Newcastle University researchers have come up with a new technology called Compass4D which will enable drivers to communicate with traffic systems.
The new gadget – which can be easily attached to the vehicle’s windscreen like a Sat Nav – detects traffic lights from a distance of 100metres and informs drivers to adjust their speed in order to pass through a series of green lights. The same gadget may even demand the traffic control center to turn a red signal into green in case of an emergency.
The revolutionary technology is currently being tested by the North East Ambulance Service which hopes to create a safer, easier and quicker journey for patients travelling to hospitals and cut ambulance fuel bills as well.
At present, the system is being tested in a small area in Newcastle city. However, developers hope that the system will successfully spread city-wide in the coming years. For the first wave of the pilot, the team has equipped twenty traffic lights and fourteen vehicles with the Compass4D technology in Newcastle City Centre. Newcastle’s Urban Traffic Management Control (UTMC) centre is monitoring the project and says the changing traffic lights will not impact other motorists.
Phil Blythe, Newcastle University’s Professor of Transport, said “Traffic management systems are already in place across the city to improve traffic flow but what’s unique about this trial is that we will be giving personalised information directly to the driver.
“For example, the system might advise a driver that if they travel at 24 miles an hour they will hit the next four sets of traffic lights on green.
“In more congested areas or particularly busy times of the day, then vehicles on key roads might be given priority in order to keep the traffic flowing.”
UTMC manager Ray King said the new technology was about “optimising the network”.
“NHS vehicles are transporting patients to hospital for treatment and they don’t want to be held up in traffic unnecessarily, delaying appointments for other patients and wasting taxpayer’s money.”
“If we can speed up their journey, giving them priority at lights where appropriate, then it not only reduces fuel bills and delays but also improves patient care.”
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