WO2014130842A1 - Systèmes de guidage séquencé - Google Patents

Systèmes de guidage séquencé Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2014130842A1
WO2014130842A1 PCT/US2014/017756 US2014017756W WO2014130842A1 WO 2014130842 A1 WO2014130842 A1 WO 2014130842A1 US 2014017756 W US2014017756 W US 2014017756W WO 2014130842 A1 WO2014130842 A1 WO 2014130842A1
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WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
modules
array
module
emit
light
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Application number
PCT/US2014/017756
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English (en)
Inventor
James R. Selevan
Original Assignee
Selevan James R
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from US13/774,029 external-priority patent/US20130293396A1/en
Priority claimed from US13/775,177 external-priority patent/US20130271294A1/en
Application filed by Selevan James R filed Critical Selevan James R
Publication of WO2014130842A1 publication Critical patent/WO2014130842A1/fr

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Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G08—SIGNALLING
    • G08G—TRAFFIC CONTROL SYSTEMS
    • G08G1/00—Traffic control systems for road vehicles
    • G08G1/09—Arrangements for giving variable traffic instructions
    • G08G1/095—Traffic lights

Definitions

  • This invention relates generally to devices and methods for vehicular and pedestrian traffic control to aid in navigation on land, sea, and air.
  • Flashing orange traffic safety lamps are commonplace along highways and waterways. Passive cones are often used to mark the boundaries or edges of roadways. They are used during road construction, traffic detours, and for emergency to route traffic through unfamiliar redirection. These passive cones are typically used over an entire 24-hour period, which includes darkness and may include poor visibility. Always on, or blinking, lights or reflectors are often used to define the border of a road that has temporarily changed and no longer follows the path that drivers expect or have become use to seeing. As shown in Figure 1 , when the detour includes a curve, the flashing light can be seen across the curve, creating confusion and disorientation. Curved roads or pathways can cause more confusion than straight roads or pathways due to human inability to judge distances, especially at night. The size of the lights or markers may not appear to substantially change in size with increasing distance from the observer. In addition, nautical buoys used to guide vessels into harbors or around dangerous shallows can sometimes be confusing and difficult to interpret.
  • the present invention provides devices, systems and methods wherein sequential signal emitting devices (e.g., an array of lights which flash in a sequence from the first light to the last light in the array) are used for guiding pedestrians or vehicles along desired routes or within desired boundaries.
  • sequential signal emitting devices e.g., an array of lights which flash in a sequence from the first light to the last light in the array
  • a system and method for marking a route, path or boundary comprising: a plurality of signaling modules, each module comprising a signaling device, a radiofrequency apparatus and a control circuitry; the modules being positionable in an array which marks a route, path or boundary; whereby the modules positioned in the array will undergo radiofrequency communication with one another and the control circuitry will cause the signaling devices of the modules to emit signals in sequence from a first-positioned module of the array to a last-positioned module of the array; and wherein the modules are programmed to self detect their sequential order in the array and to self-adapt to changes in the positional order of the modules, elimination of one or more modules within the array and insertion of one or more additional modules within the array, thereby maintaining the emitting of signals in sequence from a first- positioned module of the array to a last-positioned module of the array.
  • selected one(s) of the modules in a particular array may be programmed to emit signals that are distinguishable from signals emitted by the other modules in the array, thereby designating a specific location along the array, such as an area where it is intended for authorized vehicles (e.g., construction vehicles, emergency vehicles, etc.) to stop, turn out or perform some task (e.g., attached to a fire hydrant, etc.)
  • authorized vehicles e.g., construction vehicles, emergency vehicles, etc.
  • the signals emitted by the selected module(s) may be distinguishable in any suitable way.
  • the selected module(s) may emit flashes of a that are of a different color than the light emitted from the other modules in the sequential array and/or the selected module(s) may emit flashes of a different number, duration, pattern or intensity than the flashes emitted by other modules in the array.
