FAQs
The InSync System
What is InSync?
InSync is an adaptive traffic control system that reduces stops at traffic signals by up to 90 percent. It eliminates the need for traditional timing plans by using integrated digital data-collecting sensors that know how many cars are at each intersection, how long they’ve been waiting. In additional, it communicates with neighboring signals on how many cars are coming their way. InSync is 100-percent compatible with existing controllers and hardware and automatically optimizes light changes through the use of sophisticated and proven mathematical algorithms. Because InSync increases roadway capacity, it can delay or eliminate costly road construction, prevent safety hazards and reduce accidents.
How does InSync recognize vehicles?
The processor interprets the pixel data from the camera’s images. InSync utilizes sophisticated image processing algorithms that allow it to tolerate changes in ambient light and filter out stationary background images so that it can “see” the moving traffic.
How does InSync influence the signal controller?
InSync has a module that converts analog traffic signal operations to digital. This eliminates transition, the need to run all intersections on a common cycle length and having to hold green on Main Street until the fixed point in the cycle. With the digital capability, it is possible to initiate one phase pair at any given time. InSync interfaces with the controller through the detector card rack and only inputs detection calls for the phases that the optimizer deems necessary. The controller is set to run in the free mode and responds to the calls issued by the InSync optimizer.
What data does InSync record?
- Stop delay
- Vehicle count
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Level of Service: A-F (based on a nationally standardized set of criteria)
- A = 0-10s stop delay
- B = 11-20s stop delay
- C = 21-35s stop delay
- D = 36-55s stop delay
- E = 56-80s stop delay
- F = > 80s stop delay
How long does InSync store the data?
InSync stores the data for 30 days.
Does InSync store historic video streams?
No, InSync does not store historic video streams although it is possible. We do not recommend this practice for practical reasons, i.e., storage and legal issues.
Does InSync record vehicles that run red lights?
No, InSync does not record vehicles that run red lights.
Does InSync differentiate between trucks, cars and motorcycles?
No, not literally speaking. This function is not necessary for the system to optimize traffic signals. InSync sees the large trucks as several vehicles. This helps the system to allow more time for their movements through an intersection.
What are the components inside of the InSync processor?
The components include a motherboard with memory cards; an I/O board and fans all wired to a power supply; a wire for 110 volt power; ports for serial, USB and video connections; Ethernet patch cables for connection to detector cards; and RG Pigtail for connection to the back panel of the cabinet for returning the light status to the processor.
How does InSync put its calls into the controller?
InSync puts its calls in by communicating with the controller via detector cards placed in 2 or 4 channel standard detector card racks.
How do detector cards work?
Detector cards are placed in racks that correlate to specific phases of traffic movements. Each card is manually set to place a call on a specific channel when the InSync processor deems to activate the selected phase. Depending on the type of cabinet, either 2 or 4 channels can be used per card. The card is placed in the proper slot in the rack, based on the phases that were selected.
When InSync decides to switch states, the detector card generates an electrical call signal. These calls are submitted to the traffic control center and await its decision and timing for a green light.
How does “fog mode” work?
Fog mode works by seamlessly changing the lights according to real time demand to changing the lights to the pattern of splits recorded in the historic data. This data was recorded on that particular day and time of day from the 4 previous weeks. When the processor can no longer distinguish the contrast (fog) zones drawn in at initial configuration, it will shift over to fog mode and display that fact on the browser image.
What are the factors that could threaten the proper functioning of InSync?
Power failures, fog/snow, software malfunctions, hardware breakdowns are some of the factors that can threaten the proper functioning of InSync.
What happens to the traffic signals if InSync totally breaks down?
If InSync totally breaks down, it automatically falls back to “maximum recall,” the parameters that have previously been programmed into the controller.
What happens if a controller is knocked out?
The intersection will go into “flash” mode if the controller is knocked out.
What happens if the electricity to the intersection is knocked out?
Some have a battery-driven backup system of electricity. Others would just go black and the intersection would temporarily be treated as a four-way stop.
Will InSync work with other video detection systems?
At this time, InSync will not work with other video detection systems.
What do InSync customers receive for their $25k per intersection?
Clients don’t just receive parts, they receive a fully-optimized arterial network. The investment of $25k includes all engineering time to deploy InSync and optimize the arterial, a two year warranty on all parts, and a two year software support agreement that includes software upgrades.
How can video detection fail?
Camera enclosures are usually exposed to the elements and as a result, wind and lightning can cause equipment failures. Fortunately, a camera can be replaced relatively quickly and inexpensively.
