Intersection Traffic Sensor Merging Detection Zones
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current traffic sensor technologies for roadway intersections are costly and inefficient due to the need for multiple sensors per approach, with inductive loop detectors being expensive to install and unreliable, and video and microwave detectors requiring extensive installation and manual configuration.
Innovation Solution
A traffic sensor system that includes a transducer system capable of creating multiple transducer views of a roadway intersection using a transducer configured to transmit and receive signals across multiple approaches, generating an aggregate sensor view through a transceiver system, which can be achieved with either switched, electronically steered, or mechanically steered antennas, reducing the number of sensors needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If inductive loop detectors are used for traffic signal actuation, then detection coverage is provided for each lane, but installation cost increases and lane closures are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple detection zones into a single sensor unit that can detect vehicles across multiple lanes simultaneously. The sensor system integrates what would traditionally require multiple separate inductive loop detectors into one unified device, eliminating the need for lane closures and reducing installation costs while maintaining comprehensive detection coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor is designed to perform multiple detection functions across different zones and approaches. A single sensor unit can detect vehicles in multiple lanes, provide coverage for different detection zones, and actuate traffic signals for various approaches, replacing the need for specialized sensors for each specific function.
2Reliability
If video detectors are used to monitor intersections, then per-approach detection is achieved, but installation complexity and cost increase due to required mounting arms and cameras per approach
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the detection capabilities of multiple video cameras into a single sensor unit. Instead of requiring separate mounting arms and cameras for each approach, one sensor provides comprehensive detection coverage for multiple approaches, significantly reducing installation complexity and hardware requirements.
3Reliability
If multiple microwave detectors are deployed for coverage, then detection zones are monitored, but the number of sensors and manual configuration requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functionality of multiple microwave detectors into a single sensor unit that can monitor multiple detection zones simultaneously. This consolidation reduces the total number of sensors required and eliminates the need for manual configuration and wiring of multiple separate devices.
4Reliability
If acoustic sensors are used for intersection detection, then limited detection zones are covered, but one unit per approach is still required increasing sensor quantity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple acoustic sensing capabilities into a single sensor unit that can detect vehicles across multiple zones and approaches. This unified approach reduces the total number of acoustic sensors required while maintaining comprehensive detection coverage.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution reduces the number of sensors required, lowers installation costs, and enhances detection accuracy by providing a comprehensive view of the intersection, improving traffic flow management without the need for extensive lane closures or manual configuration.
Implementation Method 1
A transducer is configured to transmit signals towards a portion of two or more approaches to a roadway intersection and to receive signals and signal reflections within the portions of the two or more approaches to the roadway intersection
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention extends to detecting targets in roadway intersections. A traffic sensor includes a transducer system and a transceiver system. The transducer system creates a plurality of transducer views for detecting targets located in a portion of the intersection. The transducer system includes a transducer configured to transmit signals towards and to receive signals and signal reflections within a portion of the two or more approaches to the intersection. The transducer is configured such that when necessary the transducer can transmit a signal and receive a signal or signal reflection simultaneously. The transceiver system is configured to generate digital data indicative of the transducer receiving a signal or signal reflection. The transducer system and transceiver system interoperate to generate an aggregate sensor view of the intersection that includes a plurality of transducer views of the two or more approaches to the intersection.