INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY TRAVNIK

TRAFFIC FACULTY
TRAFFIC SIGNAL SYSTEMS
Edna Hajder S-24/16

Supervisor: Aida Terzi, MA

November, 2017.
Contents

INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................. 3

1. HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT OF TRAFFIC SIGNALIZATION ....................................... 4

2. FUNCTIONAL TRAFFIC SIGNALING DIVISION .................................................................. 7

2.1. TRAFFIC SIGNS ..................................................................................................................................... 7

2.2. MARKINGS ON THE PAVEMENT ................................................................................................. 7

3. DEFINITION OF LIGHT TRAFFIC SIGNALIZATION.......................................................... 8

4. TRAFFIC SIGNALS ................................................................................................................... 10

5. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS OF LIGHT TRAFFIC SIGNALIZATION ...................... 11

CONCLUSION .................................................................................................................................... 12

REFERENCES .................................................................................................................................... 13

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 INTRODUCTION

The life of a modern man is unimaginable without the traffic system which occupies an
important place in the economy and economic progress of each country. The world is
becoming more unified by traffic, by connecting and associating people are being enriched,
and the spaces get a new, higher value. Daily transport of large quantities of goods and
hundreds of millions of people is carried out.

By increasing the number of passengers and motor vehicles on the roads, there was a problem
of road safety. The causes of frequent traffic accidents that end with fatal consequences or
serious injuries are inadequate vehicles in traffic, inadequate driver and pedestrian culture,
road traffic inadequate traffic, insufficient number of traffic signs, etc.

The highest number of traffic accidents on the roads occurs at crossings at the same level.
Cross traffic management can be a rule of the right hand, horizontal and vertical signaling,
and light signaling. Light signaling is the most effective and safest. The conditions that the
crossing must satisfy to be able to access traffic signal regulation by signal lights are the
traffic load on the main and secondary directions, the density of pedestrian traffic, the speed at
the intersections of crossings, the width of the pavement, and the like.

Highly designed and implemented light signaling can significantly increase safety at
crossroads of road roads and minimize traffic accidents. Today's demands of modern traffic,
in most cases, can only satisfy crossing with signaling devices that work semi-closed or fully
traffic-related. Such crossings regulate traffic in accordance with the current requirements and
loads of the road network. This allows for continuous traffic flows and increases the cross-
sectional bandwidth.

The aim of this work is to describe and analyze in detail all aspects of light signaling, its
impact on traffic safety and the application of technologies used in the production and
maintenance of light signaling.

Traffic signals are information that is sent to participants in order to make traffic in an orderly
manner, safe, efficient and fast. The term refers in the narrower sense to messages of variable
content that, as a rule, are referred to traffic signaling devices, as opposed to permanent ones,
e.g. traffic signs.

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 1. HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT OF TRAFFIC SIGNALIZATION

Road regulations and traffic signs, as they are today, are not older than a hundred years. The
international conventions that dealt with this issue were preceded by a period of steam
omnibus from the beginning of the 19th century. This is the time when railway traffic was
confirmed to be cheaper, faster and more comfortable than horse rails. At the same time,
railway traffic signalization was developed, which is therefore older than signage in road
traffic.

At that time, in the most developed industrialized country in the world, in England, steam-
driven steam cars, steam omnibuses, and up to twenty passengers were increasingly
encountered on the roads.1

In 1836, the law was called "Locomotive Acts", which was supplemented in 1865. This law
can be considered as the first traffic regulation on speed limits on roads. He instructed each
driver to have a rider standing 100 meters in front of the vehicle, who would wave with a red
flag and alert passers-by to the coming danger. It was enough for the coachman to lift his
hand and the vehicle had to stop. The law stipulates that in the event of any accident, the
driver of the steamer shall bear the responsibility.1

This law, also known as "Red Flag Acts", was abolished only in 1896, and resulted in
England's lagging behind other developed industrial states in the construction of all types of
vehicles for mechanical propulsion.