  • a system and method for guiding a pedestrian or vehicle to one of a number of possible destinations within a particular geographic area, building, campus, structure or the like by the following steps: A) obtaining or providing a system which comprises a plurality of modules, each module comprising a signaling device, a radiofrequency apparatus and control circuitry, wherein the modules are positionable in an array which marks a route, and wherein the control circuits of the modules are operative to communicate with one another on a particular route via the radiofrequency apparatus and to cause the signaling devices of the modules to emit guidance signals in sequence from a first module of the array to a last module of the array; B) positioning modules of the system along routes to a plurality of possible destinations; C) programming a transmitter for a selected one of the possible destinations, thereby causing the transmitter to transmit control signals which selectively trigger the modules located on the particular route to emit sequential guidance signals to the selected destination; and, D) causing the transmitter to be carried
  • the signaling modules may be embedded in or adhered to surface(s) traveled upon by the pedestrian or vehicle, such as road(s), driveway(s), taxiway(s), floor(s),sidewalk(s) and walkway(s).
  • the signaling modules may be positioned on structures which demarcate routes to desired locations, such as buoy(s), channel marker(s), fence(s), wall(s), delineator(s) and traffic channelizing device(s).
  • the guidance signals emitted by modules on one route may be distinguishable (e.g., a different color) from guidance signals emitted by modules on another route.
  • guidance signals emitted by modules in response to one transmitter may be distinguishable (e.g., a different color) from guidance signals emitted from modules in response to another transmitter.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates a road with an approaching vehicle and a plurality of typical randomly flashing lights, which are currently used and which can cause confusion and disorientation to the vehicle driver, according to an embodiment of the invention
  • Fig. 2 illustrates a road with an approaching vehicle and a plurality of sequenced lights, which can reduce the confusion to the vehicle driver,according to an embodiment of the invention
  • FIG. 3A illustrates a front view of an exemplary signaling device, according to an embodiment of the invention
  • Fig. 38 illustrates a side view of an exemplary signaling device, according to an embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 3C illustrates a side view of an exemplary signaling device with optical output only on one side and said optical output shielded from view from the other side of the device, according to an embodiment of the invention
  • Fig. 4 illustrates a block diagram of the circuitry of the sequenced vehicle light system, according to an embodiment of the invention
  • Fig. 5 illustrates three sequenced lights configured for traffic flow visualization, according to an embodiment of the invention.
  • Fig. 6 is a schematic diagram of a roadway having pairs of sequenced signaling devices of the present invention demarcating the right and left edges of the roadway.
  • Fig. 7 is a schematic diagram showing a guidance system of the present invention for guiding pedestrian or vehicular traffic to a selected location.
  • Fig. 8 is a perspective view of a sequential signaling light of the present invention.
  • Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram of electronic circuitry of the sequential signaling light of Figure 8.
  • Fig. 10 is a diagram of a roadway with an array of sequenced signaling devices of the present invention demarcating the roadway, wherein selected one(s) of the sequential signaling devices emits sequential signal(s) that are distinguishable from the sequential signals emitted by the other signaling devices in the array to designated a pass through or other desired location.
  • Fig. 1 illustrates a road 20 with a vehicle 22 driving along the road 20 into a turn.
  • a plurality of flashing markers including markers 30, 32, 34, and 36, are distributed along side the road 20.
  • markers 30, 32, 34, 36 can be passive with no illumination or signaling, or they can flash in unsynchronized patterns, in unison, or the like.
  • the driver (not shown) of the vehicle 22 will see these markers and can easily be confused, especially at night, because the contour of the road and the turn may not be clear.
  • Fig. 2 illustrates a road 20 with a vehicle 22 moving along the road 20 into a turn.
  • a plurality of sequenced flashing markers 202-220 is distributed along the road 20.
  • the lights can be placed alongside a street 20.
  • ten lights 202-220 are distributed around a double corner.
  • the first light 202 is closest to the oncoming car 22 with a tenth light 220 being furthest from the oncoming car.
  • the second light 204 can flash on and then off shortly after light number 202.
  • the third light 206 flashes on and off slightly after light 204 and so on.
  • the observer or driver of the vehicle 22 observes a pattern that guides the eye around the corner of the road 20 in a manner that is not confusing or subject to misinterpretation.
  • the lights in an embodiment, can further be shaped like arrows pointing in the desired direction of travel.
  • the arrows can be simple chevron shapes or they can be arrows with pointed heads, axially linear, bodies, and can even comprise tails.
  • some lights can be arranged in a group to form a pattern, such as an arrow, whereby all lights in a given pattern or grouping are synchronized to turn on and off at approximately the same time.
  • lights within the pattern can be linked electronically to turn on and off as a unit, or substantially simultaneously.
  • Each light 202-220 is controlled by a logic circuit.
