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THE LATEST NEWS FROM THE WORLD OF TRAFFIC VIDEO DETECTION
Issue 14, december 2008
www.traficon.com
Editorial
Long-term Partners on the Set Traficon’s corporate strategy is based on three important pillars: user-friendly products, best overall performance and total customer satisfaction. The first two concepts are clear: we want products that perform better than all the rest, and we want our products to be as simple as possible when it comes to both installation and configuration. But what do we mean by ‘total customer satisfaction’? Although total customer satisfaction sounds like an old cliché, I firmly believe it’s not just an abstract concept. Let me explain. Nothing but the truth Every new video detection project is the start of a new relationship. A number of different people come together with a common goal: to implement an intelligent detection system that contributes to more efficiently managed and monitored traffic. So, for Traficon, total customer satisfaction means that we see it as our duty to use our years of worldwide experience to guide our customers from A to Z − informing you about the benefits of our system, as well as (and more importantly) about the system’s limitations and possible pitfalls. It's simply not wise to promise something you cannot deliver. Only by providing honest and objective information right from the start can we ensure that the system’s performance matches your expectations at the end! New Challenges With new video detection projects on the horizon all over the world − including France, Norway, Chile, Croatia, Australia, China and Saudi Arabia (to name just a few) − I’m convinced that the only way to go is by continuously investing in long-term partnerships. People working with people can only be successful if the relationship is based on mutual respect and trust. For Traficon then, total customer satisfaction simply means: You can count on us! B — Jo Versavel,
Managing Director
cover story
Traficon’s AID is Conquering the World… Freeway incidents cause injury, traffic congestion, increased environmental pollution, and cost millions of dollars every year in delay and damage. When an incident occurs, minimising emergency crew response time is crucial. Rapid response increases the survival rate of those with serious injuries and minimises traffic jams and potential secondary incidents. Today’s video detection systems set the standard in quick detection and have become a necessary tool for intelligent traffic management. Automatic Incident
Detection (AID) technology is conquering the world by proving its effectiveness day after day. This newsletter highlights three worldwide reference projects where Traficon is currently installing its VIP incident modules: we bring you the latest news from the AID front on the Palm project (UAE), the M7 Clem Jones Project (Australia), and the Black Sea project (Turkey). Also included in this issue are 10 tips & tricks on how to manage your AID project successfully. B
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The insider › december 2008
based on a true story
SNAP SHOTS NEWS FROM AROUND THE globe »» More than 20 tunnels in Norway are equipped with Traficon’s AID system. This year, Traficon installed its VIP incident modules in the Frödeas tunnel, Kleivene tunnel, Eidet tunnel,… »» Traficon wins contract to equip the longest road tunnel (San Eduardo, 1.4 km) in Ecuador. »» Frank De Bondt is Traficon’s new Product Development Manager. We are convinced he will guide our R&D engineers to lots of innovative new products! »» Following the Aberdeen and Lion Rock tunnels, the Cross Harbour tunnel is now the third tunnel in Hong Kong to use Traficon’s video detection technology. 44 cameras and VIP-T modules are monitoring traffic day and night.
The Exotic Palm Project Dubai (U.A.E.)— Traficon was chosen to provide incident detection and traffic data collection along the main arterial road of the world's first artificial island − the iconic Palm Jumeirah in Dubai. The technology included 18 detection units and the contract was won with Siemens Building Technology.
