License Plate Traffic Analysis for Real-Time Signal Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current traffic data collection methods are limited by their inability to provide real-time monitoring, lack of vehicle-specific information, high costs, and disconnect from traffic management systems, leading to imprecise traffic pattern analysis and limited forecasting capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing existing law enforcement license plate cameras to capture and analyze vehicle license plate data in real-time, incorporating data anonymization and machine learning to identify traffic conditions and adjust traffic management infrastructure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If manual traffic surveys are conducted, then traffic data can be collected, but substantial human resources are required and it is time-consuming and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual traffic surveys with an automated system using cameras, processors, and servers to capture and analyze traffic data. The mechanical/manual process of human surveyors is substituted with electronic image capture devices and automated image processing algorithms that can identify vehicles, count traffic flow, and analyze patterns without human intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by automatically capturing traffic data through cameras, processing images through algorithms, and generating traffic analysis reports without requiring human surveyors. The automated pipeline processes images, identifies vehicles, counts traffic, and produces analytics independently, eliminating the need for human resources in data collection.
2Loss of information
If traditional traffic data collection methods are used, then basic traffic counts can be obtained, but real-time monitoring and rapid response to traffic changes are impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous traffic monitoring through cameras that continuously capture images of traffic flow. The system processes images in real-time through automated pipelines, continuously updating traffic counts and analysis without interruption. This continuous operation enables real-time monitoring of traffic patterns and immediate detection of changes or anomalies.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces sporadic manual surveys with continuous automated electronic monitoring. Cameras continuously capture traffic data, and automated processing systems immediately analyze the data, enabling real-time monitoring capabilities that were impossible with manual methods.
3Quantity of substance
If conventional traffic counting methods are employed, then vehicle counts can be obtained, but vehicle-specific information and precise traffic pattern analysis are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments traffic data analysis into multiple levels: basic vehicle counting, vehicle classification by type, and detailed pattern analysis. The system processes individual vehicle images to extract specific characteristics, then aggregates this detailed information into comprehensive traffic patterns. This segmentation enables both quantity measurement and precise vehicle-specific information retention.
Solution Approach 2:
The system adds dimensional depth to traffic data by transitioning from simple counts to multi-dimensional analysis including vehicle type classification, traffic flow patterns, temporal patterns, and spatial distribution. This dimensional expansion preserves vehicle-specific information while providing comprehensive traffic pattern analysis.
4Loss of information
If traffic data is collected independently of traffic management systems, then data can be gathered, but integration with traffic control measures is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal traffic data collection and analysis system that can interface with multiple traffic management applications. The system provides standardized data outputs and analysis capabilities that can be integrated with traffic signal control, route optimization, incident management, and planning systems. This multi-functional design enables seamless integration with various traffic management systems while maintaining independent data collection capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback loops where traffic analysis results are used to adjust traffic management controls in real-time. The automated analysis of traffic patterns feeds back to traffic signal timing adjustments, route recommendations, and incident response protocols, creating a closed-loop system where data collection directly informs and adapts traffic control measures.
Data Source
AI summary
A method is provided for controlling traffic management infrastructure, comprising: capturing images of vehicle license plates converting the images into license plate data including license plate characters; transmitting the license plate data to a central server having a data collection module, a data anonymization module, a data storage module and a data analysis module; extracting the license plate characters from the license plate data; packaging the license plate characters in license plate files; anonymizing the license plate files; storing, by the data storage module, the anonymized license plate files; analyzing the anonymized license plate file to identify a traffic condition; and outputting at least one command to at least one component of traffic management infrastructure, thereby causing the component to adjust an aspect of traffic management based upon the identified traffic condition.