  • the first light in the sequence 202 can flash at a rate determined by the user. The rate can be predetermined, pre-set, or set at the time of installation.
  • the light flashes on it sends a signal, either by radio wave, infrared signal, or via hard wire to the next light in sequence, which delays a predetermined time interval before it flashes.
  • the first light 202 can delay a given amount of time prior to sending its signal to the second light 204, and so forth.
  • This 2nd light 204 then sends a signal via radio wave, infrared, or via hard wire to the 3rd light 206 in sequence, and so on.
  • the delay between receiving the trigger signal from the light lower in sequence number and the initiation of the flash is user defined, and may range from milliseconds to several minutes.
  • Fig. 3A ill.ustrates a front view of a signaling unit 300.
  • the signaling unit 300 comprises a base 302, a signal shell 304, a light source 310, a shield 312, a controller 318, a power supply 316, an on-off switch 308, and an electrical bus 320.
  • the Hght source 310, optical output device, or signaling device can be incandescent, light emitting diodes, discharge tube, as in stroboscopic light, fluorescent, etc.
  • the logic circuit or controller 318 can comprise an electronic circuit, further comprising digital, analog, or hybrid technologies.
  • the controller 318 can be fabricated of discreet components or it can be fabricated as a monolithic module or chip that performs all or most of the required functions.
  • the logic circuit or controller 3.18 further comprises input and output ports that are operably connected to the signaling device 310.
  • the inputs can include electrical power from the power supply 316, control and command input channels, on-off switching 308, and signal receivers.
  • the outputs can include signal transmitters and lights or other optical, audio or other sensory signaling devices.
  • the power supply 316 of the device can comprise one or more batteries, and can use rechargeable batteries or those that are to be discarded.
  • the batteries or power supply 316 can be operably connected to the power input of each individual system.
  • the power supply 316 can comprise photovoltaic cells (not shown), which may be used to recharge batteries, allowing for sunlight to provide power to the device.
  • the controller can comprise photo detectors to provide the option of the user to have the sequencing and flashing of lights to turn on automatically at sunset, and to turn off at sunrise.
  • the range is anticipated to be less than about 100 meters, allowing the use of low-wattage output transmitters.
  • the system can operate using protocols and technologies such as BluetoothTM, ZigBeeTM, or other standardized short-range protocols in the radio frequency spectrum.
  • Fig. 3B illustrates a side view of a signaling unit 300.
  • the signaling unit comprises the base 302, the on-off switch 308, the lamp cover 304, the second lamp 306, the first lamp 310, and the illumination shield 312.
  • the shield 312 can be configured to prevent light from the output device 310 from being seen by an observer looking at the system 300 from a given direction.
  • the system 300 can have the option of emitting light in one direction only, providing guidance for traffic in one direction while not being visible by, and thus not having an impact on, traffic from another direction.
  • traffic coming from opposing directions can both see the system light 310 but traffic only in the first direction can visualize the illuminated sequencing of the lights while the traffic from the other direction cannot see the lights 310.
  • Directionality can be maintained sufficiently to be visible from traffic with vectors separated by as little as 30 degrees or as much as 180 degrees.
  • the system 300 can be incorporated in a unit that will mount onto existingtraffic barriers, floating buoy, or incorporated into flexible orange (or other color) traffic cones.
  • the baffles or shields 312 can have their orientation adjusted by installers, once the modules are in place, by rotating the baffles or shields 312 appropriately.
  • the baffles or shields 312 can automatically be adjusted by detection of the orientation of the other light modules in the system.
  • the device can be constructed with two LEDs, 306 and 310 each facing in the opposite direction. The device can be programmed to provide proper sequencing for drivers approaching from opposite directions, that is, more than one signaling device 310 can be provided. Each LED or signaling device 310 can be independently linked to the proceeding and trailing light 310 in sequence allowing for the progression of light 310 movement in opposite directions simultaneously.
  • different color lights or LEOs for example 306, 310, can be mounted inside the lamp housing 304 such that the sequence of lights could provide color patterns.
  • the standard color might be yellow, with every 5th light revealing red color, such that as the light sequence traverses a distance, every 5th light flashes red in progression.
  • Fig. 3C illustrates a signaling unit 300 when viewed from the side showing light being emitted from the second lamp 306 and visible only from that side of the shield 312. No light coming from lamp 310 can be seen from the direction where lamp 306 shines.
