IMPROVED TRAFFIC LIGHT ASSEMBLY

Abstract

A traffic light assembly is disclosed with red, amber and green lights. While light is being emitted, a flashing sequence pattern is generated within the area to enhance the meaning of the signal communicated to the driver. The sequence pattern is formed by changing the colour of light emitted, and or by ceasing to emit light. An intermediate pattern that is different in configuration from any of the sequence patterns is provided at a transition between at least one of the red, amber and green lights to further communicate to the driver that the light signal is about to change and that action is about to be required.

Claims

1. A traffic light assembly comprising a light signal adapted to emit red, amber and green light in a sequence; the light signal being capable of communicating to a driver by a change in colour that an action is required to be undertaken at a location on a road; wherein the light signal comprises an area from which light is emitted; while the light is being emitted, a flashing sequence pattern is generated within the area to enhance the meaning of the signal communicated to the driver; the sequence pattern being formed by changing the colour of some of the light being emitted, and or by ceasing to emit some of the light, and so that the sequence pattern displayed during emission of red, amber or green light is different in each configuration; wherein an intermediate pattern that is different in configuration from any of the sequence patterns is provided in the area at a transition between at least one of the red, amber and green lights in the sequence to further communicate to the driver that the light signal is about to change and that action is about to be required.

2. The traffic light assembly of claim 1, wherein the flashing sequence pattern displayed during emission of red, amber or green light comprises: when the light is red at least one flashing circle or cross pattern preferably two; within the area intended to communicate a stop action to the driver; when the light is amber at least one flashing circle pattern within the area intended to communicate a stop action to the driver; wherein when the light is green there are chevrons moving over the area intended to communicate a move forward action to the driver.

3. The traffic light assembly of claim 1 or 2, wherein the intermediate visual is a flashing sequence pattern.

4. The traffic light assembly of claim 1 or 2, wherein the intermediate visual is motionless pattern-free light.

5. The traffic light assembly of any one of any one of the preceding claims, wherein upon changing from red to green, the area changes from a red circle of light with flashing circles, to a green circle of light with flashing chevrons or moving lines.

6. The traffic light assembly of any one of any one of the preceding claims, wherein upon changing from green to amber, the area changes from green with flashing chevrons or moving lines, to pattern free amber with no motion.

7. The traffic light assembly of claim 6, wherein pattern free amber with no motion is motionless for a predetermined period of time, wherein the predetermined period of time is at least about 1 or about 2 seconds.

8. The traffic light assembly of any one of any one of the preceding claims, wherein upon changing from amber to red, the area changes from amber with flashing dots to red with no motion.

9. The traffic light assembly of claim 8, wherein red with no motion is motionless for a predetermined period of time, wherein the predetermined period of time is at least about 30, 60, 90, 120 seconds.

10. The traffic light assembly of any one of any one of the preceding claims, wherein light is emitted from an array of light emitting diodes (LEDs).

11. The traffic light assembly of any one of any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one sequence pattern is formed by flashing white light.

12. The traffic light assembly of any one of any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one sequence pattern is formed by causing omission of light.

13. A method of controlling traffic using a traffic light assembly according to any one of the preceding claims.

14. A traffic light assembly, when programmed to operate according to any one of the preceding claims.

15. A traffic light assembly according to claim 15, wherein the program is implemented by a Programme Logic Controller (PLC).

16. A method of controlling a driverless vehicle comprising programming the driverless vehicle to respond to the traffic light assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0037] Embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings which are not drawn to scale and which are exemplary only and in which:

[0038] FIG. 1 is a schematic view of traffic light signals that can be subject to embodiments of the invention.

[0039] FIG. 2 shows a close up of the red light of an embodiment of the invention.

[0040] FIG. 3 shows a close up of the amber light of an embodiment of the invention.

[0041] FIG. 4 shows an amber light in accordance with FIG. 3 in the context of the traffic signal arrangement.

