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Traffic Signal System Design and Timing       

Traffic Signal System Design
TEC has extensive experience designing traffic signal and interconnection systems. These systems allow for the ability to coordinate the timing of a system of traffic signals.

TEC has extensive experience in the design and operation of interconnected, traffic responsive “closed loop” signal systems.  We have designed systems utilizing a wide variety of communication medias (fiber, wireless, hardwire, etc.).   All of our systems are designed to respond dynamically to changing traffic conditions.  Coordinated signal systems reduce travel delays, improve traffic flow and reduce vehicle emissions. Our ability to design efficient signal systems is enhanced by our hands-on experience in the operation of these systems.

 

Traffic Signal Operations
TEC has acquired extensive hands-on traffic operations experience. TEC also operates its own in-house traffic control center, where we monitor traffic and adjust signal timing in real-time for local communities. This experience has contributed to our knowledge of state-of-the-art traffic related field devices. We have experience with virtually every type of traffic signal system and most sensing devices. Our staff has extensive experience in Econolite, Eagle, Transit, WAPITI, Quixote, and COMPUTRAN software packages.

 

 

Traffic Signal Inspection
TEC can work closely with contractors during construction to provide guidance and thorough inspection services. As available technologies become progressively more complex, these inspection services become increasingly important for the proper construction and set-up of the traffic signal systems. TEC inspectors have the hands-on experience and knowledge to oversee construction and set-up of even the most complex traffic signal system designs. 

TEC recently completed a contract with ODOT District 8 for District-wide Traffic Signal Inspection and Review. The services provided by TEC included the monitoring of traffic signal or highway lighting work on a full-time basis; to advise the Project Engineer/Supervisor if the materials are in compliance with the specified requirements; and to advise if the traffic signal or highway lighting installation is performed in compliance with the State’s contract requirements. 
               


Traffic Signal Timing

Optimized traffic signal timing is an important and often underutilized method to reduce congestion and improve operations of a roadway network. TEC engineers utilize traffic signal system modeling software to aid in the development of optimized traffic signal timing plans, which can be developed for time of day, directional flow, special events, and other high volume situations. TEC’s staff has extensive experience with Synchro, TRANSYT-7f, CORSIM, VISSIM, VISUM, HCS and TEAPAC.

 

 

 

Timing Plan Implementation
Once signal timing plans have been developed, they must be implemented or installed into the system. TEC has qualified personnel able to provide this service. TEC’s IMSA certified technicians are trained in installing traffic signal timing plans in time-based and closed-loop/master controlled signal system.

Following the installation of timing plans in the system, TEC engineers conduct field observations to determine the effectiveness of the new timing plans and to identify locations where minor adjustments to the timing may be beneficial.To aid in these observations, TEC has the ability to install and operate traffic monitoring camera within the project area.

 

Closed Circuit Television Cameras
TEC Engineering has specified, installed, and operated many closed circuit, pan tilt zoom (PTZ) camera systems that utilize various communications mediums.  TEC operates an in-house traffic signal control center and is under contract with several communities to remotely monitor traffic conditions with PTZ cameras and modify traffic signal timing or implement special plans during incidents.  The cameras are controlled and viewed in real-time using a combination of IEEE 802.11 wireless bridge technology and broadband internet connections. Current video server technologies allow multiple users view and control cameras with varying levels of access.

In addition, pan tilt zoom cameras can also be used as a public outreach program.  TEC has provided video on project and/or governmental websites to allow the public to see the progress of the construction, and to verify traffic conditions prior to traversing the area.

 

Preemption Systems
A traffic signal preemption system is an electrical device or devices that allow a traffic control signal to respond uniquely to the approach of a particular type of vehicle or the occurrence of an unusual condition at or near a highway intersection. Such systems are designed to increase safety and reduce emergency response times.  TEC has extensive experience with both railroad and emergency vehicle preemption systems, included contact closure, sonic, and infrared technologies

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