ES1322308U - Segment Support for Emergency Beacons - Google Patents

Abstract

A segmented support for emergency beacons, characterized in that it comprises: a) An articulated arm formed by at least two segments that are externally interconnected in sequence. b) A vehicle fixing base, arranged at one end of the articulated arm. c) A support base for the beacon, arranged at the opposite end of the articulated arm. d) A plurality of joining and articulation mechanisms arranged to interconnect said segments with each other, and to connect the end segments of the articulated arm to said vehicle fixing base and to said support base for the beacon. (Machine-translation by Google Translate, not legally binding)

Description

DESCRIPTION

Segment Support for Emergency Beacons

TECHNICAL SECTOR

The present invention falls within the technical field of support devices for emergency signaling in vehicles, specifically focusing on a support for portable beacons. These beacons, intended for mandatory use in Spain to replace emergency triangles under future regulations, are essential for signaling dangerous situations on public roads.

The support object of the invention, of the deployable type, allows the height adjustment and positioning of said emergency beacons.

From a mechanical perspective, the invention falls within the field of configurable and modular deployable systems.

In short, the "Segment-Based Support for Emergency Beacons" falls within the technical sector of vehicle signaling support systems, using a modular and deployable mechanical configuration designed to hold emergency beacons.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Emergency beacons are portable lighting devices used to signal dangerous vehicle situations, such as breakdowns or accidents, alerting other drivers. In Spain, their use is expected to become mandatory starting in January 2026, gradually replacing warning triangles as part of regulations aimed at improving road safety. The effectiveness of these beacons depends on their proper placement and visibility, especially considering the characteristics of the vehicle or in adverse weather conditions (such as fog, rain, snow, or strong winds).

Currently, various supports are known that are designed to raise and position these emergency beacons. These known supports frequently employ an extendable telescopic mast structure, such as that described in utility model ES1281949U (telescopic mast support for motorcycles) or in application ES1308006U ("Emergency light support"). For attaching these supports to the vehicle, magnetic bases (claimed in ES1308006U) and suction cups (claimed in ES1287124U and ES1308006U) are common.

However, technical analysis reveals that these predominantly telescopic-based mounts have significant limitations that may compromise their reliability and ease of use in emergencies:

• Contaminant accumulation: Telescopic mechanisms, with their internal sliding sections, are prone to the accumulation of dust, dirt, sand, and moisture. These contaminants can cause blockages, excessive friction, premature component wear, or irregular operation.

• Drainage problems: The closed tubular structure of telescopic masts makes it difficult for infiltrated water to drain effectively, which can affect operation and cause rust, internal corrosion, or freeze damage.

• Frequent maintenance: Due to contaminant buildup and drainage problems, these systems often require regular maintenance (cleaning, lubrication), which is impractical in an emergency situation. • Potential instability when extended: Fully deployed telescopic masts may lack rigidity and be susceptible to vibration or pendulum motion, especially under wind or vehicle vibration.

These limitations of telescopic designs highlight the technical need to develop new solutions for emergency beacon supports. Therefore, a system with a different structural configuration is required, incorporating technical features such as structural reliability, durability against external agents, ease of use without frequent maintenance, and greater versatility in beacon positioning and stability, with the aim of improving the operational effectiveness of the signaling system under real-world conditions.

EXPLANATION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention consists of a Segmental Support for Emergency Beacons (hereinafter, the support), configured to improve the position and orientation of the beacon for its correct visualization in different conditions in vehicles. This support overcomes the limitations of conventional telescopic systems (described in the Background), such as the accumulation of contaminants, drainage problems, frequent maintenance, and potential instability. It offers greater durability, resistance to adverse environmental conditions, and a configuration that allows for versatile use and, in many operations, without the need for tools, in emergency situations. Its structural configuration, based on segments (A) interconnected by external articulation mechanisms, such as hinges (B), center-locking joints (J), or threaded connections (D), allows for rapid installation and disassembly while ensuring the stability of the system. This configuration is especially relevant given that the use of emergency beacons is expected to be mandatory in Spain starting in January 2026.