[0042] FIG. 5 shows a close up of the green light of an embodiment of the invention.

[0043] FIG. 6a shows the sequence of a pattern in the green light.

[0044] FIG. 6b shows an alternate sequence of a pattern in the green light.

[0045] FIG. 7 shows a sequence of a pattern in the red light.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0046] As shown in FIG. 1, the traffic light signals 10 can be of the type having three lights 12, 14, 16 arranged in a stack, with the topmost light being capable of emitting red light (1), the middle light being capable of emitting amber light (2), and the bottom light being capable of emitting green light (3). The image in FIG. 1 shows three traffic light assemblies, each with one light activated. These are the traffic lights that are most common in countries around the world. However, any orientation of traffic lights could be used as would be understood upon reading the description herein.

[0047] It is generally understood that a red light in a traffic light assembly means stop. The red light should be clearly transmitted to the person required to obey the traffic light.

[0048] In the present sequencing, when the red light is first activated, the light can be motionless for a predetermined period of time. The predetermined period of time can be at least 30, 60, 90, 120 seconds. The user will see a red light with no sequence pattern. This period of no pattern can be considered an intermediate visual.

[0049] After the predetermined period of time has elapsed, a pattern can be displayed. The pattern can be a flashing circle of light. FIG. 2 shows an example of a red light 12 with a circular flashing pattern 12a, 12b. FIG. 7 shows an example of a red light 12 with a cross flashing pattern. In FIG. 7 the sequence of a cross pattern is shown. The arrow shows the direction of the sequence. The pattern starts with image 12 which is red steady state light. The sequence then moves downwards to 12′ and 12″ in the direction of the arrow. Image 12′ is a cross pattern of LED lights turning on and off. Image 12″ is the cross pattern of LEDs retuning back to red light.

[0050] The red light can have at least one flashing circle of lights or a flashing cross within the outer periphery of the red light. In some embodiments there is more than one flashing circle such as two flashing circles arranged concentrically. There can be more than two flashing circles depending on the size of the red light. These flashing circles can serve to alert the motorists to the stop signal.

[0051] In an arrangement in which the red light is formed from a plurality of concentric diodes, an inner circle pattern can be formed from light emitted/omitted from one row (annular) of diodes preferably one row in from the centre of the red light; and another flashing circle will be preferably be one row (annular) in from the outer circumference of the light. The circle can be provided by the circular arrangement of lights emitting a new colour of light that contrasts with the red light. The new colour can be e.g. white. Alternatively, the circle pattern can be provided by the circular arrangement of lights being inactivate i.e. omitting to display light (i.e. emitting no, or very low light). The lack of light may appear as black.

[0052] As shown in FIG. 2, there are two concentric circles 12a and 12b formed within the red light area.

[0053] Two flashing circles of light means red. Two flashing circles of light mean stop to all motorists.

[0054] Running a red light is a problem and can be the cause of many and major accidents. The flashing dots on the red light may serve to emphasizes the danger of proceeding through the road way. The flashing dots can serve to make the stop more imperative and meaningful. In some instances, it is thought that the flashing nature of the light will alerts tired drivers.

[0055] It can be considered a more deliberate action if the driver runs a red light when the dots forming the circle are flashing. It will be a direct defiance of the red signal and should not only attract a fine but also a higher point penalty to bring home the message that STOP means STOP. In relation to driverless vehicles, the flashing signal in the red light can allow the sensors on board the vehicle to be programmed to double check not only colour, but also the flashing sequence associated with the colour. This in built fail safe can allow the driverless vehicle to more easily interpret the meaning of an upcoming traffic signal.

[0056] The dots forming the circular pattern can flash continuously the whole time the red light is illuminated. The circles can flash alternately. The dots (bulbs) forming the circle could flash as a solid ring or as an intermittent ring. The dots could be programmed to snake around as a circle. Flashing white dots in the red light are a no go at any time. It will be different to a flashing red light and it's meaning at construction sites and elsewhere.

