Damon Rd Simon

US Patent:

62688057, Jul 31, 2001

Filed:

Dec 1, 1999

Appl. No.:

9/452897

Inventors:

Damon Undrell Simon - Richmond CA

International Classification:

G08G 1095

US Classification:

340907

Abstract:

An apparatus for the control of traffic includes a signal assembly with a red stop light, a green passage light, and a yellow caution light. A count-down indicator includes a digital display that displays (i. e. , counts down) the remaining time in seconds until the next signal change occurs. The digital display matches the color of the digits being displayed to that of the illumined light of the signal assembly. The count-down indicator includes a battery backup assembly that includes an optional backup battery that permits functioning of the traffic signal during power outages. An optional solar panel economically helps maintain the charge of the backup battery. A microprocessor in the battery backup assembly receives information from the signal assembly, processes that information, and controls the digital display parameters. If the signal assembly relies upon traffic sensors and can abruptly change the remaining time that is being shown by the digital display, the digits of the digital display flash to inform a driver of this potentiality. According to a modification, a flashing caution light is attached to the digital display and it flashes whenever there is potential that the remaining time can suddenly change in a manner that violates the normal count-down sequence.