Traficon also won the contract for the Palm Jumeirah tunnel – 26 detection units − in cooperation with Japanese Kinden Corp. "The Palm Jumeirah vehicular tunnel is in fact the third tunnel to be equipped with Traficon's incident detection system," explains Field Project Manager Steven Van Caet. “The two others are the airport tunnel and Al Shindagha tunnel, which is part of the Falcon project.” The Palm project is famously ambitious. The island anticipates 20,000 visitors a
APPEARANCES FAIRS & EXHIBITIONS WORLDWIDE »» January 2009, 28-29 Park+Road (Kortrijk, Belgium) Stand 675 »» February 2009, 4-5 Atexpo (Paris, France) Stand 33 »» March 2009, 18-20 Intertraffic China (Shangai, Chine) Stand C217B »» April 2009, 21-23 Traffex (Birmingham, U.K.) Stand B30 »» May 2009, 12-15 Autostrada Polska (Kielce, Poland) Stand 64 »» June 2009, 1-3 ITS America (Washington, U.S.A.) Stand 517 scene 2
"Traficon is justifiably proud to be winning contracts for this '8th Wonder of the World' which demands top performance." pedestrian detection, an IP-addressable board for communication, a software platform for collection, and storage of traffic events in a relational database. T-Port, Traficon's software platform for collection and storage of data and video sequences serves as the operator's interface for 24/7 and real-time monitoring. It includes a powerful event alerting and reporting function. Traficon is justifiably proud to be winning contracts for this '8th Wonder of the World' which demands top performance. "The Emirates − more specifically, Dubai and Abu Dubai − are considered references for the Gulf region and the Middle East,” says International Sales Manager Koen Soenens. “Success depends on proven experience and key references." B
»» Barry Jan, from the ARRB Group (Australia), is the winner of Traficon’s IPod prize draw at the Roadex/Railex show in Abu Dhabi. Now, as Barry listens to his favourite music, he’s thinking of a fantastic video detection supplier! »» An open-minded company, Traficon will always listen to what you have to say. To encourage your feedback, you can now add your comment to every message published on our website. Don’t hesitate to speak up: we definitely appreciate your opinion.
day, to be transported from the mainland via the 1.4 km, six-lane highway. Key components of Traficon's system include: traffic incident detection and flow monitoring, traffic data collection and
The iconic Palm Jumeirah in Dubai, U.A.E.
More info & image source: http://www.palmjumeirah.ae
based on a true story
222 AID Modules Keep Watch in Australia's Longest Tunnel! Brisbane (Queensland, Australia)—
The 6.8 kilometre Clem Jones (Clem7) − Brisbane’s first major road tunnel − is one of the largest infrastructure projects ever to be undertaken in Queensland. Scheduled for opening in 2010, it will be Australia's longest tunnel, linking five major motorways and arterial roads on the north and south sides of the Brisbane River. As these roadways carry 400,000 vehicles daily, this new north-south bypass tunnel will significantly reduce the city’s traffic volume. Nico Verstraete, International Sales Manager, explains Traficon’s role: “Traficon has been chosen to install its intelligent incident detection system in the Clem7 tunnel, which includes two 4.8 km double-lane tunnel tubes. Our VIP-T modules assure quick, automatic detection of traffic incidents such as stopped vehicles, queues, wrong-way drivers or
smoke. Our system − which will include 222 monitoring cameras − will prevent an incident from escalating into a major disaster. So, road users are guaranteed a higher level of safety. Together with our project partner, United Group Ltd, the video detection system will be installed and completed in 2009.” More info and image source: http://www.clem7.com.au
Clem Jones Tunnel (Clem7) will be Australia's longest tunnel
The insider › december 2008
based on a true story
Traficon Keeping 20 Tunnels Safe Along the Black Sea Coast! Black Sea Coast (Turkey)— This year, Traficon won a contract to implement a video detection system in 20 tunnels along the Bolaman-Persembe state expressway on the Black Sea coast. The successful implementation of Traficon’s AID system in the NefiseAkçelik tunnel in 2007 has led to the start of a new, gigantic and exciting adventure: the Black Sea road project!
The Turkish freeway management authority, KGM, is currently building a new 350 km four-lane road from Espiye to Sarp Batumi along the Black Sea − 20 tunnels with a total length of 28 km will be equipped with Traficon’s video detection system. Six existing tunnels will also be integrated into the overall traffic management structure. The new traffic management and control system – delivered by Siemens - will be located in Trabzon, from which the monitoring processes for all of the tunnels will be coordinated to ensure continuous operation. Seven control substations − which can control their sections completely independently, if necessary − will be linked up to the control centre. The concept of a main traffic control centre with seven control substations was created so that optimum use could be made of the local specialists, which are rare in this thinly populated region.