[0057] The sequence pattern can be programmed to control the traffic light signal assembly using a Programme Logic Controller (PLC). The PLC can be programmed by the road traffic Manager to provide the required sequence that matches with the traffic conditions in that area. The program can be amended or adapted if the users find that the light sequence is not working effectively.

[0058] It is generally understood that the amber colour in a traffic light assembly means continue only if unable to stop safely.

[0059] Some driver's find the amber light confusing, because the action to be taken can depend on how long the amber light has been on display. An early amber light might be passable, while a late amber light (that has been displayed for some time) requires an immediate stop.

[0060] When the amber light of the present signal system is first activated, the light can be motionless for a predetermined period of time. The predetermined period of time can be at least about 1 or about 2 seconds. Longer delays can be utilised but shorter times are preferred given that the amber light (as compared with the red and green) is only displayed for a relatively short time frame in the sequence pattern. This period of no pattern can be considered an intermediate visual.

[0061] After the predetermined period of time has elapsed, a pattern can be displayed. An example of the pattern 14a is shown on the amber light 14 in FIG. 3.

[0062] The pattern can be an annular representation of flashing dots of light/no light. This is shown in FIG. 3 as 14a. The pattern can comprise flashing black or white dots which will activate after the timed delay. The dots can be in a circle or ring pattern 14a. The dots can be either solid or intermittent alternative pixels. The intermittent pixelated circles can change over time giving the illusion of a moving circle rotating within the area of light. In FIG. 4, a moving pattern of circles within the amber area can be envisaged. The sequence of events over time as the light changes is represented by the arrow.

[0063] The flashing ring of alternate dots or a complete circle of dots within the amber light should in some cases make the meaning of the colour amber more evident. Amber light with dots flashing in a circular array after 1 (or 2) seconds delay emphasizes it is NOT safe to proceed and pulling up is the optimum and desired action for all users to ensure road safety. Amber then may become an extra warning to un-attentive drivers that there is no time left to enter the intersection and that red is about to appear. It would be considered to be illegal then to run the amber light after about 1 second when the “Go” or “No Go” option is compromised. Flashing indicators on the amber light translates to “Slow down NOW” and “Stop NOW” as per the red light that follows. The discretion that involves speed through the light is now gone or is at least compromised; flashing dots have assisted in the decision making.

[0064] The concept that “motorists must stop on yellow (amber) light unless it is unsafe to do so” has not changed; it has just been enhanced by a reminder of the flashing pattern of an embodiment of the present invention. Hence the flashing dots will allow anyone too close to the set of lights to proceed in the first few seconds of the amber light appearance, and pass over the intersection before the amber becomes red and before the flashing pattern appears. After that 1 or 2 second interval the flashing dots on the amber will remind the driver to STOP immediately. After that first second of amber elapses, EVERY vehicle must slow down and prepare to stop. It is thought that the drivers mind is alerted to this fact by the flashing dot pattern. It is thought that the motorists will be less likely to misjudge the situation; the flashing pattern will educate them. The flashing dot pattern indicates that there is NOT enough time to get through the intersection. The flashing lights have done the calculation for the drivers; there is arguably no more thinking they have time to get through the intersection safely.

[0065] Once the flashing amber light pattern has begun after 1 (or 2) second interval the countdown to red is typically more obvious and a jolting reminder to the driver to STOP. The second(s) delay with the amber light is to attempt to avoid accidents at intersection and may allow vehicles on the speed limit at the white line for the lights to proceed across the intersection for the remaining duration of the amber light. After the intermediate visual prior to the ring of flashing lights, the pattern of flashes will activate and continue to flash to slow and halt all vehicles as it times up the red light.

