Researchers Explore Use of Virtual Traffic Lights

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University are exploring the use of connected vehicle technology to generate virtual traffic lights that reduce traffic congestion.

Such a virtual traffic signal, reflecting real-time traffic conditions, would be electronically displayed on a vehicle’s windshield as the driver approaches the intersection.

“When the driver is looking through the windshield, they’ll see that going straight is a green light and turning right is a red light,” explains Ozan Tonguz, an electrical and computer engineering professor at the university. “It’s a seamless process; the driver does not get involved in this decision making.”

The virtual traffic light would turn off once the driver passed through the intersection. A Carnegie Mellon University start-up known as Virtual Traffic Lights LLC is working on commercializing this patented technology for large-scale deployment in major cities around the world.

Virtual traffic lights have the potential to mitigate traffic congestion, reduce commute times, decrease the carbon footprint of vehicles, and lead to a greener environment, according to researchers.

To view a CNN video report on the project, click here.