping surface (30) , an elongated channel (31) extending from rear sloping surface (30) relatively inwardly toward front surface (29) for receiving light emitting diode (26) , channel (31) having a terminal surface (32) substantially parallel to front sloping surface (29) , and retro-reflective material (33) being disposed on rear sloping surface (30) .
- the dimensions X, Y, and Z assume the values of one inch, 5/8ths of an inch, and 0.200 inches, respectively. It should be appreciated, however, that, in accordance with the present invention, many different physical configurations remain within the spirit and scope thereof.
- the lens body is made from material having an index of refraction between about 1.4 and 1.52, which may be acrylic. Since channel (31) encloses air, having an index of refraction of 1, the angle ⁇ , as shown in Figure 4F, is approximately 30 degrees. When used in the preferred embodiment, such a configuration provides emitted light rays visible at a distance on the roadway of approximately 300 feet.
- Retro-reflective material (33) may be reflective tape, as described above (e.g., such as is available from 3M) .
- the configuration shown in Figure 4F, particularly parallel surfaces (29) , and (32) are effective in realigning light rays emitted by light emitting diode (26) whereby light rays emerging from lens body (25) appear to originate from just below top surface (28) .
- top surface (28') includes top surface (28'), a pair of channels (31 ) for receiving respective light emitting diodes (26), retro-reflective material, such as silver or foil (33'), and laterally disposed support legs (34) .
- Figure 4H reveals information regarding the manufacture of light emitting lens (25') .
- the area designated (35) is obtained as a result of a first "shot” of material in a mold; the area designated at (36) represents a second "shot” of material in a mold.
- Figure 41 employs the same convention.
- Light emitting lens (25') embeds retro-reflective material (33') between "shots” as shown in Figure 4H.
- Another feature of light emitting lens (25') includes bump (37) , which is used to facilitate ultrasonic welding of light emitting diode (26) into the lens body.
- Lens (25') retains the channel (31'), having terminal surface (32'), feature found in lens (25) . This important aspect unifies the two designs, and provides the above-described advantage of realigning light rays to emerge so as to be seen at a distance of approximately 300 feet down a roadway, or the like.
- Figure 6E shows how light emitting lens (25) is installed in road marker (10) .
- road marker (10) is preferably a distance (H) beneath the roadway (R) surface.
- Distance (H) is preferably approximately 1/I6th of an inch.
- Lens (25) as installed, is approximately a distance (I) below the upper housing perimeter. I is approximately 1/8" in the preferred embodiment lens (25) further provides an additional dimension (J) (i.e., the distance or thickness of lens (25) between top surface (28) and channel (31) where diode (26) is housed--which is approximately 0.2" in the preferred embodiment) .
- J additional dimension
- the upper portion of the boundary walls of the unit are configured, therefore, to permit at least a nominal l/8th of an inch deterioration as the road traffic surface erodes. An additional 0.2" of wear is permitted before unit failure. This feature extends the life of road marker (10) substantially.
- the road marker is preferably below grade, and, particularly, the light source (26) is substantially below grade, that a problem arises as to projecting light rays adequately visible a reasonable distance down a roadway or the like.
- Lenses (25 and 25') solve this problem, by the above-described configuration wherein parallel surfaces refract and realign the light rays to emerge above-grade, visible to motorists at an adequate distance.
- the delineator (10) of the different configurations, as shown in Figures 4, is actually embedded into the road (R) by cutting away, with a circular saw or the like, an arcuate recess (60) into the upper smooth asphalt surface.
- the delineator (10) shown is really that of Figures 3 and 4A through 4C but has application as well to those of Figures 4D and 4E, the only difference of course being the depth of arcuate cut (60) and the profile of the delineator (10) .
- Particular advantage for the shallow delineator of Figures 4D and 4 ⁇ allows the use of plunge and drag cutting which is an easier cut.
- An asphalt grade epoxy (E) is used to cement the subterranean marker (10) into the surface of the roadway (R) so that the upper margin of the sides (12, 12 ' ) thereof is either flush or preferably about a 1/16 inch below the surface grade of the road (R) asphalt. This latter penetration into the asphalt allows for slight degradation or destruction of the upper surface of the road (R) so that the delineator (10) stays sub-terranean during the full actual service life of the road.