[0066] In addition to acting as a communication tool for traffic light change, if the set of traffic lights at the intersection are not working then the amber light could flash alone with alternate blinking dots to remind the motorist approaching this signal that you “must” slow down (if not come to a stop) and give way to traffic as though you are at an intersection with STOP signs. This could eliminate the need for manual traffic control. Black flashing dots around and inside the perimeter could mean the same as an octagonal STOP sign or a STOP sign painted on the road.

[0067] It is generally understood that a green light in a traffic light assembly means go. By “go” it is meant that the driver can move past the signal.

[0068] When the green light is first activated, the light can comprise chevrons running up the centre of the face of the light. This is shown in FIG. 5 where the green light 16 is shown with (a part of) a chevron pattern 16a. In FIG. 6a, the sequence of the chevron pattern 16a is shown. The arrow shows the direction of the sequence. The pattern starts with image 16 and then moves upwards to 16′ and 16″. Alternatively, two to five (or any number) of broken lines can trickle up the light as can be seen in FIG. 6b, 16, 16′, 16″. This moving pattern should alert motorists of a change in signal status and should inspire drivers to move forward especially if some drivers were texting sitting at the red light, or just day dreaming.

[0069] The pattern of lights in each of the colours can be different so as to distinguish the message delivered to drivers.

[0070] The pattern of light colour change from green to amber to red, and back to green (on a cycle) can cycle many hundreds of times. The timing of each colour is predetermined according to the nature of the intersection. The intermediate visual provided between each colour serves as a warning to drivers that the light is about to change and in some embodiments provides a clear interruption signal. The light signals may become much more effective than traditional signals since they are able to communicate much more than stop and go, and instead are able to communicate information about the transition state of the light cycle.

[0071] These markers will in embodiments make it safer for all drivers at intersections where there are traffic lights as they will enhance the meaning of the signal and make the drivers more alert to their circumstances; give colour blinded drivers accurate signals and oblige everyone to drive lawfully

[0072] A display of pulsating dots within a particular colour can attempt to change all drivers perception and in some cases their actions would become more appropriate and safer for themselves other road users and pedestrians.

[0073] The enhanced signal is intended to emphasise the meaning of the signal and to stimulate the driver's awareness of their surroundings to allow them to better interpret the signal; react to the signal; take the correct action from that enhanced signal; and therefore act appropriately and satisfy the legal requirements of the actual signal.

[0074] The drivers would in principle be able to make better decisions if they are made aware of their obligations by an alert system within the traffic signals.

[0075] This new version of traffic lights described herein relates to the existing signal system for vehicle operations and regulation. The lights use existing traffic signals and attempt to enhance their warning capability to improve pedestrian and vehicle safety especially at intersections. In relation to pedestrians, where there are no count down indicators at crossings, the pedestrian attempting to cross the road may be more readily be able to discern whether it is safe to cross by looking at the flashing sequence that is currently being displayed.

[0076] These smart lights attempt to enhance an existing light system to improve the safety feature of traffic lights. These designs are meant to be eye catching rather than just be an inert static display that drivers sometimes do not heed properly.

[0077] For driverless vehicles, the signals can assist and promote in the interpretation of the meaning of the upcoming traffic signal. The signals can also be programmed with additional information available to the driverless vehicle. For example, the speed of the flashing (number of flashes per second, or per 5 seconds) can be an indicator of the length (in meters) of the intersection. The speed of the flashing may not be discernible to a human driver, but could convey valuable information to the driverless vehicle. For example, the vehicle may need to adjust its speed for very long intersections in order to ensure the intersection is traversed without undue delay. The additional information in the flashing sequences may relate to the number of accidents at the intersection, which the driverless vehicle can process and then take additional caution if it is an accident blackspot. The additional information in the flashing sequence could be rapid firing of lights (or a pattern of lights) undetectable to anyone other than the driverless vehicles, but which could act as a warning that there are cyclists present, or school children crossing, or other. In an embodiment, the speed of the flashing can indicate that the light is moving to a new signal in the sequence. For example, when the red light is about to transition to the green light, the intermediate visual could be