The rule on the side of the movement is based on the old customs that the drivers inherited
from the coachmen. English carriages drove the car along the left edge of the road, so the first
regulations enacted this custom, extended by English colonies. All other nations followed
French customs and laws and kept the right side of the road while driving.2

When the first motor vehicles emerged on the roads, which were more and more often
crossing state borders, and that is the time of the beginning of the 20th century, there was a
need to establish international regulations that would equalize the opportunities on all roads.
The first International Convention on Road and Automobile Transport was made in 1909 in
Paris. Later conventions were followed in other cities, and the most important one was
Geneva from 1949, when the Road Signaling Protocol was passed, and then its amendments
from 1968 adopted by the United Nations International Conference on Road Traffic.2

Forms of traffic signs were already determined by the first Paris Convention. Signs of danger
are given the shape of a triangular triangle with a top upward, the signs of the explicit orders
are round, and the signs are rectangular. Over time, their number has changed - from the
initial ten to today's two hundred (without additional plates and other signs and markings).

1
Paagi S.: Vizualne informacije u prometu, Fakultet prometnih znanosti, Zagreb 2004., str. 75-76
2
Paagi S.: Vizualne informacije u prometu, Fakultet prometnih znanosti, Zagreb 2004., str. 76-77.

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The latest amendments to the 1968 Traffic Signaling Protocol have introduced the octagonal
stop sign of a replacement instead of the dotted circular triangle. It is the only sign of such a
form, and with its special appearance it wanted to emphasize its importance in relation to
other signs.

In the middle of last century, the construction of the railways was in full swing while the road
mechanical vehicle was only in its infancy. It is therefore not surprising that the road traffic
signal was invented by the railway signaling engineer, J.P. Knight. This device was similar to
the railway traffic light of that time with a handle and a red and green light for night signaling.
The semaphore was set up in London in 1868 at the intersection Bridge St. and the New
Palace Yard, near the parliament building. It had movable arms with the meaning of free
movement when placed high, while in the lowered position meant the necessary attention
when moving. At night, the appropriate information was given by a flashlight with red and
green light. As a light source, gas was used, which was probably the cause of the explosion of
the device and thus the cessation of its use. After a few days of use, the lamp exploded.3

Picture 1. The first traffic light

Source: https://www.prometna-zona.com/

Modern electrical signaling is an American invention. The first green and red lamps were
installed in 1914 in Cleveland. Third, the yellow light was first put up in 1918 at a traffic light
in New York. That New York traffic light hung above the intersection and showed free and
closed directions for all four drives at once. Today, the usual traffic light signal was first put
into operation on October 9, 1917 in Detroit, USA. The device was carried out in accordance
with W.P. Fnou.

3
Paagi S.: Vizualne informacije u prometu, Fakultet prometnih znanosti, Zagreb 2004., str. 77-78

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 Picture 2. The first electrical traffic light in Cleveland

Source: http://www.signalfan.com/

In Europe, a tricolor signal was first placed in 1926, in England at an intersection in

Wolverhampton.

After the Second World War, due to the rapid increase in the number of vehicles, a
comprehensive modernization of signaling devices began. Contemporary, traffic-controlled,
volume-controlled, volume-controlled, signal-controlled devices are rapidly expanding.
Electronic computers began to be used in 1959 in Toronto. Processing of a large number of
traffic parameters, optimization tactics for controlling orders, high processing speeds, etc.
today they have applied process computers in all signal systems.

In order to unify and standardize traffic signs at the international level, a new agreement was
adopted at the Vienna Road Transportation Conference in 1968, under the auspices of the
United Nations. In this Vienna Convention of 1968, efforts were made to include as much as
possible the most widespread system in the Draft Convention of 1953 and the Protocol used
by Europe. This convention is also the basis for our traffic signs. Later, there were still
agreements aimed at facilitating communication between nations and states.

In spite of efforts for greater universality, it has been found that it is not easy to achieve
harmonization in the use of traffic signs. There are numerous technical, economic, political
reasons, as well as different habits of people, which complicates harmonization. The need to
unify and simplify the signs is most pronounced in countries with high traffic density.