Additionally, the unique Fog Mode allows InSync to operate in an intelligent way even when video detection has been compromised. This is based on traffic patterns that have been observed during the previous 30 days.
Video detection traditionally has issues with shadows, shake and “pavement colored vehicles.” The InSync system is very tolerant of these problems and is rarely impacted by these issues in an operationally significant way.
Does traffic going in a cross-direction trip detection zones in the other direction?
No, traffic going in a cross-direction does not trip detection zones in the other direction. The video detection algorithm looks for movement in the direction of the lane of traffic. Motion that is primarily perpendicular, or opposite, the expected flow of traffic is ignored.
Can InSync integrate advance (i.e. upstream) video, microwave or wireless sensor detection into its computations?
Yes, but it is not normally necessary. Integration with microwave and other sensors has not been deployed in the field yet.
How do IP digital cameras compare to analog cameras?
The images from the IP digital cameras are sharper and will soon be the standard. The cameras are Ethernet connective and the data they collect can be transferred more accurately and efficiently than analog cameras. The digital images can be maintained via the processor by automatic adjusting of the color, brightness, and contrast and their aperture can be digitally opened and closed on different sections of the lens.
What is the difference between viewing the intersection directly from the camera and via the InSync processor?
Viewing the intersections on the network by connecting directly to the cameras’ IP addresses (pre-processed view) allows a large number of people to simultaneously see streaming Motion JPEG or MPEG images at up to 45 frames/sec. Viewing the intersections via the processors’ IP address (post-processed view) does not allow the same level of video streaming but it does show the name of the intersection, the approach direction, the date/time, various zones and vehicle detection indicators, the signal light color (red, yellow or green), the scheduled states, and the time tunnel initiations and endings.
What are the components in an InSync camera enclosure?
The components of an InSync camera enclosure include a high-end Axis Ethernet camera outfitted with a Tamron zoom lens, a heater, a sun shield and protective lens for the camera, wires and connectors for a 24-volt power supply cable and a CAT-5e cable for Ethernet connection.
How is a camera zoomed/focused and how does it stay focused?
The camera is initially zoomed and focused manually by the technicians who install and mount the camera. The adjustment knobs on the lens are then tightened down permanently. No further changes in zoom or focus are necessary.
What voltage do the Ethernet cameras work off of?
The Ethernet cameras require 24 volt AC. The power is converted from 110v to 24v through the transformer installed with the system.
What needs to be connected to the camera for the system to work?
An Ethernet cable and 24v power cable need to be connected to the camera.
What happens if one camera of a four camera intersection is blinded?
Calls based on historical information on the “green splits” are put into controller for that particular direction when one camera is blinded.
What happens if all four cameras are blinded?
InSync will go into “emergency (fog) mode” and input historical green splits until the cameras are seeing again when all four cameras are blinded.
What is a state?
A state is a set of phases (maximum of 2 phases) that can be green at the same time. A complete set of states will fully describe all possible situations that can occur at the intersection.
Can InSync work with existing timing plans that involve other intersections?
The system can switch to Detector Mode at predefined times of day to allow an existing timing plan to operate. For example, InSync can switch to a morning rush hour plan that involves many intersections, including some that are not part of the InSync corridor. InSync can then resume optimizing the operation of the intersections in the corridor when that timing plan completes.
What are sequences?
Sequences describe the order of distinct states. For example, an intersection with a Northbound turn and North/South through phases could have a leading sequence of North Thru/North Turn, followed by North Thru/South Thru, and a lagging sequence of North Thru/South Thru followed by North Thru/North Turn.
How many sequences are possible at an intersection?
Sixteen vehicular phases are possible at an intersection, not counting any pedestrian phases that may be configured. However, some sequences and states may not be permitted or relevant at any given intersection, i.e., a split phase intersection.
Do all possible states have to be allowed at any given intersection?
No, not all possible states have to be allowed at any given intersection. Traffic engineers can simply select the states to permit or not permit in the initial configuration. Some states are not even safe because of the physical architecture of the intersection.
Can InSync interface with existing controllers and cabinets?
Yes, InSync is fully compatible with all controllers and cabinets that are capable of accepting detector inputs. InSync’s plug and play components are quick and easy to install and “overlay” over existing systems. Signal cabinets can easily accommodate the processor (16.5”x 3”x 9” rack mounted or 5”x 9.5”x 9” shelf mounted) and site equipment panel.
What are the components placed inside of an InSync-outfitted traffic cabinet?
