Abstract: The present invention provides a method for determining a refresh rate of a dynamic billboard. A method in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention includes: obtaining traffic flow information; and determining the refresh rate of the dynamic billboard based on the traffic flow information.

Abstract: A system and method for activating vehicle sensors which are based on inductive loops. A voltage controlled oscillator is scanned throughout the required frequency range while a balanced mixer, low-pass filter, and detector are arranged to show the presence of a signal from an inductive loop by the amplitude of the resultant signal at a difference frequency. The voltage controlled oscillator is then made to dwell at or near the frequency of the sensor loop by adjusting so as to keep the amplitude of that low-frequency difference as high as possible.

Abstract: A traffic detection and signal system for pathways within an industrial work environment and method therefor includes at least one sensor positioned to detect objects approaching a pathway intersection and at least one visual indicator electronically linked to the at least one sensor to visually indicate that an object is approaching. The system further includes a controller electronically coupled to the at least one sensor and visual indicator to receive a signal that an object is approaching a pathway intersection and transmit a signal to energize the at least one visual indicator.

Abstract: A wireless traffic control system and method for wirelessly communicating information using traffic control signs are provided. The method includes wirelessly transmitting at least one of traffic control information and vehicle information from a traffic control sign and wirelessly receiving the information transmitted from the traffic control sign by at least one other traffic control sign.

Abstract: An in-vehicle transponder communicates with roadside readers to transmit a data stream of information that has been previously presented to the transponder. The transponder accepts multiple data cards and the identification numbers of the vehicle occupants for transmission to roadside transceivers.

Abstract: Disclosed is an information distribution system in which a receiving terminal installed in a mobile object can reliably receive high quality distribution information from the beginning. The information distribution system comprises data transmission units, each for transmitting a plurality of data signals including same distribution information using a plurality of different radio channels with sequentially delaying the transmission start time of the data signals; an auxiliary transmission unit for transmitting signals according to communication status of the data transmission units; a communication control unit for controlling the auxiliary transmission unit and the data transmission units; and detection means for detecting the velocity control information for the mobile object. A receiving terminal for receiving the data signals transmitted from the data transmission units is installed on the mobile object.

Abstract: A vehicle warning system for use in conjunction with road signs proximate a roadway and that are visible by passing motorists. The system has two assemblies, one on each side of a roadway and associated with a road sign. Each assembly has a power source, one or more lights that when lit project light that is visible to a passing motorist, a controller, a light activation device, and a wireless transceiver. Operation of the light activation device of a first of the assemblies causes the wireless transceiver of the first assembly to send a signal to the wireless transceiver of the second assembly, and both controllers to temporarily connect one or more lights of each assembly to the power source for the assembly, to light the one or more lights and thus project light that is visible to the motorist from both sides of the roadway.

Abstract: An improved apparatus for controlling a traffic signal at an intersection includes a signal controller having an artificial intelligence based situational analyzer. The signal controller receives vehicle data related to the speed and position of vehicles approaching the intersection, and optionally time and ambient condition data. If the artificial intelligence based situational analyzer predicts a signal violation, operation of the traffic signal is modified to reduce the probability of a vehicular collision.

Abstract: A driver of a vehicle that is going to enter a loop intersection is allowed to perceive vehicles traveling on a loop road and vehicles that are going to enter the loop intersection from separate roads. Infrared ray sensors for detecting vehicles in the loop intersection, and infrared ray sensors for detecting vehicles that are going to enter the loop intersection from the roads. Billboards equipped with display units at places that can be seen from the roads to display the vehicles that are detected by the infrared ray sensors. Transmitters transmit, to a unit mounted on the vehicle, information related to the detected vehicles, so that the vehicles are displayed on a display unit of the vehicle.

Abstract: The temperature of an operator circuit is measured. A relationship between the temperature of the operator circuit and characteristics of the operator circuit is determined. The relationship is applied to the measured temperature of the operator circuit to create an adjustment action. The detection threshold is adjusted by the adjustment action.