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 2. FUNCTIONAL TRAFFIC SIGNALING DIVISION

Signalization is notified and alerted to traffic participants about the traffic conditions, thus
achieving safe and undisturbed traffic. Traffic signalization is of particular importance for
every traffic participant. The safety, speed and convenience of the movement of participants
in the traffic depends on the clarity of the received information.

Signalization in traffic must be simple, clear and legible, visible, identical, universal,
continuous, appropriate design and set in the appropriate range.

Traffic signs, signaling and road equipment are:

traffic signs
traffic light and light markings
markings on the pavement and other surfaces
road equipment
signaling and traffic calming equipment
tourist and other signaling4

2.1. TRAFFIC SIGNS

Traffic signs are placed vertically in relation to the traffic surface, and most often they consist
of a lining of the traffic sign, pillar and fastening elements.5

Traffic signs include: signs of danger, signs of explicit orders, notice signs, supplementary
boards, other signs and marking.

Traffic signs are set to the right in the direction of the vehicle's movement. If due to specific
field conditions the transparency of the traffic sign is not sufficient, the sign can be placed in
the middle above the pavement or on the left side of the road.

2.2. MARKINGS ON THE PAVEMENT

The markings on the pavement are placed on the roads with a modern pavement. They make it
easier to navigate traffic, and the disadvantage is that they are not visible to snowfall and they
need to be restored often due to quick use up.

4
Pravilnik o prometnim znakovima, opremi i signalizaciji na cestama, Narodne novine br. 33/05
5
I. Legac i koautori; Gradske prometnice, str.: 321.

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The markings on the pavement are usually white (yellow spots denote places where parking is
prohibited, margins, etc.), up to 0.6 cm in height, and can be drawn, glued, embedded or
embossed in the dashboard.

The markings on the pavement can be divided into: longitudinal labels, cross labels, other
markings on the pavement and objects along the pavement.6

According to the durability of the markings, horizontal signaling can be: temporary (short-
lasting) and permanent (long-lasting).

The durability of the markings on the pavement is more of a characteristic of the material
used for its installation. In practice, it is used to indicate the purpose of the tag. Namely,
temporary signaling is applied in emergency situations, road works or other interventions on
the road or street, while "permanent" markings on the pavement are used in the normal
exploitation of the road or street.7

3. DEFINITION OF LIGHT TRAFFIC SIGNALIZATION

Light signaling includes light traffic signs and light markings. Light traffic signs are:

traffic lights for traffic menagment

traffic lights for pedestrian traffic
traffic lights for tram traffic
traffic lights to mark the crossing of the railway at one level
traffic lights for marking works on the road, various damage, etc. which are dangerous
for traffic

Task light traffic signs are:

establishing a regular and orderly flow of traffic

increasing traffic flow safety
establishing an approximately continuous flow of traffic
interruption of traffic flow in streets with heavy load to pass pedestrians and vehicles
from streets of minor importance
giving priority to one type of traffic ahead of the other
directing traffic to certain directions and tapes
warning the driver to dangerous places (crossing the railway line, etc.)

6
Cerovac V.: Tehnika i sigurnost prometa, Fakultet prometnih znanosti, Zagreb 2001., str. 257
7
Zdravkovi P., Stani B., Vukanovi S.: Horizontalna signalizacija, Saobraajni fakultet, Beograd 2003. str. 5

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Traffic lights traffic control devices (semaphores) can be placed on the pillar next to the
pavement at a height of 2.0 - 3.5 m. If they are hanging above the pavement, the height from
the lower edge of the device to the upper surface of the pavement must not be less than 4.5 m.
The radius of the traffic light on the roads with a smaller turnover is at least 20 cm, and on
roads with faster and more intensive traffic of at least 30 cm.

Traffic lights for traffic management are devices with three-way lights (red, yellow and
green). These lights are usually placed along the vertical axis one below the other, as follows:
red light at the top, then yellow and green. Green light may have an additional character in the
shape . Luminous characters with red, yellow and green light can be used to manage traffic on
multiple traffic flows at the same time or for each tape separately. If a special character is
placed on each tape, it must have an arrow on it. of an arrow placed in a circle of black.

