Advanced Solar-Powered LED Road Marker with ISM Radio Communication
The Challenge: Durable, Autonomous Road Surface Illumination
In response to the growing demand for intelligent, energy-efficient, and highly durable road marking solutions, our team developed a cutting-edge solar-powered LED road marker. The primary goal was to design a device that:
- can be installed directly into the road surface,
- withstands the pressure of passing vehicles,
- remains visible in poor weather conditions,
- operates autonomously without external power supply,
- enables wireless synchronization and communication between units.
The Solution: Technology and Innovation for Road Safety
Microcontroller-Based LED System
At the heart of the marker is a single-chip microcontroller controlling six LED lights – available in both monochromatic and RGB versions. This configuration allows for flexible lighting patterns and color schemes, adaptable to specific use cases such as crosswalks or hazard zones.
ISM 868 MHz Radio Communication
An integrated ISM 868 MHz radio module provides:
- synchronization between multiple markers, enabling effects like wave lighting or synchronized flashing,
- communication with external devices, such as ISM/GPRS gateways, allowing remote monitoring and control.
Solar Power and Energy Storage
The device is powered by compact photovoltaic cells and includes a built-in energy storage circuit, ensuring continuous operation even during extended periods of cloudiness – a key advantage in regions with limited sunshine. Efficient energy management was achieved through the use of low-power components and smart power balancing.
Engineering Challenges: Mechanical and Environmental Durability
Enclosure Design
One of the greatest engineering challenges was designing a housing that could endure:
- extreme mechanical pressure from vehicle wheels,
- completely waterproof – IP68,
- long-term UV exposure,
- chemical interaction with hydrocarbons (oil leaks, fuel, tire contact).
To meet these demands:
- We implemented an internal hexagonal (honeycomb) structure to effectively disperse mechanical forces and redirect stress to safer areas of the housing.
- We used HMH (Huber–Mises–Hencky) stress analysis and Finite Element Method (FEM) simulations to optimize mechanical behavior under load.
- We selected custom polymer blends with enhanced resistance to UV radiation and hydrocarbon exposure, ensuring durability in the harsh road environment.
Outcome: Reliable Operation in Demanding Conditions
The final product is a fully autonomous road marker that:
- improves road safety with clearly visible, dynamic LED signals,
- supports integration with ITS infrastructure via wireless ISM communication,
- meets high standards of mechanical strength and chemical resistance,
- requires minimal maintenance, offering a cost-effective long-term solution.
Summary
This project demonstrates how advanced electronics, engineering simulations, and materials science can converge to deliver a solution that enhances road safety while being robust and energy-efficient. Our solar-powered LED road marker is more than just a light — it’s a thoughtfully engineered device that combines durability, smart communication, and environmental sustainability.
Published:
January 10, 2020
Category:
Design / Development
Client:
OEM