Abstract: An emergency vehicle intersection preemption beacon/heading system and method that relies on the use of highly localized, low-power communication system. The system can be implemented in a “car-active” mode or a “car-passive” mode. In the “car-active” mode, the system includes a low-power transmitter providing a beacon channel for all emergency vehicles that allow them to separately communicate with each intersection for a very short period of time and within very close proximity. The localized low-power transmitter continuously transmits the emergency vehicle ID and heading every second. When within range, receivers at each intersection are able to lock the signal and begin receiving ID and heading data. In the “car-passive” system, each intersection will have a low-power, highly localized transmitter. In this embodiment, the intersection constantly sends out pulses of data.

Abstract: A vehicle detector system having a number of individual vehicle detectors each capable of sampling a plurality of vehicle loops in mutual synchronization. One detector operates as a master detector for synchronization purposes; the other detectors are operated as slave detectors. The system can be configured for series or parallel synchronous operation. The system is particularly advantageous in installations requiring a large number of closely spaced vehicle loops each operated by a detector set to high sensitivity.

Abstract: The present invention provides an LED signal light device comprising a central processing unit, a control panel, an LED signal light, an output and input interface, a battery and an adapter. The central processing unit comprises a microprocessor, a memory and an interface circuit for controlling the operation of the whole device, and outputting a signal and receiving a command through the output and input interface. The control panel is a printed circuit board recorded a circuit therein. The LED signal light consists of plural LEDs, which are three coloring LEDs or color changing LEDs. The LEDs actively show a light display in a closed circuit and show various colors accompanying with various arrangements into abstract symbols for indicating various traffic situations. The device can be connected to an AC power supply of 110 V or 220 V, and the AC power is converted to DC power by an adapter, which also stabilizes the current provided to the whole device.

Abstract: An LED traffic signal having a single switching power supply placed inside the load switch to supply power to each of the aspect signals. The traffic signal has several aspects, such as red, yellow and green. The load switch comprises a switching power supply to supply power to the signals, an output selection circuit to select the desired aspect, and a conflict monitor interface circuit to mimic an incandescent circuit.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for activating an inductance loop vehicle detection system is disclosed, wherein a magnet is attached to a vehicle. In order to activate the inductance loop vehicle detection system, the vehicle, and attached magnet, are moved in relation to an induction loop embedded within a roadway. A reaction between the magnet and induction loop causes the inductance loop vehicle detection system to register the presence of a vehicle.

Abstract: A pedestrian trail signaling device for warning users of the trail or path when an emergency vehicle is approaching the intersection. Emergency vehicles 14 have an actuatable transceiver that transmits a signal to the trail posted signaling device causing warning lights to flash and generation of a response signal informing the emergency vehicle operator that the trail posted signaling device has received the emergency vehicle transmission. A user transmitter having an on/off switch that broadcasts a signal to the trail signaling device causing the signaling device blinking yellow LED displays to blink A passive detector is provided whereby an emergency vehicle strobe light can trigger both flashing warning signals when the passive detector(s) is triggered. A motion detector 44 located on the trail user 16 warning light whereby either or both systems will flash their respective predetermined warning signals when the motion detector(s) is triggered.

Abstract: A method and arrangement for controlling a system of multiple traffic signals for regulating the traffic of vehicles is described. Traffic data is transmitted by wireless transmission to traffic data processing units assigned individually to a locally limited group of traffic signals, and each traffic data processing unit performs an analysis of the local traffic situation for the environment of the locally limited group of traffic signals up to, at the maximum, the neighboring locally limited groups of traffic signals.

Abstract: A warning light system for a traffic intersection for alerting pedestrians and operators of passenger vehicles to the approach of an emergency vehicle. The warning light system is activated only by sounds in the range of frequencies which are emitted by the siren of an emergency vehicle. The warning light system has a warning light assembly having a control unit, and also has an audio sensor unit. The warning light assembly has a blue light and a white light, which flash alternately and repeatedly, after receipt of an audio signal by the audio sensor unit from the siren of an emergency vehicle, and processing of that signal by the control unit. The lights of the warning light assembly continuously flash until the sound emitted from the siren is no longer detectable by the audio sensor.

