Cloud-Enhanced Traffic Controller with Secure Connection Agent
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional traffic controllers either operate in isolation with manual signal plan modifications or are connected to central control systems via private networks, requiring configuration with a name or network address, which limits flexibility and security.
Innovation Solution
A cloud-enhanced traffic controller with a memory storing a connection agent and unique identification, capable of automatically establishing a secure connection to a web service upon network access, transmitting status information, and receiving operational commands, allowing remote access and control via the internet.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traffic controllers are connected to central control systems via private networks, then security is improved, but device complexity and configuration requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The traffic controller automatically generates and manages its own SSL certificates and establishes secure connections without requiring manual configuration of network addresses or security credentials. The device serves itself by autonomously provisioning security parameters, eliminating the need for complex pre-configuration while maintaining secure communication.
Solution Approach 2:
A cloud-based service acts as an intermediary between the traffic controller and the central control system. This intermediary handles the complex security provisioning, certificate management, and connection establishment, allowing the traffic controller to connect securely without directly managing the complexity of private network configurations.
2Device complexity
If traffic controllers operate in isolation with manual signal plan modifications, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/manual process of physically accessing and modifying signal plans at the traffic controller with a remote digital process. Operators can modify signal plans through a web interface or API calls, substituting physical interaction with automated electronic communication, thereby improving productivity without significantly increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The traffic controller is designed to function both autonomously (operating independently with local signal plans) and connected (receiving remote monitoring and control). This multi-functionality allows the system to maintain simplicity when operating in isolation while gaining enhanced productivity capabilities when connected to central control systems or cloud services.
3Ease of operation
If traffic controllers require manual configuration with network addresses, then ease of operation is reduced, but adaptability to different network configurations is improved
Solution Approach 1:
The traffic controller automatically discovers available network configurations and selects appropriate connection parameters without requiring manual input. The device self-provisions by detecting network environments, generating appropriate connection requests, and automatically establishing communications, thereby simplifying installation while adapting to various network configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection configuration is made dynamic rather than static. The traffic controller can adapt its network parameters based on detected conditions, switching between different connection methods or configurations as needed. This dynamic approach allows the device to maintain ease of operation while being highly adaptable to different network environments.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments include a method for controlling a traffic signal with a cloud-enhanced traffic controller. The method includes receiving the cloud-enhanced traffic controller comprising a memory storing a connection agent and a unique identification assigned to the cloud-enhanced traffic controller and connecting the cloud-enhanced traffic controller to the traffic signal and to a communications network, wherein based upon detecting that the cloud-enhanced traffic controller is connected to the communications network, the connection agent establishes a secure connection to a web service. The method also includes transmitting the unique identification and a status information of the cloud-enhanced traffic controller to the web service.