A group of American researchers from Carnegie Mellon University recently conducted an extremely interesting experiment: they were able to regulate the movement of cars not using the usual traffic lights, but using an automatic signal between cars. Moreover, it turned out to be extremely effective.
In their study, the scientists used a data exchange system built into the vehicle's on-board computer. It transmits information about GPS coordinates, speed and direction. The computer analyzes the information received from all neighboring cars and, on the basis of this, gives the driver information about whether it is possible to go or it is better to stop and let other road users pass.
The experiment was carried out at one of the unregulated intersections. The new system was found to save 20% in time, which would significantly reduce congestion. When revised, this figure can grow up to 30%. At the same time, the system remains effective even in the conditions of US traffic rules, according to which the driver is obliged to stop before the intersection in any case. Even if no one else is driving along the intersection.
At the moment, the system has only one drawback: it cannot take into account the movement of pedestrians in any way. Of course, you can include them in this scheme using an application on your smartphone, but someone may not have a phone with them. Or it may be discharged. In addition, the system only works at intersections where the roads converge at right angles. Other configurations are not yet supported.
Vladimir Kuznetsov