Abstract: A traffic density analysis method includes decoding encoded video data corresponding to an analysis region to obtain a decoded video signal and code information, determining a moving object in units of a macroblock on the basis of the decoded video signal, the code information and a previously decoded video signal, analyzing a macroblock determined as the moving object, setting a specific region in a screen using an analysis result of the macroblock, and estimating a traffic density in the analysis region from information related to the moving object passing through the specific region.

Abstract: A method and system for providing travel guidance for transportation vehicles traveling on a highway system that comprises highway transceivers (HTs) with limited range placed at selected intervals along the highway. Each transportation vehicle has an automobile transceiver (AT) for receiving and transmitting information using a communication protocol. The HTs have a limited transmission range. The AT may be programmed to selectively present information received from the HTs to a passenger in an automobile. The ATs may also receive information from other transportation vehicles equipped with an AT. The HTs may receive information from all of the transceivers or other transmitters, for example, a GPS satellite transmitter. The HTs may also transmit information to traffic signal units about numbers of vehicles in its transmission pattern.

Abstract: In traffic signal control for setting a green light time to a value between the lower limit time and the upper limit time in real time depending on a traffic volume sensed by vehicle sensors Sa, Sb, and so forth, the upper limit time Gmax is set longer with an increase of a traffic volume on an access road corresponding to a phase in question (Steps T8 and T9). This arrangement is effective for use at an intersection where a traffic volume in one direction is far heavier than in any other direction, and thereby makes it possible to forestall the occurrence of traffic jam (FIG. 6).

Abstract: A method for determining a vehicle trip on a roadway includes providing a plurality of vehicle detections from a plurality of gateways, determining a maximum travel time between corresponding pairs of the plurality of gateways, correlating corresponding pairs of the plurality of vehicle detections by determining that a travel time between each of the gateways of each of the corresponding pairs of detections is less than a corresponding maximum travel time, determining a plurality of chainable detections, and determining the boundaries of the trip.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for storing, accessing, generating and using information about speed limits and speed traps are described. The system includes a positional sensor such as a GPS device. Position information is used to access a database of speed limit and/or speed trap information. The database may be local or remote. Access to a remote database may be achieved using a wireless communications device such as a wireless (cellular) modem. Encountered speed traps are logged in response to the activation of a speed trap alert button by a user of the device or the output of a radar/laser detector. Speed trap position, date and time information is transmitted to the remote database system. Speed limit information is used to control the speed of the automobile as part of a cruise control operation and/or is used to provide the motor vehicle operator with warnings, e.g., that the applicable speed limit is being exceeded.

Abstract: The information provision system includes a terminal having a current position measurement section and a communications controller, which intermittently transmits information on the current position measured, a terminal position management section for managing the position of the terminal based on the current position information received, an accident/disaster information management section for collecting information on an accident or a disaster and managing the information according to occurrence location and time of the accidents, an warning information generator for generating warning information from the information on the accidents, an warning terminal identification section for identifying a terminal positioned in the neighborhood of the location of the accidents, and an warning transmitter for transmitting warning information to the identified terminal. The system prevents user who carries a terminal from sustaining a possible damage caused by the accidents.

Abstract: A system and method for providing local intersection control includes controlling light signal transmitters at an intersection. A traffic condition at an intersection is cyclically detected, a signal program is selected that is matched to the detected traffic condition, and the selected signal program issues switching commands to the light signal transmitter. Characteristic traffic conditions are derived from the detected traffic conditions for the intersection, each characteristic traffic condition is assigned a signal program matched to this traffic condition, a metric is defined as measure for positions of two traffic conditions relative to each other, the characteristic traffic condition that is closest to the actual traffic condition with respect to the metric is determined, and the signal program assigned to the closest characteristic traffic condition is executed for triggering switching commands for the light-signal transmitters. A control device is also included for realizing the method.

