Smart Technologies for Traffic
A delicately knitted network of processes, smart technology for traffic can help transport workers motorists, commuters and drivers control traffic flow and efficiency. Intelligent traffic systems can alter the control mechanisms, such as traffic lights, freeway onramp meters and bus rapid transit lanes. They also make use of advanced IoT routers and hardware as well as cellular technology and mobile networks. They can also predict changes in traffic demand, and provide in-real-time information to road users.
An excellent example is the traffic signal system that is adaptive in Pittsburgh. Stephen Smith, a professor at Carnegie Mellon University’s (CMU) constructed his first traffic signals in the heavily trafficked area of East Liberty in the city. Smith saw immediate results. Drivers were able to travel 25 percent farther and spent 40 percent less time in traffic.
The system works by collecting data from sensors which monitor the traffic flow and adjust their timings on the fly in addition to spotting pedestrians at intersections and allowing them time to cross the street. Sensors then send their raw data to a central center where it is processed by artificial intelligence and then sent back to the intersections using 5G-enabled cellular networks.
These advanced systems also enable better, more precise simulation of risk-reducing scenarios that a human traffic controller would not be able to achieve – all in real-time. This is a major step towards Vision Zero, the goal of accident-free road driving where humans and vehicles are able to share the road without colliding.
