Vehicle Traffic Light Alert System Using Wireless State Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traffic congestion at intersections with traffic lights is exacerbated by drivers not synchronizing their movements with light changes due to distractions or obstructions, leading to inefficiencies in traffic flow.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle-based computing system that wirelessly receives traffic light state data and determines appropriate actions based on light state, vehicle speed, and proximity, enabling automatic movement coordination with other vehicles when the light turns green, using DSRC communication and CACC to synchronize vehicle movements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If drivers rely on visual observation of traffic lights, then they can detect light state changes, but traffic flow efficiency deteriorates due to delayed reactions from distractions or obstructions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces wireless communication technology as an intermediary between traffic lights and vehicles. Traffic light state information is transmitted wirelessly to vehicles, eliminating the need for drivers to visually observe lights. This mediator ensures reliable information delivery regardless of driver attention or line-of-sight conditions, thereby improving both detection reliability and traffic flow efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/visual observation system with an electronic wireless communication system. Instead of relying on drivers' visual detection capabilities, the system uses automated wireless transmission of traffic light state data to vehicle processors, which then provide alerts and control signals. This substitution eliminates human reaction delays and visual obstruction issues.
2Ease of operation
If traffic lights are used to control intersections, then traffic can be regulated, but traffic congestion worsens due to iterative movements and ripple effects when lights change
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where traffic light state information is continuously transmitted to vehicles, and vehicles automatically adjust their movement in response. The system provides real-time feedback about light state changes to all vehicles, enabling coordinated responses that eliminate iterative stop-and-go movements and ripple effects, thereby improving intersection throughput while maintaining traffic control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables preliminary action by providing vehicles with advance notification of traffic light state changes before the actual change occurs. This allows vehicles to prepare and execute movement decisions in advance, synchronizing their actions to minimize stop-and-go waves. Vehicles can begin moving slightly earlier in a coordinated manner, improving overall traffic flow efficiency through proactive rather than reactive behavior.
3Reliability
If drivers wait to see traffic moving before proceeding, then they ensure safety, but traffic flow efficiency deteriorates due to sequential rather than simultaneous movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses wireless communication as an intermediary to provide all drivers with simultaneous information about traffic light state changes and the movement status of other vehicles. This mediator enables drivers to make informed safety decisions without needing to visually confirm that vehicles ahead have moved, allowing simultaneous rather than sequential movement while maintaining safety through automated information sharing.
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes a processor configured to receive a wireless light-state notification as a vehicle approaches a traffic light. The processor is also configured to determine an appropriate vehicle action based on at least the light-state, a vehicle speed and a vehicle proximity to the traffic light and recommend the appropriate action to the vehicle driver.