•Description of the Main Components

The support essentially comprises: a vehicle attachment base; an articulated arm formed by multiple segments (A); a support base for the beacon; and the articulation and connection mechanisms. These mechanisms are responsible for interconnecting said segments (A) to form the arm, as well as for joining the ends of the articulated arm to the attachment base and to the support base for the beacon.

Vehicle Mounting Base:

The mount's mounting base is configured for versatile vehicle attachment. It can be implemented using various options, such as:

• A magnetic fixing base (F)(Fig. 10);

• A suction cup fixing base (F1)(Fig. 11);

• A clamp or vice (F2) for handlebars or tubular/rectangular surfaces (Fig. 12);

• A window clip;

• An adhesive system.

These methods guarantee a stable and removable installation without the need for additional tools, adapting to different types of vehicles and conditions of use. The fixing base (F, F1, F2) is connected to the lower end of the articulated arm, either directly or by means of a connection adapter - such as a threaded ball joint (B1) or a hinge-type connection (B2) (Fig. 17) - that can allow it to be folded or removed. The adapter (B1, B2) or the connection itself can include a standardized interface (e.g., a common photographic thread) to exchange functional bases or use commercial accessories, with locking systems to prevent unwanted movement.

•Articulated Arm:

The articulated arm, composed of at least two segments (A) (see, for example, Figs. 1-6, 13, 15, 16, 18-20), uses external articulation mechanisms, eliminating internal sliding surfaces prone to contamination. The segments (A), made of resistant materials (such as aluminum, stainless steel, or technical polymers), can have flat profiles (Figs. 1-4), tubular (Figs. 5-6, 13, 16, 20), or lightweight designs. They fold (Figs. 1, 13, 16) or can be disassembled (Figs. 20-21) for compact storage. The segments (A) can be detachable by means of threaded connections (D) (Figs. 20-21) or interlocking systems, allowing the length of the articulated arm to be adjusted to the required height.

Articulation and Connection Mechanisms:

The segments (A) are connected to each other, to the fixing base (F, F1, F2), and to the support base (E, E1) by various mechanisms, including:

•Hinges (B) simple or book type (Figs. 1-4, 7-8, 14) for unidirectional movement.

•Center locking joints (J)(Figs. 5-6, 15-16) with knobs (G) for angular adjustments.

•Ball or ball joints (e.g. on adapter (B1) Fig. 17) for multi-directional adjustments.

•Threaded connections (D)(Figs. 20-21) for removable joints.

•Interlocking systems, by pin and hole.

•Internal tension systems (C) using elastic cord or spring (Fig. 18) for quick self-assembly.

• Other types: friction, torsion, lever locking, spring, multi-axis, or pressure.

These mechanisms optimize stability, adjustability, and strength. In the collapsed state, segments (A) store compactly. Knobs (G) secure the configuration. Pivoting mechanisms (B, J) adjust angles, while threaded (D) or tension (C) mechanisms facilitate assembly or storage. Unlike the hinges only at the ends of telescopic masts (e.g., ES1308006U), the mechanisms (B, J, D) located between segments (A) allow for complete folding or disassembly, thus achieving a compact configuration for storage without the need for a telescopic mechanism.

•Beacon Support Base:

The support base houses the beacon by means of a flat platform (E)(Figs. 1-4, 9, 17) or a receptacle-type structure (E1)(Figs. 5-6, 9), made of resistant materials, such as aluminum or technical polymers (such as a plastic material or an elastomer). It is connected to the last segment (A) by means of a ball/tightening connection adapter (B1) or a hinge-type connection adapter (B2)(Fig. 17) to orient the beacon.