  • Fig. 4 illustrates a block diagram of the electrical components of the controller 318.
  • the controller 318 comprises a radio frequency (RF) demodulator receiver 402, an amplifier 404, a decoder 406, a micro controller 408, an encoder 410, an RF transmitter 412, an LED driver 414, a first LED 310, a second LED 306, and an antenna 416.
  • RF radio frequency
  • the functional diagram of Fig. 4 reveals a radio receiver 402 that detects a digital code modulated on a radio frequency signal. This signal is demodulated, and the resulting digital code is provided as input to the decoder 406.
  • each device transmits this code, three times. If the code matches the appropriate sequence number of this unit on all three occasions, then the microcontroller 408 provides a confirmation signal, which then utilizes the LED driver 414 to turn on the first LED 310.
  • the microcontroller 408 sends a signal to the encoder 410, which provides a coded digital signal to a modulator (not shown) and then to the radio transmitter 412. This digitally encoded radio signal is now transmitted to all neighboring units. Only the unit next in sequence that matches this code will respond with the appropriate flash of the LED 310 mounted thereon.
  • the microcontroller 408 can be receiving multiple signals in rapid succession, and this provides the opportunity for the microcontroller 408 to turn on or off two or more LEDs 31 0, 306 at the appropriate time. This results in the capability of having multiple simultaneous progressive flashing sequencing for traffic moving in opposite directions.
  • Each device's sequence number can be programmed using an input keyboard, an electrical transmission from an external controller, or hardwired and controlled by a local switch such as thumbwheel or membrane switch.
  • the sequence can be input through the individual module control input port. It can also be programmed from a distance using radio frequency, microwave, inductance, infrared or other electromagnetic radiation.
  • the devices, or modules can be deployed without regard to sequence number, and when in place, the user can simply walk along the path and define each devices sequence number.
  • the unique aspect of this invention is the use of a "mesh" network that allows for the lights to assume the proper sequence number simply by applying power in the proper order or with proximity sensors. For example, in an embodiment, the user would simply locate a light and turn it on.
  • the electronic circuitry and logic would "listen” to detect whether there were any other lights currently on and transmitting a signal. If no other signal is received in a predetermined period of time, then this device would assume identity number 1 . When the 2nd light is turned on, it would listen for any other devices, and upon “hearing” number 1 transmitting a signal, but no other transmitted signals, it would then say, "I must be number 2" . When turned on, the 3rd light would receive (or “hear") numbers 1 and 2, and if no other signals were heard it would then assume that "I must be number 3", and so on. When used in a nautical setting, the buoys could be activated in order when placed in the water.
  • the user can define the length of flash and the delay between reception of triggering signal and flash with input on the control panel of each device.
  • an array of modules is placed and once activated, would self-determine their order in the array, position in the system, etc., and set the activation sequence accordingly.
  • the flashing sequence is programmable, and may reverse to produce a particular guide or warning. Furthermore, a failure of one unit would not influence performance of the entire system. Should one unit fail, the next higher number will wait a predetermined number of milliseconds, and upon failing to receive a transmission from the failed unit, will continue to operate without interruption.
  • This same methodology that is the mesh network, provides a simple means by which a failed unit could be replaced. The person replacing the failed unit simply has to turn the replacement unit on. It will listen for a predetermined length of time. If it "hears" a number 10, for example, and a number 12, but no signal is received from a number 1 1 , then it will assume that number 11 is out of the system and simply adopt that code number.
  • the system of lights or modules can be configured to provide an indication of distance from the observer.
  • the signaling system of which the lights are the most visible part of each module, can comprise lights that are visibly dimmer the higher the number in the sequence to which they are assigned (or the opposite).
  • the lights can, in another embodiment, illuminate at different visible wavelengths to provide some indication of distance. While this methodology is not as effective for a color-blind person, longer frequency colors such as the reds appear to be different distances from an observer than do colors near the cooler end of the spectrum (blue for example). Thus lights with lower sequence numbers can illuminate at different emission frequencies than lights, which are assigned higher numbers in the sequence.
  • the lights can be assigned to flash on for shorter periods of time, the further they are from the observer (higher in the sequence chain) than lights, which are closer to the observer (lower in the sequence chain). Thus, the lights, which are on longer will appear to be relatively brighter and thus closer to the observer.
