Adaptive Signal Control Technologies(ASCT) Show Promise in Reducing Congestion and Pollution

For most commuters, waiting for traffic lights to turn green is one of life’s leading annoyances. Did you know that the average person spends six months waiting at traffic lights over the course of his or her lifetime?

While being stuck in traffic is bad enough, dealing with inefficient traffic signals can push an eager or tardy driver to the brink of insanity. Sitting at a long red light at an empty intersection can be irritating, especially when you have somewhere to be. Not to mention the numerous light cycles necessary to negotiate a left turn during a peak time of day.

In these situations, many are left asking, “Why aren’t traffic lights more coordinated and able to adjust to actual conditions?”

To create smarter traffic lights, McCain Inc. introduced its adaptive traffic signal technology in 2015, now known as Adaptive Signal Control Technologies (ASCT). Today, ASCT is gaining traction in communities throughout the U.S., with cites adopting systems to help improve efficiency and ensure the safety of drivers.

This article will examine this innovative traffic control system – specifically, its benefits, applications, and potential.

What is Adaptive Signal Control?

An adaptive traffic control system can be defined simply as a traffic management program in which signal timing adjusts and adapts based on actual traffic demand and patterns. Where conventional systems use pre-programmed, daily signal timing schedules, ASCT’s enable traffic engineers to adjust signal timing to optimize traffic flow. Further, the most advanced systems aim to make adjustments on the fly by incorporating new artificial intelligence (AI) technologies.

The process isn’t complicated. Designed in conjunction with well-engineered signal timing, ASCTs can receive and process data from strategically placed sensors and cameras. After these traffic sensors collect data, patterns of traffic flows are evaluated, and signal timing improvements are developed. Finally, ASCT implements signal timing updates; the process is repeatable and consistent as ASCTs can also update traffic flow in real-time.

An ASCT manages signals across arterials based on conditions with the goal of decreasing travel times and the number of stops drivers encounter. An ASCT also exists to increase corridor speed.

ASCT in Practice: A Case Study

Traffic signal timing is only effective when it can keep up with demand. The primary challenge most systems encounter is arterials with varying or inconsistent traffic patterns.

A practical example of ASCT in action can be found on an 8.2-mile section of U.S. Highway 50 in Pueblo, Colorado. The traffic patterns in this particular stretch of highway are unpredictable, primarily due to schools and recreation sites in the area, as well as inclement weather. Along with heavy usage, the fixed signals in place in Pueblo were a leading contributor to traffic congestion.

The pre-timed signals were allotting a set amount of time to each point of the intersection, alternating between each approach and continually repeating the same pattern. Naturally, this system was not taking into account fluctuations in traffic flow or times of heavy or low traffic.

An adaptive traffic signal was implemented as a solution to issues on this specific portion of Highway 50. The adaptive technology allowed for the adjustment of signal timing in real-time and “on the fly” as necessary to address traffic flow. The proactive ASCT approach allowed for the predictive measurement and responsive adjustment of traffic flow, rather than a systematic and set plan as was in place with the prior system.

Benefits

Adaptive systems are not only an invaluable resource in enhancing traffic flow and efficiency, but can also improve a city’s safety, productivity, and emission rates.

Congestion and inefficiencies are costly both regarding travelers’ time and the fuel consumed in traffic and at stoppages; whereas ASCT saves fuel, reduces harmful carbon emissions and ultimately improves commute times. Time savings are achieved through enhanced throughput and improved traffic flow, which in turn increases drivers’ average speed. Cost savings are another significant driver of ASCT adoption.

The advantage of ASCT for drivers is clear in the benefits outlined above. But adaptive technology also offers a host of benefits to transportation planners, traffic engineers, and infrastructure designers; as well as the broader community and the environment.

The “Why?”

As U.S. cities continue to expand and focus on “smart growth” strategies, adaptive technology will become increasingly important. The system’s focus on efficiency, safety and minimizing waste fits perfectly within the smart growth philosophy and formula.

The Internet of Things (IoT) and technology such as smart cities are also continuing to grow and similarly center on efficiency and waste reduction. As these and other technologies evolve, there will be ample opportunities for ASCT to integrate with such offerings in a holistic and comprehensive solution.

The Bottom Line

Adaptive Signal Control Technologies’ real-time, responsive solution for the management of traffic flow has proven to be effective in creating greater efficiency and improving throughput. However, less than 1 percent of existing traffic signals are utilizing the technology.

But as smart cities, the IoT and other innovative technologies continue to grow and evolve, the presence of adaptive solutions is sure to increase, and that equates to better traffic flows and experiences for all.