Abstract: An indicator controller (18), an optical assembly (10) having the indicator controller (10), a traffic light system that comprises at least one of the optical assembly (10) and a method for fault indication by the indicator controller (10) is disclosed. A control signal from a control signal generator (20) of the indicator controller (18) is disabled to block off current supply to a diode chain of three light emitting diodes (LEDs) of an array (12) of LEDs. Input to the control signal generator (20) has a frequency setting section that sets the control signal at a predetermined frequency. Consequently, the three LEDs are made to blink according to the predetermined frequency. The control signal is generated when the amplitude of current supply to the array (12) exceeds a threshold setting.

Abstract: In a light-emitting-diode lamp, there is provided an input impedance-changing circuit for establishing a low input impedance circuit when the light-emitting-diode lamp is missingline turned off. This input impedance-changing circuiting comprises Shunt circuit section, and a detector circuit section. The shunt circuit section includes a low impedance element and a controllable switching device connected in series. The detector circuit section detects turning off of the light-emitting-diode lamp and, in response to such detection, close the switching device to thereby cause electric current to flow through the shunt circuit section in order to simulate lower input impedance of the light-emitting-diode lamp. When the light-emitting-diode lamp replaces a conventional traffic signal incandescent lamp, the input impedance-changing circuitry prevents the conflict monitor of the already installed traffic-light lamp system to detect a high lamp impedance and accordingly a faulty lamp.

Abstract: Monitoring and control apparatus for fail-safe monitoring for normal operation of traffic signal lights provided at an intersection or the like where a plurality of roads intersect. The illumination conditions of respective signal lights are detected using as sensor device, and when the number of illuminated or non-illuminated signal lights is a predetermined number, a normal judgment output of logic value 1 corresponding to a high energy condition is generated while, when the number of illuminated or non-illuminated signal lights is not the predetermined number, an abnormal judgment output of logic value 0 corresponding to a low energy condition is generated. As a result, when a fault in the monitoring apparatus stops the output, the resultant output condition is the same as for a danger condition due to a signal light abnormality, resulting in an extremely safe signal light monitoring and control with excellent fail-safe characteristics.

Abstract: This system for characterizing a computer to control a wheel anti-lock device, incorporated in an onboard electronic system (1;) for a motor vehicle, using a remote coding device (6), the computer (2) comprising a data processing unit (4) associated with means (5) for storing said computer's operating data, is characterized in that a single logic device for controlling the wheel anti-lock device is loaded into the unit (4), in that the data storage means (5) include several sets of characteristic parameters (V1, V2, Vn) selectable for different vehicles, and in that the remote coding device (6) comprises means (7, 8) for recognizing the vehicle and means (7, 8) for characterizing the computer by associating with the logic device loaded in the unit, the set of parameters corresponding to the recognized vehicle.

Abstract: An inductive loop sensor for detecting vehicles travelling along a lane of a roadway comprises a figure-of-eight conducting loop. The loop is arranged with its three segments transversely across the roadway to detect the wheels of vehicles travelling along the roadway. The length of the loop in the direction of travel along the roadway is less than 60 cms. Traffic monitoring apparatus energises the loops and detects the passage of vehicle wheels over the loops to provide for the classification of vehicles by axle count.

Abstract: An inductive loop sensor for detecting vehicles travelling along a lane of a roadway comprises a figure-of-eight conducting loop. The loop is arranged with its three segments transversely across the roadway to detect the wheels of vehicles travelling along the roadway. The length of the loop in the direction of travel along the roadway is less than 60 cms. Traffic monitoring apparatus energises the loops and detects the passage of vehicle wheels over the loops to provide for the classification of vehicles by axle count.

Abstract: The LED traffic light electronic controller stabilizes the total output light intensity of the traffic light in order to ensure a constant light intensity of each traffic light color throughout the entire traffic light lifetime. The controller detects the output light intensity of a color, and then automatically adjusts the power input for the LEDs in order to increase the light intensity when needed. The controller works in a closed loop cycle in order to perform real-time control of the light intensity output. Thus, at each moment of the traffic light lifetime, the output light intensity is constant and equivalent to a predetermined standard. This insures traffic safety for the entire traffic light lifetime and also make it last longer. The controller also provides a ballast load when off, and is able to provide an open circuit when the LEDs have exhausted their useful lifespan. The intensity is further controlled by detecting ambient light conditions.

