The pedestrian traffic control system of this invention utilizes an endless belt to successively display visible painted WALK, DONT START, and DONT WALK signs in a window of a display unit. The control unit may be employed with an ordinary three-state power system of the type that now operates flashing neon signs, but has the advantage that electric power operates the signs only when a sign is being moved into display position. Three distinct WALK, DONT START, and DONT WALK signs are used thereby avoiding the ambiguity of present systems in which a flashing DONT WALK sign cautions the pedestrian not to start, but to continue on his way. The movement of the endless belt is controlled by detecting markers, such as perforations, on the endless belt, thus assuring proper registration of the signs in display position. Electrical energy that becomes stored while the sign is energized drives the sign to display the DONT WALK sign, if the power fails. The invention may be applied to other types of endless signs and with other types of control means that move synchronously with the endless sign.
In a machine cloth is disposed a guide line which extends in the crosswise direction of the cloth. The configuration of the guide line is sensed by sensors and is displayed on a screen so that distortions or deviations in the machine cloth becomes visible to the operators who may rapidly take measures to correct the incorrect position of the machine cloth.
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.
A traffic control sign is provided which automatically unfolds and displays the message STOP and displays flashing messages SIGNAL OUT and 4 WAY upon power failure to traditional traffic lights. The traffic control sign includes a pair of sign plates hingedly attached by a pair of hinges. An enfolding assembly is utilized to rotatably enfold and electromagnetically hold the pair of sign plates to a folded position upon resumption of power. The traffic control sign is adapted to be mounted to existing cable or a circular pipe component used for related traditional traffic signal fixtures.
An apparatus and a method for prompting pedestrians to look and listen for turning vehicles includes an animated pictorial message formed in the image of a pair of scanning eyes (46,48) and generated by a pedestrian signal control (54) connected to a pedestrian signal display (32). The image (46,48) can be activated by a traffic control (52) or a motion detector (64) connected to the pedestrian signal control (54). A voice circuit (56) and speakers (58) connected to the pedestrian signal control (54) generate an audible message at the same time the image (46,48) is being displayed.
A pedestrian push button that discourages vandals and resists weather-related damage. The plunger is contained in a sleek, solid housing formed by a cup-shaped front cover that overlaps and substantially encloses a shallower, cup-shaped body, to protect the electrical components inside. The body is attachable from the inside to the traffic pole or other support surface, and the cover engages the body by means of a "twist-lock" connection that is hidden from view in the installed device. This reduces the appeal of the push button to vandals while at the same time making it easier for authorized personnel to open the housing for service and repair. The back of the body is contoured to conform to both flat and curved support surfaces, making the push button easy to mount securely regardless of the shape of the support surface.