- inventive road marker (10) is shown, as installed with the aide of alignment tabs (39- , (39 2 ) , and
- tab (39) includes a planar stop portion (40) , a laterally extending neck portion (41) , and a retainer portion (42) .
- tab (39) by way of stop (40) , ensures that the upper margin of side wall (12) is approximately a distance (H) below the roadway surface. Consistent installation, by the above-described means, is thereby established.
- Figures 5 and 7 are co-ordinate light diagrams to indicate the effective operation of the subterranean road delineator, according to the invention irrespective whether it uses a retro-reflective lens
- the eye reference (V) is presumed to be that of a driver of an oncoming vehicle approaching the delineator (10) which utilizes a source light (26) , preferably a light emitting diode with an over covering lens (25L) .
- the light source (26) emits light and will be reflected along the light path toward the eye (V) according to the standard equation of n ⁇ Sine ⁇ -
- _, n 2 Sine ⁇ 2 wherein n-
- the distance (D v ) is common with that between Figures 6A and 7 which is the elevation below grade of the light emitting media (25) , or the light retro-reflective media (225) . Judicious selection of the angle of the lens respectively, (25L) and (225L) and of the dimension (L-
- the delineator (10) has vertical side wall segments (12) and upper upwardly flaring side walls (12 * ), preferably at about 45° which meet the vertical side wall segments (12) at the upper elevation of the lens (15) .
- the void of the recess (13) has outwardly flaring sides and this assists in debris removal.
- a tire (80) is shown in side elevational view rolling to the left; as a result of the circular rotation according to the arrow on tire (80) , it ejects to the rear, debris (85) which cleans off the marginal upper edges (12 ') of the sides of the delineator as well as any debris on the upper surfaces of the recess (13) whether the same be the lens (15) upper surface, or the floor (16, 16 ' ) .
- debris (85) which cleans off the marginal upper edges (12 ') of the sides of the delineator as well as any debris on the upper surfaces of the recess (13) whether the same be the lens (15) upper surface, or the floor (16, 16 ' ) .
- Figure 8A one sees a typical lateral cross- sectional of the road marker (10) , according to the invention, the tire (80) not actually making contact at all.
- FIG. 8A In the cross-section Figure 8A, one sees a tire (80) , and in the cross-section of Figure 8B, a snowplow shoe (90) is shown having a width (91) which is approximately generally 12" for highway snowplows, while the actual width (W) of the delineator (10) between vertical side walls (12) is approximately 4" and at margins of the side walls flares 4.5".
- the dimension (92), shown in Figure 8B is thus approximately 9" when a l' width snowplow shoe (90) is used so that the snowplow shoe actually runs on the road surface (R) and does not contact the delineator (10) at all.
- the tire (80) is shown which makes an imperfect contact or no contact at all to the lens (15) .
- Such delineator (10) dimensions insure good survival for the delineator (10) .
- Figure 9 is a light diagram illustrating light penetration through a snow and water covering of the embodiments of Figures 2, 3, 4A, 4B and 4E, wherein the following are the relevant references; (14) being the solar collector, (15) being the over covering lens therefore, protecting it from the elements, (60) being snow over covering the delineator recess (13) between road grade and the upper surface of the lens (15) (Df) .
- Direct sunlight is shown by reference (70) and ambient and reflected light by arrow (72) .
- direct sunlight (70) will strike the snow (60) by the family of rays (71) and will be correspondingly reflected, in part, away from the surface of the snow (60) by rays, only one being illustrated; namely, that of (73) .
- the rays (71) penetrating into the snow (60) are referenced (75) and those that pass the boundary between snow (60) and the lens (15) are shown as (77) .
- At each of the boundary conditions there will be some reflected away from the boundary and these rays, as it relates to the snow-lens interface (60,15) are referenced (76) and for the lens-solar collector interface (15,14) (78) and for the intervening interface between lens (15) and snow (65) as (79) .
- These rays fall and are reflected or are absorbed, according to the laws of light refraction.
- FIG. 10 a non-limiting representation of satisfactory electronic circuitry (50) as depicted, the same consists of a single chip micro controller (CPU) , a resistive light sensor (S) connected to input terminal (DO) on the controller (CPU) with the opposite side of the sensor (S) being connected to ground via a capacitor (CAP).