  • the lights that are closer to the observer can flash on and off a number of times during their assigned "on" cycle. Lights further from the observer can be assigned to flash on and off-a relatively lower number of times during their "on” cycle, thus appearing slightly dimmer or further away from the observer.
  • Fig. 5 illustrates the logic control used to create sequenced flashing of lights as illustrated in Fig. 2.
  • Fig. 5 shows module number 202 comprising the light or sensory signaling devices 306,310, the controller, and a shield 312.
  • the controller for light number 202 is shown transmitting an electromagnetic signal 320 to the controller for light number 204. There is no signal being emitted between the controller, or module, for light number 20 and the controller or module for light number 206 at this point in time.
  • the signal from module number 204 to module number 206 will be generated at a future instant in time.
  • the shield or baffle 312 prevents viewing of the lights 306, 310 from an undesired direction, thus preventing confusion on the part of drivers coming from an oncoming direction, for example.
  • Both lamp 306 and 310 are illuminated in module 206.
  • a system of signal emitting modules 300 is disclosed.
  • the modules emit light or other signals to warn oncoming traffic that a road or other pathway has changed or is traversing a tortuous pathway.
  • the modules 300 are interconnected in a sequence so that they flash on and off in a pattern that leads the driver or observer along a path with less confusion than with randomly flashing or steady lights or reflectors.
  • the modules are self-powered and can be arrayed first and programmed following deployment.
  • the programming can be done with the described mesh technology, an external controller, or by dialing a specific number in each of a plurality of distributed controllers.
  • the modules can improve highway safety by reducing driver confusion.
  • the modules are arrayed to prevent a driver from seeing them from an oncoming direction, or, using two independent sequencing software programs for opposite facing LEOs, the driver coming from the opposite direction will have his or her own guiding system.
  • the visual output device which can be a light, led, or other visual emitter can be highly directional, omni-directional, or quasi-dierctional.
  • Each visual output device can be set to emit electromagnetic radiation in the visible range or a range outside the visible spectrum. Such radiation can be in the infrared, ultraviolet, microwave, or radio frequency range. Such radiation can be configured to be received by, and interact with, a receiver in an approaching or departing vehicle that can display the information on a Global Positioning System (GPS) display or other mapping device within the vehicle.
  • GPS Global Positioning System
  • each module supporting the visual output devices can comprise a GPS receiver that can provide its position and then transmit that position to the approaching or leaving vehicle soch that the information may be used to locate one, a few, or all of the modules on a GPS display or other mapping system.
  • a sequenced signaling system of the present invention can be deployed in such a way as to provide for two or more rows of sequenced signaling modules (e.g. signaling sequenced lights) which demarcate opposite boundaries of a lane or other intended path of travel.
  • sequenced signaling modules e.g. signaling sequenced lights
  • An example of this is shown in Figure 6.
  • an intended path of travel 600 has a right boundary 600R and a left boundary 6001. It is desired to guide a vehicle 602 along this path of travel 600.
  • Pairs of signaling modules comprising sequenced signaling lights 606R/606I, 608R/608I 610R/610I, 612R/612I, 614R/614I, 616R/616I, 618R/618I, 620R/620I and 622R/622I are positioned along the right and left boundaries 600R, 600I as shown.
  • sequenced pairs of signaling lights are programmed so that the lights in each pair (e.g., 606R and 606I) go on and off in unison (e.g., at substantially the same time) and further such that the pairs of signaling lights flash in a progressing "down-stream" sequence (Le., 606R and 606L... then 608R and 608I...
  • the pairs emit signals in unison and in sequential order from the first pair to the last pair.
  • a pedestrian or vehicle such as a motor vehicle on a road, marine floating vehicle (boat or ship), or fixed wing or rotating wing aircraft would see a left-right pair of lights guiding them in the direction of travel. This would, in effect, define the width of a lane or intended path of travel 600 that the motor vehicle or boat or aircraft might travel.
  • Figure 7 is a schematic illustration of a system 700 which may be used to guide a visitor to a specific room or location within a large building, campus, complex of buildings, etc.
  • the system 700 comprises a destination signal transmitting device 702 comprising a programmable transmitter 706, a programming device 704 useable to program the transmitter 706 to cause it to emit signals for a desired destination and a plurality of arrays of sequential signaling devices 718,720, 722 positioned along possible routes 712, 714, 716.
