Pedestrian Countdown Lights in Solingen Signal Remaining Time for Crossing
In an effort to enhance traffic safety and improve comfort for pedestrians, the city of Solingen in Germany has installed a unique "trafficpilot display" at a traffic-dependent pedestrian crossing on Konrad-Adenauer-Straße. This innovative system, developed as part of the Smart City funding project, is designed to reduce red light violations by visually alerting pedestrians if they are about to cross against the signal.
The system, developed by GEVAS software and AVT STOYE, works by displaying tailored messages or symbols on a digital display near the crosswalk. It is capable of reliably displaying the remaining waiting time for pedestrians under varying traffic conditions, and its reaction is based on new prediction methods and the use of artificial intelligence.
Red light violations by pedestrians are a recognized safety concern, contributing to pedestrian crashes and traffic incidents. While specific data on pedestrian red light violations is limited, overall pedestrian crashes have been increasing in some areas. The trafficpilot display aims to improve compliance by providing immediate, clear feedback to pedestrians, thereby enhancing safety at intersections.
The total cost of the system was around 50,000 euros, with 90% coming from funding pots. This location was ideal for the system due to a high volume of traffic and pedestrians. However, it is worth noting that Alexander Osterhold from solingen.digital stated that the prototype has not been fully tested and may not be implemented at all 27 traffic lights in the funding area.
This smart technology represents a unique approach to integrating smart technology in pedestrian signal enforcement. While enforcement campaigns target both pedestrians and drivers, the trafficpilot display focuses directly on pedestrians, using visual cues to reduce red light violations and improve safety at intersections.
This combination of enforcement, education, and technology reflects a growing trend to address pedestrian safety comprehensively. Cities across the globe are addressing pedestrian red light violations and broader traffic safety issues using smart technology and enforcement strategies. For example, in Mississauga, red light cameras serve as a technological deterrent against running red lights, while in New York City, enhanced traffic enforcement in high-crash corridors contributes to the reduction in fatalities.
In conclusion, the trafficpilot display in Solingen is a significant step towards improving pedestrian safety and reducing red light violations. Its unique design and innovative approach make it a potentially valuable tool for cities worldwide in their efforts to address pedestrian safety comprehensively.
The trafficpilot display, an innovative system developed by GEVAS software and AVT STOYE, uses artificial intelligence and new prediction methods to display tailored messages or symbols on a digital display near crosswalks, aiming to improve safety at intersections by reducing red light violations. This smart technology represents a unique approach to integrating technology in pedestrian signal enforcement, reflecting a growing trend to address pedestrian safety comprehensively using smart technology and enforcement strategies, as demonstrated in cities like Mississauga and New York City.
