GridSmart™ is a vision-based traffic monitoring and control system. This system will replace loop systems and obsolete capital intensive central control systems by using patent-pending heuristics and genetic algorithms at the local intersection level creating an automated, proactive real-time traffic management system. Our vision- based system allows us to create traffic vectors for the whole intersection, reaching out 100 yards or more, to track real traffic flow patterns and demands.
The patent-pending GridSmart™ system uses panoramic imaging to capture the full view of the intersection. Co-located image processing creates vectors of all vehicles, trucks, buses, bicyclists and pedestrians. The location, direction, and speed of all the individual vehicles feeds in to our algorithms to generate optimum signal control, independent of any central authority, and free of the need to tie multiple intersections together.
Using disruptive innovations in our design, local control of traffic management is dynamic and adaptive. Unusual events are handled gracefully, whether it is accidents in or near the intersection, or the end of a sports event. This system is not timing based. Rather the focus is on maximizing the smooth flow of traffic, reducing stops and starts, and thereby reducing pollution and carbon emissions.
GridSmart™ is “opportunistic”, using artificial intelligence to take advantage of naturally occurring ebbs and flows in traffic in all directions to optimize the driving experience for travelers in any direction. GridSmart™ has advanced safety features to minimize the effect of red light runners (RLR), saving lives while protecting the environment through reductions in harmful exhaust from frequent and unnecessary stopping and starting.
Weighting in GridSmart™ algorithms is applied to trucks and buses to optimize their flow through intersections. Creating traffic vectors allows us to enhance intersection safety, anticipate red-light runners, sense emergency vehicles, and extend the intersection timing to mitigate intersection crashes.
GridSmart™ communicates with existing controllers which will retain the responsibility for intersection fail-safe operation. The existing infrastructure for powering and supervising lights is retained.
Additionally, traffic statistics are available for down-loading for use in intersection planning and road management.
GridSmart™ will be available to Aldis Advantage™ Customers in 2008.