(primarily in the longer tunnels) to detect any possible problems: stopped vehicles or sudden vehicle speed changes, wrong-way drivers, pedestrians and traffic jams. Foreign objects on the road and smoke will also be detected, activating alarm systems. Working together Muslahattin Parlak from Siemens Turkey − the company coordinating this huge tunnel project − explains why Traficon was selected for the video detection part: “First of all, a video detection system detects an incident much faster than a traditional loop system. The system’s flexibility and lower operation and maintenance costs are also crucial for us as system integrator. Why Traficon? The Traficon system is user-friendly, simple, sensitive and reliable. And working with the Traficon people is always a pleasure − they’re professional, provide proper support and maintain good customer relations.” B
Stijn Vandebuerie, Traficon’s Marketing & Communications Manager: “We decided to participate simply to show the public how powerful today’s video detection technology is in curing traffic troubles. This was the first time a lot of people had heard about this intelligent technology. So, seeing our product in action really impressed them. Also, thanks to the unflagging enthusiasm of our Traficon team members, I’m sure we now have many more local video detection fans!” B
Customer Satisfaction Survey 2008 The Boleman-Persemble state expressway along the Black Sea coast
Optelecom-NKF and Traficon Co-star in AID Platform Development
Lode Caenepeel, Traficon’s sales director: “We constantly look for partners that can help us enhance our video detection products. This strategic partnership is the perfect example of a collaboration that will lead to a more powerful Automatic Incident Detection system that is beneficial to the whole ITS industry. With our intelligent detection algorithms inside the Siqura Trafficserver™, I believe this Optelecom-NKF product will
On ‘Open Company Day’ in October, Traficon opened its doors to the public and welcomed over 1200 people. ‘Open Company Day’ is a large-scale event, offering a unique opportunity for participating companies to show their economic activity to a large group of interested people: employee families, potential customers, neighbours, students, future employees…
behind the scenes
product spotlight
Optelecom-NKF and traficon are joining forces on a dynamic new incident detection solution. The companies are jointly developing the siqura trafficserver™, an IP-based automatic Incident detection (AID) solution for traffic monitoring.
Over 1200 People Visit Traficon HQ
Over 1200 people visited the Traficon offices on ‘Open Company Day’
Video detection In the first half of 2009, an automatic video detection system will be installed
Behind the scenes
enrich the lives of those traffic authorities moving towards IP to improve traffic flows and safety." Siqura trafficserver™ is expected to be released commercially in Q2 2009.
When direct customers and end-users of Traficon’s video detection solutions worldwide were invited to express their opinions about, and degree of satisfaction with, Traficon’s products and services, the results were excellent − almost too good to be true! Almost... Traficon achieved an overall satisfaction score of 95.2% − an excellent score, and an increase over previous survey results. The score also confirms that our customers are ‘very satisfied’ with both Automatic Incident Detection projects (96.7%) and intersection vehicle presence applications (100%). Although we’re very pleased with these results, we’re definitely keeping our feet on the ground. We all know there is always room for improvement. But this survey is an extra incentive to continue to provide only the very best to Traficon customers! B
Ethan Maxon and Lode Caenepeel introducing the Siqura C-60 E-AID video server prototype (source: www.routeonepublishing.com)
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The insider › december 2008
application spotlight
Successfully Deploying AID Systems in Only 10 Takes If
you have been tasked with installing an incident detection system for the first time, you need to consider a number of important issues. To ensure that performance matches expectation, Traficon has used its vast experience to create an AID reference guide: a series of 10 easy-to-follow steps, designed to make the process run smoothly for everyone involved. Start with intensive research on video analytics
Traficon advises interested parties to take some time for detailed research to understand the basics of video detection technology and to investigate reference projects that are similar to yours in order to gain from the experience of others. Determine clear and realistic video detection goals
As AID technology offers a wide range of possibilities, it is absolutely essential to bring all parties (video detection supplier, system integrator and end customer) together to fine-tune needs and wishes. At the kick-off meeting, partners come together to define clear and realistic goals for the project. The camera is the eye of the system
As video image processing depends on the quality of the image received, a high-quality input source is required. Determining the type of camera to be installed, the number of cameras and the camera positions is a crucial phase in creating a high-performance detection system. A chain is only as strong as its weakest link
The importance of strong partnerships cannot be underestimated. A video image processing project can only be successful if all parties fulfil
their tasks and deliver quality products and service. The role that the system integrator plays in the process is vital: the system integrator is responsible for all of the cabling, mounting the cameras and installing the rack system − so the basics of video detection must be fully understood. Fine-tune the system to filter unwanted events or alarms
In the first phase of setting up the system and configuring the VIP modules, Traficon engineers always make the system’s detection setting too sensitive. The reason: to avoid missing a real incident alarm. However, this approach often leads to an unacceptable number of false or unwanted detection alarms. So, after the initial configuration, an extensive evaluation is conducted on all alarms. Using this analysis, various VIP parameters are then re-adjusted, thus filtering out unwanted events without reducing the original detection rate.
