Overview
This patent describes a wind‑articulated, airfoil‑shaped warning system that combines robust mechanical design with embedded electronics to deliver context‑sensitive emergency data at industrial entrances. Filed March 24, 2014 and granted September 27, 2016, the claims cover a symmetrical, lightweight monocoque panel that rotates on low‑friction bearings to align with prevailing winds while resisting high‑wind loads. The design integrates lighting for intuitive wind‑direction cues and a system‑on‑a‑chip that can include GPS, chemical sensing, digital compass, LEDs, and power management. Short‑range communication (RFID/NFC) and QR‑style graphics enable authenticated, password‑controlled web access to layered site information for regulated visitors and first responders. Inventors based in Levelland, Midland, and Amarillo, Texas, and applicant Wind Willie, LLC (Levelland, TX) pursued broad claims that unite aerodynamic balancing, mechanical reliability, and secure information delivery for sites handling hazardous substances. Our prosecution emphasized interoperable sensor networks, resilient bearing assemblies, and secure reader workflows to protect sensitive data while providing instant situational awareness.
Key Features
- Wind‑responsive symmetrical airfoil panel with delta bearing assemblies for 360° rotation
- Integrated system‑on‑a‑chip: GPS, chemical sensor, digital compass, LEDs, power system
- RFID/NFC and QR‑type graphics for authenticated, tiered web access to emergency data
- Lighting scheme for visual wind‑vector and approach orientation
- Distributed network capability and ruggedized mounting for field deployment
By coupling aerodynamic mechanics with secure embedded communications, the invention strengthens emergency preparedness in oil, gas and other hazardous‑materials industries and advances practical IoT safety solutions for industrial sites.
Granted: 2016-09-27