- the solar collector (14) may be a photovoltaic cell.
- the collector (14) is connected in series with a charge controller (CC) consisting of, but not limited to, a Schottky diode (Dl) and both of these are connected in parallel with the photo voltaic array, solar collector (14) .
- Power for the controller (CPU) is provided from the positive and negative terminals of collector (14) .
- High intensity gallium arsenide light emitting diodes are connected to the output lines (Dl) and (D2) of the controller (CPU) .
- a series resistor (R) is connected from the output line of the (CPU) to the anode of the LED (26) with the cathode being connected to the positive buss of the circuit (50) .
- the sensor (S) provides the controller (CPU) with a signal representative of the ambient light level.
- the controller (CPU) triggers the output lines (Dl) and (D2) to a low level resulting in the LED lamps (26) illuminating.
- the value of (Rl) and (R2) determine, in part, the intensity of the LED lamps (26) .
- the controller When the intensity of the ambient light level rises above a computed level, the controller (CPU) will trigger the output lines (dl) and (d2) to a high level resulting in the LED lamps (26) extinguishing.
- the controller (CPU) will enter a power conservation mode at which time it will wake up for a 1 second interval every 60 seconds or so, to evaluate current ambient light conditions of sensor (S) .
- the photovoltaic array, solar collector (14) will automatically recharge the battery pack (BAT) to a preset level and then terminate the charging cycle.
- the charge controller (CC) will prevent discharge of the battery (BAT) pack through the photovoltaic array, solar collector (14) , during periods of low ambient light.
- Circuit (50') includes control means, such as indicated at CPU, for controlling the operation of road marker (10) , light emitting means, such as LEDs (26) , for providing illumination, a battery, such as rechargeable NiCAD battery (BAT) for powering LEDs (26) , a solar collector, such as photovoltaic cell (14) , for converting solar energy to electrical energy, analog-to- digital converter means, such as A/D converter (43) , for converting an analog input into a digital representation of said input and providing such digital representation as an output, non-volatile memory means, such as EEPROM memory device (44) , for storing a predetermined strategy for operating road marker (10) , measuring means, such as current sensor (45) , for generating a current signal indicative of the level of electrical current passing therethrough, a shutdown circuit (46) for determining when the battery voltage has fallen below a preset safe level, and generating a signal to halt
- Control means CPU may be a single-chip microcontroller, such as commercially available component PIC 16C54-RC/P from Arizona Microchip Company. It should be appreciated, however, that there exists many different alternatives to this particular chip employed in the preferred embodiment, and, that such substitutions and variations remain within the spirit and scope of the present invention. For example, any of the family 16CXX has been found satisfactory for this invention.
- CPU may include on-chip nonvolatile memory, random access memory, and input/output ports, among other features.
- Solar collector (14) in the preferred embodiment, is a commercially available photovoltaic cell component, available as part number ATS-7/7-PSM-3 ;6/213 from Atlantic Solar Products, Inc. of Baltimore, Maryland.
- Solar collector 14 provides an open circuit voltage, V oc , of approximately 4.8 volts, is characterized by a short-circuit current, I sc of 227mA, and provides a power tolerance of approximately + 10%.
- chargeable battery BAT is a nickel-cadmium battery, which is a commercially available component Sanyo Model #KR-1400, available from Atlantic Solar Products, Inc. of Baltimore, Maryland.
- A/D converter (43), in the preferred embodiment, is an eight-bit digital converter wherein the eight-bit digital word output is provided serially on the data output DO terminal of device (43) .
- A/D converter (43) uses, as its voltage reference, a precision voltage reference D2, which, in the preferred embodiment, regulates the voltage at its cathode to approximately 1.234 volts.
- Device (43), and reference D2 are widely available.
- Memory (44) is a commercially available component, which, in the preferred embodiment, may take the form of model 93LC56, from
- Memory (44) is an electrically-erasable programmable read-only memory (E 2 PROM) .
- Device (44) performs conventional functions well-known in the art.
- Measuring means (45) is provided for measuring the electrical current generated by solar collector (14) , and internally generating a current signal indicative of a level of electrical current generated.
