Everything’s getting smarter these days, including traffic lights. The American traffic lights that have remained nearly unchanged for more than 100 years are now being controlled by machine learning. This means a more efficient safe and environmentally friendly transportation world. Traffic signal preemption is one way to assist drivers in avoiding potentially life-threatening collision. And a system that integrates traffic lights and e-bike/scooter sensor can automatically time stops to align with commuters’ travel plans.
IoT sensor and connectivity technology helps to build more intelligent traffic control systems that maximize energy efficiency through optimizing signal timings in real time. The data collected from sensors and cameras can either be processed in the device itself, or sent to a hub for traffic management and then integrated into AI algorithms. The result is more precise modeling and a predictive analysis that can help to avoid congestion, coordinate schedules for public transit and reduce carbon emissions.
These smart technologies could transform urban transportation systems. Smart sensors for e-bikes or scooters for instance, could detect and communicate the location of shared personal vehicles to make ride sharing more practical. Micromobility payment systems on the other hand permit on-street parking or road tolls without the need for correct change.
IoT smart traffic technology can also boost the efficiency of public transportation by allowing commuters to track buses and trams in real-time using live tracking apps. And intelligent intersection technology can prioritize emergency vehicles in order to help them get to their destination quicker This innovation has already drastically reduced the number of crashes in certain cities.