Everything is getting smarter these days, including traffic lights. The American traffic lights that have remained essentially unchanged for over 100 years are now affected by machine learning. The result is a more efficient, safer, and more sustainable transportation system. Traffic signal preemption, for example can aid drivers in avoiding a potentially life-threatening collision. A system that integrates traffic signals and an e-bike/scooter sensors can automatically time stoppages in accordance with commuters’ timetables.
IoT sensor and connectivity technology allows for intelligent traffic control systems that maximize energy efficiency by optimizing signal timings in real time. The data collected by sensors and cameras can be pre-processed on the device or transmitted to a traffic management hub where it is integrated into AI-based algorithms. The results are more precise analysis and predictive models to prevent congestion, align the schedules of public transportation and reduce carbon emissions.
These smart technologies are able to change the way we travel in urban areas. Smart e-bike/scooter sensors for instance, are able to detect and relay the location of shared personal vehicles for more convenient ride-sharing, while micromobility payment systems allow street parking and road-toll payments without the need for a change.
Smart traffic technology based on IoT can also boost the efficiency of public transportation which allows commuters to follow trams and buses in real-time via live tracking applications. Intelligent intersection technology is able to prioritize emergency vehicles, allowing them to reach their destination more quickly this innovation has already drastically reduced the rate of crashes in a few cities.