Abstract: The invention concerns a process and a device, which make it possible to reliably, with the least amount of computing power, recognize traffic signs and to display these as memory aids for an observer. Image data of an image sensor are analyzed and classified in an information processing unit, and on the basis of the results classification image segments and/or symbolic image representing data stored in a memory unit are recorded in a memory unit and are displayed by means of a display unit. In the further processing of the image data, extracted objects are separated and classified into traffic sign specific upper classes and lower classes. Subsequently, a synthetic image of a traffic sign is generated, stored in a memory unit, and displayed by means of a display unit.

Abstract: A collision detection system and method of estimating a miss distance of an object and estimating length and width of the object are provided. The collision detection system includes a sensor for sensing an object within a field of view and measuring range and range rate of the sensed object. The collision detection system further includes a controller for estimating a miss distance of the object and further estimating length and width of the object as a function of the range and the range rate.

Abstract: A method and system for controlling a vehicular and pedestrian traffic, which combines a variety of concepts into an integrated operating system for traffic management in cities. The design elements of this system include a combination of the dynamic checkerboard arrangements of alternating bands in paired sets of two or three bands for one-way and two-way streets respectively, the recessed crosswalks, the configuration of the flow pattern for bikeways on one-way grid, the opening of crosswalks on the left side of moving green bands at two-way grid intersections, the placement of bikeways between the sidewalk and the parking lane, and the creation of a separate phase for the movement of bicycle traffic on one-way streets.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for supplementing automotive safety includes a transmitter associated with the traffic safety concerns or conditions such as traffic signals, traffic barricades, or pedestrians. The transmitter is adapted to transmit a signal conveying information indicative of a type or class of traffic safety concern or condition. A receiver is adapted to receive and distinguish the type or class of traffic safety concern or condition. Some type of alarm or display can be connected to the receiver to convey information about the traffic safety concern or condition to a driver. The apparatus and method could also be applied to search and/or rescue missions for persons, animals or objects.

Abstract: A traffic warning system which alerts approaching vehicle traffic to the approach of a train in a crossing. The system includes a plurality of surface mounted lights partially embedded in and placed across a roadway. Once activated, the flashing lights warn drivers of approaching vehicles that the train is approaching, and that caution should be exercised.

Abstract: A wireless, in-road traffic sensor system using sensors that are small, low-cost, and rugged. The sensors may be capable of measuring the speed of passing vehicles, identifying the type of passing vehicle and measuring information about roadway conditions, e.g., wet or icy. The sensor includes a wireless transmitter and may be configured for installation beneath a roadway surface. The sensors may be configured as a traffic sensor system including distributed sensors across a roadway system, concentrators for receiving the sensor broadcasts and a central computer for accumulating and organizing the sensed information. The sensed information may also be made available responsive to user requests via the Web through such reports as traffic delays, alternate route planning and travel time estimates. Alternatively, the sensed information may also be used to control traffic through a traffic control means, such as a traffic signal.

Abstract: A freeway interchange traffic rerouting control system allows individual ones of the gates and signs to be operated from a workstation connected via the Internet to a web server and communications server that control spread spectrum radio transceivers. A system operator logs onto the Internet, proceeds to the interchange URL where a control panel and video screen appear. Signals may be sent from the workstation to a web server to operate the gates and to turn on advanced warning signs. Video feeds from strategically located cameras allow for viewing traffic activity at the intersection at the remote workstation. Provision is also made for detecting instances of violations whereby an alarm is given and the video detailing the violation is captured for analysis.

Abstract: A system and method for controlling traffic and traffic lights and selectively distributing warning messages to motorists includes a controller to determine appropriate action based on traffic congestion parameters. Fuzzy logic is used to determine optimum traffic light phase split based on the traffic information from the traffic information units. Global Positioning System technology is used by the system and method in order to track moving vehicles and signs and be able to communicate with them.

Abstract: A method for controlling a plurality of traffic intersections comprising (a) storing traffic flow data and related time data at each traffic intersection in a data storage unit; (b) periodically downloading the traffic flow data and the time data to a computer; (c) using the computer to generate a new set of operating parameters based upon the traffic flow data and the time data; and (d) controlling the plurality of traffic intersections with the new set of operating parameters.

