Optimising traffic flow is a never ending challenge for traffic engineers. With a myriad of variables entering the mix, such as peak hours, roadworks, delays due to accidents and more. As such, creating and maintaining traffic efficiency is a complex and multifaceted pursuit. Where the capture and analysis of traffic data is critical to understanding the causes of congestion and implementing improvements.
From a functional perspective, the majority of current and historical traffic data has relied on presence detection from either 1) an inductive loop installed into the road surface, 2) road tube counter loops or 3) manual observation during data collection events. Unfortunately, there can be a degree of inaccuracy from these methods, due to the need to detect metal content or distinguish class of vehicles at the data collection point. With the data only being of limited use primarily around volume and possibly time.
From an analytical perspective, the key to understanding congestion lies in detection and data. Highlighting the importance of capturing multiple data points, to build a multifaceted appreciation of factors that are influencing congestion and hence efficiency. Where information around volume, travel and delay times, traffic patterns, vehicle types and occupancy periods can provide additional insights that can be used to optimise traffic flow, taking the hard work out of data capture and analysis.
ThermiCam2
The FLIR ThermiCam2 is a traffic analysis solution that incorporates thermal presence detection with simultaneous data collection from both thermal imaging and wi-fi monitoring technology. Resulting in high quality intersection data. Which, when analysed can enable dynamic control of signal times based on actual demand. Able to operate through sun glare and in harsh weather conditions, the ThermiCam2 is a field-proven all-in-one above ground thermal imaging sensor, optimised for traffic viewing and detection purposes. Providing real-time verification and monitoring of all types of vehicles at intersections, day or night with 24/7 reliability.
Vehicle Presence Detection
The FLIR ThermiCam2 is a viable and highly accurate alternative to inductive loops or radar detection at the approaches to intersections. With the ability to detect up to 24 vehicle presence zones, with up to four (4) lanes of coverage from one unit. Being traffic adaptive, advanced detection and data algorithms can also be used to extend or reduce green light time based on congestion or demand. Whilst providing accurate vehicle count and zone occupancy data to traffic adaptive software such as SCATS. Furthermore, additional optional functionality is available to provide wrong way driver detection for one way streets and entry/exit points.
Accuracy in Sensing
With a ≥98% accuracy in sensing when installed and configured correctly, the FLIR ThermiCam2 provides secure and reliable traffic information data, via detection outputs and/or TCP/IP protocol into existing roadside traffic control cabinets. Resulting in better signal timing and increased traffic efficiency, with fewer false calls and missed detection events.
Optimising Traffic Flow
Optimising traffic flow through detection and data, the FLIR ThermiCam2 is a cost-effective and reliable solution that raises the bar in traffic efficiency. Easily installed on existing infrastructure such as traffic poles, thermal detection provides traffic engineers with the insights they need to make improvements where they are needed most.