The components include: one power strip, a transformer that converts 110V AC to 24V AC to connect with the power cable (pulled by electricians) for the video cameras, InSync processor, lightning suppressors and switch (for more Ethernet ports), Ethernet cables connected to detector card rack, InSync detector cards, RG Pigtail that electricians connect to the back panel, Ethernet cables from the cameras pulled into the box by electricians, and an optional 7” monitor and integrated keyboard/mouse.
What kind of cabling is needed to outfit an intersection with InSync?
CAT-5e (Category 5 Enhanced standard Ethernet twisted pair) shielded, outdoor-rated cable and a 24V 3-conductor (grounded-type) traffic power cable to run from the traffic control cabinet underground to the mast arms upon which each camera is mounted.
What does the RG (Red/Green) Pigtail cable connect to?
The RG Pigtail cable connects to the electrical back panel in the traffic cabinet that initiates the changing of the traffic lights and the processor. This information is used to let the processor know when the controller is listening to it or not, and to record red/green splits for historical data.
What is the purpose of the switch in the cabinet?
The switch in the cabinet expands the number of Ethernet ports available for cameras, the processor, laptops, and other switches for communications purposes.
What is the Ethernet switch in the cabinet connected to?
The Ethernet switch is connected to the InSync processor, the lightning surge protectors and Ethernet cables that go to the cameras, and the required outside network connection.
What does the transformer in the cabinet do?
The transformer converts the 110v electricity to 24v for the Ethernet cameras. It also has 4 amp fuses attached to its wires to protect the cameras in case of a power surge.
Adaptive Traffic Control
What is adaptive traffic control?
Adaptive traffic control represents various methods of controlling and optimizing traffic signals along an arterial/roadway network in response to real time traffic. Most recently, some industry experts have begun to classify adaptive systems as “responsive adaptive” and “real-time adaptive.” InSync is an example of a real-time adaptive traffic control system.
What are the historic hindrances to the deployment of adaptive traffic systems?
Some of the obstacles of adaptive traffic systems include:
- Unreliable methods of viewing traffic
- Insufficient data collection in real time
- Significant hardware upgrades and changes
- Too expensive
- Too complicated to operate
- Re-training and consulting costs
How does InSync’s optimization occur along an arterial?
There are two levels of optimization: global and local. The global optimization provides progression through the main corridor by creating a guaranteed “green band” or “tunnel” on one or two phases at each intersection. These tunnels will always be served by the system at the appropriate time, guaranteeing that platoons of traffic can move efficiently through the corridor. The system can dynamically adjust the time between these tunnels, known as the period, based on the demand seen at all intersections throughout the system.
The local optimization works around these tunnel times to provide service to all other non-coordinated phases. It uses a type of greedy algorithm to select the sequence of phases that has the lowest cost. In other words, it aims to minimize the waiting time for all phases based on waiting times and queue lengths.
InSync does not need to use advance detection to optimize an arterial, which distinguishes it from most legacy ATCS (adaptive traffic control systems).
What are the 3 decisions that InSync’s “brain” must make in order to optimize a traffic signal?
- When to initialize a state
- The duration of a state
- The order of states
How and when does the local optimizer take control?
The local optimizer is always in control of its intersection. It just gives top priority to the time it reserves to serve the global green bands. After those have been serviced, it is free to decide to switch to any allowable state at any time.
What is a period for the InSync system?
A period is the time between the start of one green tunnel and the next green tunnel. The system will typically adjust the period dynamically in response to real-time traffic conditions.
Do green lights on coordinated phases only occur during tunnels?
No, green lights on coordinated phases do not only occur during tunnels. A light can be green outside of a tunnel if InSync decides to extend a tunnel to serve heavy traffic that is still being observed on that phase. Additionally, the system may return to that phase after other phases have been served unless it has been configured to not allow early release.
Why would traffic be stopped on a coordinated phase?
Once a tunnel has been served, the InSync system can decide to stop serving traffic on that phase at any time in order to provide service to non-tunnel phases. This generally happens when traffic has “gapped out” – when either the density of the traffic has dropped below a configured threshold or the configured amount of time has passed since the last car was detected.
Why would InSync turn an empty phase green?
Tunnels are always initiated regardless of whether the intersection detects any cars present. This allows traffic that is heading toward the intersection to be served without requiring them to stop. If no traffic appears during the tunnel, the system will immediately switch to an occupied phase.
Does InSync avoid creating a yellow trap situation?