Monochromatic lights for tramways are in the form of luminous line of white or yellow color.
A luminous line can be laid, upright or sideling. The laid line means the prohibition of the
passage, and the upright and sideling free passage.

Luminous signs for pedestrian traffic are devices with red and green two-color lights. The
luminous sign is in the form of a square or a circle containing a dark silhouette of pedestrians.
There are also combinations with blinking green light. In the red light field, the symbol of the
pedestrians standing is displayed and the green symbol of the pedestrian moving. Red and
green light can not be switched on simultaneously.

The luminous signs that indicate the crossing across the line at the level are divided into those
that indicate the position of the bumper or semi-bumper and those that announce the approach
of the railway vehicle. Branches and semi-blades should be marked with at least three red
reflective glasses, and it is even better if the bumper is coated with a reflecting substance over
the entire length.

Approximation of the railway vehicle is announced by light signs using two red round light on
a horizontal axis parallel to the base of the triangle.

Luminous signs for marking works on the road, various damage, etc. which are dangerous for
traffic safety can be: flipchart marking plate, flip-flops with flashes and signs, and temporary
devices for giving signs to traffic lights for alternating leaks of vehicles from the opposite
directions.8

8
Cerovac V.: Tehnika i sigurnost prometa, Fakultet prometnih znanosti, Zagreb 2001., str. 263-265

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 4. TRAFFIC SIGNALS

Traffic signaling devices provide information on the recommended and mandatory mode of
movement, the current and future state of the transport system, the speed of movement, the
position of users in the system and in relation to other users, etc. the signal can be such that
the user receives it directly by sight, hearing, by the touch, or by touch, or indirectly, with the
help of the receiving devices. Today, signaling is usually automated, and automation is being
done. traffic processes. Thus, for example, at the exit ramp of the parking lot, after the paid
parking, the driver will receive a signal of free passage (green light) and at the same time an
automatic ramp will be picked up. Traffic signaling devices are often remote controlled,
monitored and maintained, some devices have comparable key circuits or power supply
systems in case of failure of one of them, so the failures are very rare, even in the most severe
weather and so on. conditions. Often, there are also backup plans for manual management of
traffic and related processes in the event of the complete stopping of signaling devices.

In the maritime traffic flag signals (flag signals) were used by the ancient Greeks, while the
lighthouse lights eased navigation. Nevertheless, it is only in XVI. st. the Spanish fleet first
organized a signal system, and in 1857 the first international maritime signaling manual was
issued. God. In 1870, the International Convention on Merchant Navy Signals was adopted,
which was later adopted by the United Nations, with a major revision carried out in 1969. In
addition to flag, light and acoustic signals, radio devices are used for signaling in the marine,
and in the event of an emergency and signal missiles. Modern traffic in inland waterways also
has a potently arranged signaling system that contains light, sound, flag, radio, etc. signals,
and on road bumpers and traffic lights.

In railway traffic with traffic circuits driven by rail, traffic signaling is of particular
importance. In the beginnings of the train driver, the messages about the state of the tracks in
the direction of driving were given by hand, the lamp and the flag. Later, the mechanical
signal placed along the track had a turning arm, and her various positions indicated the
condition of the track in front of the train. Railway light signals, similar to roads, usually use
red, yellow and green. However, at the same speed, the railway vehicle has a significantly
higher stopping distance than the road, the significance of these signals in the railway traffic
is somewhat different. Such a green light often means not only the free passage in the current
railing block, but also in the next. A yellow light requires a cautious ride with the likelihood
of a near-stopping vehicle. Red light, as well as road traffic, requires a mandatory stop. Using
the pre-signal, the signal placed in front of the main rail, provides additional security. Newer
rail systems transmit rope signals to the control cabin.

Road traffic today is a highly developed signaling, and traffic management at intersections
with traffic lights is just one part of it. Traffic signalization plays an important role in the so-
called smart traffic systems, which traffic is controlled and managed by IT and
telecommunications technology. Some are, for example, toll collection systems, traffic
management on motorways (especially during works), signaling of free parking spaces,

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securing the benefits of passing public transport traffic, signaling passenger and freight
terminals, redirecting traffic flows in road networks with respect to current traffic density, etc.

