The Development of a Smart and Low Power Consumption Variable Speed Limit Sign for the Oklahoma Department of Transportation

Abstract

Variable Speed Limit Signs (VSLSs) play a crucial role in traffic management. Various studies have demonstrated that they can significantly reduce accidents and improve traffic flow, particularly on congested highways, during adverse weather conditions, in construction zones, and even during road accidents. However, existing technologies used to manufacture VSLSs, such as LED displays, mechanical rollers, and manually interchangeable cards, suffer from several drawbacks, including bulkiness, high cost, high power consumption, integration difficulties, and deployment complexity, thus impeding the implementation and expansion of such systems. This thesis addresses these challenges by proposing a novel approach using newer technologies. The proposed remotely managed variable speed limit traffic system offers a more efficient and cost-effective solution for traffic management. By implementing this new technology in VSLSs, we aim to reduce the size, weight, and power consumption of these devices while maintaining performance and visibility.