Traffic congestion is a major problem in many countries. Philips Electronics lighting division is developing ways of using lights in the road surface to reduce congestion. Dynamic road marking (DRM) can be used to convert a two-lane into a three-lane road during rush hour, allowing for more traffic. DRM systems can also merge lanes. In DRM, painted white lines are replaced with lines of light emitting diode (LED) markers. DRM also increases safety. Testing has shown that the lanes are clearly visible. The possibilities of DRM for hard shoulder running, dynamic crossings, tunnels, and dynamic bus lanes are outlined. LEDs were chosen as the light source for DRM as they last up to 100 times longer and are up to three times more efficient than standard incandescent lamps. DRM is suitable for all asphalt surfaces and does not affect the drainage capacity of porous asphalt. Pilot projects in the Netherlands show that DRM can reduce traffic congestion by almost 60%. (Author/publisher)
Samenvatting