The development and implementation of the “Pedestrian Crossing Smart Road Stud” as part of an intelligent pedestrian crossing system, often referred to as “smart zebra crossing” or “diversified zebra crossing,” represent a significant technological advancement in traffic management and pedestrian safety. These systems are designed to enhance the visibility and safety of pedestrian crossings through responsive and dynamic lighting solutions. Let’s delve into the specifics of this technology, its applications, and the challenges encountered during its implementation.
Technology Overview:
Smart road studs are integrated with sensors and LED lighting systems that activate based on the presence of pedestrians. These studs are typically solar-powered but can also be connected to a power supply for enhanced brightness. The two main technologies used are:
- Ground Solar Road Studs with Thermal Imaging: This system uses thermal imaging to detect pedestrians. When no pedestrians are detected, the studs remain inactive. However, upon detecting a pedestrian, the studs on one side of the crossing begin to flash, alerting drivers to slow down and yield.
- Wireless Synchronous Buried Solar Road Studs: These studs do not require a physical connection between them or to a control box. They operate synchronously to provide a visual indicator that is simple and reliable.
Advantages:
- Enhanced Safety: By providing dynamic and responsive lighting, these smart road studs significantly increase the visibility of pedestrian crossings, especially at night or in poor weather conditions.
- Installation Efficiency: The installation of these systems does not require extensive roadwork such as cutting or extensive wiring, particularly for solar-powered models.
- Environmental Sustainability: Solar-powered models contribute to energy conservation and reduced reliance on non-renewable power sources.
Challenges and Solutions:
- Insufficient Brightness: In areas with intense ambient lighting, such as brightly lit urban environments, the luminosity of solar-powered studs might be insufficient. This issue was particularly noted in Shenzhen.
- Solution: Switching to power-operated buried LED solar road studs connected to a 220 V AC supply allows for increased operating current and, consequently, higher brightness levels. Although this requires more complex installation processes including grooving the pavement, it effectively addresses the brightness issue.
Implementation and Feedback:
The implementation in Shenzhen, despite the initial challenges with brightness, was ultimately successful. The brighter, powered studs received positive feedback from both the traffic authorities and the public. The enhanced visibility at night significantly improved the safety for pedestrians crossing the road.