Abstract: The transmission of traffic information from a control center to a terminal is optimized with respect to the volume of data to be transmitted by a control center, a terminal, and process for decoding the traffic information pertaining to a highway network transmitted from a traffic control information center to a terminal.

Abstract: A collision detection system and method of estimating a miss distance of an object are provided. The collision detection system includes a sensor for sensing an object within a field of view and measuring range and range rate of the sensed object. The collision detection system further includes a controller for computing a mathematical square of the range and computing a mathematical square of the product of range and range rate. The controller estimates a miss distance of the object as a function of the computed squared range and the squared product of range and range rate.

Abstract: A wire-loop vehicle detector is configured with a vertically oriented blade aligned at an angle to the direction of traffic-flow with each end of the blade extending laterally beyond the normal limits of vehicle presence over the blade. The extended blade configuration of the wire-loop constrains over-passing vehicles to present repeatable inductive signatures while electromagnetic noise and thermal-drift are selectively canceled using a secondary coil to increase the signal-to-noise ratio of inductance measurements. Inductive signatures of vehicles are recorded using a high-speed and high-precision method of making multiple successive measurements of the inductance of a wire-loop as vehicles pass over. Inductive signatures of automotive vehicles are useful for parking-lot revenue control, car-bomb detection, passive security of isolated communities, and other traffic-flow monitoring and control applications.

Abstract: A combination model train sensor and block signal includes a train proximity sensor, a red signal light, a green signal light, and a controller connected to the proximity sensor and the red and green signal lights and the controller turns on the green signal light and turns off the red signal light when the proximity sensor indicates the absence of a train, and turns on the red signal light and turning off the green signal light when the train proximity sensor indicates the presence of a train. A light source, preferably an infrared light source, and a light detector, preferably an infrared light detector, are arranged to reflect and detect from a passing train to indicate its presence. An output connected to the train proximity sensor for producing an output signal when the sensor indicates the presence of a train, which output can be used for controlling a remote block signal.

Abstract: A traveling support information processing unit which can prevent willful assessment of information by a device installed on a road or loaded in a vehicle and makes it possible for the device to always issue a demand for acquisition of required information or a demand for consultation for cooperated determination, and which does not require any specific and additional device for acquisition of positional information for each vehicle and also can improve safety and efficiency in road utilization. In a computer system, vehicles 114A to 114C, 115C, and 115D with the behaviors on a road such as acceleration, deceleration, and lane change projected are made to run on a road 113 simulating the road structure. Communication is performed between a function 101 for tracking or projecting behaviors of the vehicle and the vehicles 115A, 115B having a communicating function.

Abstract: An audible warning system which reduces the number of land vehicle traffic accidents where there are already traffic control devices installed such as at stop signs, intersection control lights and on vehicles in conjunction with side lights, tail lights and brake lights. The accident reduction results from the monitoring of approaching traffic with a radar-type range sensing system. Sound generators, based on parametric-array technology, permit the focusing of sound into waves of a few degrees width and aiming them at a particular vehicle or pedestrian located at a particular range from the sound projector.

Abstract: A method for controlling a plurality of traffic intersections comprising (a) storing traffic flow data and related time data at each traffic intersection in a data storage unit; (b) periodically downloading the traffic flow data and the time data to a computer; (c) using the computer to generate a new set of operating parameters based upon the traffic flow data and the time data; and (d) controlling the plurality of traffic intersections with the new set of operating parameters.

Abstract: A satellite 10 in the sky has an imaging radar and a captured image data transmitting means, and captures an image of a predetermined subject area A including roads R. According to the captured image data concerning the subject area A, a traffic control section 21 grasps the state of traffic in the subject area A, and estimates a state of congestion according to thus grasped state of traffic. Also, according to thus estimated state of congestion, the traffic control section 21 sets parameters such as on/off times of signals. Thus set parameters are sent from the traffic control section 21 to their corresponding signals. The on/off of each signal is controlled according to the set parameters. Hence, the state of traffic in a wide area can be grasped quite accurately, and traffic can be controlled according to thus grasped state of traffic.