Be able to ‘trace’ the project anytime anywhere
Create a tool (e.g., a project website) that allows all parties to consult and verify the status of the project at anytime, anywhere. The tool archives software modifications, all site interventions, all open issues, etc. Keeping this tool up to date is the task of the AID project manager. Include after-warranty and preventive maintenance
To ensure that the system performs to the highest standards over time, Traficon advises discussing after-warranty maintenance − including updates and upgrades to the system − during the contract negotiations. Preventive maintenance contracts should also be discussed: these can include annual system performance checks and camera maintenance on a regular basis.
Do not leave before the operator trusts the system
Before the system goes live, it is tested (and tested again) to make sure it performs as agreed by all parties. Dialogue constantly with the operator during this testing phase, because he or she needs to be able to work with the system easily. A system that is too complex or that proves to be more of a hindrance than a help can be shut down at this stage. An operator will use the system only when he is confident that he can rely on it. Evaluation: the final meeting
After an intensive testing phase, all parties come together for a final evaluation. Not only the system but also the coordination among all parties is evaluated. If there are no further comments from the customer at this stage, Traficon considers the project to be successfully completed.
Good preparation is the key to a successful AID project! If you want to receive the full version of this reference guide, simply contact traficon@traficon.com
THE TRAFICON STUDIOS how to reach us worldwide Traficon NV (HQ) [t] +32 (0)56 37 22 00 [e] traficon@traficon.com Traficon USA LLC [t] +1 (702) 851-5880 [e] traficon@traficonusa.com Traficon Asia LTD - Hong Kong [t] +852 2987 8177 [e] traficon@traficonasia.com Traficon Asia LTD - Shangai [t] +86 21 6423 2115 [e] traficon@traficonasia.com Traficon Asia LTD - Beijing [t] +86 10 8532 2807-607 [e] traficon@traficonasia.com Traficon France SARL [t] +33 686 55 27 25 [e] traficon@traficonfrance.com Traficon Germany [t] +49 (0) 5446 20 65 32 [e] traficon@traficongermany.com
VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION
WWW.TRAFICON.COM TRAFICON : “THE INSIDER - ISSUE 14” k JO VERSAVEL l STIJN VANDEBUERIE a MUSLAHATTIN PARLAK NICO VERSTRAETE KOEN SOENENS e STIJN VANDEBUERIE g ROUTE ONE PUBLISHING STEVEN VAN CAET SARA DUNLEA £ BARRY JAN ETHAN MAXON FRANK DE BONDT w GUSTAV Copyright © MMVIII Traficon. All rights reserved. None of the materials provided on this publication may be used, reproduced or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including recording or the use of any information storage and retrieval system, without written permission from Traficon N.V.
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Retrospective
The insider › december 2008
The rise of a traffic technology icon TrafiCam 1st generation
In 2003, Traficon brought a product onto the market that can be described – without exaggeration – as revolutionary: TrafiCam.
April 2003
TrafiCam 2nd generation
April 2006
TrafiCam (Wireless version)
November 2007
TrafiCam (Solar-power version)
April 2008
TrafiCam Collect-R
What is this unique product and how does it work? TrafiCam is essentially a solution that combines a CMOS (complimentary metal-oxide semiconductor) sensor (camera) with video detection technology. Primarily used for stop bar and advance detection at signalled intersections, its goal is to reduce vehicle waiting time, which has a number of positive effects. For a start, the traffic flow gains are obvious: reducing waiting time increases throughput on the network. And smoother flowing traffic brings additional benefits to the environment (and also to the driver’s pocket). Sitting at traffic lights is a major cause of – avoidable – vehicle emissions.