Yes, each turn can be marked as protected or permissive and can be marked to allow or disallow lagging turns.
How is InSync configured?
InSync is configured via a web browser along with inputting the proper internet protocol (IP) addresses and passwords. An untrained person can quickly create and configure the video detection zones and the fog zones through the software prompts.
How long does an adaptive corridor take to configure?
Once hardware is in place, the Rhythm Engineering team performs the initial setup and works with the local traffic engineer to run each controller in the free mode. This entire process takes less than an hour per intersection so a typical corridor can be turned on within a day. After this process, the Rhythm team will observe the corridor during the first few weeks, at no extra cost to the customer, to set the parameters of the InSync system to ensure it is running optimally and has learned the specific traffic patterns.
How do the costs between InSync and other forms of vehicle detection compare?
InSync costs $25,000 per intersection and is much less expensive than the traditional adaptive systems that sell for $60,000 and up. InSync is more expensive than traditional and simple loop detection and is about the same as our competitors’ most comparable video detection products.
Traffic Engineering
What is the percentage of signals that are timed in the U.S.?
Only 10-20 percent of signals are timed in the U.S. However, 70-90 percent of traffic signals use outdated technology, are poorly timed and cause unnecessary delays. The process of signal timing is expensive, time-intensive and the results quickly become outdated. For many traffic engineers, it is not worth the effort to keep the signal timing updated because of limited staff numbers and resources.
How is a traditional timing plan put in place?
To create a timing plan, staff or consultants go into the field to observe traffic flow pattern and volumes. Traffic engineers take this data and plan out the traffic signal timings for specific days and times of day.
Is there a need for a timing plan with InSync?
No, there is no need for traditional timing plans with InSync. This is one of its main benefits. InSync does, however, have the option to work in concert with a humanly engineered timing plan and yield to a timing plan.
What is a cycle length?
A cycle length is the total time required for a complete sequence of signal phases. It must be common to all intersections within the coordinated system.
What is a split?
A split is the portion of green time given to a particular phase within a cycle.
What is an offset?
An offset is the time difference between the fixed point in the cycle at an intersection as related to the fixed point in the cycle at another intersection.
What is a dilemma zone?
A dilemma zone is the time/space in an approach to an intersection that a motorist may be conflicted as to stopping or going through the traffic light.
What is an actuated signal?
An actuated signal occurs when all approaches have a detection device.
What is a semi-actuated signal?
A semi-actuated signal occurs when side streets and left turns have a detection device and the major through movements receive the default greens. Most signals run semi-actuated.
What are the 3 possible modes for a traffic signal?
Free (operate independently of upstream of downstream signals), Coordinated (operate by a timing plan that is applied to upstream and downstream signals); and Flash (all four approaches flash red; i.e. at a 4-way stop).
How does video detection differ from loop detection?
Properly installed loops are the most reliable way to detect a vehicle. However, unlike video cameras, they are disruptive, and even dangerous at times, to install. Loops often break, they are regularly paved over, and they can be affected by some kinds of bad weather. They do not record any traffic data and they do not estimate queue lengths so they cannot be easily used in an adaptive system. They also do not allow off-site monitoring of an intersection. It is generally not cost effective to deploy enough loops to collect enough data to do effective traffic adaptive control, although there are some legacy systems deployed across the country by agencies that have done this.
How do inductive loops work?
Loops are embedded in the roadway. They create a magnetic field that is disrupted when a metal vehicle passes over them. This phenomenon is called Electromagnetic Induction, which sends a “call” directly to the traffic control cabinet via the detector cards in traffic cabinets.
How can inductive loops fail?
A loop requires a sizable piece of metal to disrupt the magnetic field enough to detect a vehicle. Smaller vehicles, such as bicycles or motorcycles, can easily be missed.
To operate, a loop must remain continuous. If the loop breaks from shifting pavement or construction, it generally requires cutting into the pavement to lay a new loop.
What are the different kinds of traffic control cabinets on the market?
NEMA (National Electrical Manufacturers Association) TS-1, NEMA TS-2, 330, 332 and 336 cabinets that house a 170 traffic controller. InSync is fully compatible with all of these models.
What is the name for the internal control feature within a cabinet that keeps the conflicting phases of traffic lights from turning green at the same time?
A conflict monitor. InSync’s processor cannot override a conflict monitor (as in the movie, The Italian Job!).
What is an RJ45 port?
An RJ45 port is a standard Ethernet port.
What is a CAT-5e cable?
A CAT-5e is a standard Ethernet cable containing twisted pairs of wire.