  • the transmitter 706 may comprise any suitable type of programmable signal emitting chip or apparatus, examples of which include CC2531 System on Chip (SoC) available from Texas Instruments Incorporated, Dallas, Texas or the A2530R24AZ1 System on a Chip available from Anaren, Inc., East Syracuse, New York.
  • SoC System on Chip
  • the transmitter 706 may be housed or incorporated into various types of portable housings or secondary articles, such as a clip-on visitor identification card (shown in the example of Figure 7), dongle, card on a lanyard, clip on box or strip, etc.
  • the programmer 504 may be any suitable type of device useable to program the transmitter 706 to emit signals for a desired destination on one of the possible routes 712, 714, 716.
  • the programming device 704 comprises a housing having a user interface 710 such as a keyboard and a slot 704.
  • the operator uses the user interface 710 to input a desired destination 718T, 720T or 722T located on one of the possible routes 712, 714,716.
  • the destination signal transmitting device 702 is then inserted into slot 504 and electronics within the housing program the transmitter 706 to emit signals that are specific for the desired destination 718T, 720T or 722T.
  • Commercially available examples of such programming electronics includes those available in connection with the CC2531 System on Chip (SoC) available from Texas Instruments Incorporated, Dallas, Texas or the A2530R24AZ1 System on a Chip available from Anaren, Inc., East Syracuse, New York.
  • SoC System on Chip
  • the visitor After the transmitter 706 has been programmed for the desired destination, the visitor then wears or carries the destination signal transmitting device 702 and signals emitted from the transmitter 706 are received by, and cause sequential signals (e.g., flashes of light) to be emitted by, only those sequential signaling devices 718, 720 or 722 positioned along the particular route 712, 714 or 716 that leads to the desired destination 718T, 720T or 722T.
  • sequential signals e.g., flashes of light
  • the sequential signaling devices 718, 720 or 722 may be embedded in or adhered to the surface(s) traveled upon such as floor(s), sidewalk(s), walkway(s) and the like and may comprise LED illuminated circuits that would read via radio or other media (sound, light, radio frequency) the "code" that would trigger the microcontroller to display the proper sequence guiding the pedestrian to their destination.
  • the signals emitted by the sequential signaling devices 718, 720 or 722 on one of the possible routes may be distinguishable (e.g., different colored light flashes) from those on another possible route, or the signals from the sequential signaling devices 718, 720 or 722 triggered by one particular transmitter 706 may be distinguishable (e.g., different colored light flashes) those triggered by another particular transmitter 76, thereby preventing confusion between routes being followed by 2 or more visitors at the same time (e.g., one visitor might follow the yellow string, while another green, and yet another the red sequenced string of light).
  • This system 700 may be used to direct movement of visitors or others, on foot or in vehicles, within large structures or campuses, such as hospitals, shopping malls, military establishments (Pentagon, military bases, etc.), universities, factories, amusement parks, zoos, etc.
  • Power for the destination signal transmitting device 702 and/or sequential signaling devices 718, 720 and 722 may be supplied via battery, mains, or solar charging systems.
  • External programming and control of various parameters (software updates, light sequence pattern, etc.) of the sequential signaling devices 718, 720 and 722 could be accomplished using an external "dongle” or a "smart phone” software application. The user could download an application to "speak” to the, sending software updates, timing sequences, etc.
  • FIG 8 shows one of many possible embodiments of a sequential signaling light device 1000 of the present invention.
  • This device 1000 comprises a flashing light 1002 on a housing 1004.
  • electronic circuitry including a microprocessor, battery or other power source and a transmitter/receiver.
  • a schematic diagram of the electronic circuitry of this device is shown in Figure 9.
  • the housing may be configured in various ways to facilitate attachment to or positioning on a desired surface of structure.
  • the housing 104 has a generally cylindrical shape with a cylindrical member 1006 extending downwardly and a tubular space 1008 defined between the outer surface of the downwardly-extending tubular member 1006 and the inner surface of the outer cylindrical housing 1004.
  • This configuration allows the device 1000 to be easily mounted on top of a cylindrical tubular structure such as a cylindrical tubular traffic delineator.
  • Various adapters may also be inserted in or attached to the base of the housing 1004 to facilitate its attachment or mounting on other types of structures such as cones, barricades, walls, fences, barriers, etc.
