Skip to main content

Smart vehicle tracking system from Colas and Iknaia

Colas and wireless systems technology specialist Iknaia have developed a sophisticated system that allows the real-time active management of diversion routes without recourse to ANPR technology. The Airscan package uses anonymous Wi-Fi and Bluetooth signals transmitted by visible devices in passing vehicles. Data is collected by sensors and relayed to variable messaging signs (VMS) which then advise road users in advance of potential delays and allow for strategic checks by maintenance teams. As part of
April 1, 2016 Read time: 2 mins
184 Colas and wireless systems technology specialist Iknaia have developed a sophisticated system that allows the real-time active management of diversion routes without recourse to ANPR technology.

The Airscan package uses anonymous Wi-Fi and Bluetooth signals transmitted by visible devices in passing vehicles. Data is collected by sensors and relayed to variable messaging signs (VMS) which then advise road users in advance of potential delays and allow for strategic checks by maintenance teams. As part of the system, Traffic Management (TM) teams are also issued with Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) tags that can be used to monitor the location of teams by checking in staff as they pass sensors on their route.

The system was trialled successfully on the M3 motorway in the UK and will now be used elsewhere. This approach to active management of diversion routes will continue to operate on the M3 smart motorway project and will be rolled out across other 8100 Highways England schemes to complement Intelligent Transport Systems strategies across the UK.

For more information on companies in this article

Related Content

  • Durable chevrons to boost site vehicle conspicuity and safety
    January 31, 2017
    Contractor Colas has worked with Farnborough Signs to develop safer temporary chevrons for use on vehicles accessing construction sites. Colas identified a potential safety risk with removable magnetic Chapter 8 Chevrons used for vehicles visiting worksites. Operational site vehicles have to be fitted with permanent Chapter 8 Chevron markings. However, the change in car manufacturing specifications in recent years has resulted in many car boots being made of plastic instead. Earlier generation magnetic
  • Gritty decisions need Smart Modelling
    May 27, 2022
    Mark Fisher, principal strategic consultant with Amey Consulting, explains how its data-led Smart Winter modelling improved a UK local government’s winter gritting efficiency by 18%
  • Variable message signs deliver real time travel information
    April 10, 2012
    Variable Message Sign systems are helping ease traffic congestion and keeping drivers better informed on key highways across Europe and the rest of the world. Guy Woodford looks at some of their recent applications By coupling its Intelligent Travel Time System (ITTS) with Bluetooth technology, Alcatel-Lucent is measuring traffic flow in real time and conveying it seamlessly to local authorities in the French city of Vélizy-Villacoublay. The city, a major business enterprise hub 14km south-west of central
  • Gritty decisions need Smart Modelling
    April 11, 2022
    Mark Fisher, principal strategic consultant with Amey Consulting, explains how its data-led Smart Winter modelling improved a UK local government’s winter gritting efficiency by 18%.