A safety critical network for distributed smart traffic signals

Distributed control can improve and expand the current methods of intersection management by using a different infrastructure, having sensors to provide detection of pedestrians and vehicles and using a smart control process that can use this information. Since January 2006, researchers at the University of Idaho's National Institute for Advanced Transportation Technology (NIATT) have investigated methods of applying network-based distributed control in the operation of traffic signal lights. Public safety is a top priority and it is necessary to ensure safe and reliable operation of the control system for industry and public acceptance. In this paper, we describe a current traffic controller system and then discuss the hardware and software architecture for implementing a safety critical network using a time-triggered protocol for distributed smart traffic signals.