In air traffic there are complex signaling systems, based on radio connections and radars, and
light, sound and other signals are also used. They are primarily operated by air traffic in all its
phases, and there are also signals relating to the movement and behavior of passengers.9

5. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS OF LIGHT TRAFFIC SIGNALIZATION

Light traffic control signals are divided according to the light source structure in two groups:

halogens - the light source is a halogen bulb

LED - light source are LEDs

Halogen lamps are small, easy to use and a glossy light source and are a popular alternative to
incandescent bulbs. The addition to halogenidiphine charging almost completely prevents the
blackening of the bulb of the bulb, thus maintaining a constant light flux throughout the entire
lifetime. It is therefore possible to make a balloon of much smaller dimensions, with a higher
gas pressure, which further increases the utilization of inert gases in the filling. The abrasion
is to warm the filament to a much higher temperature, thereby increasing the light usability.10

LED technology is about 50 years old, and it came out of General Electrica research
laboratories. The light-emitting diodes emit light as a consequence of the flow of electricity.
The first light-emitting diodes emitted exclusively light, limiting their use to monochromatic
devices such as alarms or warnings. The further development of luminaire technology results
in the three colors used in traffic signaling - red, yellow and green. There are a number of
significant advantages of LED lighting. The main advantages are: lower energy consumption,
longer life, physical strength, smaller dimensions, unlimited performance and design options.
LED lighting bodies consume a lot less electricity than conventional bulbs, and the
dimensions are small and therefore represent an unobtrusive light source. Due to its
construction, this type of luminaire is very durable in terms of mechanical damage, it does not
contain mercury and is characterized by extremely low electrical consumption. It is
incomparably smaller and the heating of the surrounding space and the enclosure in relation to
the known lighting fixtures.

9
http://www.enciklopedija.hr/natuknica
10
http://www.lipapromet.hr/Usluge/Projektiranjesvjetlotehnike/Rasvjetaznanjeiiskustva/tabid/72/ctl/details/it
emid/185/mid/531/arulje.aspx

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 CONCLUSION

When analyzing traffic regulation and the safety of traffic participants, light signaling is a
very important and indispensable element in considering these two segments of the modern
traffic system.

The basic tasks of light traffic signaling are to increase the flow and speed of traffic flows at
the crossroads of roadways and enable the safe movement of all traffic participants: drivers,
pedestrians, cyclists.

Increasing road safety is largely contributed by new technologies developed in the field of
electrical engineering and communications. As indicated in this work, LED technology has
greatly improved the production and exploitation of light signaling, and the timely recognition
of the potential of these technologies can greatly contribute to increasing traffic safety.

The development of large cities, the development of traffic, and congestion and frequent road
congestion. Such events require the connection and coordination of light signals at traffic
jams. This is accomplished by communicating between signaling devices at adjacent
crossings or by communicating devices with the control center from which traffic
management is performed. Communication enables coordination, synchronization and
monitoring of device operation at crossroads, thereby increasing the level of safety and
quality of traffic.

Since the need for people to travel every day is increasing, there are more and more vehicles
on the roads, so there is a growing need for traffic regulation. Therefore, the light signaling
should be developed and improved in order to meet the increasingly complex demands of
modern traffic.

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 REFERENCES

Paagi S.: Vizualne informacije u prometu, Fakultet prometnih znanosti, Zagreb

2004.
Cerovac, V.: Tehnika i sigurnost prometa, Fakultet prometnih znanosti, Zagreb 2001.
Legac I., koautori: Gradske prometnice, Fakultet prometnih znanosti, Zagreb 2011.
Smjernice za prometnu svjetlosnu signalizaciju na cestama, Hrvatska uprava za ceste,
Zagreb, 2000.
http://www.lipapromet.hr/Usluge/Projektiranjesvjetlotehnike/Rasvjetaznanjeiiskustva/
http://www.enciklopedija.hr/natuknica
https://www.prometna-zona.com/

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