  • a plurality of these sequential signaling light devices 1000 may be positioned in a desired array, one after another.
  • the electronic circuitry 1004 both receives and transmits necessary analog and digital information to the next light signaling device 1000 in sequence.
  • the signaling devices do not have to be numbered, nor does a user have to set each light physically in a particular order.
  • the design provides information inherent in the system, utilizing "mesh", or matrix, technology.
  • Adjacent lights or modules can be set to recognize their position in a sequence automatically such that the user need not physically set the sequence of module firing. This position recognition can be accomplished using proximity sensors, global positioning receivers, RFID devices, and the like.
  • the light signaling devices 1000 may be programmed to self-detect and adapt to the ordering of the individual signaling devices 1000 within an array. If one device 1000 within an array is removed or becomes non-functional, the remaining devices 1000 in the array will sense that such device has been removed or is not functioning and will automatically re-adjust their sequential communication and signal timing accordingly.
  • the signaling devices 1000 in that array will self-adapt to the switched or rearranged positioning of individual devices 1000 so that the desires sequential (from one to the next, to the next, to the next, etc.) is maintained.
  • an additional or replacement device 1000 is inserted within the array, the remaining devices 1000 within the array will sense signals being emitted from the new device and will include incorporate the new device into the array such that the new device will emits signals in sequence along with the other devices in the array.
  • the electronic circuitry of the devices 1000 may be programmed to be array-specific so that sequential communication is maintained within each separate array without inadvertent crosstalk between devices in neighboring or nearby arrays.
  • the electronic circuitry of the signaling devices 1000 may be programmed or reprogrammed to effect signaling variables (e.g., timing of flashes, color of flashes, pattern of flashes, system operational hours, etc.) either by way of a user interface on each signaling device 1000 or from a central control/programming device, which may comprise a smartphone, laptop computer, tablet computer or other portable device.
  • signaling variables e.g., timing of flashes, color of flashes, pattern of flashes, system operational hours, etc.
  • a central control/programming device which may comprise a smartphone, laptop computer, tablet computer or other portable device.
  • selected one(s) of the sequential signaling modules in a particular array may be programmed to emit signals that are distinguishable from signals emitted by the other modules in the array, thereby designating a specific location along the array, such as an area where it is intended for authorized vehicles (e.g., construction vehicles, emergency vehicles, etc.) to stop, turn out or perform some task (e.g., attach to a fire hydrant, register at a check point, access some service or apparatus, etc.)
  • authorized vehicles e.g., construction vehicles, emergency vehicles, etc.
  • some task e.g., attach to a fire hydrant, register at a check point, access some service or apparatus, etc.
  • the signals emitted by the selected module(s) may be distinguishable in any suitable way.
  • the selected module(s) may emit flashes of a that are of a different color than the light emitted from the other modules in the sequential array and/or the selected module(s) may emit flashes of a different number, duration, pattern or intensity than the flashes emitted by other modules in the array.
  • This aspect give the sequenced signaling arrays of the present invention the ability to not only provide sequential guidance signals along a particular route, but also to "mark" a specific location such as an entrance or exit along the sequential array.
  • FIG 10 A non-limiting example of this is shown in Figure 10, wherein an array of sequential signal lights 802a through 802f are positioned along a roadway adjacent to a construction zone. It is desired for construction vehicles to enter the adjacent construction zone only through the space labeled on Figure 10 as "Pass Through” (located between sequential signal light 802d and sequential signal light 182e).
  • the sequential signal lights 802a through 802f are programmed as described above so that they emit flashes of light in a repetitive sequence that starts with signal light 802a and continues to signal light 802b.
  • the signal light 802d immediately before the Pass Through (or alternatively the signal lights 802d, 802e on either side of the pass through) are programmed or otherwise adapted to emit flashes of light that are distinguishable from the light flashes emitted by the other signal lights in the sequenced array.
  • the distinguishing feature may be a different color, number, duration, pattern or intensity of light flashes emitted by the selected signaling lights 802d or alternative 802d and 802e.
  • each of the other signal lights in the array 802a, 802b, 802c, 802e, 802f may be programmed to emit a single flash of light during their respective turns in each cycle of the sequence while selected light 802e would be programmed to flash a rapid 5 flashes during its turn in each consecutive cycle.