Abstract: Monitoring and control apparatus for fail-safe monitoring for normal operation of traffic signal lights provided at an intersection or the like where a plurality of roads intersect. The illumination conditions of respective signal lights are detected using as sensor device, and when the number of illuminated or non-illuminated signal lights is a predetermined number, a normal judgment output of logic value 1 corresponding to a high energy condition is generated while, when the number of illuminated or non-illuminated signal lights is not the predetermined number, an abnormal judgment output of logic value 0 corresponding to a low energy condition is generated. As a result, when a fault in the monitoring apparatus stops the output, the resultant output condition is the same as for a danger condition due to a signal light abnormality, resulting in an extremely safe signal light monitoring and control with excellent fail-safe characteristics.

Abstract: A light pipe is configured to pass light from a selected light source, such as the green, amber or red light on a traffic signal light to the left, right or rear of the traffic signal light to provide a visual indication of the selected traffic signal light from a remote location where the traffic signal light is not directly visible to the police officer monitoring compliance with traffic laws. The light pipe is secured to the traffic signal light housing by any conventional method, and does not interfere with the normal operation of the traffic signal light.

Abstract: Device for validating digital messages, applicable, in particular, to rail traffic regulating systems, of the type in wihch the absolute identity and the dynamic state of two digital messages (A and B) originating from two processing channels in parallel are checked, before producing, by means of an output amplifier (6), an on/off analogue safety signal (S) ensuring the operation of an actuator, characterised in that it further includes a Wheatstone diode bridge (1), the alternate inputs (2 and 3) of which are supplied respectively by the two messages (A, B), previously inverted in relation to one another, and the continous diagonal of which comprises an oscillator (4) the output (s) cf which constitutes the identity check signal for the messages (A, B), this signal controlling the output amplifier (6) via a static relay (5).

Abstract: When a vehicle-mounted device receives a FCM signal from a road-side communication device, the vehicle-mounted device receives or transmits a data signal in accordance with a link direction and a time slot specified by the FCM signal. When the vehicle-mounted device does not receive a signal to be received within an expected time, or when it transmits an ACK signal which is a last signal of communication, retry processing starts. In this retry processing, the vehicle-mounted device determines the contents of communication processing to be next carried out from both the contents of the signal transmitted from the road-side communication device and the contents of the last time communication processing.

Abstract: A system and method for automatically supplying a flashing line voltage from power stored in an auxiliary battery to power red traffic signal lamps using clusters of light emitting diodes during a blackout condition. A plurality of flash block connectors are pin-to-pin compatible with the flash block jumper blocks of an already installed traffic light control system so that the existing system is retrofitted without any cabinet or field rewiring or any cutting or crimping of the wires.

Abstract: Real-time, multi-purpose advisories that inform users of roadways on upcoming situations, require frequent gathering and interpreting of information gleaned from road systems, and then feedingback information by means of repeated, spoken descriptives pertinent to each driver's location and heading. A system that provides all this, plus supports interactive communications between specific vehicles and a control center for purposes of describing roadway incidents, for the dispatch of emergency services; to request aid if stranded; to request destination directions; to receive destination-specific alternate-route advisories; etc., is described by the invention. Communication system simplification, essential to system practicality, is realized by time compressed, digitized spoken messages that flow thru single frequency, unidirectional repeaters, each message representing about 30 seconds of spoken descriptive advisory compressed into less than one second.

Abstract: A system and method for transferring historic and instantaneous diagnostic data relating to performance of an inductive loop vehicle detector 10 is disclosed and claimed. The aforementioned date is gathered over a period of time, updated and stored in a detector unit 14 forming part of the system. The stored data is then used repeatedly to modulate visible light emitted by a light emitting device 22 on the unit 14 at such a rate that the data would not be discernible to a human. The data is received by a portable data reading device 24 which is brought into optical communication with the device 22.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for testing a conflict monitor of the present invention includes a housing having a plurality of switches which can be manually manipulated in order to simulate the output of a controller. The conflict monitor is tested by disconnecting the traffic signal controller from the wiring harnesses and connecting the same harnesses to the test unit. The technician can then manipulate the switches in order to control the traffic signals and simulate the operation of the controller. When conflicting traffic signals are activated, the conflict monitor should punch out and put the traffic signals in a flashing state. The test unit includes a reset switch which is connected to the remote reset of the conflict monitor. After the conflict monitor punches out, the technician can simply press the reset button on the test unit without having to manually reset the conflict monitor.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an LED traffic signal light containing numerous LEDs and a voltage compensation circuit which allows the traffic light to operate over a wide range of input power voltages, while generating sufficient light intensity to control traffic at a highway intersection. The voltage compensation circuit achieves these objectives without substantially increasing the power consumption, overall cost, or failure rate of the LED traffic signal light. In the preferred embodiment, the voltage compensation circuit disables or rearranges a first and then a second set of LEDs in the traffic light, as the input power voltage drops below a first and then a second threshold voltage, so that the remaining LEDs will be driven by an increased current and generate a greater overall light intensity than if all of the LEDs were driven by the decreased current that would result from the decreased input power voltage.

Abstract: An backup vehicular traffic control system employs a connector-switch including a normally-closed electrical switch connected in series between a traffic signal and a primary control system. In the event of an emergency condition, such as a failure of the primary control system and/or failure of a primary power source, or in the event of a shutdown condition, such as a shutdown of the primary control system and/or shutdown of the primary power source, a connector is manually connected to the connector-switch. The normally-closed electrical switch is opened when the connector is connected to the connector-switch, disconnecting the primary control system from the traffic signal. Also upon the connection of the connector to the connector-switch, an auxiliary control system coupled to the connector is coupled through the connector and connector-switch to the traffic signal. After being connected, the auxiliary control system assumes control of the time of operation of the traffic signal.

Abstract: The present invention includes an airfield lighting and control system for energizing at least one airfield control device and containing a ground fault detection system, comprising: (1) at least one airfield control device; (2) an AC electrical circuit conducting an AC signal and connected to said at least one airfield control device; (3) an inductive device, in electrical contact with said AC electrical circuit, which comprises (a) an inductive coil having an input pole and an output pole, and being loaded by a capacitor; (b) a driver winding for the inductive coil, the driver winding adapted to sense AC current flow through the inductor coil; (c) a sampling resistor connected to the driver winding and adapted to detect AC current in the form of a voltage across the sampling resistor; (d) signal processing circuitry comprising: (1) an inverting amplifier adapted to amplify the voltage; and (2) a phase shifter adapted to shift the phase of the voltage; and (e) a power amplifier connected to the signal proces

Abstract: A system for traffic signals for one-side passing, which realizes efficient traffic control during abnormal operation of detectors or the night with little traffic density. Traffic signals 6 and 7 are provided with detectors 8 and 9 for detection of passing of vehicles respectively. Both traffic signals repeat traffic lighting in a cycled manner such as green-red, red-red, red-green and red-red by a sensitive controller 10. Owing to an ill-detection switching device 71, if there is no detection signal input by the detector of one traffic signal within a switch holding time after detection signal is input by the detector of the other traffic signal, the green lighting of one traffic signal will be shifted to a fixed-cycle operation until detection signal input by the detector. The traffic signal shifted to the fixed-cycle operation will be restored to the sensitive operation if the detection signal is input by the detector.

Abstract: A method and system for controlling the illumination of a vehicular lamp and for monitoring the state of a switch electrically connected thereto. A feedback signal corresponding to a state of the switch is generated by a feedback circuit. A control signal is generated by a controller based on the feedback signal. A lamp drive signal is generated by a lamp driver based on the control signal for illuminating the lamp. A single multiplexed connector provides the lamp drive signal to the lamp during a drive operating mode and the feedback signal from the switch to the controller during a feedback operating mode.

Abstract: The system includes a high-intensity light source, a fiber optic conduit for transmitting a light-beam, and colored lenses, which emit red, yellow, and green light on fiber optic lines. Each traffic light has a shutter and control means for opening and closing the shutters in the proper sequence for preset time periods to control red, yellow, and green lights.

Abstract: An apparatus for covering a face of a traffic light with a warning sign as a result of a power failure to the traffic light. A first member is rotatably mounted to one side of the traffic light and a second member is rotatably mounted to the other side of the traffic light. A first electromagnet and a second electromagnet are provided for securing the first and second members in a first position away from the face of the traffic light. A first coil spring and a second coil spring are mounted respectively to the members and to the sides of the traffic light and cause the members to rotate to a second position covering the face of the traffic light upon release of the members by the electromagnets. An electric motor is also provided and is connected to a pair of linkage mechanisms to rewind the first and second members to their first position upon resumption of electrical power to the traffic light.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an LED traffic signal light containing numerous LEDs and a voltage compensation circuit which allows the traffic light to operate over a wide range of input power voltages, while generating sufficient light intensity to control traffic at a highway intersection. The voltage compensation circuit achieves these objectives without substantially increasing the power consumption, overall cost, or failure rate of the LED traffic signal light. In the preferred embodiment, the voltage compensation circuit disables or rearranges a first and then a second set of LEDs in the traffic light, as the input power voltage drops below a first and then a second threshold voltage, so that the remaining LEDs will be driven by an increased current and generate a greater overall light intensity than if all of the LEDs were driven by the decreased current that would result from the decreased input power voltage.

Abstract: A traffic signal device having a single, continuously-illuminating lamp and several plain reflectors constructed by optical thin film technique to receive the light beam projected from the lamp and respectively reflecting light components of pre-determined wavelengths to display differently-colored traffic signals. Also, is a lamp detection system which monitors and detects the operation of the lamp and generates a signal to actuate the lamp interchanging mechanism to automatically replace the lamp with a spare lamp once the lamp malfunctions.

Abstract: A traffic control system 10 is provided having an illuminating member 42 and a rotating drum 48. The drum 48 is provided with a red reflector 50, a green reflector 52 and a yellow reflector 54 formed on different portions thereof. A control channel 14 is provided for selectively rotating the drum 48 so that each reflector 50, 52 and 54 can be illuminated by the illuminating member 42 thus providing an indication whether a vehicle should stop, go or exercise caution. The traffic control system 10 is also provided with a monitoring channel 16 which monitors the control channel 14 to insure the circuit is operating properly.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining the presence of a burned out lamp of a traffic signal is disclosed. The current applied to one or more banks of traffic signals and the voltage applied across such traffic signal banks are measured simultaneously. An electrical characteristic, such as impedance, of such traffic signal banks, is measured for each pattern of switch settings which control lamp illumination for signalling as they occur. Such characteristic is stored for each of the unique patterns which are repeated over and over again to control traffic. Such previously stored characteristic provides a baseline characteristic for each successive pattern of illumination of the lamps. With each pattern change, such characteristic is measured and compared with the previous baseline characteristic for the pattern to determine if a lamp has burned out.

Abstract: A traffic control system for use at a roadway intersection, the system including traffic control lights, a light flasher structure, and a plurality of load switches electrically coupled with the lights via relay structure to which the flasher structure is connected, the load switches having inputs, and a controller connected with the load switches for controlling normal operation of the lights and flashing of one or more of the lights by the flasher structure in the event of a system malfunction comprising a microprocessor operatively connected with the load switches, flasher, and relay structure to monitor the system for detecting a malfunction event, for recording the detected malfunction event, and for transmitting the malfunction detection to another location; and verification structure at the other locations for i) receiving the transmitted malfunction detection, ii) verifying the event, and iii) initiating malfunction corrective action; whereby the corrective action in the system may be initiated withou

Abstract: The condition of signal lamps (R1, R2) in a traffic light system is monitored by compiling a table of power consumption levels at different levels of applied voltage. The table is then used to adjust measured levels of power consumption at intervals during the service life of the traffic light system. A fault condition is signalled if the adjusted values differ by more than a predetermined amount.

Abstract: Process for signalling malfunction protection in decentralised traffic-light installations having a signalling malfunction protection (SSP) and evaluation assembly (AWP) in a node control unit (KS) and having a plurality of PLS units (PLS modules M1, M2, . . . ) which each have peripheral lamp switches and sensors and a data transceiver, which together form an LMP assembly, as well as transformers and rectifiers for associated signal generators and groups of signal generators (SG) on the respective traffic-light poles (SGM1, SGM2, . . . ). The node control unit (KS) is connected to the PLS modules (M1, M2, . . . ) with a power and a data line (EDL). In addition to the customary signalling malfunction protection, the operativeness of the individual PLS modules and LMP assemblies (M1, M2, . . . ), respectively, is cyclically tested irrespective of the momentary signalling status. With each complete telegram cycle (TZ1, TZ2, . . .

Abstract: A traffic controller system to be utilized as a primary or a back-up unit capable of operating both with an A.C. or a D.C. power supply. The apparatus utilizes a single timing capacitor and an array of timing resistors to generate all timing information for the operation of a traffic light.

Abstract: A portable traffic signal photometer is capable of rapidly and effectively measuring the intensity of light emanating from a traffic signal light. The photometer includes a housing member with a circular front opening for engagement with the lens of a traffic signal light. The photometer is pressed against the lens, and the light emanating from the traffic signal light is directed through an optical filter located inside the housing, which permits light from the traffic signal light emanating at a predetermined downward angle to pass through it. The light from the filter is directed onto a light-sensitive device, which produces an output signal proportional to the intensity of the light emitted by the traffic signal lens.

Abstract: A device for providing an orderly shut-down of a system of interconnected traffic lights upon loss of its primary electrical power is disclosed. A device for permitting consistent reapplication of power to a line conditioner having a ferroresonant transformer is also disclosed. Further, a battery charger for charging a battery system including a plurality of battery cells coupled in series is disclosed. Additionally, a device for determining proper operation of a power transistor by monitoring its saturation voltage and emitter current is also disclosed. Finally, a device for generating a first alternating signal in-phase with a separately generated second alternating signal is disclosed.

Abstract: The control signals and associated output signals of traffic signal switching circuits are continuously monitored by a microprocessor. In the event of a microprocessor-detected failure of a switching circuit, a microprocessor controlled back-up switching circuit is available to maintain normal operation of the signal.

Abstract: An auxiliary traffic light which has a strobe light clamped on the primary bulb in axial alignment therewith so to obtain maximum reflection characteristics from a reflector behind the primary bulb. A primary circuit is provided for lighting the bulb and the strobe light being connected to a battery operated circuit for flashing the strobe upon failure of the power source.

Abstract: A portable ground-supported automobile traffic control device including an upright, double-sided human-shaped figure which is so constructed and configured as to simulate a traffic control officer, and having one arm and hand in a raised position and carrying thereon, back-to-back electrical stop-and-go traffic light signal units. The traffic light signal units face in opposite directions, and are powered by storage batteries in a base that is provided for the figure. An automatic controller is connected to the signal units and to the batteries, to effect synchronized stop, stop-and-go, or other displays on the traffic light signal units, thereby to provide visual directions to motorists for the orderly control of two-way traffic in the vicinity of the figure.

Abstract: A monitoring system for energization of traffic lamps (L 1 . . . L 8), with energy supplied from a common voltage source. Protection is provided so that energization of any one of the lamps is not in conflict with energization of another lamp. The system includes a conflict detection means (CD) having a set of inputs respectively connected to monitor individual lamps so that respective inputs of the set are activated in response to energization of respective lamps. The conflict detection means generate conflict signifying information in response to simultaneous activation of combinations of inputs. A signal group generator (SGG) feeds to the inputs a sequence of data signal groups each simultating a conflict or a non-conflict combination at the inputs. The resultant information produced by the conflict detection means (CD) is checked for correctness by a verification means under common control with the signal generator.

Abstract: A monitor circuit arrangement for traffic lights wherein energy is supplied from an alternating voltage supply source(s) to a lamp (L 1) via a controlled switch (SD 1) and energization of the unit is monitored by a voltage comparator connected in cascade with a sensing latch (SL 1). The output of the voltage comparator is activated in response to its input voltage exceeding a predetermined magnitude of either polarity relative to a common reference voltage wave. A monitored voltage representative of the voltage present across the lamp is supplied as an input voltage to the voltage comparator, the output of which is fed to the sensing latch set input. Reset means (RPS) are provided for resetting the latch at the commencement of each cycle of the alternating supply voltage.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are disclosed which find particular utility as a component of a traffic control system known as a conflict monitor. The apparatus includes a number of solid state switches which are activated to scan inputs from traffic control signals. The inputs are sequentially applied to a A-D converter which samples the voltage and applies it to a microprocessor which is programmed to determine the voltage and analyze the signals for conflicts, or other errors. The input lines are also connected to terminals of a program board whereby the microprocessor can instruct a switch to ground the common pin on the program board to allow program board inputs to be applied to the microprocessor for indicating permissible conflicts. A method includes a technique for determining the voltage of an input analog signal by scanning a plurality of input signals and sampling them in accordance with a relationship which provides minimum error. A display may be operated in one of two modes.

Abstract: A warning device is responsive to the failure of an electric power supply for activation to a warning mode. The warning device includes an arm pivotally mounted to a frame member and latched by an electromagnet in a non-warning mode. In the non-warning mode, a collapsible warning sign carrier is enclosed within an enclosure formed by the frame and the arm. When the supply of power is interrupted, the electromagnet releases the arm so that the arm pivots to a warning position.

Abstract: Portable apparatus for checking, in place, a conflict monitor which includes a test signal generator that produces a test signal that is applied to a programmable switch array to develop AC voltages, simulating a malfunctioning traffic signal controller. The apparatus includes timing circuitry that is operable in response to the test signal to determine the time taken by the conflict monitor under check to respond to application of a simulated traffic signal controller malfunction.

Abstract: A railroad train moving along an approach to a grade crossing (or other location of interest) is detected by apparatus that is responsive to the change in effective track impedance caused by the moving shunt. A constant current AC signal is applied to the track adjacent the crossing, and the resulting voltage changed in amplitude and phase is picked off by a receiver on the opposite side of the crossing. Voltage and current information derived from these signals is inputted to a microcomputer which calculates the track impedance and determines whether or not a warning device or devices at the crossing should be activated. Such determination is made on a repetitive basis in accordance with a repeating program loop and stored in memory.

Abstract: A power supply particularly for use with a traffic control system has a voltage monitoring and control system which continually monitors the line voltage fed to the traffic control system and automatically turns off the power when the voltage drops below a predetermined minimum for a predetermined time period or provides a warning signal should the voltage drop below a higher second predetermined minimum for a predetermined time interval. In the event that the voltage returns to a predetermined acceptable value for a predetermined time period, the power is automatically restored and the warning signal discontinued. The monitoring system includes sensors operative in response to each of the control parameters which operate in conjunction with logical control circuitry to effect the desired controls.

Abstract: A device used in the control of automobile traffic signal systems for maintaining a local time reference during periods when the a.c. power is interrupted. An accurate oscillator such as a crystal controlled oscillator is used to provide a local time reference during power interruptions. The device maintains a local clock in synchronism with the a.c. power when the power is present and maintains the time reference in synchronism with the crystal oscillator during those periods when the a.c. power is absent. Pulse trains at different rates generated in synchronism with the oscillator are combined to achieve these objects.

Abstract: Traffic signals at an intersection are controlled by one or more controllers of the state/interval type, located in the vicinity of the intersection. One or more remote units that are portable or mobile communicate with the controller via a coded signal to command specific light operations, instruct a secondary controller to take-over light control at the intersection from a primary controller, and to reprogram the operation of the controller on a temporary or permanent basis. The remote units generate a code that must be received accurately by the controller before commands are followed. In order to economically provide such a code, the code generator employs a diode matrix that orders data words and address words and is easily reprogrammed. The traffic signal indicator operation is monitored by the controller both to detect controller error, as by a voltage error resulting from an incorrect controller action, and to detect a non-controller error, as by a current error resulting from a burned out indicator.