Abstract: An clear-cross crossing system for use by emergency vehicles that includes a traffic light attachable strobe light/receiver unit that is attachable to and existing traffic signal and a transmitter unit mounted to the dash board of an emergency vehicle which transmits an activation signal to the strobe light/receiver unit to activate the unit and to cause the unit to override the existing traffic signal to generate a green light signal in the direction of the oncoming emergency vehicle.

Abstract: An electronic toll collection system (ETCS) for use in a tollgate for charging a car without the need for the car to stop, in which communication failures or errors due to reflected waves from a structure or a passing car are prevented. A roadside communication antenna which communicates with a vehicle-mounted communication antenna for charging, and a car sensor which detects a car (cars) in an area wider than a designed communication area are installed at the tollgate. As an electromagnetic wave path judgment section obtains data on the profile and position of a car which has entered the tollgate, from a car data detector, it calculates electromagnetic wave paths of direct and reflected waves which connect the roadside communication antenna 21 and the vehicle-mounted antenna in each of the cars, and calculates the receiving electric field strength for each of the paths.

Abstract: The traffic control system uses global positioning system information from a variety of vehicles, analyzes that information and uses it to provide control signals to traffic control devices. For example, a base station may use information about vehicle patterns and vehicle speeds to control traffic signals, speed limit indicators, and traffic metering lights. In turn, the base station can provide information back to the vehicle about traffic patterns. This enables the driver to make his or her own determination about vehicle patterns. The traffic pattern information may also be used with a GPS navigator to automatically plot a preferred path around adverse traffic conditions.

Abstract: A method and system for controlling a vehicular and pedestrian traffic, which combines a variety of concepts into an integrated operating system for traffic management in cities. The design elements of this system include a combination of the dynamic checkerboard arrangements of alternating bands in paired sets of two or three bands for one-way and two-way streets respectively, the recessed crosswalks, the configuration of the flow pattern for bikeways on one-way grid, the opening of crosswalks on the left side of moving green bands at two-way grid intersections, the placement of bikeways between the sidewalk and the parking lane, and the creation of a separate phase for the movement of bicycle traffic on one-way streets.

Abstract: A wire-loop vehicle detector is configured with a vertically oriented blade aligned at an angle to the direction of traffic-flow with each end of the blade extending laterally beyond the normal limits of vehicle presence over the blade. The extended blade configuration of the wire-loop constrains over-passing vehicles to present repeatable inductive signatures while electromagnetic noise and thermal-drift are selectively canceled using a secondary coil to increase the signal-to-noise ratio of inductance measurements. Inductive signatures of vehicles are recorded using a high-speed and high-precision method of making multiple successive measurements of the inductance of a wire-loop as vehicles pass over. Inductive signatures of automotive vehicles are useful for parking-lot revenue control, car-bomb detection, passive security of isolated communities, and other traffic-flow monitoring and control applications.

Abstract: A traffic warning system which alerts approaching vehicle traffic to the presence of a pedestrian in a crosswalk. The system includes a plurality of surface mounted lights partially embedded in and placed across a roadway. The lights are activated by the pedestrian, either by manual switch or by a sensor, before he enters the crosswalk. Once activated, the flashing lights warn drivers of approaching vehicles that the pedestrian may have entered the crosswalk, and that caution should be exercised.

Abstract: An improved traffic management process and apparatus. After a camera gathers information, the system automatically extracts important information by image processing and analysis techniques. The system identifies all types of movement including pedestrians and two-wheel vehicles. The process and the apparatus first simulate and validate the strategy prior to its on-site implementation.

Abstract: A method for a subject vehicle to avoid collisions is provided. At least one lane feeding into an intersection is scanned. The presence of a threat vehicle in the at least one lane is detected. Whether the subject vehicle and the threat vehicle will occupy the intersection at the same time is predicted. A warning is issued in response to the predicting.