  • driver of all vehicles would see a series of sequenced flashes along the array, but the signal light 802d would differ from the others because, instead of a single flash, it would emit 5 rapid (e.g., staccato) flashes that would be easily identified by drivers of authorized construction vehicles as the making of the location of the Pass Through where they are to enter the adjacent construction site.
  • 5 rapid (e.g., staccato) flashes that would be easily identified by drivers of authorized construction vehicles as the making of the location of the Pass Through where they are to enter the adjacent construction site.

Abstract

L'invention concerne des systèmes et des procédés pour marquer une route, un chemin ou une limite. Des modules de signalisation sont positionnés en un réseau pour marquer la route, le chemin ou la limite. Les modules subissent une communication radiofréquence l'un avec l'autre et émettent des signaux en séquence d'un module positionné en premier du réseau à un module positionné en dernier du réseau. Un ou plusieurs modules sélectionnés sont programmés ou conçus pour émettre un signal qui se distingue des signaux émis par les autres modules.
PCT/US2014/017756 2013-02-22 2014-02-21 Systèmes de guidage séquencé WO2014130842A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US13/774,029 2013-02-22
US13/774,029 US20130293396A1 (en) 2008-03-15 2013-02-22 Sequenced guiding systems for vehicles and pedestrians
US13/775,177 2013-02-23
US13/775,177 US20130271294A1 (en) 2008-03-15 2013-02-23 Sequenced guiding systems with location designation capability

Publications (1)

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WO2014130842A1 true WO2014130842A1 (fr) 2014-08-28

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EP3218887A4 (fr) * 2014-11-15 2018-07-18 James R. Selevan Clignotement séquentiel et coordonné de torches électroniques de bord de route avec conservation active d'énergie
US10551014B2 (en) 2017-02-10 2020-02-04 James R. Selevan Portable electronic flare carrying case and system
US10660183B2 (en) 2017-07-06 2020-05-19 James R Selevan Devices and methods for synchronized signaling of the positions of moving pedestrians or vehicles
US10922987B2 (en) 2008-03-15 2021-02-16 James R. Selevan Sequenced guiding systems for vehicles and pedestrians
US11313546B2 (en) 2014-11-15 2022-04-26 James R. Selevan Sequential and coordinated flashing of electronic roadside flares with active energy conservation
US11725785B2 (en) 2017-02-10 2023-08-15 James R. Selevan Portable electronic flare carrying case and system

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US7563158B2 (en) * 2005-07-01 2009-07-21 Poly-Clip System Corp. Automatic rack loader
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US11295625B2 (en) 2008-03-15 2022-04-05 James R. Selevan Sequenced guiding systems for vehicles and pedestrians
US11769418B2 (en) 2008-03-15 2023-09-26 James R. Selevan Sequenced guiding systems for vehicles and pedestrians
US10922987B2 (en) 2008-03-15 2021-02-16 James R. Selevan Sequenced guiding systems for vehicles and pedestrians
US10443828B2 (en) 2014-11-15 2019-10-15 James R. Selevan Sequential and coordinated flashing of electronic roadside flares with active energy conservation
US11698186B2 (en) 2014-11-15 2023-07-11 James R. Selevan Sequential and coordinated flashing of electronic roadside flares with active energy conservation
US11313546B2 (en) 2014-11-15 2022-04-26 James R. Selevan Sequential and coordinated flashing of electronic roadside flares with active energy conservation
EP3218887A4 (fr) * 2014-11-15 2018-07-18 James R. Selevan Clignotement séquentiel et coordonné de torches électroniques de bord de route avec conservation active d'énergie
US11162650B2 (en) 2017-02-10 2021-11-02 James R. Selevan Portable electronic flare carrying case and system
US11725785B2 (en) 2017-02-10 2023-08-15 James R. Selevan Portable electronic flare carrying case and system
US10551014B2 (en) 2017-02-10 2020-02-04 James R. Selevan Portable electronic flare carrying case and system
US11013091B2 (en) 2017-07-06 2021-05-18 James R Selevan Devices and methods for synchronized signaling of the positions of moving pedestrians or vehicles
US10660183B2 (en) 2017-07-06 2020-05-19 James R Selevan Devices and methods for synchronized signaling of the positions of moving pedestrians or vehicles
US11706861B2 (en) 2017-07-06 2023-07-18 James R. Selevan Devices and methods for synchronized signaling of the positions of moving pedestrians or vehicles

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