Emergency vehicles, such as fire-fighting engines, and ambulances generally have the need to cross or pass intersections under the control of traffic signals. This must be accomplished in the least amount of time possible so that the function of an emergency vehicle can be successfully fulfilled. It is generally understood that the more quickly an emergency vehicle can reach the scene of an emergency, the greater are the chances that the victims involved can be helped or successfully treated.
The system disclosed provides an ambulance with the ability to remotely control traffic light controllers so as to provide signals that will allow the emergency vehicle to easily pass through intersections without undue delays. Preemption of the traffic signal is carried out when the ambulance is approaching. This system also indicates whether the ambulance has already passed through the intersection. The signal from the ambulance is transmitted to the controller at the intersection by means of infrared radiation. A sensor interfaced with the traffic light controller would stop conflicting traffic and allow the emergency vehicle right-of-way, to help reduce response times and enhance traffic safety. The emergency vehicle is provided with a green light. The intersection will maintain the information in buffer about other trigger events on same or nearby moment, and as soon as one way will be clear it will automatically allow to second side traffic to pass on. Once the ambulance passes the intersection, then intersection will clear the buffer and normal operation of the traffic controller is resumed.
Post time: Dec-22-2016