Operation and Technical Advantages

The support is manually deployed, adjusting height and orientation using hinges (B), central locking joints (J) with their knobs (G), or the assembly of segments (A) with threaded connections (D). The beacon is fixed to the base (E or E1), and the fixing base (F, F1 or F2) is anchored to the vehicle. Optionally, a second support point can additionally stabilize the support on the vehicle roof. This second support point can be a segment (A) or an intermediate joint, such as a hinge (B) (illustrated in Fig. 30) or a central locking joint (J) with knob (G) (illustrated in Fig. 30 A), which contacts the surface of the vehicle.

The main technical advantages of the segmented design are:

• Elimination of contaminant build-up: The absence of internal sliding sections prevents the entry and build-up of contaminants (dust, water, dirt), ensuring reliable operation without frequent maintenance, critical for an emergency device (illustrated, for example, in the configurations of Figs. 1-6).

• Precise and versatile adjustment: The multiple articulation points (B, J, and adapters B1, B2) allow fine adjustment of the height and, crucially, of the multi-directional orientation of the beacon, allowing the beacon to be oriented to favor its visibility in any scenario, even on vehicles with complex roof shapes (application illustrated in Fig. 29).

• Greater Dynamic Stability: The segmented structure allows for non-linear configurations (for example, in a "zigzag" shape using J or B joints) that can offer greater structural rigidity and modify the dynamic response of the support, reducing oscillations due to wind or vibrations compared to straight telescopic masts (concept in Fig. 30).

• Durability and simplicity: The robustness of the segments (A) and the relative simplicity of the external joining mechanisms (compared to those of telescopic systems) reduce wear and failures, increasing the useful life (evident in the construction of Figs. 1-6).

• Quick deployment: The design allows for intuitive and rapid assembly or deployment, often in less than ten seconds and without the need for tools.

• Compatibility and modularity: It allows adaptation to different beacons (using E, E1), to different vehicles (using F, F1, F2) and the integration of additional elements such as a warning signal (Fig. 22) using a specific support (H) (Figs. 23-27).

Conclusion:

The Segmented Mount for Emergency Beacons overcomes the limitations inherent to telescopic systems, combining durability, environmental resistance, and ease of use. It provides a technical solution based on a segmented and configurable structure that allows the beacon to be adjusted stably in different scenarios. This is especially relevant in the Spanish regulatory context, whose mandatory implementation for these beacons is planned for 2026.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In order to complement the description and facilitate a better understanding of the support's characteristics, a series of illustrative drawings are attached as an integral part of this application. These drawings represent, by way of example and without limitation, the different configurations and components of the "Segment-Based Support for Emergency Beacons." The details of each drawing are provided below:

Figs. 1, 2, 3 and 4: Represent a first embodiment of the support with flat profile segments (A), in its folded (Fig. 1), semi-unfolded (Fig. 2) and unfolded (Fig. 3) form. This embodiment is composed of two segments (A) joined by a hinge (B). The support base for the beacon (E) is flat. It is fixed to the vehicle by means of a magnetic fixing base (F). Fig. 4 shows the unfolded support with an emergency beacon placed on the base (E).

Figs. 5 and 6: Show a second embodiment of the support with segments (A) of tubular structure, in its deployed (Fig. 5) and semi-deployed (Fig. 6) form. This embodiment is composed of two segments (A). The support base for the beacon (E1) is of the receptacle type. The segments (A) are interconnected by means of a central locking joint (J) that includes a tightening knob (G). They are attached to the vehicle by means of a magnetic fixing base (F).

Figs. 7 and 8: Illustrate, as an example, different types of hinges (B), including simple and book-type hinges, which can be used to join the segments (A), highlighting their articulation function.

Fig. 9: Represents a support base for the beacon with a flat shape (E) and a variant with a receptacle-type structure (E1).

Figs. 10, 11 and 12: Fig. 10 shows a magnetic fixing base (F). Fig. 11 illustrates a suction cup fixing base (F1). Fig. 12 represents a clamp or jaw fixing base (F2).

Fig. 13: Represents the union of tubular segments (A), in the unfolded state, using a hinge (B).

Fig. 14: Shows, as an example, different configurations of hinges (B) or elements that incorporate hinges (B) for the union and articulation of the segments (A), illustrating modularity.

