Smart technologies for traffic are a delicately weaved web of processes that help transport personnel, drivers, and commuters to manage the flow and efficiency of traffic. Intelligent traffic systems are able to adjust control mechanisms such as traffic lights and freeway onramp meters as well as bus rapid transit lanes. They also employ technologytraffic.com/2021/12/29/generated-post-4/ advanced IoT routers and hardware with cellular technology, as well as mobile networks. They also assist in forecasting changes in traffic demand and provide a range of real-time information to road users.
An excellent example is the adaptive traffic signal system in Pittsburgh. Stephen Smith, a professor at Carnegie Mellon University’s (CMU), installed his first traffic signals in the heavily congestion-ridden area of East Liberty in the city. The immediate results were evident. Drivers were able to travel 25 percent farther and spent 40 percent less time idling.
The system works by capturing data from sensors which monitor traffic patterns and adjust their timing on the fly. It also detects pedestrians at intersections, and allows them enough time to cross the street safely. The sensors transmit their raw data to the central hub, where it is processed by artificial intelligence. The data is then transmitted back to the intersections by 5G-enabled cell networks.
These systems are intelligent and allow for better and more accurate simulation of scenarios that reduce the risk that human traffic managers are unable to achieve. And all of this is in real-time. This is an important step towards Vision Zero, a goal of safe driving where motorists and pedestrians share the road with no collisions.