Everything’s getting smarter these days, including traffic lights. The American traffic lights that have remained essentially unchanged for 100 years are now controlled by machine learning. The result is a more efficient, safer and greener transportation world. Technology for preemption of traffic signals for instance, can help drivers avoid a life-threatening collision with pedestrians. A system that combines traffic lights and e-bike/scooter sensor can automatically time stoppages to align with commuters’ daily schedules.
IoT sensor and connectivity technology enables more intelligent traffic control systems that maximize energy efficiency through optimizing signal timings in real-time. The data gathered from sensors and cameras can either be processed in the device itself or sent to a hub for traffic management where it is integrated into AI algorithms. The result is more precise modeling and a predictive analysis that can help to avoid congestion, align schedules for public transit and reduce carbon emission.
These technologies are transforming urban transport systems. Smart e-bike and scooter sensors, for instance, can track and share the location of shared vehicles to facilitate more convenient ride-sharing micromobility payment systems can facilitate parking on the street and road toll payment without the need to changes.
IoT smart traffic technology can also improve public transit efficiency, making it easier for commuters to track trams and buses in real-time by using live tracking apps. Intelligent intersection technology could help prioritize emergency vehicles so they arrive at their destination quicker which has already reduced crash rates in certain cities.