Smart Traffic SignsBy:Salil S. GokhalePreston DeFrancisI can communicate!

Smart Traffic SignsDesigning a Smart Traffic SignDemonstrating a Working PrototypeEnhancing the Concept

Think!

Designing a Smart Traffic Sign1. Inclement weather2. Poor or infrequent placement3. Stolen for dorm room decoration

General problem Road signs do not always convey information effectively

Designing a Smart Traffic Sign Interstate Traffic Sign Problem

Designing a Smart Traffic SignSolution: a Smart Traffic SignTransmits information over a wireless linkReplaces or augments traditional road signsDelivers information directly inside a motor vehicle

Designing a Smart Traffic Sign Goal: Deliver a prototype of a Smart Traffic Sign thatUses a 433.9.2 MHz radio frequency linkOperates on power supplies available in cars(receiver) and near interstate signs (transmitter)Outputs information to driver on an illuminated LCD screen

Designing a Smart Traffic SignSystem-level architectureFlash EEPROMStamp PICPIC on the modulesFlash EEPROMLCD displayStamp PICPIC on the modulesTransmitter sends data serially to the receiverTransmitter:Receiver:

Designing a Smart Traffic SignSoftware components for Modules:Transmitter: - Encodes information - Contains ProtocolReceiver: - Decodes Information - Contains protocol conversion program - Includes LCD driver

Designing a Smart Traffic SignPower Supplies:Receiver: Plugs into +12V DC supply of cars cigarette lighter Transmitter: Uses 120 V AC supply of urban bridge structure signs

Designing a Smart Traffic SignSummary of Specifications:

Frequency of operation433.92 MHzReceiver Power Supply12V DCTransmitter Power Supply120 V ACDisplayBacklit LCDAntenna TypeLoop

Demonstrating a Working Prototype Packaging the Modules:Receiver: Small, user-friendly package that attaches with Velcro to cars dashboardTransmitter: Weatherproof package enclosing power supply and module

The First Car!The 1995 Dodge Neon was the first car to have the Smart Traffic Sign installed in it

Demonstrating a Working PrototypeTesting the modules in heavy snow

Approximate distance of operation: 300 ft.

Demonstrating a Working PrototypeTesting the modules in clear weatherApproximate distance of operation: 310 ft

Demonstrating a Working PrototypeConclusions for test:Weather conditions do not significantly impair performanceCurrent minimum range is enough to transmit 3072 characters at 9600 baud, more than enough for the demonstration

Demonstrating a Prototype

Demonstrating a PrototypeSummary of Prototype:Transmitter and receiver housed in appropriate packages Field tests verified the meeting of project goalsDemonstration validated the real-world operation of the prototype

Enhancing the Concept A second generation prototype will:Provide more range: increased receiver sensitivity allows better range from same transmitter powerDecrease size of units: new, smaller modules could make units more attractive

Enhancing the ConceptA second generation prototype will:Use more sophisticated modulation: improve resistance to noiseProvide antenna flexibility: Many types of antenna could provide directional transmission

Enhancing a ConceptFurther Improvements:Lane Specificity - provide lane-specific information, perhaps using a buried antennaUser interface - Determine best method of getting information to driver

Enhancing the ConceptWork has begun on the second generation model

Enhancing the ConceptSummary of Recommendations:Build a second-generation prototype for increased performanceDevelop a method of providing lane specific informationResearch most effective user interfaces

AcknowledgementsProfessor Frank Merat, Project Technical AdvisorProfessor Bob Gura, Project management AdvisorProfessor Sreenath, Course Instructor Dr. R.L. Mullen, Civil Engineering AdvisorBrian LeechTed Square

Smart Traffic SignsI can communicate!Demonstration!