Test Polygon for Dynamic Traffic Control
The base of the autonomous mobility test polygon in Pilsen is complete. It was launched in June 2023 in Bory – from Mánesova Street/Klatovská Street to the Univerzita tram stop.
In seven locations, we equipped intersections and roads with smart technologies that can monitor city traffic, control traffic flow, prioritise emergency vehicles or trams, or detect pedestrians and cyclists at crosswalks. Modern technologies are helping to improve traffic flow and congestion. Future plans include extension of the system to the rest of the city and use of the polygon to test an autonomous tram being developed in Pilsen.
During the implementation in Bory, it was necessary to equip the intersections and vehicles with the appropriate systems. Intelligent cameras with elements of artificial intelligence enabling image analysis, strategic detectors controlling. For example, the tram switch and RSU units receiving the relevant signals were installed at seven locations: on Klatovská Street at the intersections with Mánesova, Sukova, Dvořákova and Kaplířova Streets and at the exit of the ambulance station. Then on Dobřanská Street at the exit from the Fire Brigade and on the tram loop at the Univerzita stop.
The main part of the solution was the implementation of a central element. This is a special system that acts as an extension to the traffic control centre. The central element concentrates all important data, which is then distributed according to clear rules to the elements at the lower levels of the C-ITS system (RSU/OBU) or to the parent national C-ITS central elements.
Communication between C-ITS and all elements of the C-ITS system is bi-directional. The system processes traffic information from the connected units. It allows manual input of messages and information as well as comprehensive monitoring of system status.
The OBU units, which can send signals to devices at intersections and ensure smooth passage through the area, have been installed in five trams operated by Pilsen City Transport Company (PMDP), one ambulance car and three fire brigade vehicles. To test the anti-collision system, Lidar technology will be installed in a public transport vehicle in addition to the SITMP vehicle for testing and polygon management.
Aims of the project:
- To increase the possibility of dynamic traffic management in the city.
- To improve traffic flow in busy locations in Bory.
- To create a test polygon for autonomous mobility, with future use for an autonomous tram.
Results of the project:
- Introduction of modern technologies for smooth and safe road traffic.
- Ability to dynamically manage road traffic in the area.
- Faster passage of trams and emergency vehicles due to priority at intersections.
- Development of an application for simulation and testing of C-ITS services.
We implemented the test polygon project from December 2022 to June 2023. PMDP and SVSMP (city-run organisations) are involved in its testing and current production phase together with us. The implementation was made possible thanks to a grant from the European Union, the National Recovery Plan and resources from the Ministry of Regional Development of the Czech Republic.
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