A multiphase adaptive detection system (ADS) for portable and temporary traffic signals has been independently proven to reduce average queue lengths by 50%, potentially saving commuters more than a day a year journey time.
Developed by SRL Traffic Systems, a manufacturer and supplier of mobile intelligent transport system (ITS) equipment to the traffic management, construction, utilities and events sectors, the multiphase ADS was independently modelled by Ian Routledge Consultancy. According to the company, it is the only portable and temporary solution to have been independently modelled.
Completed in May and using traffic flow data and Vissim with three-way control in a heavily saturated tidal flow location in Yorkshire, the modelling demonstrated that the impact of replacing a basic logic traffic light system with multiphase ADS was: a reduction in average queue length of 50%; reduction in maximum queue length of 29%; reduction in average journey time at the junction of 22% (increasing to 40% during peak flow); reduction in journey time for the route with the highest flow of traffic of 52%.
SRL estimates that there are over 20,000 portable and temporary traffic signals in use at more than 5,000 roadwork sites across the country, and as such, believes its solution is capable of saving commuters more than seven minutes a day, over two hours every month and more than a day a year, getting to and from work.
Designed to be especially effective in areas of tidal traffic flow because of its ability to reduce the build-up of traffic moving in a single direction, SRL’s multiphase ADS works by connecting a high accuracy radar detector, which collects data about real time traffic volumes and speeds, to portable and temporary traffic lights, using an algorithm that adjusts green time accordingly, taking into account the accommodation of HGV start lag.
Adrian Murphy, chief operating officer, SRL Traffic Systems, said: “The demand for smart technologies capable of cutting congestion has never been greater, and we are proud to be able to offer a multiphase solution with the proven capability of slashing queue lengths and waiting times, improving road users’ experience of roadworks.”
Launched at the end of 2020, SRL’s Multiphase ADS is available for hire as well as sale and joins a product portfolio that comprises variable message signs, CCTV, and the Urban64 traffic signal solution used to coordinate multi-directional flows of traffic and pedestrians.