Fig. 15: Illustrates a center locking joint (J) with clamping ring (G), which can be used to join the segments (A).

Fig. 16: Shows the connection of tubular segments (A) by means of a central locking joint (J) with a clamping knob (G), in the folded and unfolded states. The joint (J) may incorporate ball-type elements for movement.

Fig. 17: Shows in detail how the support base for the beacon (E) and the fixing base (F) (in this example, magnetic) can be connected to the ends of the articulated arm using a ball/clamp connection adapter (B1) or a hinge-type connection adapter (B2).

Fig. 18: Illustrates a variant of the support where the segments (A) are interconnected by an internal tension system (C) (for example, an elastic cord or spring).

Fig. 19: Represents a variant of the support where the segments (A) are articulated by hinges (B) of the pivoting axis type, allowing lateral folding.

Figs. 20 and 21: Show a variant of the support where the segments (A), of tubular structure, incorporate a threaded connection system (D). Fig. 20 shows the segments (A) individually, where the threaded connection (D) comprises a male threaded end in one segment and a female threaded end in the other. Fig. 21 illustrates the assembled support with two segments (A) joined by said threaded connection (D).

Fig. 22:Represents a warning sign plate (e.g. an emergency triangle) that can be integrated with the support.

Fig. 23: Illustrates the support in its folded form with a warning sign (Fig. 22) attached using a specific support (H).

Fig. 24: Shows the unfolded support, formed by two segments (A), with a warning sign (Fig. 22) attached by means of the specific support (H).

Fig. 25: Represents the deployed support, formed by three segments (A), with a warning sign (Fig. 22) attached by means of the specific support (H).

Fig. 26: Illustrates the support in its semi-unfolded form, formed by three segments (A), with a warning sign (Fig. 22) attached by means of the specific support (H).

Fig. 27: Shows the deployed support, consisting of three segments (A), with a warning sign (Fig. 22) attached by the specific support (H) and mounted on a vehicle, next to another deployed support without a sign, highlighting its practical application.

Fig. 28: Schematically illustrates a problematic situation in the state of the art.

Fig. 29: Shows an application of the present invention where the support, with its articulated segments (A), allows the beacon to be positioned on its support base (E or E1) in a correct horizontal orientation on a curved roof.

Fig. 30: Illustrates a configuration of use of the present invention where the articulated arm, formed by segments (A), is deployed in such a way that it not only rests on the surface of the vehicle by means of its fixing base (F, F1 or F2), but also contacts the surface through at least one of its intermediate articulation mechanisms (for example, a hinge (B) or a central locking joint (J)), providing multiple support points.

Fig. 30 A: Illustrates a usage configuration similar to Fig. 30, where the second support point on the vehicle surface is achieved through a central locking joint (J) with its tightening knob (G), acting as an intermediate articulation mechanism.

PREFERRED EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION

The present invention, the "Segment Support for Emergency Beacons", is characterized in its preferred embodiment by a modular and adaptable configuration, resulting from the careful selection and combination of the components and mechanisms previously set forth in the "EXPLANATION OF THE INVENTION", in order to achieve outstanding versatility, stability, ease of use and compactness.

A preferred embodiment of the support integrates the following key aspects:

1. Modularity of the Articulated Arm: The articulated arm is formed by segments (A). Preferably, at least two or three segments (A) are used to achieve an adequate signaling height. A preferred feature is the ability to modify the total length of the articulated arm by adding or removing intermediate segments (A). This is achieved in embodiments where the segments (A) are joined by mechanisms specifically removable by the user, such as threaded connections (D) (Fig. 20, 21) or pin and hole interlocking systems. This modularity in length allows the support to be adapted to different types of vehicles and to the specific needs of each emergency situation. The segments (A) are preferably of tubular structure (as in Figs. 5, 6, 13, 16, 20) made of light and resistant materials such as aluminum, or of flat profile (as in Figs. 1-4) if maximum compactness in the folded state is prioritized.

