Skip to main content

'Green' traffic signs

A new solar-powered, wireless automated rotary drum sign system, manufactured by Skyline Products Traffic Division and currently being deployed in Texas, is being hailed as one of the greenest, least expensive, most flexible means of managing traffic flow.
January 30, 2012 Read time: 2 mins
A new solar-powered, wireless automated rotary drum sign system, manufactured by 732 Skyline Products Traffic Division and currently being deployed in Texas, is being hailed as one of the greenest, least expensive, most flexible means of managing traffic flow.

This exclusive technology was designed as part of a breakthrough programme by the 375 Texas Department of Transportation and engineers and consultants 731 Walter P Moore to create more efficient travel through the El Paso, Texas metropolitan area during traffic incidents and closures on the interstate. The new signs require no fibre-optic cable, hard-wired communications or power, making it possible to install them just about anywhere.

The Automated Rotary Drum Sign System is claimed to be the only automated diversion sign of its kind. “Most of the time, they display standard guide sign information. When an incident occurs, information is sent wirelessly and the signs are activated. The drums rotate and provide appropriate detour information,” explains Mark Conway, director of ITS, Walter P Moore.

“Eliminating the need to run power to each site, including trenching, conduit, power, labour and continued maintenance can plausibly save departments of transportation and taxpayers everywhere millions of dollars,” says Adam Lyons, regional sales manager at Skyline Products. “At the same time we are increasing the options for traffic diversion and delivering all the benefits of improved traffic flow, such as reduced driver frustration and reduced CO2 emissions.”

Some 94 sign units, with various message configurations, are currently being installed by long-time Skyline partner, Tri-State Electric, along Interstate Highway 10, US 54 and Loop 375 in El Paso, Texas.

Related Content

  • June 7, 2012
    Camera technology a flexible and cost-effective option
    Perceptions of machine vision being an expensive solution are being challenged by developments in both core technologies and ancillaries. Here, Jason Barnes and David Crawford look at the latest developments in the sector. A notable aspect of machine vision is the flexibility it offers in terms of how and how much data is passed around a network. With smart cameras, processing capabilities at the front end mean that only that which is valid need be communicated back to a central processor of any descripti
  • August 19, 2014
    Skyline’s ATDM systems simplify traffic management
    Dynamic message signs manufacturer Skyline Products, says traffic management is simpler to control with its latest active traffic demand management (ATDM) systems for dynamic management, control and influence of travel demand, traffic demand and traffic flow. The company says solutions that fit into the ATDM system include travel time, active tolling, lane use, arterial and multi-lane dynamic message signs. All feature Skyline’s message display feedback which gives ITS agencies the assurance that their sig
  • June 14, 2016
    SESA signs show flexibility
    SES America has developed a new, more efficient way to display accurate travel times by collecting data directly from travel time providers such as Waze, TomTom or Google, eliminating the need to rely on a vast network of sensors deployed across a road network. "This is a new concept," said Philippe Perut, president, SES America. "Traditionally, large dynamic signs need to be connected to a larger system. We have a standalone sign that can operate independently. There's less risk and less investment for th
  • April 10, 2014
    Smart cameras offer real-time alerts
    Intelligent traffic cameras open up a host of possibilities for traffic planners and controllers alike. If traffic management centres (TMCs) around the world are to cope with the increasing demands of growing traffic flows while maintaining or improving transport safety and efficiency, then video monitoring will have to be supplemented by automated warnings of incidents or deviations. According to Patrik Anderson, business development director at Swedish camera manufacturer Axis Communications, it is no