November 2008
Mid 2009
TrafiCam x-stream
Traficon was the first company to launch such a product. Although the original TrafiCam has evolved somewhat over the years, the ethos surrounding it is still the same: to combine the benefits of video detection with the benefits of sensor technology in one easy-to-use, compact box.
"The ethos surrounding it is still the same: to combine the benefits of video detection with the benefits of sensor technology in one easy-touse, compact box."
Cute and lovable
The second generation TrafiCam was launched in 2006, partially in response to a trend that was sweeping across the town-planning and architectural/engineering communities: ‘sympathetic design’. It’s not often that a traffic management product can be regarded as ‘sexy’ − but somehow TrafiCam manages to fit this description. Fitting perfectly on traffic lights, this secondgeneration product is sympathetic to its environment, svelte and stylish. Hi-Tech made easy
Although video detection is a sophisticated intelligent technology, TrafiCam couldn’t be easier to use. Installation is quick and simple − and then you just connect the device and start working. Configuration takes less than five minutes and can be performed by any user – no specialist knowledge is required. Continuously evolving
But Traficon did not stop there. In April 2008, we added the first solar-powered stand-alone video detection sensor to the TrafiCam product range. And to secure even greater presence in the market, we’ll continue to expand the TrafiCam range to focus on a variety of new applications, such as data collection, wrong-way detection, and others. At the recent ITS World Congress in New York, Traficon introduced the TrafiCam Collect-R and the upcoming TrafiCam x-stream.
The insider › december 2008
Introducing TrafiCam x-stream! At the 15th ITS World Congress in New York, Traficon introduced TrafiCam x-stream, a new video detection sensor for intersection control. The basic concept continues: combining CMOS sensor and video detection technology on one platform for vehicle presence detection. The new element is the IP addressability, allowing local and remote control and MPEG4 compressed streaming video. Product Manager Robin Collaert explains why this ‘x-stream’ version of TrafiCam was developed: “IP networks are a huge trend in the traffic industry right now, and Traficon prides itself on responding to market demands. TrafiCam x-stream is an IP-addressable video detection camera. Streaming video at full-frame rate is now available with this new generation.
The user is able to configure and check the system and to monitor the intersection both on-site and from a remote location. Yet even with these new features, this sensor is more than ever an 'x-streamly' user-friendly product. Only two wires and it’s connected, and configuration takes less than five minutes.” Lode Caenepeel, Traficon Sales Director, adds: “In line with the product’s history, the process of evolution remains as democratic as possible. Not all users will need video streaming for their particular applications – stand-alone vehicle presence detection, for instance. So, instead of phasing out our previous generation TrafiCam in favour of its more powerful alternative, Traficon offers potential customers the fairest choice for their individual needs.”
“IP networks are a huge trend in the traffic industry right now, and Traficon prides itself on responding to market demands."
Facts & Figures _Traficon has passed a major milestone: 10,000 TrafiCam video detection sensor sales. What makes this news even more exciting is that this is a young product that is consistently proving itself to be a durable alternative to inductive loops. So the best is yet to come! _This vehicle presence sensor is currently installed in 53 countries worldwide. The main users are located in Germany, Lithuania, South Africa, Spain, Poland, USA/ Canada and Mexico. _70% of the TrafiCam sensors are used for "Stop Bar Detection" and 30% for "Advance Detection".
Can We Collect Data With TrafiCam? Yes, We Can! Traficon recently added a clever combination of TrafiCam platform and field-proven data collection algorithms to its product range: the TrafiCam Collect-R! TrafiCam Collect-R is a cost-effective solution for gathering traffic data, monitoring traffic flow and emulating or simulating loops on highways and inter-urban roads. It can be used for temporary or permanent applications. Plus, its low power consumption is suitable for a stand-alone solar powered installation.