Applying Wireless Technologies to Pedestrian Safety Systems

websitebuilder • March 13, 2019

Wireless Technologies Fill Different Roles in Pedestrian Safety Systems

By nature a wireless system only replaces wires, but it doesn’t replace the information passed on by the medium. Depending on what information needs to be communicated and/or its context, different technologies are deployed.

Solar Powered System

For example, some people refer to a solar powered system as wireless, since no external wires to the system (AC power lines) have to be connected for the power source.  In this context, no information is communicated wirelessly.

Solar Wireless Sign — Santa Rosa, CA — Lightguard Systems

Wireless Sensors

Another commonly deployed technology addresses wireless detection – identifying the presence of pedestrians at a crosswalk entrance in order to activate the safety systems.  The generic term for this application is sensors.  There are a host of sensor technologies designed for this purpose, where some fill the purpose efficiently and inexpensively, while others are costly and less effective.

Wireless Activation Devices

A third technology can be thought of as a wireless switch – like a garage door opener, or TV remote control, or a key fob, etc.  The device transmits a signal to wirelessly activate a switch. These are deployed in crosswalk safety systems at all entrances to a crosswalk so that the signaling devices at each entrance don’t have to be physically connected to each other in order for the entire system to operate.

Remote Wireless Transfer

A fourth technology is an extension of the third.  It facilitates bi-directional communication for remote information transfer. The key term here is remote.  This application is deployed to operate equipment without actually being on site at the crosswalk controller.  This technology is the most advanced and also supports the US DOT Integrated Traffic Systems goals.


LightGuard Wireless Crosswalk Alerting System Component Option List

Outputs:

RRFB-F

RRFB-FS

Illuminated signs

Overhead
beacons

Other

Electrical loads:

MUTCD compliant flash patterns, brightness/beam-patterns, 1w, 12vdc

MUTCD compliant flash patterns, brightness/beam-patterns, 2w, 12vdc

MUTCD compliant border enhanced, 5w, 12vdc

Interface for single beacon1,2or dual alternating beacons1,2, 25w max, 12vdc

Extensible message signs1, voice message & locator tones


Inputs:

PBA R10-25

PBA

PBA Guardian

T6

Other

Activation Mechanisms:

Manual Piezo push button mechanism (4EVR), 0.5w 12vdc, MUTCD R10-25 sign

Manual Piezo push button mechanism, (4EVR), 1w, 12vdc, LED embedded sign pair

Manual Piezo push button mechanism, programmable voice message, 8w 12vdc, LED

Automatic IR (wireless) passive directional pedestrian detection bollard sensor 2w 12vdc, LED courtesy light

Motion sensors2, Microwave detectors1,2, loop detectors1,2

Power

Low

Medium

High

GRID (120VAC) or Solar

Solar: 30w min Solar Panel, 35AH Battery, 3A max

Solar: 55w min Solar Panel, 100AH Battery, 5A max

Solar: 80w min Solar Panel, 200AH Battery, 10A max


Controller

Configurable/Programmable, LCD, keypad, scheduled activations via internal RTC, data logging, supports up to 4 different outputs simultaneously


Wireless Communication
900MHz Industry Standard RF, FCC approved, secure node/gateway connections, supports 1 Master + 1 Slave up to 1 Master + 4 Slaves2 for multiple crosswalks managed from one controller


Upgrades
Enlighten1 Flash Rate, Bollard inputs, Multi-Slave (4 max), Dual Alternating Beacons, Multi-output Master


Static signs
Arrow, Pedestrian, school, etc…


1 – not supplied by LGS | 2 – additional upgrade required


LightGuard Solar Wireless System with Power, Outputs & Inputs Options

LightGuard Solar Wireless System — Santa Rosa, CA — Lightguard Systems

Pictured above: LightGuard’s Solar Wireless LGS-WRRFB-F System with power, outputs and inputs system options/call-outs.

System Configuration:
Controller — Configurable/programmable, LCD, keypad, scheduled activations via internal RTC, data logging, supports up to 4 different outputs simultaneously

Wireless activation hardware— 900MHz industry standard RF, FCC approved, secure node/gateway connections, supports 1 master + 1 slave up to 1 Master + 4 Slaves, 2 for multiple crosswalks managed from one controller

Upgrades — Enlighten1 flash rate, bollard inputs, Multi-Slave (4 max), Dual Alternating Beacons, Multi-output Master

Static signs — Arrow, pedestrian, school, etc…

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St. Patrick’s Day is a time for celebration—parades, parties, and plenty of festive cheer. However, with the excitement comes increased traffic, crowds, and a higher risk of unsafe driving. Whether you’re heading out for a night on the town, joining a parade, or simply enjoying the holiday, prioritizing road safety is key. Here are some essential traffic safety tips to ensure a fun and accident-free St. Patrick’s Day: 1. Plan Ahead: Designate a Driver If you plan on drinking, make sure you have a safe ride home. Impaired driving is a serious risk—not only to yourself but to everyone on the road. Arrange for a designated driver, use a rideshare service, or take public transportation. A little preparation can prevent a tragedy. 2. Be Aware of Road Closures Parades and celebrations often lead to road closures and detours. Check local traffic reports in advance to avoid unexpected delays. Knowing alternate routes ahead of time can save you from frustration and keep traffic flowing smoothly. 3. Watch for Pedestrians With large crowds and celebratory distractions, pedestrians may not always be paying attention. Always yield at crosswalks and stay extra vigilant in busy areas, especially near bars, event venues, and parade routes. 4. Stay Focused—Avoid Distracted Driving Between checking maps, responding to messages, and managing passengers, distractions can be tempting. Keep your eyes on the road and avoid using your phone while driving. A moment of distraction can lead to an accident. 5. Stay Alert for Impaired Drivers Unfortunately, drunk driving spikes on holidays like St. Patrick’s Day. If you notice a driver swerving, speeding, or behaving erratically, keep your distance and report them to authorities. Your vigilance could save lives. 6. Buckle Up—Every Trip, Every Time Seat belts save lives, no matter how short the drive. Ensure that everyone in your vehicle is buckled up before hitting the road. 7. Plan Your Parking Strategy Expect crowded parking lots and limited spots near popular events. To avoid the stress, look up parking options in advance or carpool with friends. Walking a short distance from a well-lit, secure parking area is a small trade-off for peace of mind. 8. Be Patient and Expect Delays Traffic congestion is almost guaranteed on St. Patrick’s Day. Stay calm, give yourself extra time to reach your destination, and remember that arriving safely is more important than rushing. 9. Keep Emergency Contacts Handy In case of an emergency, have local law enforcement and towing service numbers saved in your phone. Being prepared can make all the difference if something unexpected happens. Enhancing Safety with Lighted Crosswalks Installing a LightGuard Systems lighted crosswalk in your community is an effective way to reduce pedestrian and cyclist accidents. These crosswalks use in-road warning lights and flashing LED signs to alert drivers when pedestrians are crossing, improving visibility—especially in low-light conditions. By increasing driver awareness and compliance with traffic laws, lighted crosswalks make streets safer for everyone. Celebrate Responsibly—Safety Comes First St. Patrick’s Day should be fun and memorable for all the right reasons. By planning ahead, driving responsibly, and staying alert, you can help ensure a safe holiday for yourself and others. Let’s make this St. Patrick’s Day one to remember—for the fun, not the risks. Don’t rely on luck—plan ahead for safety! 🍀🚦
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