Trends

How AI in traffic lights can optimise traffic and protect the environment

AI in traffic lights can make a decisive contribution to mobility transition in the future.

AI in traffic lights: traffic analysis and adaptation

The key to optimising traffic flow lies in analysing and adjusting control of traffic lights. The way it works is easily explained:

AI in traffic lights uses sensors, cameras or other detection devices to gather information about the current traffic situation. This data may include the number and type of vehicles, the speed at which they are driving, their direction of travel and the traffic density. The traffic data that has been collected in this way is then sent to a central processing unit where AI algorithms analyse the said data so as to identify traffic patterns, but also traffic trends. This data is then used as a basis with which to adjust the various traffic light phases. Such adjustments may include lengthening or shortening the green phases for certain directions of travel or they could make the traffic light phases more coordinated.

The goal is obvious: the flow of traffic is to be optimised – and in the future this can also be calculated in real time. This means that nobody will be waiting at a red light when there is no traffic on the other roads in the same scenario.

AI in traffic lights can also communicate with vehicles and other road users (e.g. via the so-called Car-2-X communication) in order to exchange information about the current traffic situation. This data can be used to further optimise traffic flow and to provide vehicles with information about upcoming traffic light phases or congestion. This will also bring advantages for route planning in the future.

Networking of vehicles and traffic lights

Car-2-X communication, also called Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) communication, is a wireless communication system that networks vehicles, traffic infrastructure and other road users. Car-2-X communication can also be an important component of AI in traffic lights if the lights are included in the networking system. Then, for example, in compatible vehicles, the length of the red phase can be shown. There were test trials in this direction in Berlin a good many years ago.

More fast-flowing traffic thanks to AI in traffic lights

By using artificial intelligence in traffic lights and networking with the appropriate vehicles, traffic jams can be avoided and traffic flow improved. The intelligent control of traffic light phases helps to reduce unnecessary waiting times at intersections. This allows vehicles to navigate their way through traffic more quickly and efficiently, which in turn saves time and fuel and, thus, not only protects the environment but also one’s wallet – a classic win-win situation.

Reduced environmental impact thanks to AI in traffic lights

One of the biggest benefits of AI in traffic lights is the reduction of environmental impact. The optimised traffic flow and shorter waiting times at traffic lights reduce fuel consumption. This leads to lower CO2 emissions and consequently contributes to climate protection.

AI in traffic lights is a promising approach to improving the traffic situation in cities and also to reducing environmental pollution. In combination with other technologies such as autonomous driving and smart traffic guidance systems, the intelligent traffic infrastructure of the future can make a decisive contribution to mobility transition.

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