Most of us have seen those orange traffic cones while driving. They're hard to miss - and that can be a problem when it's dark out. Bright orange might be striking under sunlight, but once shadows fall, it can blend in with the surrounding darkness, causing safety hazards. That's where a new invention, Patent Number US20230340738A1, by Daniel Joseph Selevan comes into play, intent on mitigating this risk.
The essential problem this patent is trying to solve is the lack of visibility of traffic cones and other traffic channelizing devices, namely barrels, tubes, buoys, and certain types of signs, especially in conditions with low light. This issue extends beyond inconvenience - it raises serious safety concerns, for both motorists and pedestrians. Poorly seen traffic cones could lead to mishaps, from minor accidents like fender benders to severe traffic collisions.
How does this patent intend to resolve this? It comes up with an innovative idea - lighting up the cones from inside. The patent proposes a technique for the internal illumination of these traffic gadgets using light emitters fixed onto projections within these devices. It would work through visible light or other forms of energy that permeate through the device's semi-translucent walls, thereby making it easier to see and follow, particularly in the dark.
Imagine how this invention could change the world. Nighttime road work would become significantly safer, with glowing traffic cones guiding vehicles efficaciously, preventing potential accidents. Even in instances where they are used for temporary measures, like highlighting a pothole or diversion, lighted cones would stand out prominently against the darkness, alerting drivers from a distance.
Moreover, one of the key advantages highlighted in the patent is the easy charging of these cones. The unique design allows any stack order and orientation based on corner-to-corner alignment. The circuit automatically reverses and maintains correct polarity, discarding any concerns to line up the cones in a particular stacking arrangement for charging.
A classic real-life example will be during a music festival or an outdoor night event. These illuminated traffic channelizing devices could be used to indicate the parking areas, mark hazard spots, or guide people to the event entrance, enhancing safety considerably.
However, it's important to remember to take this with a sprinkle of salt. This is a patent, and there's no guarantee we will see these glowing traffic cones lighting up our streets anytime soon. Whether this specific idea will make it past the planning process and onto the market and streets is yet unknown.
In closing, the simplicity and brilliance of the idea are undeniable – traffic devices that light up from inside. It promises not just clearer paths, but safer roads. The patent might end up transforming something as mundane as a traffic cone into an innovative device contributing to public safety.