These schoolchildren are testing a new system that allows them to cycle to school with greater peace of mind. Photo: AFP
The way it works is very simple. The small 3D-printed box can be fixed to the bike of one of the adults accompanying the children, or simply held in the hand.
When approaching a particular intersection, it sends a military-grade encrypted signal that is immediately picked up by a control unit previously mounted on a traffic signal post.
This automatically triggers the traffic lights to cycle through to red, stopping traffic for 45 seconds. This gives all the children time to cross the area on their bikes without facing any risks from traffic.
Note that the system only works between 8.30am and 9am, when children are travelling to school. The system is currently being tested in the Shawlands area of Glasgow.
The route includes an extremely busy and therefore potentially dangerous intersection.
The initiative is a first of its kind, and could inspire others.
The city council is already planning to develop similar routes to other schools. Note that this initiative was made possible thanks to a partnership with the Smart Technology startup, which created the small wireless transmission kit. – AFP Relaxnews