[0078] The reinforcing of an existing system is achieved for all drivers as follows: [0079] Because of the EXTRA warning background features on the traffic lights there could in some instance be less confusion with peripheral neon lights nearby. [0080] Traffic signal is enhanced by the animation and in embodiments the emphasis is more evident and makes the meaning of the colour indicated clearer. [0081] This would be especially significant on the Amber and Red light animations for: [0082] Drivers with limited eyesight from current illness or stress. [0083] Distracted persons whose alertness has altered. [0084] Drug affected drivers also whose alertness faltered. [0085] Alcohol affected drivers who need a hint to make them more aware of their circumstances. [0086] Stress affected drivers whose concentration has lapsed temporarily. [0087] Tired drivers who need reminding of their responsibilities behind the wheel. [0088] New drivers who would benefit from the assistance of the flashing dots. [0089] Convicted drivers who are back to P plates for better judgement at continuing to obey all traffic signals. [0090] The flashing black or white dots should not affect red light cameras for speeding fines. [0091] The flashing black or brilliant white dots on the lights for drivers in air-conditioned closed vehicles become a perceptual aid like auditory and or tactile signals. [0092] The flashing dots would more likely help drivers to approach the intersection at a safer speed. [0093] The flashing black dots are a reminder also to always approach at a safe speed in case the signal changes before you reach the intersection. [0094] The flashing system is a code that can be used to assist driverless vehicles to interpret traffic signals independent of colour or as a complement to a detected colour.

[0095] As shown in the Figures, there is a traffic light assembly 10 comprising a light signal adapted to emit red 12, amber 14 and green light 16 in a sequence. The light signal is capable of communicating to a driver (or other road user) (not shown) that an action is required to be undertaken at a location on a road (not shown). The communication is by a change in light colour using a universal system that is well known to all drivers. The light signal comprises an area from which light is emitted. The area is typically a series of circles, each circle adapted to emit a different colour. While the light is being emitted, a flashing sequence pattern is generated within the area to enhance the meaning of the signal communicated to the driver. The sequence pattern is formed by changing the colour of some of the light being emitted, and or by ceasing to emit some of the light, and so that the sequence pattern displayed during emission of red, amber or green light is different in each configuration. As can be seen in FIGS. 2, 3, 5 and 7, a change in colour of the light (or omission of some of the light) can be used to form patterns in the coloured area. An intermediate pattern is provided in the area at a transition between at least one of the red, amber and green lights in the sequence. The intermediate pattern can be a lack of pattern. The intermediate pattern is noticeable because it is different in configuration from any of the green, amber or red sequence patterns. The intermediate pattern seeks to further communicate to the driver that the light signal is about to change and that action is about to be required.

[0096] The invention also comprises a method of controlling traffic. The method can comprise providing a traffic light assembly according to the present invention. In an embodiment, the method comprises programming a PLC to control the traffic light assembly. The program to control the light signal assembly can cause a flashing sequence pattern to be generated within the area to enhance the meaning of the signal communicated to the driver. The sequence pattern is formed by causing a change in the colour of some of the light being emitted, and or by ceasing to emit some of the light, and so that the sequence pattern displayed during emission of red, amber or green light is different in each configuration. The program can also cause display of an intermediate pattern that is different in configuration from any of the sequence patterns to be provided in the area at a transition between at least one of the red, amber and green lights in the sequence. The intermediate pattern can be to further communicate to the driver that the light signal is about to change and that action is about to be required.

[0097] Any promises made in the present description should be understood to relate to some embodiments of the invention, and are not intended to be promises made about the invention. Where there are promises that are deemed to apply to all embodiments of the invention, the right is reserved to later delete those promises from the description since there is no intention to rely on those promises for the acceptance or subsequent grant of a patent unless the context makes clear otherwise.

[0098] It is to be understood that, if any prior art publication is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the publication forms a part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country.

[0099] In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word “comprise” or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising” is used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention.