Traffic Signal.

[0001] the subject matter of the invention is a method for temporarily arranging this traffic signal and a traffic signal in accordance with the generic part of claims 1 and 13 along a road.

[0002] traffic signals such as street signs, the other temporary events are used in construction work on roadways or in, are needed only temporarily at the current point of use. For longer construction sites on highways [...] such traffic signals must be several times, in particular, before they are transported back to a central bearing point or to another place of use. Be mounted directly on a transport vehicle or a trailer spread such traffic signals, which can then each be temporarily [...] at the desired deployment site. During the usage duration of such traffic signals, these vehicles or. Trailer blocked and cannot be used for other tasks. Pro vehicle or trailer can be transported and locally arranged in each case only a traffic signal. This type of traffic signal is only insufficiently ensured the safety of persons, because they are usually directly to a danger point are long periods of time and have to leave/or the vehicle stop. Also the human and material expense is very high per traffic signal. Alternatively transport vehicles can also transport a plurality of traffic signals. Such traffic signals normally include a heavy baseplate stand and traffic signs, are held by means to the shank pipesbaseplate stands. When unloading and loading is baseplate stand The high weight of the both of the transport vehicle during transport between the loading site and the actual deployment site as also problematic. It is not only constitute a high risk of accident, but also requires the use of several persons. Also such traffic signals must be disassembled again and then assembled at the place of use for the transport.

[0003] One problem of the present invention is therefore, to create a temporarily insertable traffic signal, which can be mounted or transported with comparatively little cost and safe.

[0004] This problem is solved by the features of claim 1 and by a method according to a traffic signal for temporarily arranging this traffic signal of a traffic route according to the features of claim 13 along.

[0005] The according to the invention comprises, instead of a conventional baseplate standcarrying bridge or a support having a traffic signal height-adjustable supports. Every carrier is fixed a signal carriers, the one or more holding frame comprises, at which traffic signs or other traffic signals such as electronic display panels are fixed or can be fixed. Such traffic signals can be transported fully assembled, for example transversely to the direction of travel on the dock leveler of a transport vehicle. Instead of a conventional dock leveler also another can, of course, the transport vehicle, to the shape of the traffic signals comprise matched Carrying device. Alternatively, the traffic signals are transported on a trailer with a corresponding support device can. Regardless by the support arrangement can be arranged in series and simultaneously transported as a rule, more traffic signals. In one advantageous embodiment the signal carriers comprise two or more holding frame, the relative to each other are formed by shifting or swinging. Transportation the holding frame can be placed in a transport position, in which the overlap partial signs to the frame. These effected a smaller drag during transport due to the smaller engagement surface. The smaller height also makes possible the passing of sites with low permissible vehicle heights.

[0006] For the transport of the traffic signals are used can Trailer, where the wheelbase of the rear wheels is smaller than the distance between the supports at the two ends of the carrying bridge. Such traffic signs can be unloaded from the trailer directly at the location, the supports extended so far down or are lowered by first, until its feet contact the ground. Through further lowering the respective traffic signal is slightly raised. Patterns are projected slightly forward with the trailer the vehicle is running, until the traffic sign is free. The supports are again retracted, to the preferably a tub-like shape formed on the terrain or central portion of said beam. Bottom rests. The holding frame with the elements of the signal display panel or the display elements are moved into the working position from the transport position. In an analogous manner, a transportable state brought back into the traffic signal can in reverse order and are charged on the trailer.

[0007] In another embodiment, the supports are arranged on carrier arms, are pivotably or displaceably in the longitudinal direction of the bridge, in such a way that the distance between the supports on opposite arms can be varied. Zum unloading a traffic signal is first changed the position of the support arms in such a way that the supports projects laterally beyond the edge of the dock leveler or of the transport device. Patterns are projected the supports be lowered as described above, to raise the traffic signal. After the transport vehicle or the trailer has been preferred, the supports are raised as far, until they are no longer in contact with the ground. It follows a movement of the support arms, so as to reduce their lateral overhang in the longitudinal direction of the bridge. Afterwards the supports are lowered again to a lesser mutual distance, until they are again in contact with the soil. From the central portion of the carrier is mainly supported Record the weight of the traffic signal on the bottom. Field the supports have, as a rule, only a stabilizing effect.

[0008] in order to stabilise said traffic signal transversely to the longitudinal direction of the bridge that is, transverse to the support frame of the record carrier or in the direction of the traffic route can be provided additional stabilizers. For example, on the support and/or on the supports transversely to the longitudinal direction of the bridge extendable, pivotable or otherwise adjustable pipe or profile elements be arranged. Also the feet of the supports comprise Alternatively, for example in the form of one or more stabilizing elements [...] pivotable members. This are aligned transversely to the bridge at the current point of use.

[0009] a autonomous drive preferably comprises traffic signal The, a drive control system and a self-contained power source. Preferably, a hydraulic drive is used with a hydraulic pump, said hydraulic pump and the electronic drive controller are fed by a storage battery is disposed on the bridge. Alternatively, comprise one or more electric motors as a pneumatic the drive could also be constructed or drive. The accumulators are preferably interchangeable. The recharging the accumulators can take place, depending on the configuration of said traffic signal e.g. by connecting to the electric network via solar panels or directly at the location, the optionally on the traffic signal can be mounted.

[0010] The Drive control unit comprises control elements, with which individual, more or all possible movements individually or alternatively can be controlled by an operator, at the same time, in combination. The operating elements are preferably disposed on a remote control, can be operated by the driver's cab of a transport vehicle without the vehicle to leave. In this sense a portion of the drive control is The remote control. Preferably, the drive control system comprises tax rules with a plurality of movements to be executed for sequence of movements. The unloading a traffic signal from the transport vehicle, the arrangement at the edge of the traffic route, optionally with the display elements and the change of the holding frame by the the cross stabilization [...] automatically so effectively the operative position may be indicated. Analog applies in charging said traffic signal on the transport vehicle.

[0011] a transmitting and comprises the drive control member by means of a radio remote control and can preferably be operated receipt electronics. In this way can a plurality of traffic signals, from a transport vehicle to the current point of use are unloaded brought, successively and are brought into the working position have to leave, without the person using the vehicle. This the accident risk can be reduced substantially such persons. Each traffic signal can be addressed individually from the remote control. Preferably, each traffic signal comprises one or more warning lights. The remote control with one of the traffic signals communicated , so this can, for example, by a flashing signal Show this traffic signal the warning light. Especially advantageous are Warning Lights lightning signal lights formed on the rear side of this, and in the working position of the traffic signal at the signal carriers fixed are aligned contrary to the direction of travel of the respective traffic route, to warn road users arriving elevator.

[0012] can also further comprise the drive control in the sensors, for example, permitting the bearing force on the supports optionally is detected and regulated. This is particularly advantageous in the working position, where the supports are used mainly for stabilizing as a rule. In addition the drive control system can evaluate signals from limit switches optionally, shaft encoders [...] /or position sensors or other. So may in particular individual, more or all movements are regulated and/or conditions of the moving parts monitors.

[0013] In another embodiment the traffic signal comprises means for compensating for uneven or sloping terrain. In particular of the signal carriers on the supporting arrangement or respectively of the bridge within a limited allowance for movement can about a first pivot axis in the longitudinal direction of the carrier and/or be formed in the cross-direction of the beam pivotally about a second pivot axis. On the basis of a normal position, wherein the signal carriers carrying bridge projecting upwardly on the orthogonal, of the signal carriers can, for example, in one or two pivoting directions within a pivoting range of manually and brought into these sheets [...] z.B. + /-15 ° are secured with a securing element preferably in a form-fitting manner. Alternatively, also the supports on the carrier be constructed with corresponding adjusting means pivotally or otherwise adjustable. In particular, it can be provided that the load of the traffic signal is carried at least in part by the supports in the working position. Falls carrying bridge not only one but at the two ends of the two supports are formed in each case, the traffic signal can be carried by these supports and in the operative position. These can obviously also be achieved with a three-point support, wherein a support at one end of the only carrying bridge , but two supports are arranged on the other. Preferably, the drive control system uses a slope sensor signals, so as to regulate the position of the horizontally carrying bridge. In another alternative embodiment, with at least three, in particular with four supports the horizontal position and, if appropriate, by means of suitable carrying bridge at establishment of the traffic signal can the [...] securing elements are fixed adjusted.

[0014] Instead of static code charts can be fixed at one or more frames of the signal carrier including electronic display panels. The cessation of this electronic displaying is carried out by means of control elements the display controller. Alternatively or additionally the display can also via a remote control system, in particular via the remote control of the traffic signal or via a mobile communication network such as GSM be operated and adjusted. In another embodiment, the drive electronics can also be constructed as a common electronic control unit and the display control. Zum facilitate charging navigation aid can be constructed on a transport vehicle or other markings on the traffic signal.

In further comprises traffic signal attachment means can such as belts, clamps, holding eyelets or the like, with which secure attachment on the transport vehicle or. Trailer allows or is facilitated. Preferably, these attachment elements comprise movable parts, and with corresponding retaining elements the movable by the drive of the traffic signal by these can be unlocked or locked on the transport vehicle.

[0015] Using some Figures is described hereinafter, an example embodiment of the traffic signal closer. It show

Fig. 1 a perspective view of the traffic signal in the working position,

Fig. 2 1 in transport position from the traffic signal Fig.,

Fig. 3 a detail view of the signal carrier at the changeover from the transport position into the working position in two different positions,

Fig. 4 a detail view of the supporting device in two different positions in the region of the support arms,

5 a detail view in the region of the trough-shaped carrier Fig.

Fig. 6 an arrangement of a transport vehicle with a plurality of traffic signals when unloading one of these traffic signals.

[0016] Fig. show in traffic signal 1 1, comprising a support device 3 on the supporting device 3 and a fixed signal carriers 5 comprises two spaced 5. The signal carriers, 6 3 upwardly projecting posts on the support device, on which at least one holding frame 9 is held or another display element 7 for a traffic sign. The posts 6 may also be part of this holding frame 7. When 1 represented a lower holding frame 1 and 7a are in Fig. a central holding frame 7b traffic signal rigidly 6 connected with the posts, wherein the posts these two superposed holding frame 6 7a, 7b define or form the lateral branches on both sides. At the lower holding frame 9a is again releasably secured a first traffic sign 7a, 7b the lower part of a second on the central holding frame 9 b traffic sign. A upper holding frame 6 is pivotally articulated to the posts joint parallelograms 7c, for example, by means. This hinged connection allows a pivoting of the upper holding frame 7c between an upper operative position, as it is represented in Figure 1, and a lower transport position, as it is represented in 2 Fig.. In the transport position in the working position is smaller than the total height of the traffic signal. In alternative embodiments the 7c amplifier express mechanism could be constructed in another way as well the upper holding frame. Therefore, to mention the upper holding frame 7c about a horizontal pivot axis parallel to the central holding frame 7b are displaced or folded over along guides.

Located in the upper holding frame 9c again releasably held traffic sign 7c the upper part is of the second. 9b and 9c of the upper may include optionally Parts traffic sign 11 either side by one narrow vertical grip opening. In the configuration according to the two upper holding frame 1 comprise Fig. 7b, 7c in a small mutual distance parts 8 each case two upper transverse strips. Zum temporary attaching the 9b, 9c of the second at the respective holding frame traffic sign 7b, 7c are 9b traffic sign parts the upper edges of said, 9c from below into the space between the adjacent upper transverse strips 8 of the respective holding frame 7b, 7c inserted. Patterns are projected the parts are lowered 9b, 9c, so that the lower edges between two lower transverse strips 7b (Fig. 3) of the respective holding frame 10, 7c (not shown) resting on a stop element.

The lower traffic sign 7a or 9a can e.g. by means of screws at the lower holding frame detachably fastening elements of the supporting device 5 be attached to other 3 or of the signal carrier. In the operative position complement each other the two parts 9b, 9c of the second to a complete traffic sign traffic sign , wherein the lower transverse strips 10 of the upper holding frame 7b 7c 8 of the central holding frame are arranged behind the upper transverse strips.

Am upper holding frame 13 fixed 7c are two signal lights. You 7 c protrude beyond the upper edge of this holding frame. Lights 13 are designed and aligned that they in particular in direction of action of the traffic signs or light flashes 9. Intermittent signals can emit. The direction of action is indicated by an arrow P in Fig. 1, the orthogonal to the holding frame 9 is 7 in the direction of the aligned View Page the traffic signs. Preferably, 13 (not shown) separately activatable tell-tales comprise Signalling in addition, the degradation of the traffic signal when counter to the direction of action can radiate [...] 1 control signals.

[0017] the record carrier 3 carries 5 and these can support device The on location, usually along a road or other traffic route-on the respective bottoms or. Bottom as well as for transporting to a trailer or transport vehicle are supported. The support device 3 is as elongate carrying bridge , also briefly referred to as bridge, formed with a centrally positioned support base comprises an elongated support 15 and 15a and 15a excellent support arms on both sides in the longitudinal direction to the support base 15 b. The support base 15a is of trough-like configuration, in which the top edge of a substantially rectangular frame 21 is formed as a trapezoidal trough in longitudinal section. The Tub 21 may have a conical contour which deviates from the trapezoidal shape also, on loading on a transport vehicle relative to a which also the centering on the transport vehicle formed Load-carrying device facilitated. The support arms 15b are arranged and preferably in the region of the narrow sides in the longitudinal direction of the frame adjustable this framework.