- Device (45) further includes evaluation means for determining when the current level exceeds a predetermined level and generating an output indicative of the evaluation (i.e., when the sensed current exceeds the predetermined trip point) .
- Device (45) is a commercially available component, in which may be a Maxim MAX 471/MAX472 series precision current-sense amplifier, available from Maxim Integrated products. It should be appreciated that other products performing the same or similar functions remain within the spirit and scope of the present invention.
- device 45 is used, in one embodiment of the present invention, to distinguish between artificial light and natural light.
- a study of this problem indicates that, when presented with artificial light, the current output of solar collector (14) drops to less than one percent (1%) of full panel current, relative to the current generated under bright, natural sunlight conditions.
- the device (45) can be set to toggle its output depending upon when the current therethrough is either above or below a predetermined level, which, in the preferred embodiment, may be approximately 7mA.
- the output of device (45) is a natural light indicative signal, and an artificial light indicative signal, depending upon its present state.
- the output of device (45) may be provided to an unused port on control means CPU.
- nonvolatile memory (44) is integrated on-chip, thus freeing up ports which may be used as an input to receive the output of device (45) .
- the artificial light/natural light signals are incorporated into the overall control of the unit to enable the unit to be used in the areas that receive commercially powered night lighting, such as airports, major highways, municipal roadways, parking lots, and the like.
- Charge Controller CC of circuit (50 ' ) function as described above in connection with circuit (50) .
- Charge Controller CC inhibits/enables charging of battery BAT.
- transistors Q3, and Q4 are off, wherein charging of battery BAT is inhibited.
- the output is low, charging is enabled.
- LEDs (26) are included for providing illumination.
- transistor Q5 When output port RB4 is low, transistor Q5 is placed in a conductive state, wherein LEDs (26) are illuminated.
- transistor Q5 when output port RB4 of CPU is high, transistor Q5 is in a non-conductive or off state, and LEDs (26) are extinguished.
- Transistor Q2 in connection with pull-up resistor R10, provide the means for detecting ambient lighted conditions. It should be understood that transistor Q2 is a photo-transistor, wherein transistor Q2 becomes conductive in responsive to light.
- Shutdown circuit (46) is provided for placing control means CPU in a halted or shut-down mode.
- transistor circuitry halts the CPU, Specifically, when a predetermined fraction of V cc , as determined by a voltage divider formed by resistors R1/R2, is applied to the base of transistor Ql, Ql is placed in a nonconductive state wherein the master clear input MCLR of the CPU is pulled to ground by way of resistor R5 thus, halting operation. In the halted state, the LEDs are not illuminated.
- an anti-falsing control is programmed to operate on the CPU to prevent the LEDs (26) from being turned off accidentally, for example, by car headlights. This is shown in Figure
- the (CPU) of Figure 10 awakes from a power conservation mode (snooze 51) and evaluates the ambient light level at the sensor (S) . If the light level is daylight or bright at (52) then incremental counter (54) increments for a period of 10 cycles and at counter (56) , if the value is less than 10, then a signal goes out gate (N) to restart the snooze; otherwise, if the value is higher or greater than 10, the lamp or light module (25) is turned off and the counters (56) and (57) reset via step
- One aspect of the present invention broadly, relates to several battery (charging and discharging) management features.
- One of these features relates particularly to monitoring the state of the battery charge, and inhibiting charging of the battery to prevent overcharging and possible outgassing. Overcharging severely reduces the life of nickel cadmium batteries, as well as other types of battery technology.
- charging will be inhibited. The state of the battery will be monitored, periodically, and charging will later be enabled in accordance with predetermined criteria.
- the battery output voltage must be measured. This is done by measuring the positive power supply bus V cc since, as it should be appreciated the battery voltage appears on the positive power supply bus V cc .
- the voltage V cc is divided by a voltage divider comprised of resistor R3 and resistor R4, and is provided as an input to A/D convertor (43) , which uses precision voltage referenced D2 for comparison.
- the input to device (43) is then sampled, and digitized into an eight-bit word, and is sent, serially, from data output pin DO to input port RB2 of the control means CPU. If the digitized value of the battery output voltage is higher than a predetermined upper limit, then a charge inhibit signal is generated by CPU.
- charge control CC Responsive to this charge inhibit signal, charge control CC, by way of Q3 and Q4, prevents current generated by solar collector (14) from charging battery BAT. This mode will continue until the charge inhibit signal is canceled by the CPU.
- the means for determining when the battery output voltage exceeds an upper predetermined level (i.e., the battery is in an over healthy state) , and for generating a charge inhibit signal in response thereto includes device (43) and the CPU.
- the means, responsive to the charge inhibit signal, for inhibiting charging of the battery includes charge controller CC. It should be appreciated that part of the determining means includes program steps being executed by control means CPU. Likewise, means for inhibiting charging of the battery also includes some program steps.
- Another feature of the battery management control includes the capability of full-cycle discharging and recharging of the battery to minimize any potential memory effect associated with nickel chemistry batteries. This feature ensures the full rated life of the battery.
- the above-mentioned charge inhibit signal is not canceled until the battery is discharged (i.e., by way of current consumed by LED's (26), control means CPU, and other associated circuitry) until its output voltage falls below a predetermined lower limit.
- the battery output voltage as it appears on the positive power supply buss V cc , is measured by way of A/D convertor (43) , as described above, and the charge inhibit signal is not turned off until a lower predetermined limited is sensed.
- the lower limit is approximately 2.0 volts (as sensed) while the upper predetermined limited is approximately 2.6 volts (as sensed) .
- step 100 a charge flag is set to zero. This setting indicates that charging of the battery will be permitted by the CPU via charge controller CC.
- step 102 the battery output voltage is measured by means of the structure described above.
- step 104 the measured battery output voltage is compared against an upper predetermined limit, and an evaluation is made as to whether the output voltage is greater than this upper predetermined limit. If the answer is YES, then control is transferred to step 106, wherein the charge flag is set to a one. A logic one, in this case, means that the CPU will control the charge controller CC to inhibit charging of the battery. On the other hand, if the output of the evaluation in step 104 is NO, then control is transferred to step 108 where the measured battery output voltage is compared to a lower predetermined limit. If the answer to this comparison is NO, then the control assumes that the output battery voltage is somewhere between the upper and lower predetermined limit; accordingly, the charge flag remains unchanged, thus further allowing either charge or discharge of the battery cells.
- step 110 control of the procedure is transferred to step 110, wherein the charge flag is again set to zero, meaning that the charge controller CC, by way of control means CPU, will inhibit charging of the battery cells.
- step 112 the procedure continues at step 112, wherein the charge flag is compared to determine whether it is a 1. If the answer is YES, then control is transferred to step 114, wherein charging of the battery cells by way of solar collector (14) is inhibited as the battery output declines towards the lower limit. The procedure then resumes at step 102, where, after a predetermined time, the battery output voltage is again measured and the procedure repeated.
- step 112 If, however, the answer to the evaluation in step 112 is NO, then control is transferred to step 116, where charging of the battery is permitted, by way of charge controller CC, in conjunction with control means CPU, while the battery output voltage increases towards the upper limit. The procedure resumes at step 102. It should be appreciated, that the flow-chart depicted in Figure 14 may be run in parallel with many other procedures necessary for the operation of road marker 10.
- a third battery management feature relates to inhibiting all discharge in the event that the battery system reaches a predetermined lowest safe output voltage.
- inventive road marker (10) deep discharging of the battery must be prevented. With mo ⁇ t battery technologies, such deep discharging can cause a polarity reversal and, degrade the overall capacity of the battery system. To provide full battery performance for the stated life, it is important to prevent deep discharge.
- the means for implementing this feature include shutdown circuitry (46) .
- This transistor circuitry upon sensing a predetermined lowest safe battery output, will halt the processor by way of the master clear input ( MCLR ) .
- the control processor CPU thus halted, will not consume any appreciable current, and further, not operate to illuminate LED's (26), which provide a significant current savings.
- the shutdown circuitry (46) defines means for determining when the battery output has fallen below a safe level (i.e., the battery is in an unhealthy state), and generating a discharge inhibit signal in the form of a master clear signal.
- the CPU is responsive to such signal and, will generally inhibit any further discharge of the battery, but, due to the particular circuit configuration depicted in Figure 12, will permit charging of the battery until the output voltage rises above the predetermined lower safe operating level.
- Another aspect of the present invention relates to networkability.
- one embodiment of the present invention provides the means for being networked with other, similarly-networked- capable road markers.
- a networking media 47
- a networking media 47
- T line transmit
- R line receive
- GND ground
- the control means CPU includes means, connectable to media (47) , for detecting a unique, predetermined addressed broadcast over the media (47) and responding thereto to said detection by executing a command associated with the broadcast address.
- the control means CPU includes means for configuring its input/output ports as interface leads for the well-known I 2 C networking technology.
- port RB7 has been configured as a transmit line
- port RB5 has been configured as a receive line.
- a PIC series 16CXX processor is used for the CPU; this type of microcontroller includes this networking technology on-board. It should be understood that variations and modifications can be made and remain within the spirit and scope of the invention.
- other processor types may include networking technology (even other than I 2 C) on-board.
- a separate interface chip for networking may be employed.
- the network is a multi-drop buss type.
- Each unit has a unique address.
- such address comprises a two-byte identification code, which is assigned and "burned-in" upon manufacture.
- This functionality provides for addressable networking between units, or between several units and a host computer.
- the buss link is embedded in the surface of the pavement.
- This communications network allows each marker to hold a unique identifier or station address that can be controlled from a central computer located in an area, such as a control tower in an airport for an airport application.
- the computer can command a number of units, selected by an operator, to change the display color, begin flashing, begin sequencing (i.e., successive units being illuminated) between a number of identified units, or any other unique operation that would need to be carried out to communicate a change in situation to viewers of the road marker.
- the wire link may also have the capability to carry low voltage DC power to the road marker that can be used in lieu of the solar panel and battery, or in conjunction therewith, to thereby provide operation during periods of power failure or, in mission critical applications.
- Still yet another feature of the present invention relates to the ability of the road marker (10) , when used in an embodiment containing circuitry 50', to distinguish between artificial and natural light, thus enabling the use of the unit in areas that receive commercially powered night lighting, such as airports, major highways, municipal roadways, and parking lots.
- current- sense amplifier 45 may be configured to have its output toggle based upon a predetermined set point. The output is then provided as an input to one of the digital I/O ports of control means CPU. The digital output thus defines a natural light indicative signal/artificial light indicative signal, depending upon its current state, which is a function of whether the current being generated by solar collector 14 is above, or below the predetermined level, respectively.
- device (45) can provide an analog signal indicative of the level of electrical current generated by solar collector (14) .
- the analog signal would be provided to an analog/digital convertor, such as device
- control means CPU would convert into a digital word for transmission to control means CPU.
- the CPU through execution of appropriate preprogrammed steps, analyzes the digital word to determine whether it exceeds, or falls below the predetermined level. Based upon this determination, appropriate operation of the unit would ensue. For example, for those areas having artificial light, the road marker should nonetheless be operated, while, for natural daylight, the unit should be in a non-illuminated state, to save the battery.
- Another feature of the road marker (10) is the ability for remote, non-contact reprogramming of the unit that would permit maintenance personnel to reprogram and/or upgrade existing and install the units to incorporate new or desired improvements or features.
- control means CPU that polls port RB6, which is connected to phototransistor Q2.
- the port normally assumes either an on or off state. However, if the software determines modulation of the state of the input, an interrupt is generated and a handling routine is then executed.
- the phototransistor provides, in connection with appropriate software, means for receiving a preselected data pattern indicative of a programming mode of the road marker. In practice, a moving vehicle, passing in proximity to the marker unit and the phototransistor mounted on the face of the road marker, initiates reprogramming by way of an infrared transmitter (thereby establishing an infrared data link) .
- the preselected data pattern may include a data-encrypted password that would be recognized by the marker as a valid command to allow reprogramming.
- the link may be, a simple asynchronous protocol, such as the well-known RS-232C protocol.
- the control means CPU in conjunction with the handling routine, accepts and stores the new operating program or, in other words, a second operating strategy, and would operate to change the operation of the marker by storing to non-volatile memory (44) the second predetermined operating strategy. This provides the advantage of being able to maintain the investment in the basic road marker, while providing the capability of continuous upgradability.
- the road marker of the present invention features a novel technique of preparing for and activating a solar-powered road marker for operation.
- the road marker is manufactured with a light detector for sensing light, such as phototransistor Q2 as shown in Figure 12.
- the light detector is blocked, prior to field deployment, with a removable, light blocking label.
- the road marker is deployed in the field.
- the next step of this technique involves removing the light blocking label.
- Software is provided to execute on control means CPU, as shown in Figure 12, for sensing light with the phototransistor Q2, and generating a first-light signal in response thereto.
- the computer software in response to the first light signal, proceeds to activate control means CPU.
- This activation entails various initialization procedures, and which may include a visual indication, to the installer, by way of a predefined power up sequence of the LED lamps (26) .
Abstract
Description
Claims
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
AU64888/96A AU6488896A (en) | 1995-07-13 | 1996-07-11 | Road marker |
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
CA002153819A CA2153819A1 (en) | 1995-07-13 | 1995-07-13 | Road marker |
CA2,153,819 | 1995-07-13 | ||
US08/571,790 | 1995-12-13 | ||
US08/571,790 US5839816A (en) | 1995-07-13 | 1995-12-13 | Road marker |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
WO1997003250A1 true WO1997003250A1 (en) | 1997-01-30 |
Family
ID=25678072
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
PCT/US1996/011550 WO1997003250A1 (en) | 1995-07-13 | 1996-07-11 | Road marker |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
---|---|
AU (1) | AU6488896A (en) |
WO (1) | WO1997003250A1 (en) |
Cited By (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
WO2001092641A1 (en) * | 2000-05-30 | 2001-12-06 | Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. | Road-marking system |
WO2003069069A1 (en) * | 2002-02-18 | 2003-08-21 | Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. | Road marking system |
GB2397705A (en) * | 2003-01-21 | 2004-07-28 | Solargen Solutions Ltd | Solar powered programmable switching systems |
US7273328B2 (en) | 2003-03-07 | 2007-09-25 | Next Safety, Inc. | Emissive highway markers |
Citations (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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US1572214A (en) * | 1924-01-21 | 1926-02-09 | Luther B Mcewing | Road-surface signal lamp |
US4070095A (en) * | 1976-02-02 | 1978-01-24 | Itl Industries, Inc. | Pavement marker and reflector assembly |
US4314198A (en) * | 1979-10-01 | 1982-02-02 | Solar Physics, Inc. | Solar power source for a lighting system |
US5252893A (en) * | 1991-07-08 | 1993-10-12 | Interplex Solar Corporation | Light flasher apparatus |
US5262756A (en) * | 1991-03-15 | 1993-11-16 | Chien Tseng L | Solar powered warning light |
-
1996
- 1996-07-11 WO PCT/US1996/011550 patent/WO1997003250A1/en active Application Filing
- 1996-07-11 AU AU64888/96A patent/AU6488896A/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US1572214A (en) * | 1924-01-21 | 1926-02-09 | Luther B Mcewing | Road-surface signal lamp |
US4070095A (en) * | 1976-02-02 | 1978-01-24 | Itl Industries, Inc. | Pavement marker and reflector assembly |
US4314198A (en) * | 1979-10-01 | 1982-02-02 | Solar Physics, Inc. | Solar power source for a lighting system |
US5262756A (en) * | 1991-03-15 | 1993-11-16 | Chien Tseng L | Solar powered warning light |
US5252893A (en) * | 1991-07-08 | 1993-10-12 | Interplex Solar Corporation | Light flasher apparatus |
Cited By (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
WO2001092641A1 (en) * | 2000-05-30 | 2001-12-06 | Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. | Road-marking system |
US6789915B2 (en) | 2000-05-30 | 2004-09-14 | Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. | Road-marking system |
WO2003069069A1 (en) * | 2002-02-18 | 2003-08-21 | Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. | Road marking system |
GB2397705A (en) * | 2003-01-21 | 2004-07-28 | Solargen Solutions Ltd | Solar powered programmable switching systems |
US7273328B2 (en) | 2003-03-07 | 2007-09-25 | Next Safety, Inc. | Emissive highway markers |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
AU6488896A (en) | 1997-02-10 |
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