Trafik Stockholm uses data gathered from Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to alleviate congestion

Trafik Stockholm (TS) has chosen Blip Track technology from Denmark-based Blip Systems to alleviate congestion on the city's road by providing live traffic information via real-time and historical travel flow data from road users’ Bluetooth and Wi-Fi devices. Travel times are continuously updated in line with the behaviour of road users so that by considering their route and the time they depart, they can help to reduce bottlenecks and keep traffic moving. The technology provides a birds-eye view of the
November 20, 2017 Read time: 3 mins

Trafik Stockholm (TS) has chosen Blip Track technology from Denmark-based Blip Systems to alleviate congestion on the city's road by providing live traffic information via real-time and historical travel flow data from road users’ Bluetooth and Wi-Fi devices. Travel times are continuously updated in line with the behaviour of road users so that by considering their route and the time they depart, they can help to reduce bottlenecks and keep traffic moving.

The technology provides a birds-eye view of the traffic network and statistical information on the travel times, average speed, dwell times, and movement patterns.

Additionally, the empirical data is used to detect driving time anomalies to pinpoint road sections and intersections where driving times deviate from the norm. These can include scenarios such as construction projects, incidents, roadwork, faulty traffic lights and other factors.

If driving times deviate from the typical driving time, the system automatically raises a flag. As the system logs and visualises all deviations, traffic engineers can create historical performance and reliability reports. Managers are provided with an overview of the current situation and tendencies over time, to allow for road improvements and development where needed.

Otto Astrand, traffic analyst at TS, said: “We use the data for measuring the development in traffic density, speed and congestion. South of Stockholm, where we first installed the solution, will be a roadwork zone for many years ahead, when building the Stockholm Bypass. It will not only affect the main highway (E4) running through the work zone, but also the surrounding roads. With BlipTrack we are able to measure the capacity and traffic flow in real-time in and around the area. This allows us to take proactive steps to initiate countermeasures, if traffic build-up should occur. It also helps us to understand various traffic-related matters, such as the impact of traffic control, weather-related patterns, congestion patterns at roadworks, accidents and events, and driving behaviours and patterns. With this information, we can evaluate and validate existing traffic models and make informed decisions about where to prioritise expansions and optimisations to help the daily commute.”

Astrand added that the analysed data is also used to display live traffic information on signs around the city. “We also use the data to display live travel times via Trafiken.nu, which is our traffic information hub, and on around 40 VMS [variable message signs] placed around the city. The travel times help road users to make informed decisions about their journey, both in real-time and for those planning their daily commute."

Urban Traffic Control

Related Content

  • Use of ITS technology grows more prevalent in safety applications
    January 30, 2012
    Transportation agencies and governments are using ITS technology to protect critical infrastructure from terrorist attack and other threats to economic security and public safety. Andrew Bardin Williams reports. It is no secret that we live in a potentially dangerous world. Terrorism as seen on 9/11 in the United States, subsequent attacks in London, Moscow and Madrid and other acts of violence across the developing world have made vigilance the watchword for ensuring security. Key infrastructure is now bei
    Read More
  • Vehicle identification systems aid dynamic bus operations
    April 24, 2013
    David Crawford looks at a global trend towards more efficiency in less space As buses gain increased profile in the public transport mix needed for modal shift, attention is turning towards improving terminal layouts for more efficient handling of services and passengers. Locations, too, tend to be in central areas of cities, where sites are restricted and land values high. Enter the dynamic bus station, which uses modern vehicle identification systems to optimise space use and streamline service operation
    Read More
  • Iteris snaps up TrafficCast for $16m 
    December 8, 2020
    Acquisition's software is expected to enhance Iteris’ ClearMobility platform 
    Read More
  • Inrix real time traffic and travel information for UK roads
    October 24, 2012
    Inrix used the 19th ITS World Congress to announce that it has been awarded a multi-million dollar contract by Network Information Services (NIS) in the UK to provide real-time traffic speed and travel time information for the Highways Agency’s National Traffic Information Service (NTIS).
    Read More

Highlighted Content