2. Versatility of Articulation and Connection Mechanisms: The preferred embodiment employs a combination of articulation and connection mechanisms to achieve both precise adjustment and efficient folding or disassembly.

• For active angular adjustment between segments (A) and between segments (A) and bases, center locking joints (J) with tightening knobs (G) (as in Figs. 5, 6, 15, 16) are preferred for their ability to set multiple angles, hinges (B) (as in Figs. 1-4, 7, 8, 13, 14, 19) if simpler adjustment is required.

• For passive disassembly or folding, in addition to the removable threaded connection type joints (D), the use of internal tension systems (C) (Fig. 18) is also contemplated for quick assembly, similar to that of tent poles.

•

This combination allows the stand to be adjusted in multiple configurations and folded or disassembled to a very compact size for storage.

3. Adaptability of the Bases:

•Vehicle mounting base: The preferred embodiment contemplates the interchangeability of the vehicle mounting base. Options such as magnetic bases (F)(Fig. 10), suction cup bases (F1)(Fig. 11), and clamps or jaws (F2)(Fig. 12) are preferred. This interchangeability can be achieved by means of a detachable connection between the functional mounting element and the first segment (A) or a connection adapter (B1 or B2)(Fig. 17).

•Beacon support base: A beacon support base (E or E1) (Fig. 9) compatible with different models is preferred. It can be a flat surface (E) or a receptacle-type structure (E1). Its connection to the last segment (A) using an adapter (B1 or B2) allows for final orientation.

4. Integration of Additional Elements: In a preferred embodiment, the support may be designed to accommodate additional signaling elements, such as a triangular warning sign (Fig. 22). This is achieved by means of a specific support (H) (Figs. 23-27) that allows said sign to be attached to one of the segments (A).

Overall, the preferred embodiment of the "Segment-Based Support for Emergency Beacons" is distinguished by its modular and flexible design, which optimally configures the device for various situations. The use of externally interconnected segments (A), the adaptability of the connecting mechanisms (B, J, G, D, C) and bases (E, E1, F, F1, F2, B1, B2), and the possibility of incorporating additional elements (H), results in an emergency signaling tool that presents a technical solution with outstanding robustness, versatility, and ease of use. This preferred configuration facilitates rapid deployment, precise adjustment of the beacon height and orientation, and compact storage.

Claims (9)

1.Segment Support for Emergency Beacons, characterized by comprising: a) An articulated arm formed by at least two segments that are externally interconnected in sequence. b) A vehicle fixing base, arranged at one end of the articulated arm. c) A support base for the beacon, disposed at the opposite end of the articulated arm. d) A plurality of joining and articulation mechanisms arranged to interconnect said segments with each other, and to connect the end segments of the articulated arm to said vehicle attachment base and to said support base for the beacon. 2. Support according to claim 1, characterized in that the vehicle attachment base can be selected from the group consisting of: a magnetic attachment base; a suction cup attachment base; or a clamp or jaw attachment base. 3. Support according to claim 1, characterized in that the support base for the beacon is selectable from the group consisting of: a flat support base; or a receptacle-type support base. 4. Support according to claim 3, characterized in that the receptacle-type support base is made of a material selected from the group consisting of: a plastic material; or an elastomer. 5. Support according to claim 1, characterized in that said joining and articulation mechanisms are selected from the group consisting of: pivoting joints; threaded joints; a stud and hole interlocking system; or an internal tension system using an elastic cord or spring. 6. Support according to claim 5, characterized in that when the joints are of the pivot type, they comprise at least one mechanism selected from the group consisting of: hinges; or central locking joints including tightening knobs. 7. Support according to claim 5, characterized in that when the joints are of the threaded type, they comprise one end of the segment with male threading and one end of another segment with female threading, configured for coupling to each other. 8. Support according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises a specific support coupled to one of the segments, which has a structurally defined anchoring interface for holding a signage plate. 9. Support according to claim 1, characterized in that the articulated arm comprises at least one intermediate segment connected to the adjacent segments by means of removable joints.