[0018] 17 arranged on the support arms are vertically-adjustable supports 15b, 15 and hence the traffic signal with which the carrier may be supported on the respective bottoms or bottom 1. As represented in Figure 1 as a so-called Nürnberger 17 can supports The shearing or be constructed as a link chain with a plurality of crossed scissor arms. The drive said posts 17 can, for example, by means of hydraulic cylinders 19, 19a or alternatively by means of electric motors (not shown) of arrival. Of course, the supports 17 can be formed and/or driven in another way as well. The length or. Height H of the supports 17 is between a minimum height and a maximum height adjustable in the vertical direction Hl. The minimum height being Hl is dimensioned so that the feet 17 has a minimum distance to the bearing surface 17a of the supports, on which the trough base 17 rests 21a with retracted supports. The Minimum spacing of the feet is preferably of the order of about 1 cm to the bearing surface 17a to about 10 cm. The supports 17 Will extended, the carrier 3 is supported on the supports 17 and raised. The maximum height of the supports 17 is dimensioned so that the intended transport device, therefore, for example, the deck of a transport vehicle transversely to the longitudinal direction of the carrier 3 can be moved through freely under the beam 3, when the supports are extended up to the maximum height 17. The maximum height of the supports lie, for example, of the order of about 50 cm to about 17 can 150 cm.

[0019] 1 1 2 shows the traffic signal in transport position from Fig. Fig., wherein said upper support frame is pivoted into its lowest position 7b 7c behind the central holding frame, and wherein the height of the supports is adjusted to the minimum height being Hl 17, so that the total height of the traffic signal 1 is minimal.

[0020] 1 3 shows, in a detail view a cut-out of the traffic signal Fig. in the region of the two upper holding frame 7b, 7 c. The arrangement is in the position for transport, mapped On the left side. On the right side the arrangement during the upward of the upper holding frame 7c is represented. This holding frame 19b are preferably one or two hydraulic cylinders 7c Zum moving used, wherein each of the piston rods approximately centrally between two legs of the respective articulated parallelogram is hinged on a connecting arm.

[0021] 4 shows a detail view of the traffic signal in the upper part 1 Fig. in the region of one of the support arms 3 15b of the supporting device, wherein the support is retracted to minimum height Hl 17. This corresponds to the transport position. The or the support arms 15a 15b can rigidly to the support base to the support base 15a movable or connected, in particular be mounted so as to be displaceable in the longitudinal direction of the carrier 15. The lower detail view in the upper part 4 which corresponds to cutout represented in Fig., except that the height of the support 17 by action of force of the associated hydraulic cylinder (double arrow R) extended and the support arm 19a in the vertical direction by the influence of the force of a further hydraulic cylinder 15b 19, 19c in the longitudinal direction of the frame (double arrow S) have been displaced towards the outside. This corresponds to an arrangement, as experienced in the unloading of the traffic signal can be used by a transport vehicle 1 [...]. Through the lateral movement of the opposed support arms can the relative distance between the supports 15b a support device 3 17 15b thereto are changed. In of the transport and the operative position is the supernatant of the support arms 15a 15b on the support base preferably minimal. When loading and unloading of a vehicle may be extended as far as the support arms 15 that the supports 17 can be moved up and lowered to the side of the dock leveler of the vehicle.

[0022] 5 shows a detail view of the traffic signal in the region of the trough-like 1 Fig. 15a support base. Inside 23 or other energy source, an accumulator 21 is arranged the tub. The Battery 23 feeds a hydraulic pump 25, which also is disposed in the trough 21. Continue (not shown) comprises control electronics 1 the traffic signal, to control the hydraulic cylinder 19,19a, 9b, 19c by means of control valves (not shown) is formed or other actuators. The control electronics preferably comprises tax rules for automatically controlling movements, where one or more of the hydraulic cylinders are actuated in a defined sequence 19. In to the control of the operations can optionally be used and/or for regulating quantities for sensors with taken into account. In addition to the control member for the drives the control electronics can also include a communications part, which enables communication with a remote control and/or enables a communication via a mobile communication network with a control center. This control member may also be used to control electronic display means, in particular, at one or more of the holding frame 7a, 7b, 7c are fixed. Lights 13 and optionally the tell-tales are also controlled by the control electronics.

[0023] 6 shows a transport vehicle Fig., whose dock leveler as a preferably replaceable or temporarily connectable to the vehicle 1 is designed for a plurality of traffic signals load-carrying support. At the transport vehicle 1 held the other in the direction of travel are three traffic signals. Depending on the design of the load carrier can also more on a transport vehicle, for example, six or ten traffic signals are arranged. For the presentation in the front are two traffic signals in transport position on the load carrier 6 Fig. held 1. The rearmost 1 is just lifted off from the load-carrying support traffic signal. For this purpose the support arms are extended and the supports 15b in the longitudinal direction of the carrier 17 been extended downward a maximum of 15. Preferably, the traffic signals (not shown) one or more adjustable securing elements 1 comprise, for example in the form of gripping arms or hooks, with which the traffic signals can be secured in a form-fitting manner on the load carrier 1 during transport. Such securing elements may, for example, as the last action in adjusting the transport position and locked again be unlocked during erection of a traffic signal 1 as a first action.

The weight of the supporting device 3 is high enough that the traffic signal is stable in the working position 1. There can be a few hundred kilograms. If necessary can be provided a space for additional weights 21 in the tray.